Electric tooth cleaning device

Abstract

An electric toothbrush system with improved bristle tuft positioning and contact with tooth surfaces reduces the time and effort required for effective brushing. Some embodiments use alternating or oscillating air pressure and suction to move the toothbrush head. Various toothbrush head configurations provide different areas of coverage, ranging from individual teeth to a quarter of the mouth (U-section), half (U-section or H-section), or the entire mouth (U-section or H-section). Some embodiments include flexible fingers and / or bladders to properly engage the bristle tuft tips with the teeth and gums, providing bristle tuft contact for various malocclusions. The shape of the brush head is adapted to closely match the shape of the user's tooth tray and any malocclusions that may be present. The electric toothbrush automatically generates brush head movement that replicates the improved Bass method of brushing.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of tooth cleaning and to a power toothbrush that provides a brushing action that results in improved tooth cleaning. [Background technology]

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 116,426, entitled "Electric Toothbrush," filed November 20, 2020; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 169,061, entitled "Encompass Electric Toothbrush," filed March 31, 2021; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 185,751, entitled "Improved J-Arch Fitting," filed May 7, 2021, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0003] Cleaning one's teeth is a necessary but time-consuming routine necessary for good oral health. A variety of manual and powered tooth cleaning products exist for removing plaque from teeth. To effectively remove plaque buildup, many manual and powered toothbrushes require use for more than two minutes. However, studies have shown that the average person only brushes their teeth for 37 seconds. Furthermore, approximately 87% of the population does not floss daily, which can contribute to the further buildup of plaque between teeth, which can lead to poor oral health.

[0004] Clinical studies have shown that electric toothbrushes remove plaque more effectively. However, less than 30% of the U.S. population uses electric toothbrushes. The effectiveness of electric toothbrushes also depends heavily on technique. The small brushing head on a typical toothbrush requires precise positioning of the bristles to properly contact the teeth. Poor technique can result in uneven brushing of tooth surfaces, leading to the accumulation of plaque that is more difficult to remove during subsequent cleanings. Poor brushing technique can also lead to other oral health problems, such as soft tissue abrasion, gum recession, cervical abrasion (wear that occurs at the neck of the teeth), and dentin hypersensitivity. Summary of the Invention

[0005] An improved oral care device system is provided that addresses the shortcomings of conventional oral care devices. Embodiments provide an electric toothbrush with improved bristle tuft positioning and bristle tuft contact with tooth surfaces, reducing the time and effort required for effective brushing. Some embodiments use alternating or oscillating air pressure and suction to move the toothbrush head. The size and orientation of the toothbrush head can vary to provide different application areas, with individual application areas ranging from individual teeth to a quarter of the mouth (U-section), half (U-section or H-section), or the entire mouth (U-section or H-section). Some embodiments include flexible sidewall segments (fingers) and / or bladders (air or fluid) to properly engage the tips of the bristle tufts with the teeth and gums, allowing bristle tufts to contact a variety of tooth sizes, shapes, numbers, and occlusions. The shape of the brush head is adapted to closely match the shape of the user's dental arch and any malocclusions that may exist. Power toothbrushes automatically produce brush head movement that replicates the "modified Bass method" of brushing, which dental professionals recommend as being most effective at removing plaque.

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an electric toothbrush including: a first tooth tray including a first set of cleaning surfaces for simultaneously brushing multiple tooth surfaces of a first set of teeth; a second tooth tray including a second set of cleaning surfaces for simultaneously brushing multiple tooth surfaces of a second set of teeth, the second set of teeth opposing the first set of teeth; an inflatable bladder disposed between the first and second tooth trays; a frame for holding the bladder; a first joining mechanism for joining the first tooth tray to a first side of the bladder; and a second joining mechanism for joining the second tooth tray to a second side of the bladder opposing the first side of the bladder.

[0007] The inflatable bladder can include a first membrane across and joined to a first side of the frame and a second membrane across and joined to a second side of the frame opposite the first membrane.

[0008] The first attachment feature can include one or more attachment portions attached to the first membrane and one or more corresponding attachment openings in the first dental tray, and the second attachment feature includes one or more attachment portions attached to the second membrane and one or more corresponding attachment openings in the second dental arch.

[0009] The electric toothbrush may further include a first paddle interposed between the first tooth tray and the inflatable bladder, the first paddle being attached to the first membrane and having one or more attachment portions extending away from the bladder, and a second paddle interposed between the second tooth tray and the inflatable bladder, the second paddle being attached to the second membrane and having one or more attachment portions extending away from the bladder.

[0010] Further, the first set of cleaning surfaces and the second set of cleaning surfaces can each include a woven fabric and a plurality of yarn segments woven into the woven fabric, each of the plurality of yarn segments including a plurality of filaments forming hair bundles on the first side of the woven fabric.

[0011] The electric toothbrush may include a handle and a pneumatic device disposed within the handle and coupled to the bladder.

[0012] The electric toothbrush can include a neck extending from the frame and having a conical opening at an end opposite the frame, and a first interlocking portion located within the conical opening.

[0013] The electric toothbrush may include a handle portion having a base, a nose cone opposite the base, and a second interlocking portion on the nose cone that interlocks with the first interlocking portion, and a pneumatic device disposed within the handle portion and coupled to the bladder via the nose cone.

[0014] These and other features, aspects, and embodiments are described in the Detailed Description section below.

[0015] The details of the present invention, both as to its structure and operation, may be gleaned in part from study of the accompanying drawings, in which like parts are designated with like reference numerals and in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0016] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an electric toothbrush according to an embodiment disclosed herein. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 shows an exploded view of the electric toothbrush of FIG. 1 with the brushing head removed. [Figure 3A] 3A-3C show various views of an exemplary internal chassis of the electric toothbrush of FIG. 1 according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 3B] 3A-3C show various views of an exemplary internal chassis of the electric toothbrush of FIG. 1 according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 3C] 3A-3C show various views of an exemplary internal chassis of the electric toothbrush of FIG. 1 according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 4A]4A and 4B show an exemplary brush head assembly of the electric toothbrush of FIG. 1 engaged with a set of teeth. [Figure 4B] 4A and 4B show an exemplary brush head assembly of the electric toothbrush of FIG. 1 engaged with a set of teeth. [Figure 5A] 5A-5E show various views of an exemplary brush head assembly that may be used with the electric toothbrush of FIG. 1, with the filaments removed, according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 5B] 5A-5E show various views of an exemplary brush head assembly that may be used with the electric toothbrush of FIG. 1, with the filaments removed, according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 5C] 5A-5E show various views of an exemplary brush head assembly that may be used with the electric toothbrush of FIG. 1, with the filaments removed, according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 5D] 5A-5E show various views of an exemplary brush head assembly that may be used with the electric toothbrush of FIG. 1, with the filaments removed, according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 5E] 5A-5E show various views of an exemplary brush head assembly that may be used with the electric toothbrush of FIG. 1, with the filaments removed, according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 5F] FIG. 5F illustrates a front view of an exemplary drive mechanism that may be used with the head brush assembly of FIGS. 5A-5E according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary tooth tray that may be used with the brush head assembly of FIG. 5A according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 7] 7 and 8 show schematic diagrams of the fit adjustment of the dental tray of FIG. 8 according to an embodiment disclosed herein. [Figure 8] 7 and 8 show schematic diagrams of the fit adjustment of the dental tray of FIG. 8 according to an embodiment disclosed herein. [Figure 9]9-12 show exploded views of the drive mechanism of FIG. [Figure 10] 9-12 show exploded views of the drive mechanism of FIG. [Figure 11] 9-12 show exploded views of the drive mechanism of FIG. [Figure 12] 9-12 show exploded views of the drive mechanism of FIG. [Figure 13] 13 and 14 show cross-sectional views of different implementations of the drive mechanism of the embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 14] 13 and 14 show cross-sectional views of different implementations of the drive mechanism of the embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 shows a schematic diagram of a pneumatic system that may be used with the power toothbrush of FIG. 1 according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 16A] 16A-16C show the pneumatic system of FIG. 15 in several states. [Figure 16B] 16A-16C show the pneumatic system of FIG. 15 in several states. [Figure 16C] 16A-16C show the pneumatic system of FIG. 15 in several states. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 illustrates an exemplary interlock mechanism that may be used with the electric toothbrush of FIG. 1 according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 18A] 18A-18C illustrate an exemplary first interlocking portion of the interlocking mechanism of FIG. 17 that may be used with a brush head assembly according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 18B] 18A-18C illustrate an exemplary first interlocking portion of the interlocking mechanism of FIG. 17 that may be used with a brush head assembly according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 18C] 18A-18C illustrate an exemplary first interlocking portion of the interlocking mechanism of FIG. 17 that may be used with a brush head assembly according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 19A]19A-19C illustrate an exemplary second interlock portion of the interlock mechanism of FIG. 17 that may be used with the handle portion of the electric toothbrush of FIG. 1 according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 19B] 19A-19C illustrate an exemplary second interlock portion of the interlock mechanism of FIG. 17 that may be used with the handle portion of the electric toothbrush of FIG. 1 according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 19C] 19A-19C illustrate an exemplary second interlock portion of the interlock mechanism of FIG. 17 that may be used with the handle portion of the electric toothbrush of FIG. 1 according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 shows an operation flow diagram of the interlock mechanism of FIG. [Figure 21A] 21A-21B illustrate another exemplary brush head assembly that may be used with the electric toothbrush of FIG. 1, with the filaments removed, according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 21B] 21A-21B illustrate another exemplary brush head assembly that may be used with the electric toothbrush of FIG. 1, with the filaments removed, according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 illustrates another exemplary brush head assembly that may be used with the power toothbrush of FIG. 1 according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 23] 23 and 24 show another example of a brush head that may be used with the power toothbrush of FIG. 1 according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 24] 23 and 24 show another example of a brush head that may be used with the power toothbrush of FIG. 1 according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 25A] 25A-25B show schematic diagrams of an exemplary dental tray that may be used with the brush head assembly of FIG. 4, according to one embodiment. [Figure 25B] 25A-25B show schematic diagrams of an exemplary dental tray that may be used with the brush head assembly of FIG. 4, according to one embodiment. [Figure 25C] FIG. 25C shows a schematic diagram of another embodiment having two full arch dental trays designed to clean all of a user's teeth simultaneously. [Figure 26] 26 and 27 show schematic diagrams of example drive mechanisms that may be used with the brush head of FIG. 4 in some embodiments. [Figure 27] 26 and 27 show schematic diagrams of example drive mechanisms that may be used with the brush head of FIG. 4 in some embodiments. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example wired or wireless processing device that may be used in connection with various embodiments described herein. [Figure 29A] 29A-29C show various views of a woven brush pad. [Figure 29B] 29A-29C show various views of a woven brush pad. [Figure 29C] 29A-29C show various views of a woven brush pad. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] Various embodiments of the electric toothbrush are disclosed herein. It should be understood that, while various steps, components, groups, etc. are disclosed in the following description of the embodiments, these embodiments are by way of example and should not be construed as limiting the systems and methods described to only those steps, components, groups, etc. that are disclosed.

[0018] An electric toothbrush system and method are provided. An electric toothbrush of embodiments can offer advantages over traditional tooth cleaning systems in terms of compliance, fit, and comfort. Compliance with proper brushing techniques involves two factors: technique and time. Many people do not practice proper tooth brushing technique, and even when the technique used is correct, many people spend significantly less time brushing their teeth than recommended for effective plaque removal. Both of these factors can lead to plaque retention and poor oral health.

[0019] The electric toothbrush of the present invention allows users to easily perform a compatible brushing technique in less time than is required with conventional toothbrushing systems and methods. The time and dexterity required for effective brushing is also reduced, improving tooth brushing effectiveness for individuals with limited dexterity, such as the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and young children. The present invention also provides a brush head that reduces the time required to perform a compatible brushing method by simultaneously brushing multiple teeth. For example, some embodiments include a brush head that can simultaneously brush all teeth in the oral cavity, half of the teeth in the oral cavity (all teeth in the mandibular arch, all teeth in the maxillary arch, or half the teeth in the mandibular arch and half the teeth in the opposing maxillary arch). Other configurations are also possible based on the disclosure provided below.

[0020] The electric toothbrush of the present embodiment provides effective tooth cleaning by offering the benefits of the "Bass method" and "modified Bass method" brushing. These methods are considered most effective at removing bacterial plaque adjacent to and just below the gum line and are preferred by many dental professionals. Plaque removal from the gum line significantly contributes to the control of gum and periodontal disease. In the Bass method, a manual toothbrush with a flat brushing surface and rounded nylon filaments is aimed at the gums at an approximately 45-degree angle and brushes the teeth using an up-and-down motion. The modified Bass method adds a slight circular motion to the up-and-down motion of the Bass method. Although Bass method brushing is quite effective at cleaning teeth and removing plaque, it is often recognized as difficult to perform correctly. Therefore, some dental professionals recommend the modified Bass method over regular Bass method brushing. While the modified Bass method is considered by some dental professionals to be easier to achieve with a manual toothbrush, the Bass method provides more effective interproximal cleaning. Because relatively few people floss regularly, deep interproximal cleaning significantly reduces tartar buildup and improves oral health. An electric toothbrush, according to an embodiment, automatically moves the brush head to replicate the Bass method of cleaning, allowing users to enjoy the benefits of the Bass method's more effective cleaning without being limited by their manual dexterity. An electric toothbrush, according to an embodiment, provides effective cleaning of tooth surfaces and interproximal spaces while eliminating the burden of mastering or performing a difficult brushing technique.

[0021] Electric toothbrushes also offer adaptability. The shape and size of dental arches, as well as tooth width, vary from person to person. Furthermore, tooth position can vary greatly depending on malocclusions, which cause teeth to be misaligned. Electric toothbrushes of embodiments include adjustable brush heads that allow the brush head to match the specific parameters of a user's oral cavity, regardless of the size and shape of the user's dental arches, the user's tooth width, and any malocclusions or misalignments of the user's teeth. Electric toothbrushes of embodiments offer improved bristle tuft positioning, which improves bristle tuft contact with tooth surfaces and provides more uniform tooth cleaning.

[0022] Electric toothbrushes also provide a comfortable brushing experience. Users are less likely to use a system that is uncomfortable to use. The brush heads of electric toothbrush systems are formed from flexible materials that conform to the shape of the user's mouth and contain bristles that are thinner, softer, and less likely to irritate sensitive teeth and / or gums than traditional toothbrush systems.

[0023] Based on extensive international ethnic studies, the primary embodiments described herein provide a more adjustable and user-friendly fit, adjustment of the upper and lower jaws, adjustment of the angle of the teeth relative to the jaw, adjustment of the length of the upper jaw relative to the lower jaw, and the ability for the brush to gimbal while resting on the bladder drive plate than previously known. The approach described herein provides a new method for improved size and shape adaptability, reducing the number of sizes required to accommodate the majority of the world's population from a large number to a small number. This allows for greater population and greater use by all ethnic groups worldwide. The improved shape-adjusting brushes described herein improve brush contact with a wider range of oral cavity sizes and shapes, improving plaque removal. Initial testing indicates that embodiments herein remove up to three times more plaque than manual toothbrushes. Electric Toothbrush Embodiment

[0024] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an electric toothbrush 100 according to embodiments disclosed herein. FIG. 1 illustrates an electric toothbrush 100 having a multi-tooth and / or multi-tooth tray brush head assembly 400 (FIGS. 5A-14). The most common method of plaque removal is by exerting a shear force of the brush head 400 across the outer surfaces of the teeth by movement of the toothbrush filaments 414 through the tooth trays 412. According to some embodiments, the electric toothbrush 100 is configured to generate a brushing motion that replicates the brushing motion of the Bass method of brushing recommended by dental professionals.

[0025] Figure 2 shows an exploded view of the electric toothbrush 100 of Figure 1, with the brush head 400 removed. The removable brush head assembly 400 removably couples to the handle portion 200 via an interlocking mechanism (Figures 17-20) contained within the neck 430. Figure 2 shows the internal components of the handle portion 200. The handle portion 200 includes a handle housing 220, an upper cover 221, and a lower cover 228. The handle housing 220 includes a cavity 225 that houses the internal chassis 201.

[0026] The handle housing 220 also includes an opening 224 that receives an input mechanism 226 coupled to the switch 214 that allows a user to turn the electric toothbrush 100 on and off. A seal 226 may be provided between the input mechanism 226 and the housing 220 to hermetically seal the housing 220. The input mechanism 226 may be a button that deflects in response to a user actuating the switch 214. As another example, the input mechanism may be a capacitive or other touch-sensitive surface configured to actuate the switch 214 in response to a user input.

[0027] Figures 3A-3C show various views of the internal chassis 201 of the electric toothbrush 100. Figure 3A shows a side view of the internal chassis 201, and Figure 3B shows a perspective view of the internal chassis 201 at an angle opposite to the perspective view shown in Figure 2. The internal chassis 201 includes a support 202 onto which the components of Figures 2-3C may be attached via fastening parts (e.g., set screws, bolts, and the like).

[0028] The internal chassis includes a bushing 206 that couples to an eccentric 205 driven by a motor 204 (e.g., a DC motor or the like). The bushing 206 may be attached to a diaphragm 207 that is attached to a support 202 via a chassis bottom 208 that is sandwiched between the body 201 and a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) 210. The motor 204 is electrically coupled to a battery 203 (e.g., a lithium-ion battery or the like) via power leads, and the battery 203 is attached to the support 202, for example, by a fastening portion 213 (e.g., a zip tie in this example, but any fastener may be used). The PCBA 210 may include a switch 214 that receives input via an input mechanism 226 for starting / stopping the toothbrush 100. A seal 209 may be provided around the input device 214. The PCBA 210 may also include a processor unit 215 that controls operation of the toothbrush 100 according to instructions stored in memory. The processor unit 215 may be implemented as, for example, a processing unit xxx.

[0029] The top cover 221 includes a nosecone 222 configured to mate with the brush head 400 via an interlocking mechanism. For example, the nosecone 222 may include a first interlocking portion for mating with a second interlocking portion included within the brush head assembly 400 (described in more detail below in connection with FIGS. 17-20 ). The top cover 221 may also include an inlet port 223 at the end of the tube 229. The inlet port 223 is configured to mate with the outlet port 216 of the diaphragm 206 via a coupling or male / female fitting to supply fluid (e.g., gas or liquid) to the brush head assembly 400 through a channel in the nosecone 222 between the inlet port 223 and the outlet 230. For example, operation of the motor 204 causes the diaphragm 207 to vibrate, causing a flow of fluid to be supplied into the inlet port 223 and through the outlet 230 to the brush head assembly 400. One or more of the inlet port 223 , the tube 229 , the outlet port 216 , the diaphragm 206 , and the outlet 230 may be considered part of a fluid path between the pneumatic system and the drive mechanism 420 .

[0030] According to some embodiments, the battery 203 is recharged using an external power source via a charging coil 212 electrically coupled to the battery 203. The handle 200 is held by or placed on a docking station 300. For example, the docking station 300 may have an upper and lower housing with a protrusion extending from the upper housing, which in combination form a recess for holding the charging coil. The lower cover 228 may include a recessed opening extending into the cavity 225 configured to receive the protrusion of the docking station. In some embodiments, the charging coil 212 is electrically coupled to an external power source via a cable 301 and receives power from the docking station 300 holding the electric toothbrush 100 when the toothbrush is not in use. For example, when the toothbrush 100 is placed in the docking station 300, the charging coil 212 receives inductance from the charging coil of the docking station to charge the battery 203. The cable 301 may include a plug interface that allows the electric toothbrush 100 to be plugged into a mains power source. Some embodiments may use disposable batteries, while still other embodiments may be powered by high-energy capacitors.

[0031] The electric toothbrush 100 includes a pneumatic system that converts electrical energy into filament movement. Referring to FIG. 1 , the brush head assembly 400 includes a drive mechanism 420 disposed between an upper brush portion 410a and a lower brush portion 410b (collectively referred to as brush portion 410b). The upper brush portion includes a tooth tray 412a (e.g., a mandibular arch) and a brush filament 414a, while the lower brush portion 400b includes a tooth tray 412b (e.g., a maxillary arch) and a brush filament 414b. The drive mechanism 420 alternately moves the tooth trays 412a and 412b apart and brings them closer together to generate a brushing action. Further details describing an exemplary head brush assembly 400 and drive mechanism 420 are provided below with reference to FIGS. 5A-14 . According to alternative embodiments, other drive mechanisms can be used, such as a double bladder, a bladder with multiple chambers, a bladder in the form of an inflatable actuator dome, or other mechanical mechanisms such as a motor with a wobbler weight that induces movement in the brush plate.

[0032] The drive mechanism 420 may extend from a sheath 530 to the first and second brush portions 410. The sheath 530 is attached to a neck 430, which may include an optional identification band 432 on an edge of the neck 430 opposite the sheath 530. The sheath 530 may surround an inlet 532 that delivers fluid from the outlet 230 to a channel in the drive mechanism 420 (see FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 10A-12). The sheath 530 may be configured to prevent the fluid path therein from becoming pinched, crushed, or kinked. The inlet 532 may be considered part of the fluid path between the pneumatic system and the drive mechanism 420.

[0033] The electric toothbrush 100 includes a pneumatic system that provides alternating or oscillating air pressure, e.g., electrical energy provided by a battery 203 causes a motor 204 to move a diaphragm 207, which in turn supplies air pressure to a drive mechanism 420 via a coupling to a tube 229. The tube 229 provides a portion of a fluid conduit or path from the diaphragm to the drive mechanism 420. The fluid conduit may include the tube 229, the inlet 223, the outlet 230, the inlet 532, a channel in the nosecone 22 between the outlet 230 and the inlet 223, and a channel (e.g., channel 535) extending from the inlet 532 to the drive mechanism 420. According to some embodiments, the pneumatic system is sealed. Further details describing the interaction of the pneumatic system and the drive mechanism are provided below with respect to Figures 15-16C. According to some embodiments, the pneumatic system is sealed except for a small amount of intake air to compensate for air leakage from the system. According to some alternative embodiments, the pneumatic system need not be sealed, but may instead include at least one pressure relief valve for releasing pressure from the system.

[0034] Various pump designs may be used to provide air pressure to the pneumatic system of the electric toothbrush. For example, according to some embodiments, motor 204 is a rotary motor having a pump section (e.g., pump 207), while in other embodiments, motor 204 is a linear motor having a cam, such as a wobbler weight, that pushes on a blower or diaphragm (e.g., pump 207) that is used to generate air pressure. In yet another embodiment, motor 204 is a linear motor having a piston pump (e.g., pump 207). In some embodiments, a piezoelectric element may be implemented as motor 204 and used to push on a blower (e.g., pump 207) to generate pressure.

[0035] According to some embodiments, as described below in connection with FIGS. 15-16C , unlike most conventional pneumatic systems, the pneumatic system of the electric toothbrush 100 is configured so that the fluid (e.g., air) provided at a set pressure is not stored. Instead, the pressure within the system is fluidic. Each stroke of the pump 207 includes a compression stroke and a suction stroke. During the compression stroke, a valve directs air into the bladder, expanding the drive mechanism. In an out-of-phase relationship, the valve also directs suction to the drive mechanism. When pressure and suction meet in a common fluid path, the resulting pressure differential causes the drive mechanism to vibrate, e.g., expanding and contracting the bladder(s) contained therein. The suction initiates rapid deflation faster than the tooth trays 102 and 104 descend as the pressure within the bladder(s) drops.

[0036] In various embodiments, a cycle of positive and negative pressure scenarios is achieved in the drive mechanism during each pump stroke. Fluid from the pump 207 can flow into and out of the drive mechanism, with pump 207 compression pushing fluid through the fluid pathways and suction drawing fluid out of the drive mechanism. In this embodiment, maintaining tooth tray movement through either mechanical resonance or adjusting the air volume in the pores provides optimal operation. Selecting a drive frequency slightly higher than the resonant frequency increases the amplitude or apparent brushing force when the entire brushing system is loaded. In this embodiment, the increased mass makes it easier to operate and maintain operation with less added energy.

[0037] According to some alternative embodiments, the flapper value may not be used to direct the air flow and increase pressure in the pneumatic system.

[0038] While the above example provides a pneumatic system implemented using a motor and diaphragm, other implementations are possible. For example, the pneumatic system may include a small piston air compressor, an air supply system coupled to the small piston air compressor, and a flexible, elastic bladder in fluid communication with the air compressor via a manifold, as described in connection with U.S. Pat. No. 8,359,692, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein as if fully set forth. The air compressor may reside within the handle portion 200, and the bladder may be stacked between the mandibular arch (tooth tray 412a) and the maxillary arch (tooth tray 412b) of the brush head 400. The air supply manifold connects the air compressor to the bladder via a coupling. The coupling provides an air conduit from the air compressor to the bladder.

[0039] Referring to FIG. 1 , tooth tray 412a and tooth tray 412b are illustratively illustrated as J-shaped arches, capable of simultaneously brushing the right or left sagittal plane of the mandibular and maxillary dental arches (both the upper and lower teeth on one side of the mouth), as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B . Brush head 400 can be used to brush either side of the mouth and the gimbal (lateral tilt) and anterior-posterior tilt of the tooth tray, accommodating different bite angles, jaw shapes, lengths, jaw shapes, and tooth angles. For example, a user can simply flip the brush over to brush the teeth on the other side of the mouth. According to some embodiments, tooth tray 412a and tooth tray 412b may be U-shaped arches, allowing for brushing of the entire mandibular and maxillary dental arches. According to some embodiments, tooth tray 412a and tooth tray 412b include soft tips along the edges of the tooth tray that massage the user's gumline while brush head assembly 400 brushes.

[0040] Alternating pressure and suction from diaphragm 207 via motor 204 causes inflation and deflation of drive mechanism 420. According to some embodiments, the drive mechanism may be provided in the form of one or more hemispherical activators, as described in U.S. Patent No. 8,359,692. For example, multiple air bladders may be used instead of a single large air bladder. According to another embodiment, the drive mechanism may be provided in the form of a speaker cone having a rigid frame surrounding a flexible speaking cone structure circumferentially attached to a central rigid portion. Details of one embodiment using a speaker cone activator are described below with respect to Figures 13-18.

[0041] Filament 414a is joined to tooth tray 412a, and filament 414b is joined to tooth tray 412b. Filaments 414a and 414b (collectively referred to as filaments 414) include cleaning surfaces that contact the tooth surfaces being brushed. Each cleaning surface may include one or more cleaning elements, such as, but not limited to, bristle tufts or other structures that contact the tooth surfaces being brushed. Tooth trays 412a and 412b (collectively referred to as tooth trays 412) apply pressure to each of the filaments 414, causing the cleaning surface of the corresponding filament to contact the user's tooth surfaces. The filaments 414 can also conform to tooth surfaces that have malocclusions. Because pressure from tooth tray 412 keeps the cleaning surfaces of the filaments 414 in contact with the tooth surfaces, the length of the cleaning elements (e.g., bristle tufts or other elements that contact the tooth surfaces being brushed) can be shorter than would be required if the cleaning elements were used alone to conform to the arch of the user's teeth. According to one embodiment, the cleaning member has bristle tufts that are at an acute angle from perpendicular to the tooth surface, with the distal ends of the bristle tufts facing the gingival sulcus to remove bacterial plaque adjacent to and just below the gingival margin. According to another embodiment, the bristle tufts may be angled relative to the tooth surface, for example, the bristle tufts may be angled at approximately 45 degrees relative to the tooth surface. In another embodiment, one portion of the bristle tuft is angled relative to the tooth surface, while another portion is perpendicular to the tooth surface (see, e.g., FIGS. 25A and 25B). In yet another embodiment, multiple portions of the bristle tuft are each angled differently relative to the tooth surface. For example, the bristle tufts may include one or more of a first portion of bristle tufts at a positive 45 degree angle (e.g., so that the distal end extends downward from the proximal end), a second portion of bristle tufts at a negative 45 degree angle (e.g., so that the distal end extends upward from the proximal end), a third portion of bristle tufts at a 35 degree angle, a fourth portion of bristle tufts at a vertical angle, etc. Any number of portions and angles may be included to achieve the desired cleaning performance.

[0042] According to some embodiments, the filament 414 is attached to the tooth tray 412 using an adhesive. According to another embodiment, the filament 414 includes a rigid substrate that may be snapped or locked to the tooth tray 412. According to some embodiments, the filament 414 is removable and replaceable, allowing the user to replace the filament 414 without having to replace the entire brushing head. Various techniques may be used to snap or lock the filament 414 in place. According to some embodiments, heat staking or ultrasonic staking may be used to attach the filament 414 to the tooth tray. For example, the filament 414 may have one or more posts extending from a rigid substrate that is fused to the dental arch. According to another embodiment, a stretch snap may be used to attach the filament 414 to the tooth tray 412. For example, the filament 414 includes one or more rubber tips that stretch and are inserted and removed through openings in the tooth tray; the rubber tips do not retract but stretch wide enough that the tips cannot slip out of the openings, holding the brush pad in place. According to another embodiment, a "pop bead" or "pop beads" may be used to hold the filament 414 in place. The pop beads include round features molded onto the rigid substrate of the filament 414 that snap into corresponding openings on the dental arch. The pop beads allow the rigid substrate of the filament 414 to rotate about its axis, thereby aligning the brush head with the teeth during use. According to yet another embodiment, ultrasonic welding may be used to secure the filament 414 to the dental arch. For example, the filament 414 may be formed from a plastic material that is compatible with the plastic of the tooth tray, and the filament 414 may be ultrasonically welded to the tooth tray.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the filament 414 includes bristle tufts, each having a diameter of approximately 0.001 to 0.003 inches. Soft, small-diameter bristle tufts of 0.005 inches or less aid in reaching difficult-to-reach areas of the oral cavity, such as interproximal spaces and occlusal grooves. The smaller the bristle tuft diameter, the shorter the tufts, maintaining the relative stiffness of the tuft. According to some embodiments, the bristle tufts have a diameter of approximately 0.003 to 0.005 inches and a length of approximately 1 to 5 mm. The filament 414 should cover nearly the entire tooth surface. Therefore, minimal movement of the brush head within the oral cavity provides thorough cleaning of the tooth surface, including interproximal spaces and occlusal grooves.

[0044] In some embodiments, the filaments 414 may include nylon (e.g., nylon 6, 6-6, 6-10, 6-12, and other polyamides) bristle tufts similar to conventional toothbrush designs. In conventional toothbrush designs, nylon bristle tufts are typically attached using staple-set, molded, or fused techniques. Conventional staple-set bristle technology results in brushes with lower bristle tuft density than those achieved using the bristle tuft pads disclosed herein. Therefore, conventional brush heads using staple-set technology remove less plaque due to the lower bristle tuft density.

[0045] According to some embodiments, the filaments 414 used in the electric toothbrush 100 may be manufactured using a fiber manufacturing process. According to some embodiments, the bristle tufts are manufactured as part of the bristle tuft pad fabric, while in yet other embodiments, the bristle tufts may be attached to the surface of the fabric or inserted into the fabric. According to various embodiments, the fabric comprises various types of materials, such as films (e.g., Mylar), polymers, or elastomers. The tooth tray 412 flattens the bristle tufts while applying effective brushing pressure to the tooth surfaces. According to some embodiments, a drive mechanism is included between the tooth trays 420 and the tooth tray 412 to apply pressure to the brush pad. The drive mechanism may be configured to press the bristle tufts of the filaments 414 against the teeth, thereby conforming the brush pad to the teeth.

[0046] In one embodiment, toothbrush filaments 414 may include or consist of a woven brush pad, where toothbrush filaments 414a and 414b may be formed as a single woven brush pad for each tooth tray 412a and 412b, or as individual woven brush pads for each flexible finger 401 and 402.

[0047] 29A shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of a woven brush pad 2900 that may be used with the filaments 414 of one embodiment of a toothbrush. As shown, multiple thread segments 2910 (e.g., 2910A, 2910B, 2910C, and 2910D) are woven into a substrate, referred to herein as a "woven fabric" 2920. The woven fabric 2920 may comprise a polyester, such as polybutylene terephthalate, or may comprise nylon (polyamide). However, it should be understood that the woven fabric 120 may be made from any material that can be woven.

[0048] Each yarn segment 2910 may include multiple filaments. The multiple filaments may be twisted together in a manner similar to, for example, the way clothing or carpets are made. In one embodiment, the filaments include a polyester, such as nylon (polyamide) or PBT. However, it should be appreciated that the filaments may be formed from other materials, such as spun organic cellulosic materials (e.g., silk, bamboo, seaweed, etc.) for improved biodegradability. The filaments may be made from the same material as the textile 2920 or from a different material than the textile 2920.

[0049] As shown, each yarn segment 2910 may be formed in a substantially "W" shape when viewed from the XZ plane. In particular, each yarn segment 2910 may include a first leg 2911, a second leg 2913, and a central portion 2912 extending between and connecting the first leg 2911 and the second leg 2913. FIG. 29B shows a single yarn segment 2910 of one embodiment. The yarn segment 2910 includes multiple filaments 2914. The yarn segment 2910 may be cut from a yarn including multiple filaments 2914 twisted together in a helical or spiral configuration. Opposite ends of each filament 2914 in the first leg 2911 and the second leg 2913 that extend above the fabric 2920 form a hair bundle 2915. The bunch of bristle tufts 2915 at the end of the first leg 2911 form a first tuft 2916A, and the bunch of bristle tufts 2915 at the end of the second leg 2913 form a second tuft 2916B. Of course, each tuft 2916 represents a series of bristle tufts 2915 that are used to brush teeth.

[0050] The yarn segment 2910 may be made up of filaments 2914 that all have the same properties, or may include a combination of filaments 2914 that have different properties. These properties, which may be the same or different, include, but are not limited to, material (e.g., polyester, polyamide, etc.), diameter, color (e.g., natural, translucent), length, twist count, and / or the like.

[0051] Although a W-shape is shown, each yarn segment 2910 or one or more yarn segments 2910 may be formed in a different shape (e.g., a V-shape without a central portion 2912). Regardless of the particular shape, the legs 2911 and 2913 may be oriented along the Z-axis and substantially perpendicular to the XY plane of the fabric 2920, or may be angled relative to the Z-axis so as to flare outward (e.g., away from their respective central portions 2912).

[0052] In one embodiment, the back side of the fabric 2920, opposite the tufts 2916 extending therefrom, is sealed with a sealing layer 2930. For example, the sealing layer 2930 may comprise an acrylic paint. However, it should be appreciated that other sealants may be used. In any case, the sealing layer 2930 prevents the yarn segments 2910 from unraveling and enhances the stability of the woven brush pad 2900. The sealing layer 2930 also provides a barrier to prevent the intrusion of moisture and / or sediment through the fabric 2920. In an alternative embodiment, the sealing layer 2930 may be omitted.

[0053] In one embodiment, the woven brush pad 2900 may include a substrate 2940. In this case, the sealing layer 2930 may include an adhesive substance that seals the woven fabric 2920, along with the woven yarn segments 2910, to the substrate 2940. In an alternative embodiment, the substrate 2940 is omitted, in which case the woven fabric 2920 may be sealed directly to the tooth tray 412 (e.g., by the sealing layer 2930).

[0054] In one embodiment of the substrate 2940, the substrate 2940 may comprise a foam, a sponge, a rigid polymer, and / or other material. The foam or sponge may be either closed-cell or open-cell. Closed-cell foams or sponges can prevent absorption of fluids that pass through the fabric 2920, while open-cell foams or sponges can carry additives, such as toothpaste, fluoride, or other dental or oral treatments. In either case, the foam or sponge also provides an additional factor in tooth engagement and integrity. In particular, the elasticity of the foam or sponge provides a trampoline effect that allows the fabric brush pad 2900, including the bristle tufts 2915, to flex and better conform to the contours of the teeth.

[0055] In particular, the orientation of the thread segments 2910 may allow the bristle tufts 2915 to bend more easily along the X-axis than along the Y-axis. In other words, the filaments 2914 are stiffer when moving along the Y-axis than when moving along the X-axis. This difference in stiffness results in teeth being brushed better when the woven brush pad 2900 is moved along the Y-axis than when it is moved along the X-axis. Thus, in one embodiment, the woven brush pad 2900 may be oriented at an angle (e.g., 45 degrees) relative to the two primary brushing axes (e.g., horizontal and vertical) of the tooth tray 412. In this case, the degree of stiffness in the tufts 2916 may be more uniform between the two primary brushing axes.

[0056] In one embodiment, the yarn segments 2910 may be woven using a velvet weaving technique, although it should be appreciated that other weaving techniques, such as crepe weaving, corduroy weaving, or the like, may alternatively be used. The appropriate weaving technique will depend on the particular weaving pattern desired.

[0057] Advantageously, the weaving process used to create the woven brush pad 2900 allows for the use of narrower filaments 2914 in the thread segments 2910 than those found in conventional toothbrushes. For example, the diameter of the filaments 2914 may be between 0.00145 inches and 0.003 inches, whereas conventional manual toothbrushes use nylon filaments with diameters between 0.005 inches and 0.009 inches. By way of example, the diameter of the filaments 2914 may be less than about 0.0018 inches or 0.002 inches.

[0058] Advantageously, the weaving process also allows the woven brush pad 2900 to incorporate shorter bristle tufts 2915 than those found in conventional toothbrushes. For example, the bristle tufts 2915 may each be between 3 millimeters (0.11811 inches) and 5 millimeters (0.19685 inches) in length. This reduced bristle tuft height increases the stiffness of the bristle tufts 2915, which may enhance the removal of new plaque. In particular, the increased stiffness improves the transfer of force applied to the bristle tufts 2915 to the brushing area. For toothbrushing devices designed to brush teeth, the bristle tufts 2915 may be even shorter in length (e.g., less than 3 millimeters).

[0059] In one embodiment, each filament 2914 is 500-1,500 denier (for smaller diameter filaments 2914) or 500-2,000 denier (for larger diameter filaments 2914). Denier is a unit of linear mass density of fiber, expressed in grams as the mass of 9,000 meters of fiber, with reference to one silk thread representing approximately 1 denier (i.e., one 9,000 meter silk thread is approximately 1 gram). Filaments 2914 having different denier values ​​may be used in a yarn to create yarn segments 2910 having filaments 2914 of different denier values.

[0060] In one embodiment, additives may be added to the filaments 2914 and / or the fabric 2920. For example, an antimicrobial additive (e.g., silver zeolite or equivalent) may be added to inhibit disease growth due to water absorption into the woven brush pad 2900. Other possible additives that may be added to the filaments 2914 and / or the fabric 2920 include seaweed, fluoride, and / or other beneficial dental or oral additives.

[0061] In one embodiment, the yarn used to make the yarn segment 2910 may include or consist of 28 to 120 filaments 2914. Of course, each yarn segment 2910 has the same number of filaments 2914 as the yarn used to make the filaments 2914, assuming that no filaments 2914 are lost during the weaving and cutting process. The yarn may include twisted filaments 2914, with approximately 3.5 turns per foot of yarn.

[0062] FIG. 29C shows a top view of a portion of a woven brush pad 2900 according to one embodiment. In the exemplary embodiment, the woven brush pad 2900 includes overlapping or offset W-shaped thread segments 2910. The thread segments 2910 are woven into a woven fabric 2920. An additional thread 2950 is also woven into the woven fabric 2920. However, in one embodiment, unlike the threads used to create the thread segments 2910, the threads 2950 are not cut into segments but instead extend the entire length of the woven fabric 2920 (e.g., in the same area as the thread segments 2910, which is the X-axis of the exemplary embodiment). The threads 2950 may separate the set of thread segments 2910 in one, two, or more rows along an area (e.g., the Y-axis of the exemplary embodiment). Alternatively or additionally, the threads 2950 may form a selvedge at the edge of the woven fabric 2920 to prevent fraying and unraveling.

[0063] According to some embodiments, a combination of traditional tufts and raised fabric is used. The combination of traditional tufts and raised fabric provides a very high tuft density that enhances plaque removal. According to some embodiments, groups of tuft strands are spliced ​​into the raised fabric of filaments 414, and in some embodiments, the lengths of the tufts included in the tuft strands may vary to form the tuft strands.

[0064] According to some embodiments, the filaments 414 may include bristle tufts made from an elastomeric material (such as, but not limited to, silicone rubber, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), also known as thermoplastic rubber, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), etc.), polymer (such as polyimide, polyester (PBT), polyethylene, Tynex, polypropylene, cellulose, etc.). For example, each bristle tuft may be an elastomeric bristle tuft extending from the dental tray to the cleaning surface of the teeth. The cleaning end of each bristle tuft may have a flat end perpendicular to the length of the tuft, a rounded end, a triangular end (e.g., the entire tuft is conical or pyramidal), and the like. Some embodiments may include bristle tufts having a wiper blade shape (e.g., the tuft is elongated in a direction parallel to the cleaning surface). In some embodiments, the tip of each bristle tuft is flocked, such that the tip of each bristle tuft includes multiple smaller tufts extending in all directions from the tip. In another example, each tip may be flagged (e.g., by mechanical flagging techniques) or feathered (e.g., by chemical etching), e.g., each tip may be split to provide a thin, soft tip. The flagged or feathered bristle tufts at the tips are small (e.g., less than 0.001 inches in diameter) and ideally suited for removing interproximal deposits between teeth, gingival sulci, and occlusal surfaces. According to some embodiments, filament 414 may comprise a finger-like filament (e.g., a flat surface similar to a scrubbing pad or a squeegee or polishing cloth).

[0065] According to some embodiments, combinations of two or more of the above embodiments may be combined for a single brush head, for example, a single filament may include segments or portions, each having a different material and / or structure for that filament.

[0066] The filaments 414 used in the electric toothbrushes described herein require significantly less effective brushing pressure on the tooth surface during brushing. Conventional toothbrushing methods require greater pressure on the tooth surface. For example, the effective brushing pressure of a sonic cleaning brush is approximately 75-150 grams of force across the entire brush plate surface, typically 2 cm. 2 This pressure is approximately 150 grams of force, applied to one or two tooth surfaces. The bristles of sonic cleaning brushes often vary between 0.005 and 0.007 inches in diameter, are typically made of nylon 6-6 (e.g., DuPont Tynex filament or equivalent), and have a bristle length of approximately 10 millimeters. Clinical studies have generally found that 2 Newtons is highly effective at removing plaque. Other studies have shown that greater brushing forces, greater than 5 Newtons per brush, result in greater plaque removal. High brushing pressures also tend to result in gum cracks, bleeding gums, and a higher likelihood of premature dentin loss. This concern is addressed in the embodiments described herein. Another type of conventional brush, a vibratory scrubber, typically applies a brushing pressure of approximately 148 to 200 grams of force, typically applied to one tooth. Typical brushing pressures for manual brushes are approximately 350 to 750 grams of force, with a nominal pressure of approximately 500 grams. Most manual brushes contain 0.007- to 0.009-inch nylon 6-6 bristles (e.g., DuPont Tynex filaments or equivalent). Other manual brushes designed for brushing soft gums contain 0.004- to 0.005-inch diameter nylon bristles.

[0067] The brush head 400 may be designed to provide a wide range of brushing pressures. For example, the tooth tray 412 may be designed to provide approximately 26 grams of pressure per millimeter of flexible finger displacement by the tooth surface. In some embodiments, the brush head 400 may be designed to provide a force of up to 5 Newtons. While embodiments herein may provide forces greater than 5 Newtons, such forces may result in erosion of the gums and dentin. The amount of force designed is based on the amount needed to brush the teeth while avoiding damage to the gums and dentin. In some embodiments, a force of 2 Newtons may be all that is needed to remove plaque (e.g., embodiments using filaments made using a fiber manufacturing process, such as the woven fiber pad described above). This implementation allows for the use of less pressure on the cleaning surface to remove plaque, thereby reducing the potential dentin loss and / or soft tissue wastage.

[0068] The vibration of the pneumatic system—switching between pressure and suction—rapidly vibrates the drive mechanism 420, moving the tooth trays 412 a and 412 b up and down against the tooth surfaces, creating the brushing action of the electric toothbrush 100. The drive mechanism 420 is disposed between the tooth trays 412 a and 412 b, and vibrates by moving the diaphragm 207, causing the tooth trays 412 a and 412 b to alternately move away from and toward each other. For example, air is alternately pushed into and sucked out of the space within the drive mechanism between the tooth trays 412 a and 412 b, causing the space to alternately expand and contract, thereby moving the tooth trays 412 a and 412 b apart in an up-and-down motion and causing the filaments 414 a and 414 b to brush along the tooth surfaces.

[0069] The up-and-down motion produced by the drive mechanism 420 results in a motion that replicates the brushing motion of the Bass method. According to some embodiments, the drive mechanism 420 also transmits a lateral motion to the tooth tray, replicating the semicircular brushing motion of the modified Bass method. Thus, the power toothbrush 100 automatically provides a compatible brushing technique by replicating the brushing motion of the Bass method or the modified Bass method recommended by dental professionals, without the user having to learn complex brushing motions.

[0070] The neck 430 joins with the top cover 222 and connects the brush head assembly 400 to the pneumatic tube 229. The interlocking portion of the neck 430 allows the brush head assembly 400 to be removed from the handle portion 200 for cleaning and / or replacing the brush head assembly 420. For example, multiple users may share the same toothbrush base by removing their respective brush heads from the handle portion 200, and the brush head assembly 400 may be disposable. The neck 430 may be rotatable to ensure a comfortable grip and proper positioning of the brush head. Brush Head Assembly Embodiments

[0071] 5A-5E show various views of an exemplary brush head assembly 400 that may be used with an electric toothbrush 100, with the filament removed, according to embodiments disclosed herein. FIG. 5A shows a perspective view of the brush head assembly 400 having a neck 430 configured to couple to the handle portion 200 and a drive mechanism 420 attached to the neck 430 via a sheath 530. The drive mechanism 420 is disposed between the upper brush portion 410a and the lower brush portion 410b. FIG. 5B shows a front view of the brush head assembly 400, and FIG. 5C shows a top view of the brush head assembly 400. FIGS. 5D and 5E show exploded views of the brush head assembly 400, with FIG. 5D being a perspective view of the exploded view and FIG. 5E showing a top view similar to FIG. 5C. As noted above, the upper brush portion 410a includes a tooth tray 412a and a filament 414a, and the lower brush portion 410b includes a tooth tray 412b and a filament 414b. For illustrative purposes, filaments 414a and 414b are omitted from Figures 5A-5E. Figure 5F shows a front view of a drive mechanism 420 that may be used with brush head assembly 400.

[0072] In various embodiments, the upper brush portion 410a and the lower brush portion 410b are symmetrical mirror images of one another. Thus, unless otherwise specified, references to multiple brush portions will be collectively referred to as brush portions 410. Similarly, references to elements using numerical values ​​excluding alphabetical values ​​(e.g., "a" or "b") will be understood to refer to elements having a common characteristic between the two brush portions. Thus, for example, a reference to tooth tray 412 will be understood to refer to either tooth tray 412a or tooth tray 412b, and a reference to tooth tray 412 will be understood to refer to both tooth trays.

[0073] Each tooth tray 412a and 412b includes a first plurality of flexible fingers on a first side and a second plurality of flexible fingers on a second side opposite the first side. For example, as shown in FIG. 5A, tooth tray 412a has a first plurality of flexible fingers 401 and a second plurality of flexible fingers 402. Flexible fingers 401 and 402 are joined to tooth tray 412a to hold filament 414a in place and provide pressure to filament 414a, causing the cleaning surface of filament 414a to contact the surfaces of a user's teeth inserted into tooth channel 417a of tooth tray 412a (e.g., a channel formed between filament 414a and the bottom portion of the tooth tray). Similarly, multiple flexible fingers are attached to the tooth tray 412b, holding the filament 414b in place and applying pressure to the filament 414b so that the cleaning surface of the filament 414b contacts the surface of the user's teeth inserted into the tooth channel 417b of the tooth tray 412b. The flexible fingers provide a predictable spring force. For example, when the tooth tray is not yet engaged with the teeth and the flexible fingers are in an uncompressed state, they may transition to a compressed state due to the force of the teeth pushing the flexible fingers outward from the dental arch when the tooth tray is engaged with the teeth (see FIGS. 4A and 4B). Variations in the base width of the tooth tray and flexible fingers can be adjusted to optimize engagement for as large a population as possible. For example, the flexible fingers provide approximately 26 grams of pressure per mm of flexion required for tooth engagement. The target flexion in the molar region of the flexible fingers is approximately 2mm to 3mm, or approximately 50 to 75 grams of force.

[0074] In some embodiments, each filament 414a and 414b includes multiple filament segments, including one segment along the tooth channel and multiple segments each positioned on a flexible finger. In some embodiments, each filament 414a and 414b may include a first filament segment along the tooth channel, a second filament segment that is a single body extending continuously along the first plurality of flexible fingers, and a third filament segment that is a single body extending continuously along the second plurality of flexible fingers. In another embodiment, each filament 414a and 414b may be a single continuous filament positioned within each tooth tray 412a and 412b.

[0075] When inserted into a person's mouth for brushing, the first end 411 of the tooth tray 412 brushes the incisors and the second end 413 brushes the molars, as shown in Figures 4A and 4B. For example, as shown in Figures 4A and 4B, one of the first and second pluralities of flexible fingers 401a of the tooth tray 412a may receive one or more incisors of the mandibular teeth at the first end 411 for brushing, and one of the first and second pluralities of flexible fingers 401b and 402b of the tooth tray 412b may receive one or more incisors of the maxillary teeth at the first end 411. At the same time, the first and second pluralities of flexible fingers 401 a of tooth tray 412 a may receive one or more molars of the mandibular teeth at their second ends 413 for brushing, and the first and second pluralities of flexible fingers 401 b and 402 b of tooth tray 412 b may receive one or more molars of the maxillary teeth at their second ends 413.

[0076] Each tooth tray 412a and 412b includes one or more flex gaps (also called flex hinges) that allow the tooth tray to flex longitudinally (relative to a longitudinal axis extending generally along the longest length of the arch) to conform to a user's dental arch. A person's dental arch may vary significantly due to physical differences in the size and shape of an individual's mouth, as well as tooth alignment issues (malocclusions). Thus, according to some embodiments, the tooth trays 412a and 412b include at least one flex gap that allows the tooth trays 412a and 412b to flex to accommodate the shape of the user's mouth. The flex gaps provide significant longitudinal flexion that allows the tooth trays 412a and 412b to conform to a user's dental arch and simultaneously apply brushing pressure to the teeth, even with significant variations in tooth width and alignment. 5A, multiple flex hinges 404 and 403 formed as gaps extend from the outer edge of tooth tray 412a into tooth channel 417a at a selected angle, providing increased flexibility over conventional toothbrushes. Of course, tooth tray 412b may also include multiple flex gaps that are mirror images of flex gaps 404 and 403.

[0077] Each dental tray 412a and 412b also includes a plurality of mating openings, each configured to receive an attachment portion of the drive mechanism 420. FIGS. 5A-5C show attachment portions 524, 526, and 522 of the drive mechanism 420 (see, e.g., FIGS. 5D and 5E) extending into respective attachment openings of the dental tray 412a. The attachment portions 524, 526, and 522 couple the dental tray 412a to the drive mechanism 420. Similarly, the dental tray 412b couples to the drive mechanism 420 via attachment portions 512, 514, and 516 (see FIGS. 5D and 5E). Examples of attachment portions may include, but are not limited to, a T-shaped post head, a pop bead post head (discussed above), a slot and pin, a C-shaped receiver on the dental tray, an O-shaped extension from the paddle of the bladder, and the like. In some embodiments, as described below in connection with Figures 7 and 8, the joint openings and attachment portions may be configured to allow the dental tray to shift parallel to the occlusal surfaces of the user's teeth and pivot (pitch, roll, and / or yaw) about a center point to conform to the user's dental arch.

[0078] According to some embodiments, the tooth trays 412a and 412b are formed from a flexible material, such as rubber or elastomer (e.g., TPE, TPU, PP, etc.), which allows the tooth trays to flex longitudinally. In some embodiments, the hardness of the flexible material is between Shore 30A and Shore 85A. In some embodiments, the tooth trays 412a and 412b are formed from a thermosetting elastomer, and the user heats the brush head in hot water to soften the tooth tray elastomer. The user then places the heated brush head in their mouth, causing the softened tooth tray to conform to the user's dental arch. As the elastomer cools, the tooth tray hardens and retains the shape of the user's mouth.

[0079] 5B and 5C, the tooth trays 412a and 412b are shaped to enhance the comfort of the tooth brushing experience. As described above, the tooth trays 412a and 412b, including the flexible fingers, are formed from a flexible material selected to provide adequate pressure to reliably brush the tooth surfaces upon contact, but the tooth trays 412a and 412b are flexible such that the first and second plurality of flexible fingers 401a of the tooth tray 412a may receive one or more incisors that transmit painful pressure points or pinches during use. Furthermore, the tooth trays 412a and 412b are shaped to fit comfortably within the user's mouth without unwanted contact and / or pressure on the upper and lower areas of the mouth and / or tongue.

[0080] For example, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B , the first set of flexible fingers 401 may be angled away from the tooth channel 417 at an angle Θ1 from a direction perpendicular to the tooth channel 417 at the first end 411. At the second end 413, the flexible fingers 401 may be angled away from the tooth channel 417 at an angle Θ6 from a direction perpendicular to the tooth channel 417. The angles Θ1 and Θ6 may be the same or different. In some embodiments, the angle of inclination of each of the first set of flexible fingers varies incrementally for each flexible finger. For example, the angle of inclination may decrease incrementally from the first end 411 to the second end 413, or the angle of inclination may increase. The choice of angle depends on the desire to have the sides of the U-channel parallel to the tooth surface. The bending of the fingers helps to accommodate for shape variations. Teeth grow and these uneven angles and spacing along the jaw are irregular. Therefore, the angle and width of the flexible fingers are not guaranteed to be exactly the same for each individual.

[0081] Similarly, the second set of flexible fingers 402 may be angled from perpendicular to tooth channel 417 at first end 411 toward tooth channel 417 at an angle Θ2. At second end 413, flexible fingers 402 may be angled from perpendicular to tooth channel 417 toward tooth channel 417 at an angle Θ5. The angles Θ2 and Θ5 may be the same or different. In some embodiments, the angle of inclination of each of the second set of flexible fingers varies incrementally for each flexible finger. For example, the angle of inclination may decrease incrementally from first end 411 to second end 413, or the angle of inclination may increase.

[0082] In some embodiments, one or more of the flexible fingers of the first and second pluralities of flexible fingers 401 and 402 may include a curvature configured to contribute to structural integrity and flexibility. For example, each flexible finger may be curved to ensure sufficient pressure is applied to the teeth when brushing, while also providing flexibility for each finger to improve comfort.

[0083] In some embodiments, the first plurality of flexible fingers 401 may also include a protrusion 416, and the second plurality of flexible fingers 402 may include a protrusion 415, both of which extend away from the tooth channel 417. The protrusions 416 and 415 may provide a curved surface that does not scratch, pinch, or apply harmful forces to the user when contacting the user's oral cavity.

[0084] In some embodiments, the height of each of the first plurality of flexible fingers 401 may decrease from a first height at the first end 411 to a second, lower height at the second end 413. The height may decrease gradually, for example, at a gradient having an angle of Θ4, or the height may be stepped, such that each flexible finger has a constant height that varies from one finger to the next. Similarly, the height of each of the second plurality of flexible fingers 402 may decrease from a first height at the first end 411 to a second, lower height at the second end 413. The height may decrease gradually, for example, at a gradient having an angle of Θ3, or the height may be stepped, such that each flexible finger has a constant height that varies from one finger to the next. Additionally, one or more of the first plurality of flexible fingers 401 may have the same height, and one or more of the second plurality of flexible fingers 402 may have the same height (as shown at first end 411 in FIG. 5B). The reduced height of the flexible fingers may improve comfort and ease insertion into a user's oral cavity.

[0085] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the height of the first plurality of flexible fingers 401 may be lower than the height of the second plurality of flexible fingers 402. For example, as shown in Figures 5A and 5B, the highest finger of the second plurality of flexible fingers 402 may be lower than the lowest finger of the first plurality of flexible fingers. However, embodiments herein are not limited thereto. For example, one or more of the second plurality of flexible fingers 402 may be lower than one or more of the first plurality of flexible fingers 401.

[0086] 5D and 5E, brush head assembly 400 includes a drive mechanism 420 positioned between tooth trays 412a and 412b. In the example shown in FIGS. 5D and 5E, drive mechanism 420 includes two portions: a base 510 and a cover 520. Base 510 includes a J-shaped assembly having a first channel portion 537 extending therefrom and attached to neck 430 via a sheath 530, which is joined to the J-shaped assembly. Sheath 530 may be configured to prevent a fluid path 535 of the pneumatic system (e.g., path 535 from handle portion 200 to driver 420) from being pinched, crushed, or kinked. Cover 520 also includes a J-shaped assembly and a second channel portion 540 that are substantially identical to the J-shaped assembly of base 510. First and second channel portions 537 and 540 each include a semi-cylindrical section of the channel that forms a complete cylindrical channel extending from sheath 530 to the J-shaped assembly. For example, second channel portion 540 is joined to first channel portion 537 to form a housing that constitutes the complete sheath that houses the entire channel 535. The channel extends from inlet 532 to the J-shaped assembly of drive mechanism 420 and may be considered part of a fluid conduit or pathway.

[0087] Each J-shaped assembly includes a rigid housing, a flexible diaphragm, and a rigid paddle. The housing's rigidity corresponds to the flexibility of the diaphragm. The rigidity is sufficient to hold the diaphragm and allow the assembly to function properly as a teeth cleaning device.

[0088] In the illustrated embodiment, the base 510 includes a frame 515, a diaphragm 513, and a paddle 511, and the cover 520 includes a frame 525, a diaphragm 523, and a paddle 521. The frames 515 and 525 may be collectively referred to as a frame or a frame. Multiple attachment points are disposed on the paddles. For example, the paddle 511 includes attachment points 514, 516, and 512, and the paddle 521 includes attachment points 524, 526, and 522. As described above, the attachment points may be provided as pop bead post heads, T-shaped post heads, and the like. The attachment point of each J-shaped assembly is received by a corresponding mating opening in the corresponding dental tray to couple that dental tray to the drive mechanism. For example, the mating openings 405b, 408b, and 407b receive the mounting portions 514, 516, and 512, respectively, thereby mating the tooth tray 412b to the base 510. The combination of the mating openings and their corresponding mounting portions can be referred to as a gimbal, allowing the tooth tray to move relative to the rest of the assembly. The mating openings can have different shapes. For example, the slot-like shape illustrated for the mating openings 407a and 407b allows the associated tooth tray 412a and 412b to move relative to its associated base 510 / 520. More specifically, the tooth tray is supported and can move along the mounting portion in the slot. In this way, the tooth tray mats to the associated base and can also curve or bend to accommodate differences between the user's dental arches. A round mating opening allows the tooth tray to rotate about the associated mounting portion. The tooth tray 412a may similarly be mated to the cover 520. The combination of the attachment portions and their corresponding mating openings provides first and second mating mechanisms between the respective dental trays and the diaphragm or bladder. The mating mechanisms allow for limited flexing of the dental tray relative to the framework.

[0089] As described above in connection with FIG. 1, the filament 414 is attached to the tooth tray 412. In the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 5A-5E, the filament 414 for cleaning the tooth surface is attached to the flexible fingers 401 and 402, as described above, which apply pressure to the filament 414 to bring the cleaning surface of the brush pad into contact with the user's tooth surface. For example, the filament 414a may be attached to the first and second pluralities of fingers 401a and 402. Optionally, the filament 414a may also be positioned within the tooth channel 417a. In some embodiments, the filament 414a may include multiple segments. For example, a first segment of the filament 414a may be attached to the first pluralities of flexible fingers 401a, a second segment may be attached to the second pluralities of flexible fingers 402, and (optionally) a third segment may be attached to the tooth channel 417a. In another example, filament 414a may include multiple filaments, each filament attached to a flexible finger, e.g., each individual flexible finger 401a and 402 includes a different filament attached thereto. Although the embodiment is described with reference to element 410a, it should be understood that element 410b (e.g., tooth tray 412b and filament 414b) is similarly configured.

[0090] Thus, filament 414 can conform to tooth surfaces that are maloccluded. Because pressure from flexible fingers 401 and 402 keeps the cleaning surface of filament 414 in contact with the tooth surface, the length of the cleaning member used with filament 414 can be shorter than would be required if the cleaning member were used alone to conform to the arch of the user's teeth.

[0091] As described above, in one embodiment where the cleaning members provided are bristle tufts, the bristle tufts are attached from the flexible fingers at an acute angle relative to the tooth surface, with the distal ends of the bristle tufts pointing toward the gingival sulcus to remove bacterial plaque adjacent to and just below the gingival margin. In another embodiment, the bristle tufts may be angled relative to the tooth surface, as described above in connection with FIG. 1 . In some embodiments where multiple filament segments are provided for each dental arch, the bristle tufts of each segment may extend at the same or different angles; for example, the first segment attached to flexible finger 401 may be at a 45-degree angle, the second segment attached to flexible finger 402 may be at a 45-degree angle, and the third segment attached to the tooth tray may be perpendicular to the tooth surface. Any configuration of angles may be used to achieve the desired cleaning characteristics. In another embodiment, where each flexible finger comprises a different filament, the tufts of each filament may be angled at the same or different angles, e.g., each finger 401 may have a separate portion of filament 414a independent of the other portions of filament 414a, with the tufts of a first portion extending vertically while the tufts of a second portion extending at a 45 degree angle, or any other angle described herein.

[0092] According to some embodiments, the filament 414 is attached to the flexible fingers 401 and 402 using an adhesive. According to another embodiment, the filament 414 includes a rigid substrate that can be snapped or locked into place on the flexible fingers 401 and 402. According to some embodiments, the filament 414 is removable and replaceable, allowing a user to replace the filament 414 without having to replace the entire brushing head. Various techniques may be used to snap or lock the filament 414 into place on the flexible fingers 401 and 402. According to some embodiments, heat staking or ultrasonic staking may be used to attach the filament 414 to the tooth tray. For example, the filament 414 may have one or more posts extending from a rigid substrate that is fused to the dental arch. According to another embodiment, stretch snaps may be used to attach the filament 414 to the tooth tray. For example, the filament 414 may include one or more rubber tips that are stretched and inserted through and removed from the openings in the tooth tray; the rubber tips do not retract and are stretched wide enough that the tips cannot slip through the openings, holding the brush pad in place. According to another embodiment, one or more "pop beads" may be used to hold the filament 414 in place. The pop beads include round features molded into the hard substrate of the brush pad that snap into corresponding openings on the dental arch. The pop beads allow the hard substrate of the filament 414 to rotate about its axis, thereby aligning the brush head with the teeth during use. According to yet another embodiment, ultrasonic welding may be used to secure the brushing head to the dental arch. For example, the brush pad may be formed from a plastic material compatible with the plastic of the tooth tray, and the filament 414 may be ultrasonically welded to the tooth tray.

[0093] As discussed above, in some embodiments, the filament 414 may be manufactured using a traditional toothbrush design (e.g., nylon bristle tufts attached using staple sets, molding, or fusion bonding). In some embodiments, the filament 414 may be manufactured using a fiber manufacturing process. According to some embodiments, the bristle tufts are manufactured as part of the bristle tuft pad fabric, while in still other embodiments, the bristle tufts may be attached to the surface of the fabric or inserted into the fabric. According to various embodiments, the fabric comprises various types of materials, such as films (e.g., Mylar), polymers, or elastomers. Flexible fingers 401 and 402 flatten the bristle tufts while applying effective brushing pressure to the tooth surface.

[0094] According to some embodiments, a combination of traditional tufts and raised fabric is used, which provides a very high tuft density that enhances plaque removal. According to some embodiments, groups of tuft strands are spliced ​​into the raised fabric of filaments 414, and in some embodiments, the tufts included in the tuft strands may have different lengths to form the tuft strands.

[0095] Flexible fingers 401 and 402 may be designed to provide a wide range of brushing pressures. For example, according to a preferred embodiment, the pressure fingers are designed to provide approximately 50-75 grams of pressure on the tooth surfaces.

[0096] FIG. 6 shows a top view of an exemplary tooth tray that may be used with the brush head assembly of FIG. 4 according to an embodiment disclosed herein. FIG. 6 illustrates tooth tray 612, which may be used as the tooth tray of brush head assembly 400. For example, tooth tray 412a and / or tooth tray 412b may be implemented as tooth tray 612. Tooth tray 612 is substantially similar to tooth trays 412a and 412b, except as provided herein. Accordingly, similar reference numbers are used in FIG. 6 to refer to similar elements from tooth trays 412a and 412b described above. For example, similar to tooth trays 412a and 412b, tooth tray 612 is illustratively illustrated as a J-shaped arch that can simultaneously brush the right or left sagittal plane of the mandibular and maxillary dental arches. Tooth tray 612 includes a first plurality of flexible fingers 601 and a second plurality of flexible fingers 602, similar to flexible fingers 401 and 402 described above. The flexible fingers surround tooth channel 617. Accordingly, the aspects and features provided above with respect to either tooth tray 412a or tooth tray 412b apply to tooth tray 612 as well.

[0097] As described above, flexible fingers 601 are angled away from tooth channel 617, and flexible fingers 602 are angled toward tooth channel 617. With the different angled angles described above, the width of tooth channel 617 may vary along the length of tooth tray 612 to more comfortably accommodate teeth of different sizes. For example, the width of channel 617 at second end 613 may be wider (e.g., to more comfortably accommodate molars) than at first end 611 (e.g., to accommodate incisors).

[0098] In some embodiments, one or more flexible fingers are larger than the other flexible fingers. For example, Figure 6 illustrates two flexible fingers of the second plurality of flexible fingers 602, which at first end 611 may extend further from tooth channel 417 and then bend back toward tooth channel 417.

[0099] The tooth tray 612 also includes multiple flexure hinges similar to flexure hinges 403 and 404. For example, gaps may be formed between adjacent flexible fingers of the first and second sets of flexible fingers 601 and 602, thereby forming independent flexible fingers. As shown in FIG. 6 , one or more of these gaps may form a flexure hinge by extending the respective gap into the tooth channel 617. By extending the gap further into the tooth channel 617, each flexure hinge provides flexibility to the tooth tray 612, allowing the tooth tray 612 to curve inward and flex longitudinally (e.g., perpendicular to the top view direction shown in FIG. 6 ) along the occlusal surface of a user's oral cavity, thereby adapting to different shaped oral cavities and / or various malocclusions.

[0100] In the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 6 , the tooth tray 612 includes a first flexure hinge 603 and a second flexure hinge 618 formed between the flexible fingers of the first set of flexible fingers 601. In the illustrative embodiment, the flexure hinge 603 is a linear flexure hinge that extends into the tooth channel 617 and terminates at a point on the first circle of bend. The flexure hinge 618 extends into the tooth channel 617, bends toward the first end 611, and includes a gap that terminates at a point on the second circle of bend. The tooth tray 612 also includes a third flexure hinge 604 formed between the flexible fingers of the second set of flexible fingers 602. In the embodiment of FIG. 6 , the third flexure hinge 604 extends into the tooth channel 617, angles toward the second end 613, and terminates at a point on the third circle of bend. In the exemplary embodiment, the first flexure hinge 603 allows the tooth tray 612 to bend about a first point of bending. That is, the second end 613 may bend toward the inner portion of the attachment relative to the first end 611, and the first end 611 may bend away from the inner portion relative to the second end 613. Similarly, the second flexure hinge 618 allows the tooth tray 612 to bend about a second point of bending, and the third flexure hinge 604 allows the tooth tray 612 to bend about a third point of bending. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the circular holes provide strain relief. The width of the slots (extending from these holes) is one way to provide some limit to bending in one direction. Slots 605 and 607 control the range of possible movement in the other direction. The range of bending of the U-channel can be changed by varying these relationships.

[0101] Due, at least in part, to the flexibility of the tooth tray and the bending of the flexible fingers that hold the filaments in place, when the bristle tufts provide a full bristle tip fit in the oral cavity, the length of the filaments can be shorter, resulting in a more compact brush head. Furthermore, the multiple flex hinges with the selected shapes described above allow the tooth tray to conform to more different oral cavity shapes than would otherwise be possible. Thus, the number of different sized brush head assemblies that need to be manufactured to cover all the variations in oral cavity shapes in the general population can be reduced to a small number of different sizes, each of which flexes and bends to conform to an overlapping range of oral cavity shapes and sizes.

[0102] While specific examples and numbers of flexure hinges are illustrated in Figure 6, embodiments herein are not limited to only the illustrated number and shapes. Any number of flexure hinges (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, etc.) may be included to achieve the desired flexibility while also maintaining the structural integrity of the toothbrush. Similarly, the shape of each flexure hinge may be optionally varied to target different bending characteristics and degrees of bending. Thus, any desired shape may be used.

[0103] The dental tray of Figure 6 also includes multiple joint openings (first joint opening 605, second joint opening 608, and third joint opening 607) similar to the joint openings described in connection with Figures 5A-5E. As described above, the joint openings are configured to receive the attachment portions of the drive mechanism 420 for coupling the dental tray 612 to the drive mechanism 420 (see, for example, Figures 5D-5E).

[0104] In some embodiments, the joint opening may be configured to allow longitudinal shifting along the occlusal plane and pivoting of the dental tray relative to the jointed drive mechanism 420, thereby further improving its ability to accommodate differently shaped oral cavities and / or various malocclusions. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the first joint opening 605 may be a slotted opening (also referred to as a t-slot opening) that extends generally longitudinally across the tooth channel 617. For example, FIG. 7 shows a longitudinal arrow 705 indicating the direction of movement provided by the slotted opening 605. The slotted opening 605 may curve longitudinally, for example, as the dental tray flexes, allowing a corresponding attachment of the drive mechanism to slide within the slot.

[0105] Similarly, mating opening 607 may be a slotted opening (also called a T-slot opening) that extends generally longitudinally across tooth channel 617. For example, FIG. 7 shows a longitudinal arrow 707 indicating the direction of movement provided by slotted opening 607. Like slotted opening 605, opening 607 may be curved to allow for shifting of the corresponding mounting of the drive mechanism. Openings 605 and 607 may be similarly curved, one with a concave curvature and the other with a convex curvature. In another embodiment, openings 605 and 607 may be curved in the same direction.

[0106] In various embodiments, the use of T-shaped pop beads that snap into slotted openings, such as one or more of openings 607 and / or 605, may provide additional support to prevent the corresponding end of the tooth tray from bending up or down. For example, a T-shaped pop bead snapped into opening 607 can help prevent end 611 of tooth tray 612 from unintentionally bending the tooth tray into or out of the roof of the mouth. Similarly, opening 605 may receive a T-shaped pop bead to hold end 613. The use of T-shaped pop beads to hold each end is not limited to the embodiment of FIG. 6 but may be used in any tooth tray having slotted mating openings disclosed herein. Retention of the tooth tray end is important to prevent loss of up and down movement and / or reduced brushing force in the respective areas. Another method for reducing such bending may be the use of retention clips or nose hooks, which may be similar to the small retainers described below in connection with FIGS. 21a and 21b. Retention clips may be used in conjunction with T-shaped pop beads to improve flex resistance.

[0107] The size of the slotted openings (and thereby the T-head pop beads received therein) may be designed to achieve the desired flex in the dental tray 612. For example, larger slots in either length or width allow for more flex in the corresponding area. In some embodiments, slot 607 is larger than slot 605, allowing for more flex near the front of the oral cavity.

[0108] The dental tray 612 also includes a second mating opening 608 as a post opening that receives the mounting portion of the pop bead post head of the drive mechanism. The pop bead post head can pivot in pitch, yaw, and roll within the post opening 608, with the pop bead post head being the center of rotation. For example, FIG. 7 illustrates a rotation arrow 708 indicating the yaw rotational motion provided by the post opening 608, and FIG. 8 illustrates the roll rotational motion provided by the post opening 608. Such movement of the upper and lower arches allows the device to adjust for differences between a user's upper and lower jaws.

[0109] While the tooth tray 612 is illustrated with particular types of joint openings, embodiments herein are not limited to only these types or to only the illustrated configurations. For example, all joint openings may be slotted or post openings. In another example, joint opening 608 may be slotted, while one or more of joint openings 605 and 607 are not slotted (e.g., post openings). Furthermore, openings may be located anywhere in tooth channel 617, not just in the locations illustrated in FIG. 6.

[0110] At least in part, the joint openings that allow for the shifting and pivoting of the dental arches allow for shorter filament lengths, resulting in a more compact brush head when the bristle tufts fit the entire tip of the bristle tuft into the oral cavity. Furthermore, the shifting and pivoting of the tooth tray described above may facilitate conformance to more different oral cavity shapes than would otherwise be achieved. Thus, the number of different sized brush head assemblies that need to be manufactured to cover all the variations in oral cavity shapes in the general population can be reduced to a small number of different sizes, each of which moves and shifts to conform to an overlapping range of oral cavity shapes and sizes.

[0111] In the tooth tray embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, increased comfort and accommodation to a wider range of oral shapes and malocclusions may be achieved through the combination of flex hinges and joint openings. For example, individually, the flex hinges and joint openings on the tooth tray 612 may accommodate many different oral shapes and / or various malocclusions. By using both flex hinges and joint openings in combination, even more oral shapes and / or malocclusions may be accommodated. Thus, a single size brush head assembly 400 may be made that accommodates a wide range of oral shapes and malocclusions, thereby reducing the number of individually formed brush head assemblies that need to be constructed.

[0112] 9-12 show exploded views of drive mechanism 420. FIG. 9 shows a perspective exploded view of drive mechanism 420, and FIG. 10 shows an exploded view from the opposite perspective to FIG. 9, showing features not shown in FIG. 9. FIG. 11 shows an exploded perspective view of cover 520, and FIG. 12 shows an exploded perspective view of base 510.

[0113] As described above, the drive mechanism 420 includes two components: a base 510 and a cover 520 attached to the cover 510. The cover 520 may be joined via an adhesive or any joining technique known in the art for joining the main parts. The base 510 includes a J-shaped assembly 517 attached to a sheath 530. The sheath 530 houses a fluid path inlet 532 configured to removably couple to the pneumatic system of the handle portion 200, as described above in connection with FIGS. 1 and 2. The sheath 530 may be configured to prevent the fluid path from becoming pinched, crushed, or kinked. The cover 520 also includes a J-shaped assembly 527 and a sheath portion 540 that is substantially identical to the J-shaped assembly of the base 510. The sheath portion 540 may be joined to an opening along the neck of the sheath 530 between the J-shaped assembly and the neck 430, forming a housing that constitutes a complete sheath for protecting the fluid path 535.

[0114] As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 , the base 510 includes a frame 515, a diaphragm 513, and a paddle 511, and the cover 520 includes a frame 525, a diaphragm 523, and a paddle 521. The paddle 511 includes mounting portions 514, 516, and 512, and the paddle 521 includes mounting portions 524, 526, and 522. As described above, the mounting portions may be provided as pop bead post heads, T-shaped post heads, and the like. The mounting portion of each J-shaped assembly may be received by a corresponding mating opening of a corresponding dental tray to couple that dental tray to the drive mechanism. For example, mating openings 405b, 408b, and 407b receive mounting portions 514, 516, and 512, respectively, thereby coupling dental tray 412b to the base 510. The dental tray 412 a may be joined to the cover 520 as well.

[0115] In some embodiments, each diaphragm may be joined to a respective outer frame, and each paddle may be attached to a diaphragm. The outer frames may then be attached (e.g., via an adhesive or bonding techniques known in the art), thereby forming a space within the drive mechanism enclosed between the diaphragms. The two outer frames 515 and 525 may also be formed as a single piece and may be referred to as a frame that holds the two diaphragms or bladders.

[0116] For example, Figures 13 and 14 show cross-sectional views of exemplary configurations of the drive mechanism according to A-A' of Figure 5F. Also, the two outer frames 515 and 525 may be formed as a single piece and may be referred to as a frame.

[0117] In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 13 , a space 550 is formed between diaphragm 523 and diaphragm 513. Diaphragms 513 and 523 and space 550 therebetween may collectively be referred to as a bladder according to embodiments herein. In the embodiment of FIG. 13 , paddles 511 and 521 are disposed within space 550 and have attachment portions 526, 524, 516, and 514 that protrude through respective diaphragms 513 and 523. FIG. 14 illustrates another configuration similar to that of FIG. 13 , except that paddles 511 and 521 are disposed on the side of the diaphragms opposite space 550. As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 , the diaphragms may include one or more opposing curvatures (e.g., a generally “S” shape) and may be formed in a manner similar to a speaker cone, thereby providing flexibility for expansion and contraction like a speaker cone. Other variations in construction include 521 and 511 being injection molded and bonded directly to 523 and 513 in the molding process. A pair of common materials that allow for such strong bonding are polycarbonate and silicone. Other compatible flexible and rigid or semi-rigid materials may also be used.

[0118] According to various embodiments herein, the vibration of the pneumatic system, switching between pressure and suction, rapidly vibrates the diaphragms 523 and 513, which in turn vibrates the cavity 550, causing the attached tooth trays 412a and 412b to move up and down against the tooth surfaces, generating the brushing action of the electric toothbrush 100. That is, the paddles 511 and 521 alternately move away from and toward each other, forcing fluid (e.g., air) into and out of the cavity 550, causing the cavity to alternately expand and contract. Thus, the tooth trays 412a and 412b move apart in an up-and-down motion, causing the filaments 414a and 414b to brush along the tooth surfaces.

[0119] Embodiments herein provide a composite design for the drive mechanism 420. For example, the diaphragms 523 and 513 may be formed from a sterile, flexible material similar to that used to manufacture the soft elastomeric membrane of a speaker diaphragm (such as, but not limited to, silicone rubber, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), also known as thermoplastic rubber, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), latex, vinyl, nitrile, or other flexible material capable of withstanding repeated expansion and contraction at high frequencies), while the paddle and housing may be formed from a harder material, such as hard plastic. The hard plastic material provides a comfortable, rigid handle that attaches to the motorized handle, allowing the user full control over positioning the entire toothbrush in and out of the mouth for rinsing and cleaning. The hard plastic may be molded or formed using techniques known in the art. The housing material may have hoop strength, along with the shear strength of the material forming the diaphragm, to minimize energy loss while the pneumatic system vibrates the drive mechanism. By using a soft elastomeric membrane material in combination with the hard material described above, the reactive forces of bladders formed from purely soft elastomeric materials can be avoided. For example, a purely soft elastomeric bladder allows movement in directions other than the desired direction perpendicular to the paddle. When pressure within the bladder increases, the soft elastomeric material stretches in all directions, resulting in reduced efficiency. Therefore, embodiments herein utilize a composite bladder design of stiff, hard, and soft elastomeric materials to contain lost motion and move in the direction of optimal efficiency. Furthermore, the cross-sectional shape of diaphragms 513 and 523 helps control the direction of stretch in the desired direction, reducing efficiency loss.

[0120] Diaphragms 523 and 513, paddles 511 and 521, and rigid frames 515 and 525 may be formed by injection molding or through other methods known in the art. Diaphragms 523 and 513 may also be constructed from Mylar, PVC, or other sheet materials that are stretched or bonded to form using methods known in the art.

[0121] Diaphragms 523 and 513 are made of a flexible, elastic material, and space 550 tends to expand and stretch under positive internal pressure applied by the air pressure system, pushing the surfaces of the drive mechanisms (e.g., paddles 511 and 521) away from a plane disposed through the center of diaphragms 523 and 513. Diaphragms 523 and 521 collapse and contract when negative internal pressure is applied by the air pressure system, drawing paddles 511 and 521 toward the central plane. Tooth trays 412 are attached to paddles 521 and 511, respectively, and therefore share the movement of drive mechanism 420. The position of the central plane of drive mechanism 420, incorporated into brush head 400 used for brushing, depends on the orientation of brush head 400 relative to the occlusal surfaces of the mandibular and maxillary teeth and the pressure exerted by the jaw muscles. As described above, the user may lightly bite down on the brush head 400 so that the tooth trays of the brush head flex and conform to the shape of the user's dental arch.

[0122] One advantage of a drive mechanism with a single, large space between the tooth trays is that bite pressure is equalized across the tooth trays by the drive mechanism regardless of any "tilt" in the user's bite (e.g., bite pressure imbalance). For example, a user may exert higher bite pressure in the back of the mouth relative to the front. The pressure gradient is transmitted to the center of the drive mechanism's bladder, and the bite pressure exerted by the user is distributed by the diaphragm, allowing the power toothbrush to adapt to variations and irregularities in the bite pressure exerted by the user. Furthermore, as opposed to localized pressure distribution, the paddles help distribute the higher bite pressure across the diaphragm, distributing the pressure evenly across the bladder. Pneumatic System Embodiments

[0123] FIG. 15 shows a schematic diagram of a pneumatic system 1500 that may be used to move the drive mechanism 420 of embodiments disclosed herein. FIG. 15 illustrates a pneumatic system spanning between the handle portion 200 and the brush head assembly 400. The pneumatic system 1500 converts electrical energy into filament movement. For example, referring to FIG. 1, the pneumatic system 1500 operates to oscillate the drive mechanism 420 of the brush head 400 to alternately move the tooth trays 412 a and 412 b closer together and move the tooth trays 412 a and 412 b apart, creating a brushing action.

[0124] Pneumatic system 1500 includes a diaphragm pump 1501 connected to an outlet check valve 1502 and an inlet check valve 1503. Outlet check valve 1503 is connected to an inlet shutoff valve 1504. Outlet check valve 1502 is connected to an outlet bypass valve 1505, a pressure transducer 1506, and a drive mechanism 1507. Diaphragm pump 1501 may be, for example, diaphragm 207 driven by motor 204, creating an oscillating pressure gradient between diaphragm 207 and chassis bottom 208 of FIG. 2. Drive mechanism 1507 may be substantially the same as drive mechanism 420 described above.

[0125] In operation, under the control of a processing device (e.g., processing device 215 of FIG. 2), inlet shutoff valve 1503 is opened and outlet bypass valve 1505 is closed. Diaphragm pump 1501 is operating, inlet check valve 1503 is opened, and fluid (e.g., gaseous or liquid fluid) enters system 1500 and is maintained within pump 1501. Simultaneously, outlet check valve 1502 is opened, and fluid enters drive mechanism 1507 and is maintained therein. This configuration allows pressure to build within system 1500 to a desired level.

[0126] When the desired level is reached, inlet shutoff valve 1504 is closed, isolating system 1500 from further pressure intake, and outlet bypass valve 1505 is opened, thereby coupling diaphragm pump 1501 to drive mechanism 1507. Diaphragm pump 1501 continues to operate when outlet bypass valve 1505 is open, causing drive mechanism 1507 to oscillate in sync with diaphragm pump 1501.

[0127] In various embodiments, the drive mechanism 1507 is ideally designed to move the tooth tray in the opposite direction when the diaphragm pump 1501 begins operation from the top dead center position. For example, FIGS. 16A-16C illustrate several states of operation of the pneumatic system 1500. FIGS. 16A-16C show simplified diagrams of the pneumatic system 1500, in which, for example, the outlet check valve 1502, the inlet check valve 1503, the inlet shutoff valve 1504, the outlet bypass valve 1505, and the pressure transducer 1506 are grouped together as element 1510 for illustrative purposes. FIG. 16A illustrates a pressure build-up phase, in which the inlet shutoff valve 1503 is opened, the outlet bypass valve 1505 is closed, the inlet check valve 1503 is opened, and the outlet check valve 1502 is opened. When the desired pressure is reached, in a first state (FIG. 16B), the diaphragm pump 1501 starts at top dead center, with a maximum amount of fluid in the pump 1501 and a minimum amount of fluid in the drive mechanism 1507. This indicates that each stroke of the pump is in operation is at the top and the drive mechanism 1507 is at rest (e.g., no suction or fluid in the drive mechanism). In a second state (FIG. 16C), the pump 1501 is at the bottom of its stroke (e.g., minimum amount of fluid in the pump) and the amount of fluid in the drive mechanism is at a maximum. In the first state, the tooth trays are at a minimum distance from each other, and in the second state, the dental arches are at a maximum distance from each other.

[0128] Alternatively, a closed-type pump can be used. When the pump begins to operate, there is only air in the system to build up internal pressure. However, operation is the same as that described above in connection with Figures 16A-16C. For example, the pump 1501 should start at top dead center (TDC) so that the closed-type system can accommodate as much air as possible. 1501 then moves to bottom dead center (BDC), expelling all air in the pump into the bladder 1507. With 1507 at rest and in a neutral position, the first movement of the pair of tooth trays 420 moves them away from each other. As the pump moves from BDC to TDC, the tooth trays are pulled toward each other from the vacuum force of the 1501 pump.

[0129] According to some embodiments, the following method may be used to ensure that the pump 1501 starts from the top dead center position. For example, the following method ensures that the pump 1501 stops operating when the diaphragm is at the top dead center position when the toothbrush 100 is turned off. First, the processing unit monitors the motor (e.g., motor 204) current during operation to generate a typical full-rotation current signature (e.g., a full stroke of the diaphragm). Control of the motor position is based on the current supplied to the motor supply current. The processing unit may define a current level based on the monitoring of when to turn off the motor power so that top dead center is always reached. A light-emitting diode and receiver may be provided in the handle 200 to detect the in-flight diaphragm position to determine when to stop at TDC. As described above, the inlet check valve 1503 may operate to allow pressure to begin building from the top dead center position. Optionally, a pressure sensor can detect the pressure buildup and ensure the desired pressure level is achieved.

[0130] Optimizing the placement of tooth cleaning elements (e.g., brush portions 410a and 410b) to achieve the desired brushing action requires balancing the dynamic behavior of the system's pneumatic components, including factors such as the total air volume of the system, the pump pressure characteristics during each stroke, the mechanical characteristics of the drive mechanism, and the fluidity of the air delivery paths and pathways.

[0131] The speed of the motor 204 affects the above parameters. A measure of the motor's speed is revolutions per minute. According to one embodiment, the target speed is approximately 30-80 revolutions per second. According to some embodiments, a target speed of approximately 48-55 Hz provides optimal results.

[0132] As described above, the motor 204 produces a compression stroke and a suction stroke for the pump 204 with each revolution. According to some embodiments, the maximum positive pressure for the compression stroke is in the range of 20 to 30 pounds per square inch (psi), while the maximum negative pressure is limited to an absolute vacuum of approximately -14.7 psi. According to some embodiments, the absolute vacuum is limited to approximately -6 to -9 psi. Thus, more pressure is available for the compression stroke. However, as the pressure in the system increases, the amount of air released decreases according to the equation of state, PV = mRT. This pressure differential results in an optimal positive mean pressure that results in the highest drive mechanism distortion. According to some embodiments, a pressure control valve can be included in the pneumatic system to release pressure when the pressure increases beyond the optimal positive mean pressure. However, some positive pressure may be desirable to maintain a slight expansion of the drive mechanism, providing comfort within the oral cavity. This slight expansion may allow for oscillatory motion with lower energy consumption.

[0133] According to one embodiment, the air volume displacement per stroke by pump 207 may be balanced by the volume of the air supply element and the volume of the drive mechanism (e.g., space 505). The total deflection per revolution may be related to the volume added per pressure stroke and the volume subtracted from the drive mechanism for the vacuum stroke. This volume change may also be related to the average pressure in the drive mechanism. As the average pressure in the bladder increases, the volume change (and corresponding tooth contact displacement) in any motor's drive mechanism decreases.

[0134] The bite force on the tooth tray adds to the average pressure of the drive mechanism and can negatively affect the performance of the pneumatic system. According to some embodiments, the pneumatic system of the electric toothbrush includes a pressure control valve to release pressure from the system and relieve pressure due to the user's bite pressure. There are several valve implementations (i.e., duckbill valves, umbrella valves, or flapper valves) that are suitable for inclusion in replacement brush heads used with electric toothbrushes. Interlock Mechanism

[0135] FIG. 17 illustrates an exemplary interlock mechanism that may be used with the electric toothbrush 100 according to embodiments disclosed herein. FIG. 17 illustrates an exploded view of the toothbrush 100 with the brush head 400 removed from the handle 200, thereby exposing the nosecone 222 extending from the top cover 221. The brush head 400 illustrated in FIG. 17 may be substantially similar to the brush heads disclosed throughout this disclosure (e.g., FIGS. 5A-13). The brush head 400 includes a sheath 530 extending from a drive mechanism 420. The sheath 530 is attached to the neck 430, and an identification band is optionally provided on the lower edge 432 of the neck 430. The identification band 420 may be a visually appealing colored element to distinguish the brush head from others, for example, when different users intend to use different brush heads with the same handle 200.

[0136] In various embodiments, the neck 430 of the brush head 400 is configured to mate with the nosecone 222, e.g., the inner surface of the neck 400 contacts the outer surface of the nosecone 222. The lower edge of the neck 430 (or the identification band 432, if used) may contact the top cover 221.

[0137] 17, an interlocking mechanism 1700 is provided between the nosecone 222 and the neck 430. The interlocking mechanism 1700 is configured to removably couple the brush head 400 to the handle portion 200. For example, a first interlocking portion (examples of which are provided in FIGS. 19A-19C) is provided on the nosecone 222, which is configured to mate with a corresponding second interlocking portion of the neck 430 (examples of which are provided in FIGS. 18A-18C). In some embodiments, the brush head 400 can be placed on the nosecone 222, for example, via movement in a direction generally parallel to the length of the handle portion 200, and then, when the brush head 400 reaches its designed position relative to the nosecone 222, a rotating twisting motion along the circumferential direction can be applied to the brush head 400, causing the first and second interlocking portions to couple and lock the brush head 400 to the nosecone 222 and the handle portion 200 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 20 ). A rotating twisting motion in the opposite circumferential direction unlocks the first and second mating elements, thereby allowing the brush head to be removed from the nosecone 222.

[0138] In some embodiments, the interlocking of the first and second interlocking portions may also provide an airtight seal between the inlet 532 within the sheath 530 and the outlet 230. For example, an O-ring or other sealing member (not shown) may be provided at one or more of the inlet 532 and the outlet 230. When the brush head 400 is placed on the nosecone 222, the inlet 532 and the outlet 230 may contact one another. Then, when the brush head 400 is twisted to lock it in place with the nosecone, the interlocking mechanism may draw the inlet 532 toward the outlet 230, exerting greater pressure against the sealing member therebetween, providing an airtight seal between the inlet 532 and the outlet 230. Providing an airtight seal may reduce pressure loss, improving the efficiency of the pneumatic system and ensuring a fluid path that does not lose fluid.

[0139] 18A-18C illustrate an exemplary first interlocking portion of interlock mechanism 1700, according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 18A illustrates a perspective view of a first side of neck 430, with sheath 530 and the remainder of brush head 400 removed. FIG. 18A illustrates a view of the first side of neck 430 from above neck 430, facing handle portion 200. FIG. 18B illustrates a perspective view of a second side of neck 430, opposite the first side, with sheath 530 and the remainder of brush head 400 removed. FIG. 18B illustrates a view of the second side of neck 430, similar to FIG. 18A, from above neck 430, facing handle portion 200. FIG. 18C illustrates a bottom view of neck 430 (e.g., from the position of handle portion 200), with handle portion 200 removed.

[0140] 18A-18C show an exemplary second interlocking portion 1710 included as part of neck 430. In an exemplary embodiment, neck 430 has a conical opening in which second interlocking portion 1710 is formed. The exemplary second interlocking portion 1710 illustrated in FIGS. 18A-18C may be referred to as an internal lock. In some embodiments, neck 430 may be a hard plastic molded or formed to include an internal locking member using known techniques. In another embodiment, neck 430 may be formed, with the internal lock bonded to the inner surface of neck 430.

[0141] 18A-18C, a spacer ring 1702 is provided adjacent the upper edge of neck 430 (e.g., the edge that contacts sheath 530), upon which protrusions 533 (see FIG. 9) of sheath 530 rest during assembly and serves to facilitate connection and alignment between neck 430 and sheath 530. Ring 1702 may optionally include protrusions 1703 that extend in an upward direction toward sheath 530 and are configured to interlock with cutouts 534 included in the protrusions of sheath 530.

[0142] Internal stop 1710 may be located on the side of ring 1703 opposite protrusion 1703. Interlocking portion 1710 may include one or more locking members, such as first locking member 1711 shown in FIG. 18A and second locking member 1715 shown in FIG. 18B. First and second locking members 1711 and 1715 are illustratively shown positioned opposite each other on first and second sides of neck 430, respectively.

[0143] First locking member 1711 includes a body 1712 having a rectangular front surface facing second locking member 1715, and a locking feature 1713. Locking feature 1713 is illustratively illustrated as a protruding surface with angled sides that extends into body 1712, thereby forming a base that is wider than the protruding surface, as shown in FIG. 18A . Locking feature 1713 is located at the end of body 1712 as shown. In the illustrative embodiment, the thickness of body 1712 (e.g., the distance that body 1712 extends radially from the inner surface of neck 430, as shown in FIG. 18C ) gradually narrows from the end including locking feature 1713 to the opposite end. This can function like a ramp or beveled pane to provide sealing pressure.

[0144] Similarly, second locking member 1715 includes a body 1716 having a substantially square front surface facing first locking member 1711, and a locking feature 1717. Locking feature 1717 is illustratively illustrated as a protruding surface having angled sides that extends into body 1716, thereby forming a base that is wider than the protruding surfaces, as shown in FIG. 18B. Locking feature 1717 is located at the end of body 1716 as shown. In the illustrative embodiment, the thickness of body 1716 (e.g., the distance that body 1716 extends radially from the inner surface of neck 430) is constant.

[0145] 19A-19C show an exemplary second interlocking portion of interlock mechanism 1700, according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 19A shows a perspective view of a first side of nosecone 222, with brush head 400 removed. FIG. 18B shows a perspective view of a second side, opposite the first side, of nosecone 222. FIG. 19C shows a top view of nosecone 222, with brush head 400 removed.

[0146] 19A-19C show an exemplary first interlocking portion 1720 included as part of the nosecone 222. In an exemplary embodiment, the nosecone 222 includes the first interlocking portion 1720 located at the end of the nosecone 222 opposite the handle portion 200. The exemplary first interlocking portion 1720 illustrated in FIGS. 19A-19C may be referred to as an external locking portion. In some embodiments, the nosecone 222 may be molded or formed to include an external locking member using known techniques. In another embodiment, the external locking member may be formed separately and bonded to the nosecone 222.

[0147] 19A-19C, external stop 1720 may be provided on the outer periphery of nosecone 222. External stop 1720 may include one or more recesses configured to receive a locking member (e.g., locking members 1711 and / or 1715). For example, external stop 1720 may include first recess 1721 as illustrated in FIG. 19A and second recess 1725 as illustrated in FIG. 19B. First and second recesses 1721 and 1725 are illustratively shown positioned on first and second sides of nosecone 222, respectively, facing each other.

[0148] First recess 1721 may include multiple regions configured to receive, for example, first locking member 1711. For example, first region 1722 may be provided extending from the end of nosecone 222 in an axial region from nosecone 222 to a design distance from the end of nosecone 222. First recess 1721 also includes second region 1723 at a design distance extending from first region 1722 circumferentially about nosecone 222. Locking feature 1724 is provided at an end of second region 1723 opposite first region 1722. Locking feature 1724 is illustratively illustrated as an axial recess from second region 1723 and has angled sides extending into second region 1723, thereby forming a recess adapted to receive, for example, locking feature 1713. The width of first region 1721 in the circumferential direction corresponds to the length of body 1713, and the height of second region 1722 corresponds to the width of body 1713 in the axial direction. Locking feature 1724 is adapted to receive locking feature 1713.

[0149] Similarly, second recess 1725 may include multiple regions configured to receive, for example, second locking member 1715. For example, first region 1726 may be provided extending axially from the end of nosecone 222 to a design distance. Second recess 1726 also includes second region 1727 at a design distance extending circumferentially from first region 1726. Locking feature 1728 is provided at an end of second region 1727 opposite first region 1726. Locking feature 1728 is illustratively illustrated as an axial recess from second region 1727 and has angled sides extending into second region 1727, thereby forming a recess adapted to receive, for example, locking feature 1717. The width of first region 1726 in the circumferential direction may correspond to the length of body 1716, and the height of second region 1727 corresponds to the width of body 1716 in the axial direction. Locking feature 1728 is adapted to receive locking feature 1717.

[0150] For example, Figure 20 shows an operational flow diagram of interlock mechanism 1700. Figure 20 illustrates three stages of operation of interlock mechanism 1700. In a first state, second interlock portion 1710 is positioned within first interlock portion 1720, in a second state, second interlock portion 1710 is received in first interlock portion 1720, and in a third state, second interlock portion 1710 mates with first interlock portion 1720, and sheath 530 (e.g., as part of brush head 400) joins nosecone 222 (e.g., as part of handle portion 200).

[0151] More specifically, Figure 20 shows a perspective view of a second side of neck 430 having second locking member 1715 and nosecone 222 having second recess 1725. For clarity, the outer structure of neck 430 and ring 1703 has been removed, showing only second locking member 1715 and sheath 530. However, it will be appreciated that in reality the embodiment shown in Figure 20 would be implemented inside neck 430 that is not directly visible by neck 430.

[0152] In operation, as described above, in the first state, the second locking member 1715 is positioned over the first region 1726 of the second recess 1725. The radial depth of the recess 1725 is designed to match the thickness of the body 1716, thereby receiving the second locking member 1711. Once aligned, lateral movement of the brush head 400 in the axial direction slides the second locking member 1715 toward the lower edge of the first region 1726 of the recess 1725. A pre-designed distance (e.g., the position of the lower edge) is selected to allow the lower edge of the neck 400 to contact the nosecone 222 or top cover 221. From the second state (e.g., the second locking member rests on the bottom surface of region 1726), a rotational torsional force is applied to the brush head 400 (or handle portion 200) to slide the second locking member 1715 circumferentially into the second region 1727. The locking feature 1717 exerts a force on the top surface of the recess 1727 (e.g., the third state) until the locking feature 1717 is received by the locking member 1728, as shown in Figure 20. The pressure exerted by the locking feature 1717 is released and the locking feature 1717 engages with the locking feature 1728, locking the brush head 400 in place relative to the nosecone 222, and thereby the handle portion 200.

[0153] The angled sides of locking features 1728 and 1717 also release the connection of brush head 400 to handle portion 200. For example, when sufficient circumferential force is applied, the angled sides cause locking feature 1717 to slide against locking feature 1728, thereby disengaging from locking feature 1728. The position of second locking member 1715 relative to second recess 1725 may be reversed to remove brush head 400 from nosecone 222.

[0154] While the above examples are described with reference to second locking member 1715 and second recess 1725, first locking member 1711 and first recess 1715 are also formed from the same parts (e.g., neck 430 and nosecone 222) such that second locking member 1715 and second recess 1725 are simultaneously in a similar state. For example, in the first state, first locking member 1711 is positioned over first region 1722 of first recess 1721. Once aligned, a lateral movement (e.g., by application of the same force that caused lateral movement of second locking member 1715) causes first locking member 1711 to slide into first region 1722 of recess 1721. From the second state (e.g., first locking member rests on the bottom surface of region 1722), a rotational torsional force (e.g., application of the same force that caused the rotational movement of second locking member 1715) slides first locking member 1711 into second region 1723. Locking feature 1713 is then received by locking feature 1724 (e.g., third state), thereby locking brush head 400 in place relative to nosecone 222.

[0155] While specific examples of interlocking mechanisms are provided above, embodiments herein are not limited to these examples. For example, any number of locking members and corresponding recesses may be utilized. That is, a single locking member mating with a single recess may be provided. Similarly, three or more pairs of locking members and recesses may optionally be used. Furthermore, the first and second locking members (and corresponding recesses) need not be positioned on opposite sides, but may be offset by any desired angle. For example, the second locking member may be offset circumferentially relative to the first locking member by 30 degrees, 45 degrees, 50 degrees, 90 degrees, etc. The first and second recesses may also be offset in a similar manner. Further Embodiments of the Brush Head Assembly

[0156] 21A-21B show another exemplary brush head assembly 2100 that may be used with the electric toothbrush of FIG. 1 , with the filaments removed, according to embodiments disclosed herein. FIGS. 21A-21B illustrate a brush head assembly 2100 that is substantially similar to the brush head assembly 400 described above, except that the brush head assembly 2100 includes an arch slip joint 2110. The first arch slip joint 2110 is rigidly attached to the paddle 511 and rests on the tooth tray 412a. Similarly, the second arch slip joint shown is rigidly attached to the paddle 521 and rests on the dental arch 412b. Alternatively, they can be rigidly attached to the pressure pads 523 and 513. This type of slip joint can replace the slots 607 and 605. These types of hooks at each end of the paddle allow the central pop bead to snap in and rotate the entire tooth tray of the brush into place. This is a method for replacing the entire brush plate at the end of its life while retaining the bladder assembly 420.

[0157] Figure 22 shows another exemplary brush head assembly that may be used with the electric toothbrush of Figure 1 according to embodiments disclosed herein. Figure 22 illustrates a brush head assembly 2200 that is substantially similar to brush head assembly 400, except that brush head assembly 2200 includes tooth trays 2212a and 2212b. Tooth trays 2212a and 2212b may be substantially the same as tooth trays 412a and 412b, except that tooth trays 2212a and 2212b have a U-shaped cross section. That is, for example, when a person brushes their teeth, the flexible fingers of tooth trays 2212a and 2212b are substantially perpendicular to the occlusal plane of the oral cavity, rather than being angled as described above.

[0158] FIG. 23 illustrates another example of a brush head suitable for use with small children using the electric toothbrush of FIG. 1 according to embodiments disclosed herein. The assembly includes child-sized tooth trays 2312a and 2312b, a drive mechanism 2320, and a neck 2330 similar to those described above in connection with FIGS. 5A and 5B. Similarly, the assembly illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10 can be used with the illustrated child-sized tooth trays. Furthermore, the child-sized tooth trays 2312a and 2312b can be constructed from a soft elastomeric material. Similarly, the bristle tufts 2314b can be made from a softer material than those used for adult toothbrushes.

[0159] Figure 24 shows a clip-type mechanism 2400 for attaching bristle tufts to a brush head frame 2402. The clip 2401 contains bristle tufts 2514b that can be easily removed when worn out.

[0160] 25A-25B illustrate additional exemplary tooth trays that may be used with systems, including those illustrated in FIGS. 1, 4, 5A-F, and 10A-B. Tooth trays 2512a-b include a first side 2501 and a second side 2502 that define the sides of the tooth channel. An inner surface 2517 includes bristle tufts 2514a-b. The relative shallowness of the tooth channel is compensated for by the angle of the side tufts. A drive mechanism, such as a bladder, is shown generally as 2520. The upper and lower tooth trays couple to bladders, such as those illustrated in FIGS. 9-11 above.

[0161] Figure 25C shows a schematic diagram of another embodiment having two full arch dental trays designed to simultaneously clean all of a user's teeth. The embodiment shown in Figure 25C can be thought of as a pair of half arch pairs described in all previous embodiments with the same components and functionality.

[0162] 26 and 27 show schematic diagrams of example drive mechanisms that may be used with the brush head of FIG. 4 in some embodiments. Processing equipment

[0163] 28 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary wired or wireless processing device 2800 that may be used in connection with various embodiments described herein. For example, system 2800 may be implemented as a component located on processor unit 215 or PCBA 210 of FIG. 2. System 2800 may be a processor-enabled device capable of executing instructions in the form of software and performing data communications. Other computer systems and / or architectures may also be used, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0164] System 2800 preferably includes one or more processors, such as processor 2810. Additional processors may be provided, such as auxiliary processors for managing input / output, auxiliary processors for performing floating-point value operations, special-purpose microprocessors having architectures suitable for high-speed execution of signal processing algorithms (e.g., digital signal processors), additional microprocessors or controllers in dual or multiprocessor systems, or coprocessors. Such auxiliary processors may be separate processors or may be integrated into processor 2810.

[0165] The processor 2810 is preferably connected to a communications bus 2805. The communications bus 2805 may include a data channel that facilitates information transfer between storage devices and other peripheral components of the system 2800, such as to the pneumatic system 2875. The communications bus 2805 may further provide a set of signals, including a data bus, an address bus, and a control bus (not shown), used to communicate with the processor 2810. The communications bus 2805 may include any standard or non-standard bus architecture, such as, for example, an Industry Standard Architecture (ISA)-compliant bus architecture, an Extended Industry Standard Architecture (ELISA), a MicroChannel Architecture (MCA), a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) local bus, or standards promulgated by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), including IEEE 188 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB), IEEE 696 / S-100, and the like.

[0166] Pneumatic system 2875 may be substantially similar to the pneumatic systems disclosed herein, for example, in connection with Figures 2 and 15-16C. For example, pneumatic system 2875 may include motor 204 coupled to diaphragm 207 via bushing 206 and eccentric 205, a fluid path including tubing 229, and drive mechanism 420 (Figure 2). Additionally, pneumatic system 2875 may also include diaphragm pump 1501, outlet check valve 1502, inlet check valve 1503, inlet shut-off valve 1504, outlet bypass valve 1505, pressure transducer 1506, and drive mechanism 1507 (Figure 15).

[0167] System 2800 preferably includes a main memory 2815 and may also include a secondary memory 2820. Main memory 2815 stores program instructions and data for execution by processor 2810, such as one or more functions of the electric toothbrush. For example, main memory 2815 may store program instructions and data for executing the exemplary method of driving pneumatic system 2875, as described above. It will be appreciated that the programs stored in memory and executed by processor 2810 may be written in and / or compiled with any suitable language, including, but not limited to, C / C++, Java, JavaScript, Perl, Visual Basic, .NET, PIC, or custom languages ​​for any microprocessor and the like. Main memory 2815 is typically semiconductor-based memory, such as dynamic random access memory (DRAM) and / or static random access memory (SPAM). Other semiconductor-based memory types include, for example, synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), Rambus dynamic random access memory (RDRAM), ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM®), and read-only memory (ROM).

[0168] Secondary memory 2820 may optionally include internal memory 2825 and / or removable storage medium 2830. Removable storage medium 2830 may be read from and / or written to in any known manner. Removable storage medium 2830 may be, for example, a magnetic tape drive, a compact disc (CD) drive, a DVD drive, other optical drive, a flash memory drive, etc.

[0169] The removable storage medium 2830 is a non-transitory computer-readable medium that stores computer-executable code (e.g., the disclosed software modules) and / or data. The computer software or data stored on the removable storage medium 2830 is loaded into the system 2800 for execution by the processor 2810.

[0170] In alternative embodiments, secondary memory 2820 may include other similar means for allowing computer programs or other data or instructions to be loaded into system 2800. Such means include, for example, external storage medium 2845 and communications interface 2840, allowing transfer of software and data from external storage medium 2845 to system 2800. Examples of external storage medium 2845 may include an external hard disk drive, an external optical drive, an external magneto-optical drive, etc. Other examples of secondary memory 2820 may include semiconductor-based memory such as programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory (a block-oriented memory similar to EEPROM), etc.

[0171] System 2800 may include a communications interface 2840. Communications interface 2840 allows software and data to be transferred between system 2800 and external devices, networks, or information sources. For example, computer software or executable code may be transferred to system 2800 from a network server via communications interface 2840. Examples of communications interface 2840 include an internal network adapter, a network interface card (NIC), a Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA) network card, a card bus network adapter, a wireless network adapter, a universal serial bus (USB) network adapter, a modem, a network interface card (NIC), a wireless data card, a communications port, an infrared interface, an IEEE 1394 FireWire, or any other device capable of connecting system 2800 to other networks or another computing device. Communications interface 2840 preferably implements industry-accepted protocol standards such as, for example, the Ethernet IEEE 802 standard, Fibre Channel, Digital Subscriber Line (DSL), Asynchronous Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL), Frame Relay, Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM), Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN), Personal Computer Service (PCS), Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP / IP), Serial Line Internet Protocol / Point-to-Point Protocol (SLIP / PPP), and others, as well as may implement customized or non-standard interface protocols.

[0172] The software and data transferred via communications interface 2840 are generally in the form of electrical communications signals 2855. These signals 2855 may be provided to communications interface 2840 via communications channel 2850. In one embodiment, communications channel 2850 may be a wired or wireless network or any other communications means. Communications channel 2850 carries signals 2855 and can be implemented using a variety of wired or wireless communications means, including wire or cable, optical fiber, conventional telephone line, cellular phone link, wireless data communications link, radio frequency (RF) link, or infrared link, to name just a few.

[0173] Computer-executable code (i.e., computer programs or software modules, such as the disclosed applications) is stored in main memory 2815 and / or secondary memory 2820. Computer programs may also be received via communications interface 2840 and stored in main memory 2815 and / or secondary memory 2820. Such computer programs, when executed, enable system 2800 to perform various functions of the disclosed embodiments, for example, control of pneumatic system 2875.

[0174] As used herein, the term "computer-readable medium" refers to any non-transitory computer-readable storage medium used to provide computer-executable code (e.g., software and computer programs) to system 2800. Examples of these media include main memory 2815, secondary memory 2820 (including internal memory 2825, removable storage medium 2830, and external storage medium 2845), and any peripherals (including a network information server or other network device) communicatively coupled to communication interface 2840. These non-transitory computer-readable media are means for providing executable code, programming instructions, and software to system 2800.

[0175] In an embodiment implemented using software, the software may be stored on a computer-readable medium and loaded into the system 2800 via the removable storage medium 2830, the I / O interface 2835, or the communication interface 2840. In such an embodiment, the software is loaded into the system 2800 in the form of electrical communication signals 2855. The software, when executed by the processor 2810, preferably causes the processor 2810 to perform one or more of the features and functions described in Appendix 28-4.

[0176] In one embodiment, the I / O interface 2835 provides an interface between one or more components of the system 2800 and one or more input and / or output devices. In various embodiments, the I / O interface 2835 provides an interface between components of the system 2800 and one or more devices or systems external to the system 2800 (e.g., devices communicating with the system 2800 via a network). Other exemplary input devices include, but are not limited to, switches or other touch-sensitive devices, biometric sensing devices, and the like. Examples of output devices include, but are not limited to, light-emitting diode (LED) displays, liquid crystal displays (LCDs), vacuum fluorescent displays (VFDs), surface-conduction electron emitter displays (SEDs), field emission displays (FEDs), and the like. For example, an electric toothbrush may include a display on the handle 200 that displays the charge status of the battery 203 or other user-relevant information about the toothbrush 100.

[0177] System 2800 may also include any wireless communication components that facilitate wireless communication over a data network. The wireless communication components may include an antenna system 2870, a radio system 2865, and a baseband system 2860. In system 2800, radio frequency (RF) signals are transmitted and received over the air by antenna system 2870 under the control of radio system 2865.

[0178] In one embodiment, antenna system 2870 may include one or more antennas and one or more multiplexers (not shown) that perform switching functions to provide transmit and receive signal paths for antenna system 2870. In the receive path, the received RF signal may be routed from the multiplexer to a low noise amplifier (not shown) that amplifies the received RF signal and sends the amplified signal to radio system 2865.

[0179] In alternative embodiments, radio system 2865 may include one or more radios configured to communicate over various frequencies. In one embodiment, radio system 2865 may incorporate a demodulator (not shown) and a modulator (not shown) into a single integrated circuit (IC). The demodulator and modulator can also be separate components. In the input path, the demodulator removes the RF carrier signal, leaving a baseband receive signal, which is then sent from radio system 2865 to baseband system 2860.

[0180] The baseband system 2860 also encodes digital signals for transmission to generate baseband transmit signals that are sent to a modulator portion of the radio system 2865. The modulator mixes the baseband transmit signals with an RF carrier signal to generate RF transmit signals that may be sent to an antenna system 2870 and passed through a power amplifier (not shown). The power amplifier amplifies the RF transmit signal and sends it to the antenna system 2870 where the signal is switched to an antenna port for transmission.

[0181] The baseband system 2860 is also in communication with a processor 2810, which may be a central processing unit (CPU). The processor 2810 has access to data storage areas 2815 and 2820. The processor 2810 is preferably configured to execute instructions (i.e., computer programs, such as the disclosed exemplary methods), which may be stored in main memory 2815 or secondary memory 2820. Computer programs may also be received from the baseband processor 2860 and stored in main memory 2815 or secondary memory 2820, or executed upon receipt. Such computer programs, when executed, cause the system 2800 to perform various functions of the disclosed embodiments. For example, the data storage areas 2815 or 2820 may include various software modules. Other Aspects

[0182] Various embodiments may also be implemented primarily in hardware using, for example, components (e.g., application specific integrated circuits ("ASICs") or field programmable gate arrays ("FPGAs"). Implementation of a hardware state machine capable of performing the functions described herein will be apparent to one skilled in the art. Various embodiments may also be implemented using a combination of hardware and software.

[0183] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the various illustrated logic blocks, modules, circuits, and method steps described in connection with the above-described figures and embodiments disclosed herein may often be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability of hardware and software, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been described above generally in terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends on the particular application and design constraints imposed by the overall system. Skilled artisans may implement the described functionality in varying ways for each particular application, and such implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing a departure from the scope of the invention. Additionally, the grouping of functions within a module, block, circuit, or step is for ease of description. Particular functions or steps may be moved from one module, block, or circuit to another without departing from the invention.

[0184] Furthermore, the various illustrative logic blocks, modules, and methods described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented or performed using a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor ("DSP"), an ASIC, an FPGA or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but alternatively, the processor may be any processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices (e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in cooperation with a DSP core, or any other such configuration).

[0185] While specific embodiments have been described above, it will be understood that these described embodiments are presented by way of example only. Accordingly, the systems and methods described herein should not be limited based on the described embodiments. Rather, the systems and methods described herein should be limited only in light of the following claims when taken in conjunction with the above description and the accompanying drawings.

Claims

1. a first tooth tray including a first set of cleaning surfaces for simultaneously cleaning multiple tooth surfaces of the first set of teeth; a second tooth tray including a second set of cleaning surfaces for simultaneously cleaning multiple tooth surfaces of a second set of teeth, the second set of teeth opposing the first set of teeth; an inflatable bladder positioned between the first and second dental trays; a frame having a first side and a second side and an opening extending therethrough from the first side to the second side, wherein the inflatable bladder includes a first membrane covering the opening on the first side of the frame and joined to the first side of the frame, and a second membrane covering the opening on the second side of the frame and joined to the second side of the frame opposite the first membrane, defining an inflatable space between the first membrane and the second membrane; a first joining mechanism for joining the first dental tray to a first side of the inflatable bladder; a second coupling mechanism for coupling the second dental tray to a second side of the inflatable bladder opposite the first side of the inflatable bladder.

2. 2. The electric toothbrush of claim 1, wherein the first coupling mechanism includes one or more attachment portions coupled to the first membrane and one or more corresponding coupling openings in the first tooth tray, and the second coupling mechanism includes one or more attachment portions coupled to the second membrane and one or more corresponding coupling openings in the second tooth tray.

3. a first paddle interposed between the first dental tray and the inflatable bladder, the first paddle attached to the first membrane and having the one or more attachment portions extending away from the inflatable bladder; 3. The electric toothbrush of claim 2, further comprising a second paddle interposed between the second tooth tray and the inflatable bladder, the second paddle being attached to the second membrane and having the one or more attachment portions extending away from the inflatable bladder.

4. 2. The electric toothbrush of claim 1, wherein the first set of cleaning surfaces and the second set of cleaning surfaces each include a woven fabric and a plurality of thread segments woven into the woven fabric, each of the plurality of thread segments including a plurality of filaments forming bristle bundles on a first side of the woven fabric.

5. A handle portion, 10. The electric toothbrush of claim 1, further comprising: a pneumatic device disposed within said handle portion and coupled to said inflatable bladder.

6. 10. The electric toothbrush of claim 1, further comprising a neck extending from said frame and having a conical opening at an end opposite said frame, and a first interlocking portion located within said conical opening.

7. a handle portion having a base, a nosecone opposite the base, and a second interlocking portion on the nosecone that interlocks with the first interlocking portion; 7. The electric toothbrush of claim 6, further comprising a pneumatic device disposed within said handle portion and coupled to said inflatable bladder via said nosecone.

8. a first tooth tray including a first set of cleaning surfaces for simultaneously cleaning multiple tooth surfaces of the first set of teeth; a second tooth tray including a second set of cleaning surfaces for simultaneously cleaning multiple tooth surfaces of a second set of teeth, the second set of teeth opposing the first set of teeth; a rigid outer frame having a first side and a second side and an opening therethrough; a first membrane covering the opening in the rigid shell on the first side of the rigid shell; a second membrane covering the opening in the rigid shell on the second side of the rigid shell, thereby defining an inflatable space between the first membrane and the second membrane; a first joining mechanism for joining the first dental tray to the first membrane; a second joining mechanism joining the second tooth tray to the second membrane.

9. 9. The toothbrush head of claim 8, further comprising a neck extending from the rigid housing and having a conical opening at an end opposite the rigid housing, and a first interlocking portion located within the conical opening.

10. 9. The toothbrush head of claim 8, wherein the first set of cleaning surfaces and the second set of cleaning surfaces each include a woven fabric and a plurality of thread segments woven into the woven fabric, each of the plurality of thread segments including a plurality of filaments forming bristle bundles on a first side of the woven fabric.

11. 9. The toothbrush head of claim 8, wherein the first joining mechanism includes one or more attachment portions joined to the first membrane and one or more corresponding joining openings in the first tooth tray, and the second joining mechanism includes one or more attachment portions joined to the second membrane and one or more corresponding joining openings in the second tooth tray.

12. a first tooth tray including a first plurality of flexible fingers on a first side, a second plurality of flexible fingers on a second side opposite the first side, and a first plurality of cleaning surfaces on an interior side of each of the flexible fingers for simultaneously brushing a plurality of tooth surfaces of a first set of teeth; a second tooth tray including a first plurality of flexible fingers on a first side of the second tooth tray, a second plurality of flexible fingers on a second side of the second tooth tray opposite the first side, and a second plurality of cleaning surfaces on an inner side of each of the flexible fingers for simultaneously brushing multiple tooth surfaces of a second set of teeth, the teeth of the second set facing the teeth of the first set; a rigid outer frame having a first side and a second side opposite the first side and an opening therethrough; a first membrane covering the opening in the rigid shell on the first side of the rigid shell; a second membrane covering the opening in the rigid shell on the second side of the rigid shell, thereby defining an inflatable space between the first membrane and the second membrane; a first joining mechanism for joining the first dental tray to the first membrane; a second joining mechanism joining the second tooth tray to the second membrane.

13. 13. The toothbrush head of claim 12, further comprising a neck extending from the rigid housing and having a conical opening at an end opposite the rigid housing, and a first interlocking portion located within the conical opening.

14. 13. The toothbrush head of claim 12, wherein the first set of cleaning surfaces and the second set of cleaning surfaces each include a woven fabric and a plurality of thread segments woven into the woven fabric, each of the plurality of thread segments including a plurality of filaments forming bristle bundles on a first side of the woven fabric.

15. The toothbrush head of claim 13, further comprising a channel extending through the neck and in fluid communication with a space between the first membrane and the second membrane.

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