Brush Attachment Axially Offset Spring Elements Vibration Transmission
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric toothbrush attachments fail to transmit vibratory motions effectively without generating clattering noises and are difficult to plug on and remove, especially at high vibration frequencies.
Innovation Solution
The brush attachment features axially offset spring elements that engage with the shaft, providing a secure snap-action connection and supporting high forces and torques, with additional spring elements arranged in the same radial position for enhanced stability and a soft-elastic padding for shock absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single spring element is used for connecting the brush attachment to the shaft, then the structure is simple, but the connection is unstable and cannot support high vibration frequencies
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism is divided into two separate spring elements: a first spring element (detent finger) that engages with a detent groove for secure positioning, and a second spring element (bending bar) that provides additional support and damping. This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function optimally, ensuring stable connection at high vibration frequencies without requiring an overly complex structure.
2Reliability
If the brush attachment is tightly secured to the shaft, then vibration transmission is efficient, but the attachment becomes difficult to remove
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism uses elastic spring elements that can dynamically adapt to assembly and disassembly forces. During normal operation, the springs maintain tight engagement for efficient vibration transmission. During removal, the springs can deform to accommodate the extraction force, and during reattachment, they automatically return to their engagement position, providing self-centering action.
3Reliability
If spring elements with high pressure force are used, then connection security is improved, but user discomfort increases due to shock transmission
Solution Approach 1:
The second spring element (bending bar) is positioned to engage with the shaft in advance, providing cushioning before the full force of vibrations is transmitted to the user's hand. This pre-positioned elastic element absorbs and dampens shock peaks, reducing the transmission of harmful vibrations to the user while maintaining secure connection.
4Reliability
If multiple spring elements are arranged in different radial positions, then connection stability is improved, but the plug-on force required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The two spring elements are arranged in different radial positions to engage with different features of the shaft: the first spring element (detent finger) engages with a detent groove for axial positioning, while the second spring element (bending bar) engages with the shaft surface for radial support. This localized engagement strategy provides stable connection without requiring excessive plug-on force, as each element works at its optimal position.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration ensures quiet, secure attachment and efficient transmission of vibratory motions, reducing noise and user discomfort, while allowing easy attachment and detachment, even at high frequencies.
Implementation Method 1
a first spring element (35) and a second spring element (30) which are arranged in an axially offset relation to one another and which act on the shaft (2) when the brush attachment (13) is plugged onto the shaft (2)
Implementation Method 2
providing a secure snap-action connection and supporting high forces and torques, with additional spring elements arranged in the same radial position for enhanced stability and a soft-elastic padding for shock absorption
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is directed to a brush attachment adapted to be attached to and detached from a shaft of a handle of an electric toothbrush, including a bristle area, a brush shank and a plug-on part disposed in the brush shank, wherein the plug-on part includes a first spring element and a second spring element which act on the shaft when the brush attachment is plugged onto the shaft. This establishes a connection without play between the brush attachment and the shaft, enabling relatively high vibration frequencies to be transmitted.