Composite Toothbrush with Flexible Handle and Rigid Core
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional toothbrushes are not suitable for prison and institutional environments due to their potential to be used as weapons and poor bristle retention, leading to ineffective and uncomfortable cleaning, which can result in poor dental hygiene.
Innovation Solution
A composite toothbrush design featuring a rigid polymer inner core for structural integrity and bristle retention, surrounded by a pliable flexible material for safety and comfort, with a flexible handle made from the same material, and pin connectors for secure bonding without glue, allowing the toothbrush to be flexed into shapes like 'L' or 'C' for easier use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a conventional rigid toothbrush is used, then structural integrity is maintained, but it can be fashioned into a weapon causing harm
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transitioning the toothbrush handle material from rigid to flexible state. The flexible handle cannot be fashioned into a shank or weapon while maintaining functional integrity for brushing teeth, directly resolving the safety contradiction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials by combining flexible handle material with a rigid insert core. This composite structure provides both flexibility (preventing weaponization) and structural integrity (maintaining functionality), simultaneously addressing both sides of the contradiction.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a flexible handle toothbrush is used to prevent weaponization, then safety is improved, but bristle retention becomes poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses composite materials by embedding a rigid insert core within the flexible handle. This rigid core provides the structural support necessary for secure bristle retention, while the flexible outer material maintains safety by preventing weaponization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the handle into two functional segments: a flexible outer portion for safety and a rigid inner insert for structural support. This segmentation allows each segment to fulfill its specific function without compromising the other.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a very short handle toothbrush is used to prevent weaponization, then safety is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the handle length parameter while changing the material property parameter. The flexible material allows a longer handle to remain safe (cannot be weaponized) while providing comfortable grip and operational ease, unlike a short rigid handle.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If a flexible material toothbrush is used, then safety is improved, but durability and wear characteristics worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite materials by combining flexible outer material with a rigid insert core. The rigid insert provides structural durability and wear resistance, while the flexible material maintains safety properties, resolving the contradiction between safety and durability.
Data Source
AI summary
A composite safety toothbrush is disclosed. The toothbrush apparatus detailed herein employs a composite head made from a rigid inner polymer material and a softer thermoplastic material surrounding the inner material. The softer material provides safety for prison toothbrush applications as well as elderly and patient care where care givers may brush the teeth of a patient. Innovative pin connectors in the inner toothbrush head assist in the composite formation. The toothbrush solution herein further importantly provides for a toothbrush having a flexible handle.