Detachable Toothbrush Tracking Module for Low-Cost Brushing Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic-based oral care implements for tracking oral hygiene habits are limited by high cost, aesthetics, and functional improvements, necessitating a need for an improved oral care implement with tracking functionality that is both affordable and effective.
Innovation Solution
A powered oral care implement featuring a detachable tracking module with a lower outer casing and integrated tracking unit, which includes visual markers and a camera-compatible design to track position, orientation, and movement within the oral cavity, enhancing user interaction and functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If expensive electronic-based oral care implements are used to track oral hygiene habits, then tracking functionality is achieved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The oral care implement is divided into separate functional modules: an upper outer casing containing electronics assembly and a lower outer casing containing the tracking unit. These modules can be manufactured independently and assembled together, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining tracking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The lower outer casing serves multiple functions: it houses the tracking unit, provides a gripping portion for the user, and can be detachably coupled to different upper outer casings. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining reliable tracking.
2Measurement precision
If integrated tracking units are added to oral care implements, then tracking capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking system is segmented into a standalone lower outer casing module that can be detached. This separation reduces the complexity of the main body (upper outer casing) while concentrating tracking functionality in a dedicated module, making the overall system easier to manufacture and maintain.
Solution Approach 2:
The detachable coupling mechanism acts as an intermediary between the upper and lower outer casings. This allows the tracking unit to be easily attached or removed without complex integration, reducing device complexity while maintaining full tracking capability when assembled.
3Ease of manufacture
If detachable lower outer casing is used, then ease of manufacture and assembly is improved, but connection reliability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling between upper and lower outer casings is designed to be dynamically adjustable - easily attachable and detachable by the user, yet providing stable and reliable connection during use. This dynamic design allows simple assembly while maintaining connection reliability through proper engagement features.
Data Source
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AI summary
An oral care system that includes an oral care implement and a tracking attachment. The oral care implement may include a handle and a head. The tracking attachment is detachably coupled to the oral care implement. The tracking attachment may include a first component comprising a first housing having an inner surface that defines a first cavity and a second component comprising a second housing having an inner surface that defines a second cavity. When the tracking attachment is coupled to the oral care implement, a first portion of the handle is positioned within the first cavity and a second portion of the handle is positioned within the second cavity.