Powered Toothbrush Driveshaft Cam Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Powered toothbrushes generate excess noise and vibrations due to complex transmission systems required for multiple brush head movements, which can be uncomfortable for users.
Innovation Solution
A direct drive transmission assembly that converts rotational movement of a driver into both pivoting and translating movements of brush heads, using a driveshaft with cam assemblies to reduce noise and vibrations by smoothing the rotational output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a complex transmission system is used to achieve multiple brush head movements, then the functionality and cleaning effectiveness are improved, but the noise and vibrations increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple transmission functions into a single integrated transmission assembly that simultaneously controls both the first and second brush heads. This unified approach reduces the overall complexity compared to separate transmission systems for each brush head, thereby reducing noise and vibrations while maintaining multi-directional movement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a driveshaft as an intermediary component that receives rotational motion from the driver and converts it into coordinated pivotal and translational movements of the brush heads through cam assemblies. This intermediary mechanism smooths the motion transmission, reducing harmful vibrations and noise while achieving the desired complex movements.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If a direct drive transmission assembly with cam assemblies is used, then the noise and vibrations are reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission assembly is designed as a multi-functional unit that simultaneously performs motion conversion, vibration damping, and coordination of multiple brush heads. By consolidating these functions into a single assembly rather than separate components, the patent reduces overall device complexity while maintaining the benefits of reduced noise and vibrations.
3Productivity
If multiple brush heads are supported on the housing, then the cleaning effectiveness is improved, but the weight and size of the brush head assembly increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the second brush head within or adjacent to the first brush head assembly, utilizing the existing housing structure to support both brush heads efficiently. This nested arrangement minimizes additional material usage and reduces the overall weight increase compared to separate independent brush head assemblies.
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
The solution significantly reduces the noise and vibrations experienced by users during tooth brushing, enhancing the overall performance and comfort of powered toothbrushes.
Implementation Method 1
The transmission assembly includes a first cam assembly configured to convert a rotation of the driveshaft about the longitudinal axis into a pivot of the first brush head about an axis of rotation that is different from the longitudinal axis. Further, the transmission assembly includes a second cam assembly configured to convert the rotation of the driveshaft about the longitudinal axis into an axial translation of the second brush head along the longitudinal axis.
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment of a brush head assembly for a powered toothbrush includes a housing, a first brush head supported by the housing, and a second brush head supported by the housing. In addition, the brush head assembly includes a driveshaft positioned in the housing and coupled to the first brush head and the second brush head, the driveshaft having a longitudinal axis. A rotation of the driveshaft about a longitudinal axis is configured to pivot the first brush head and translate the second brush head relative to the housing.