Toothbrush with optical indication element

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Descriptive report of the invention patent for "IMPLEMENT FOR ORAL HYGIENE WITH OPTICAL INDICATION ELEMENT".

FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a personal hygiene device, more particularly, to a personal hygiene device that includes a feedback system.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The use of toothbrushes for cleaning a user's teeth has been known for a long time. There are two main classes of toothbrushes available to a user, that is, the manual toothbrush and the electric toothbrush. For manual toothbrushes, the user generally provides most of the cleaning movement. In contrast, for electric toothbrushes, most of the cleaning movement is provided by the toothbrush. The electric toothbrush generally includes a drive mechanism to drive the brush head. Because the toothbrush includes a drive mechanism, electric toothbrushes are generally more expensive to produce than manual toothbrushes. Electric toothbrushes can also provide the user with additional features. For example, some electric toothbrushes can track the time the brush is used and indicate to the user the time for brush head replacement. As another example, some electric toothbrushes can provide an indication to the user when the user brushes during a predetermined amount of time.

[0003] These features, eg replacement of a brush head and indication of brushing time, are generally considered to be highly cost prohibitive to implement on manual toothbrushes. Consequently,

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2/33 there is a need for a personal care accessory that can provide the user with these features while facilitating cost-saving manufacturing.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] An accessory for oral hygiene constructed according to the present invention comprising a handle, a head, and a neck arranged between the handle and the head. The head comprises a plurality of contact elements. An indicating element that has an outer periphery. An output source that is in signal communication with the indicating element. A reflective core that is disposed inside the indicating element, and a reflective core that redirects light from the output source to the outer periphery of the indicating element.

[0005] In some embodiments, an accessory for oral hygiene constructed in accordance with the present invention comprises a handle; a head, and a neck disposed between the handle and the head. The head comprises a plurality of contact elements. A sealing element is positioned between the cable and the neck. An indicating element is positioned adjacent to the sealing element. A light-emitting source supplies electromagnetic energy to the indicating element, with electromagnetic energy passing through the sealing element.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Figure 1 is a side view showing an accessory for oral hygiene, for example, a toothbrush, constructed according to the present invention.

[0007] Figure 2 is a plan view showing a subsection of the toothbrush of Figure 1.

[0008] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of an external housing of the accessory for oral hygiene of figure 1.

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[0009] Figure 4A is a close view showing a portion of the subsection of figure 2.

[00010] Figure 4B is a close view showing another embodiment of a portion of the subsection of figure 2A.

[00011] Figure 5 is a plan view showing the subsection of figure 1.

[00012] Figure 6 is a close view showing an indication element of the accessory for oral hygiene of figure 1.

[00013] Figures 7A to 7D are schematic representations showing the modalities of reflective cores and outer surfaces of indicating elements.

[00014] Figures 8A to 8D are cross-sectional views of exemplary LEDs that are suitable for use with the accessory for oral hygiene of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Definitions:

[00015] The following text presents a broad description of numerous different embodiments of the present invention. The description is intended to be interpreted as merely exemplary and does not describe all possible modalities, as this would be impractical, if not impossible, and it should be understood that any resource, characteristic, component, composition, ingredient, dosage, product, step or methodology described herein may be totally or partially deleted, combined with, or replaced by, any other resource, feature, component, composition, ingredient, product, step or methodology described here. Numerous alternative modalities could be implemented, using current technology or technology developed after the filing date of this patent, which would still fall within the scope of the claims.

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[00016] It should also be understood that unless a term is expressly defined in this patent using the phrase For use herein, the term '' means..., or a similar phrase, there is no intention to limit the meaning of that term, either expressly or by implication, beyond its common or customary meaning, and this term is not to be construed as having limited scope based on any statement made in any section of this patent (except the language of the claims). No term is intended to be essential to the present invention, except where so stated. To the extent that any term recited in the claims at the end of this patent is mentioned in this patent in a manner consistent with a single meaning, this is done solely for the sake of clarity so as not to confuse the reader, and is not intended to that this term of claim be limited, by implication or otherwise, to that single one. Finally, unless an element of the claim is defined by mentioning the word signifies and a function, without mentioning any structure, the scope of any element of the claim is not intended to be interpreted based on the application of 35 USC § 112 , sixth paragraph.

[00017] For use in the present invention, the term oral hygiene implement refers to any device that can be used for oral hygiene purposes. Some suitable examples of such devices include toothbrushes (manual and motor equipped), floss applicators (manual and motor equipped), water picks, and the like.

Description:

[00018] For ease of explanation, the oral hygiene implement described hereafter should be a manual toothbrush; however, as stated earlier, an implement

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5/33 of oral care constructed in accordance with the present invention is not limited to a manual toothbrush construction.

[00019] As shown in Figure 1, a toothbrush 10 comprises a handle 12, a head 14 and a neck 16 extending between the handle 12 and the head 14. A field of contact elements 20 extends from of a first surface 14A of the head 14. The handle 12 may comprise a distal end 80 and a proximal end 90. A tongue cleaner, soft tissue cleaner, massage element, or the like, may be disposed on a second surface 14B of the head. head 14. Tongue cleaners, soft tissue cleaners, massage elements, or the like, are discussed later in this document.

[00020] An indicating element 30 may be disposed between the handle 12 and the neck 16 adjacent the proximal end 90. The indicating element 30 may provide a visible signal to a user for a plurality of conditions. For example, the visible sign can be provided when a user has brushed for an appropriate amount of time, eg two minutes and/or when the toothbrush needs to be replaced.

[00021] The indicating element 30 can be disposed at any suitable location on the toothbrush 10. For example, in some embodiments, the indicating element 30 can surround the neck 16 or it can surround the handle 12. As another example, the indicating element 30 may surround a portion of the handle 12 and/or a portion of the neck 16. As yet another example, the indicating element 30 may be disposed on a rearward-facing surface 40B of the handle 12 and/or the neck. 16. As yet another example, the indicating element 30 may be disposed on a surface facing the front 40A of the handle 12 and/or the neck 16.

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[00022] With reference to figures 1 and 2, in some embodiments, the cable 12 may comprise an outer frame 212. A variety of electronic elements may be located inside the outer frame 212. For example, within outer housing 212 may be housed a power source 215 and 216, a timing circuit, a processor 240, a bandpass filter, and/or other output sources 245, e.g. lights, LEDs, combinations thereof, and/or similar. Outer housing 212 can accommodate a plurality of power sources where additional voltage is needed, for example, to provide a threshold voltage for an LED.

[00023] For ease of fabrication, the outer casing 212 can be supplied via injection molding. Then an insert 260 may be provided within the outer housing 212. Insert 260 may provide support for power sources 215 and 216, processor 240, and/or output source 245. 215 and 216 may be in electrical communication with processor 240, and the processor may be in electrical communication with output source 245.

[00024] The insert 260 may comprise a base portion 260A and a forward portion 260B. The base portion 260A may provide support as described above and may comprise a PCB (printed circuit board). The front portion 260B may comprise a rod 275 which is engageable with a recess in the neck 16 and/or the head 14. The engagement of the rod 275 and the neck 16 and/or head 14 may be permanent so that the neck 16 and/or head 14 are not removable. Conversely, the engagement between the rod 275 and the neck 16 and/or the head 14 can be configured so that the neck 16 and/or head 14 are removable from the rod 275. In other embodiments, the front portion

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260B may comprise neck 16 and/or head 14 formed integrally with other portions of forward portion 260B. In these embodiments, the forward portion 260B may not include a rod 275.

[00025] The front portion 260B may further comprise the indicating element 30, a sealing element 270 and a transmission element 231. The output source 245, for example an LED, can communicate by signals with the transmission element 231. The transmitting element 231 may transmit a signal from the output source 245 to the indicating element 30.

[00026] The sealing member 270 may engage with an inner surface 375 (shown in Figure 3) of the outer housing 212 thereby reducing the likelihood of leakage into the cavity of the outer housing 212. The sealing member 270 may comprise any suitable sealing feature. Some examples of sealing features include deformable materials that can be compressed and then recover within the cavity of outer casing 212, o-rings, etc. In some embodiments, a soft material may be overmolded over insert 260, and during assembly of insert 260 and outer housing 212, the soft material may engage outer housing 212 to form a seal. In other embodiments, a soft material may be overmolded to outer housing 212, and subsequently insert 260 may be inserted into outer housing 212 and engage the empty material. In yet other embodiments, a soft material can be a discrete element that is placed in insert 260 prior to attaching insert 260 to outer housing 212, or is placed in outer housing 212 prior to attaching insert 260 to the outer casing 212.

[00027] The sealing member 270 may comprise a first

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8/33 portion 270A and a second portion 270B. As shown, first portion 270A may be disposed adjacent to proximal end 90 of the handle. In an assembled state, first portion 270A may engage inner surface 375 (shown in Figure 3) of outer housing 212 and a surface of indicating element 30 to reduce the likelihood of moisture entering outer housing 212. Second portion 270B may be disposed adjacent to neck 16 or rod 275. In an assembled state, second portion 270B may engage neck 16 and indicating element 30 to reduce the likelihood of moisture entering outer casing 212. Arrangements are contemplated where sealing element 270 comprises only first portion 270A or second portion 270B.

[00028] In embodiments where the sealing element 270 includes both the first portion 270A and the second portion 270B, the indicating element 30 may be disposed therebetween. In such embodiments, first portion 270A and/or second portion 270B can be translucent, transparent, pigmented, or combinations thereof. Embodiments are contemplated where the sealing portion 270 comprises only the first portion 270A or the second portion 270B. In these embodiments, first portion 270A, second portion 270B, or sealing member 270 can be transparent, translucent, pigmented, or combinations thereof.

[00029] Additionally, in these embodiments, light provided to indicating element 30 may also be provided to first portion 270A and/or second portion 270B. In the case where the first portion 270A and/or 270B are transparent, the visible signal can be provided to the user by means of the indicating element 30 and the first portion 270A and/or second portion 270B. In the case where the first portion 270A and/or the second portion 270B are translucent, the

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The visible sign may comprise a hue contrast between the visual sign of the first portion 270A and/or second portion 270B and the indicating element 30. In the case where the first portion 270A and/or the second portion 270B are pigmented and Translucent or transparent, the light supplied to indicating element 30 may blend with the pigment color of first portion 270A and/or second portion 270B to produce a unique visual effect. Accordingly, the light provided may comprise a first color while the first pigmented portion 270A and/or second pigmented portion 270B may comprise a second color. When light having a first color is supplied to first portion 270A and/or second portion 270B, the first color and second color may combine to produce a visible signal comprising a third color that is different from the first color and of the second color. In such embodiments, the overall visible sign may then comprise the first color via indicating element 30 and the third color via first portion 270A and/or second portion 270B.

[00030] In some embodiments, the first portion 270A and/or the second portion 270B may comprise a first color. In these embodiments, an output element, for example, a light-emitting element, LED, can produce a light that has a second color that is similar to the first color. In these modalities, it is believed that the visual signal provided by the output emission element can become more visually perceptible by a user. In yet other embodiments, first portion 270A can comprise a first color and second portion 270B can comprise a second color that is different from the first color. In such embodiments, the output element, for example a light-emitting element, LED, may output a light having a third color that is different from the first and/or second color. The combination of the third color and the

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10/33 first color as well as the combination of third color and second color can produce unique visual effects that are noticeable by a user.

[00031] The front portion 260B may be secured to the base portion 260A in any suitable manner. For example, the transmission element 231 may be provided with grooves that engage with tracks corresponding to the base portion 260A or vice versa. In some embodiments, base portion 260A may be inserted into outer casing 212 and subsequently forward portion 260B may be inserted into engagement with base portion 260A so that sealing portion 270 engages outer casing 212. In other embodiments, base portion 260A and front portion 260B may be mounted prior to insertion into outer housing 212. This may facilitate wiring of output source 245 that may be required. Subsequently, insert 260 (including base portion 260A and front portion 260B) may be inserted into outer housing 212. In other embodiments, base portion 260A and front portion 260B may be integrally formed. However, in these modalities, additional electrical installation steps may be required.

[00032] With reference to figures 2 and 3, the outer housing 212 may comprise the supports 261A, 261B, 262A, and 262B. Brackets 261A, 261B, 262A, and 262B may secure insert 260 to outer housing 212. Brackets 261A, 261B, 262A, and 262B and/or insert 260 may comprise detents that engage/receive a to the other thus securing the insert 260 within the outer shell 212. As shown, brackets 261A, 261B, 262A, and 262B may extend from an interior surface 375 of outer housing 212. As shown, brackets 261A, 261B, 262A, and 262B,

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11/33 may be configured to limit movement of insert 260 along a lateral axis 1501 and/or movement along a transverse axis 1500, or combinations thereof.

[00033] During manufacturing, the outer casing 212 and/or the insert 260 can be produced by means of injection molding. An output source 245, as well as power sources 215 and 216 may be placed on insert 260. Insert member 260 may be secured via brackets 261A, 261B, 262A, and 262B. As an example, insert 260 may slidingly engage with brackets 261A, 261B, 262A, and 262B. The reduced number of parts for this modality can reduce the manufacturing time of the implement for oral hygiene. [00034] Referring to Fig. 2, the transmitting element 231 can be configured to transmit a signal from an output source 245 to the indicating element 30. For example, where the output source 245 is an LED, the element of 231 transmission can be a light tube, light guide, optical fiber, or the like. The material selected for the transmitting element 231 can be a clear material, transparent material, translucent material, or combinations thereof that transmit light from the LED through the transmitting element 231 to the indicating element 30. Some examples of suitable materials for transmission element 231 include polymethyl methacrylate, polycarbonate, copolyester, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, combinations thereof, e.g., polyester and polycarbonate, or the like.

[00035] In some embodiments, the indicating element 30 and the transmitting element 231 may be unitary. For example, the transmission element 231 and the indicating element 30 can be constructed integrally from a first material during an injection molding process. In some modalities, the

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12/33 transmission element 231 may be a discrete portion that is later connected to indication element 30. In some embodiments, indication element 30, transmission element 231, rod 275, and/or base portion 260A can be fully formed. In some embodiments, indicating element 30, transmission element 231, and/or rod 275 may be integrally formed and subsequently secured to base portion 260A. The benefit of such arrangements is that a reduced number of components are required for the brush, which can reduce assembly cost and/or time.

[00036] The transmission element 231 can transmit electromagnetic energy, for example, visible light, to the indicating element 30 through internal reflection or external reflection. External reflections are reflections where light originates from a material with a low refractive index (such as air) and is reflected from a material with a higher refractive index (such as aluminum or silver). A common household mirror works by external reflection.

[00037] Internal reflections are reflections where light originates from a material with a higher refractive index (such as polycarbonate) and is reflected from a material with a lower refractive index (such as air, vacuum or water). Fiber optic technology works on the principle of internal reflections.

[00038] The refractive index is an optical attribute of any material that measures the tendency of light to refract, or bend, as it passes through the material. Even materials that don't conduct light (such as aluminum) have refractive indices.

[00039] Typically, external reflections are most efficient when the angle of incidence of light is close to normal (ie, light falls perpendicular to the surface) and degrade as the angle of incidence increases (ie, light falls on a surface

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13/33 at a steep angle). In contrast, internal reflections are most efficient at high angles of incidence and do not reflect at shallow angles, eg normal to the surface. To perform internal reflection, the angle of incidence must be greater than the critical angle. The critical angle is the angle below which light stops reflecting between a pair of materials.

[00040] Back with reference to figures 2 and 3, for those embodiments of the present invention that use external reflection, a metallic foil or some other highly reflective material can be used inside the outer shell 212. The highly reflective material, for example , foil, may be disposed on inner surface 375. In other embodiments, highly reflective material, e.g., foil, may be wrapped around transmission element 231. A disadvantage of such modalities is that additional manufacturing steps may be required to deliver the highly reflective material to the appropriate location(s).

[00041] For modalities that use internal reflection, a material that has a high refractive index can be selected, for example, above 1.0. For example, the material selected for transmission element 231 may comprise a refractive index greater than about 1.4, greater than about 1.5, greater than about 1.6, and/or less than about 1 .7, less than about 1.6, less than about 1.5, any number within these given values, or any ranges within the given values. In some embodiments, the material selected for transmission element 231 has a refractive index between about 1.4 to about 1.6.

[00042] With reference to figures 4A to 4B, in these embodiments, an outer surface 429 and 1429, of the transmission element 231 and

431, can be polished. The polished outer surface 429 and 1429 of the

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14/33 transmission element 231 and 431, can reduce the amount of light leakage from transmission element 231 and 431.

[00043] In some embodiments, the transmitting element 231 may comprise a receptacle 453 for receiving the output source 450, for example, the LED. Receptacle 453 may be disposed at one end 455 of transmission element 231. A benefit of implementing receptacle 453 at end 455 of transmission element 231 is that during fabrication, output source 245 (shown in Figure 2), e.g. LED, can be inserted into receptacle 453 thereby reducing the chance of misalignment of output source 245 relative to transmitting element 231. This can help reduce the amount of light leakage between output source 245 and transmitting element 231.

[00044] As stated earlier, to perform the internal reflection, the incident light must be above the critical angle. The angle at which light impinges on the transmission element 231 can be impacted by the distribution angle (discussed later) of the output source 245 or 1450 (shown in Figure 4B). For those output sources that have a small distribution angle, the design of receptacle 453, eg sides 453A and 453B perpendicular to face 453C, may be sufficient to capture most of the light emitted from output source 245 for reflection internal. However, light incident above the critical angle will generally not be reflected internally. Consequently, sides 453A and 453B and/or face 453C can be configured to increase the amount of light that is above the critical angle. For example, sides 453A and/or 453B can be tapered toward or away from face 453C. Similarly, face 453C may include an angled surface, multiple angled surfaces, curved surfaces, e.g.

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15/33 formatted lenses, to increase the amount of light emitted that is above the critical angle.

[00045] Referring to Fig. 4B, in some embodiments, a transmission element 431 may be configured with a flat surface on an end 1455 as shown in Fig. 4B. In these embodiments, an output source 2450, eg LED, may be positioned a distance 1460 away from end 1455. In an effort to reduce the amount of light that leaks from the 2450 output source, distance B (1460) should generally fall within the guidelines presented below.

THE

B < --^7 tan(a

[00046] Where α is the half angle α available from the manufacturer's specifications for an output light source, and where A (1457) is a projection leg on transmission element 431. The projection leg 1457 is the distance in a straight line from the midpoint of the output source 2450 projected on the transmission element 431 to an edge 1459 of the transmission element 431.

[00047] For those modalities that use internal reflection, the distribution angle of the output source 450 and 1450, eg LED, should be considered. If the distribution angle is too wide, a portion of the light supplied to transmission element 231 and 431 may not be reflected internally and instead may leak out of transmission element 231 and 431. Any suitable distribution angle can be used . Some examples of suitable distribution angles include greater than about 0 degrees, greater than about 1 degree, greater than about 2 degrees, greater than about 5 degrees, greater than about 6 degrees, greater than about 8 degrees, greater than about 10 degrees, greater than about 12 degrees, greater than about 14, greater than about 16 degrees, greater than about 18 degrees, greater than about 20 degrees, greater than about 22 degrees, and/ or

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16/33 less than about 22, less than about 20 degrees, less than about 18 degrees, less than about 16 degrees, less than about 14 degrees, less than about 12 degrees, less than about 10 degrees , less than about 8 degrees, or any number within the given values ​​or any ranges within the given values.

[00048] Additionally, modalities comprising multiple output sources are contemplated. For example, a receptacle can be configured so that two LEDs can be positioned in it. A first LED may provide a first output signal for a condition, eg brush time, while a second LED may provide a second output signal for a second condition, eg brush replacement time, the first one being output signal and the second output signal are different. Similarly, in embodiments where the transmit element does not include a receptacle, a plurality of output sources, e.g., LEDs, can be used.

[00049] Instead of a plurality of LEDs, arrangements are also contemplated in which the output source comprises an LED having multiple cubes as described in US patent application publication No. 2005/0053896A1. As shown in Figure 8A, an LED 815 can include a lens 830, and a positive wire 821 and a negative wire 809. The LED 815 can comprise more than one light emitter and more than one semiconductor substrate, and can have more than two fillets. Modalities are contemplated in which the LED comprises two cubes. Additionally, modalities are contemplated in which the LED comprises more than two cubes.

[00050] For example, the LED 815 can comprise multiple light emitting cubes 805 and 817 and a wired connection 807 and 818. The wired connection 818 can serve as a connection between the cubes 805 and

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817. This connection can be a parallel connection or a serial connection.

[00051] As shown in figure 8B, an LED 815B (two-wire LED) can comprise multiple hubs 805 and 817 connected in series. The 815B LED can include a positive 809 wire and a negative 827 wire. As shown, each 805 and 817 hub can have an individual pedestal 837 and 839. The hubs have an 811 serial connection that connects the top of the 805 hubs to the bottom of the hubs 817, and wire connection 813 connects the top of hubs 817 to negative wire 827. All light from the light emitting sources can be combined to result in a single light output on the 830 lens of the 815B LED.

[00052] As shown in figure 8C, an 815C LED can include multiple 805 and 817 hubs connected in parallel. The 815C LED may comprise a single light output, the lens 830, and a positive wire 809, and a negative wire 827. The data may have a parallel connection, wire connection 837 connecting the top of cubes 805 to the top of the data 817, and wire bonding 807 connecting the top of wire 817 to the top of common negative wire 827. All light from the light emitting sources can be combined to result in a single light output on the 830 lens of the 815C LED.

[00053] As shown in figure 8D, an 815D LED (three-wire LED) can include multiple 805 and 817 hubs connected in parallel. The 815D LED may comprise a lens 830, two semiconductor substrates, cubes 805 and 817 shown connected in parallel, wire connections 819 and 821, one positive wire 833, and two negative wires 831 and 835. This LED 815D also emits light from a single light output, the 830 lens. Each cube has an individual pedestal 837 and 839. It is also contemplated that the 815D LED may comprise two positive wires, and one negative wire; and hubs 805 and 817 can be connected in series.

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[00054] Additionally, the LED may comprise more than two semiconductor substrates having light emitting properties, and the LED may comprise more than two conductors. The LED can have a common, or shared, conductor, or it can have individual conductors for each semiconductor substrate having light-emitting properties. Furthermore, each semiconductor substrate having light-emitting properties can be individually powered by a separate power source, such as a battery.

[00055] An advantage of a three-wire LED, eg the 815D LED, is that the 805 and 817 hubs can be operated independently. For example, when the 815D LED comprises two positive wires, the wires can be controlled independently. Therefore, the first 805 cube can be operated at an eighty percent capacity and the second 807 cube is operated at a twenty percent capacity. As another example, the first 805 cube can be operated at fifty percent capacity while the second 817 cube is operated at 100 percent. There are numerous combinations for operating levels of the first cube 805 and the second cube 817. It is believed that such combinations can create color blends resulting in a unique visual effect for the user.

[00056] For 2-wire LEDs, color blends are also possible. For example, the polarity of the supply voltage can be changed at a sufficiently high rate, for example, greater than 70 Hz, so that the cubes can be driven and create a mixed color effect. When the supply voltage polarity is in a first state, a first hub can be energized. When the supply voltage polarity is in a second state, a second hub can be energized. If the polarity of the supply voltage is changed quickly enough,

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19/33 a user may notice a mixture of colors. The rate of change of the supply voltage polarity can be greater than about 70 Hz, greater than about 80 Hz, greater than about 90 Hz, greater than about 100 Hz, greater than about 110 Hz, greater than about 120 Hz, greater than about 130 Hz, less than about 130 Hz, less than about 120 Hz, less than about 110 Hz, less than about 100 Hz, less than about 90 Hz, or any number in the within the ranges described, or any range including the values ​​described.

[00057] As stated earlier, these cubes can be electrically connected in parallel or in series. When connected in series, all current considerations are the same as for a single data. The total voltage can be approximated by the equation below:

V = V_fi+V_f2 + a?l + V_fn

[00058] where n is equal to the number of cubes and Vf = direct voltage for a particular cube. If the cubes are connected in parallel, the total voltage will be approximately the voltage of a single cube.

[00059] Serial connection works well because it adjusts to existing differences between cubes. When connected in series, the cubes automatically adjust their forward voltages and their luminous intensities become very close. In either arrangement, the two cubes have approximately the luminous intensity of 1.6 x Pi, where Pi is the luminous intensity of a single cube. A three-cube LED will likely have a luminous intensity of about 2.26 x Pi. (Interference between cubes can prevent the calculation of light intensity from being a multiplier by the number of cubes.) These cubes may produce the same color of light, or they may have different colors of light. However, if each issuer of

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20/33 individual light emits the same light, the luminous intensity of that color coming from that single LED will be greater than that of a single standard LED emitting light of one color.

[00060] A single LED could also contain two cubes emitting different colors of light, for example, a wavelength selected from the range between greater than about 370, 380, 390, 400, 425, 440, 450, 475 or 480, and/or less than about 500 nanometers. Cubes could also be selected to emit light of a different wavelength within the same color band; for example, cubes could emit light with different wavelengths resulting in the color blue. Furthermore, combining the different wavelengths of light in the single optical output of the LED (the lens) could result in a specific color combination that provides an oral care benefit. Some colors are difficult to obtain by a single wavelength of light; this invention can be used to produce light of one of these unique colors. Therefore, combining different colors in the single optical output can result in a color that cannot be achieved using a single cube.

[00061] For modalities that comprise multiple LEDs or a LED with multiple cubes, the oral hygiene implement of the present invention can provide the user with multiple signals. For example, a first cube can be powered to provide the user with a first visual cue. The first visual cue can correlate with a predetermined amount of time chosen by the user, for example. A second cube can be powered to provide the user with a second visual cue. The second visual cue can signal the user that it is time to replace the oral care device. In such embodiments, the first visual indication may comprise a first color, while the second visual indication

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21/33 comprises a second color which is different from the first color. Any suitable colors can be used.

[00062] With reference to figure 5, as stated, the transmission elements 231 and 431, can transmit a signal, for example, electromagnetic energy, from the output sources 245 and 2450, to the indication element 30. In an effort to To reduce the amount of energy that leaks through rod 275, a reflective core 461 (shown in figure 6) can be used. For those embodiments where front portion 260B comprises neck 16 and/or head 14, a reflective core may be used in neck 16 and/or head 14.

[00063] Referring to Figure 6, as shown, a reflective core 461 may be disposed on indicating element 30 and extend to rod 275. Reflective core 461 can reduce the amount of light that is lost through rod 275 and for the neck and/or brush head. Additionally, reflective core 461 may assist in distributing light through indicating element 30 to a periphery 430 of indicating element 30. Also, in some embodiments, reflective core 461 may be configured to assist in providing light to first portion 270A and/or second portion 270B.

[00064] The reflective core 461 may comprise a polished area 467 having a face 468. The polished area 467 of the reflective core 461 is that portion of the reflective core 461 disposed within the indicating element 30. The remainder of the reflective core 461 may be polished, but not necessarily. Polished area 467 may be configured to redirect light transmitted through the transmitting element to indicating element 30, first portion 270A and/or second portion 270B.

[00065] Where indicating element 30 is a ring, the polished area

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467 it can be configured in the shape of a cone (See figure 7A). As shown in Figure 7B, where indicating element 30 comprises a ring, a polished area 467B may comprise multiple sides 767A to 767D. As shown in Figure 7C, an indicating element 30C may comprise multiple sides 730A, 730B, 730C and 730D. And, a polished area 467C may similarly comprise multiple sides 767A to 767D. As shown, the sides of polished area 467C may be positioned at an angle to the sides of indicating element 30C. As shown in Figure 7D, an indicating element 30D may comprise multiple sides 730A to 730D. And, a polished area 467D may comprise multiple sides 767A through 767D. The sides of polished area 467D may be substantially parallel to the sides of indicating element 30D. It is believed that these arrangements can produce a different visual effect than a polished area 467 that is conical.

[00066] Again with reference to Figure 6, the reflective core 461 as shown may be a recess that remains empty in the final product. In some embodiments, the reflective core 461 may be partially filled with a material. Where the reflective core 461 is partially filled, an air gap can be formed between the fill material and the polished area 467. The existence of such an air gap can ensure that the internal reflection is maintained within the indicating element 30. In some embodiments, the reflective core 461 may be completely filled with material that has a lower refractive index than that of the reflective core material.

[00067] It is believed that without reference to the reflective core 461 less than about 10 percent of the light provided by the output source would be emitted by the indicating element 30. And, it is believed that with the reflective core 461 about 90 per one hundred or more of the light provided by the output source would be emitted by the indicating element 30, the first

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23/33 portion 270A and/or second portion 270B. In some embodiments, the light emitted by indicating element 30 is greater than about 10 percent of the light provided by the output source, greater than about 20 percent, greater than about 30 percent, greater than about 40 percent. percent, greater than about 50 percent, greater than about 60 percent, greater than about 70 percent, greater than about 80 percent, greater than about 90 percent, less than about 100 percent, less than about 90 percent, less than about 80 percent, less than about 70 percent, less than about 60 percent, less than about 50 percent, less than about 40 percent, less than about 30 percent, less than about 20 percent, or any number within the above mentioned values ​​or any ranges that comprise and/or fall within the above values. A test method for measuring light emission efficiency is discussed from this point forward in this document.

[00068] Toothbrushes constructed in accordance with the present invention can provide feedback to the user through the indicating element for a variety of conditions. For example, during a brushing session, a visible signal can be provided when the user has brushed their teeth for a predetermined amount of time, eg two minutes, three minutes, etc. As another example, a visible signal can be provided to the user as to when the brush should be replaced. As yet another example, a visible sign can be provided to the user indicating the time the user has brushed their teeth in relation to various brushing routines. In these modalities, a first signal can be provided when the user has brushed their teeth correctly for an indispensable period of time, eg two minutes, for a predetermined number of brushing routines. A second signal can be provided to the user when the user has not brushed their teeth for a

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24/33 enough time for each and all of the predetermined numbers of brushing routines.

[00069] The user-supplied signal can be constant, for example, a user-supplied signal throughout the brushing routine. Alternatively, the signal provided to the user can be provided at the end of the brushing routine. For example, when the user has not brushed their teeth for a predetermined amount of time, eg two minutes, in a previous brushing routine, the signal provided to the user may flash red or show a visible red signal over a period of time. predetermined during a subsequent brushing routine. As another example, when the user has brushed their teeth for a predetermined amount of time in the course of the previous brushing routine, the signal provided to the user may be flashing green or show a visible green signal for a predetermined period of time.

[00070] In other embodiments, the signal may be provided to the user intermittently during the brushing routine. For example, the signal can be provided to the user at predetermined time intervals. For example, a signal can be provided to the user every 20 seconds. Any suitable time interval can be selected. For example, the time interval between signals can be second, second, second, second, second, seconds, seconds, greater than about greater than about greater than about greater than about

0.1 second, longer

0.3 second, longer

0.5 second, longer

0.7 second, greater than about 0.2 more than about 0.4 more than about 0.6 more than about 0.8 more than about 0.9 second greater than about 1 greater than about 2 seconds , greater than about 3 greater than about 4 seconds, greater than about 5 greater than about 6 seconds, greater than about 10

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25/33 seconds, longer than about 15 seconds, longer than about 20 seconds, longer than about 25 seconds, longer than about 30 seconds, longer than about 40 seconds, longer than about 50 seconds, longer than about 60 seconds , and/or less than about 60 seconds, less than about 50 seconds, less than about 40 seconds, less than about 30 seconds, less than about 25 seconds, less than about 20 seconds, less than about 15 seconds, less than about 10 seconds, less than about 5 seconds, less than about 4 seconds, less than about 3 seconds, less than about 2 seconds, less than about 1.5 seconds, less than about 1 second, less than about 0.9 second , less than about 0.8 second, less than about 0.7 second, less than about 0.6 second, less than about 0.5 second, less than about 0.4 second, less than about 0.2 second, or less than about 0.1 second.

[00071] A time interval between signals was discussed earlier. In some embodiments, a processor can be configured to modify the time interval between signals provided to the user during a specific brushing routine or during a series of brushing routines. For example, during a first brushing routine, if the user brushes their teeth for a predetermined amount of time, for example two minutes, the interval between signals to the user may be in a first time interval. If in a second brushing routine, the user does not brush during a predetermined time interval, signals to the user may be in a second time interval. In such a mode, the first time interval can be longer than the second time interval thus providing more feedback to the user. In some modalities, the time intervals can be changed so

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26/33 that more feedback is provided to the user for brushing at the predetermined time interval.

[00072] Suitable materials for the insert 260 should be selected so that the insert can resist forces, for example, no permanent deformation, minimal deflection, if any of the front portion and/or the base portion is applied during brushing. Additionally, suitable materials can be non-corrosive, rigid, transparent, and/or translucent. Some suitable examples of materials that can be used for insert 260 include polypropylene, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, polyoxymethylene, polyamide, acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate, and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), copolyester, combinations thereof, combinations of polyester and polycarbonate, for example Xylex™.

[00073] Outer casing 212 can be of any suitable material. Some examples of suitable materials include polypropylene, ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer), ASA (acrylonitrile styrene acrylate), copolyester, POM (polyformaldehyde), combinations thereof, and the like. Other suitable materials include polypropylene, nylon, high density polyethylene, other moldable stable polymers, the like, and/or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the handle, neck and/or head may be formed from a first material and include recesses, channels, grooves, to receive a second material that is different from the first. For example, the cable may include an elastomeric grip feature or a plurality of elastomeric grip features. The elastomers among the plurality of elastomeric gripping features may be similar materials or may be different materials, for example, in color, hardness, combinations of these characteristics, or the like.

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[00074] The sealing member 270 may comprise any suitable material. Some examples of suitable material include thermoplastic elastomers, silicone based materials, NBR (nitrile butadiene rubber), EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer), Viton™, etc.

[00075] In some modalities, recycled and/or plant-based plastics can be used. For example, PET (polyethylene terephthalate) can be used in some modalities. PET can be biobased. For example, the PET may comprise from about 25 to about 75% by weight of a terephthalate component, and from about 20 to about 50% by weight of a diol component, with at least about 1% by weight of at least one of a terephthalate and/or diol component is derived from at least one biobased material. Similarly, the terephthalate component can be derived from a biobased material. Some examples of biobased materials include but are not limited to corn, sugar cane, sugar beet, potato, starch, citrus fruit, woody plant, cellulosic lignin, plant oil, natural fiber, oily wood feedstock, and a combination of same.

[00076] Some of the specific components of PET can be biobased. For example, monoethylene glycol and terephthalic acid can be formed from biobased materials. The formation of biobased PET and its manufacture is described in US patent application publication Nos. 20090246430A1 and 20100028512A1.

[00077] In some embodiments, the toothbrush may include a replaceable head, for example 14 and/or neck 16. Specifically, head 14 may be removable from neck 16 and/or neck 16 may be removable from handle 12. In this invention, if head 14 is removable from neck 16 or neck 16 is removable from cable 12, such replaceable elements will be called refills.

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28/33 (refills). In these embodiments, the processor can be programmed with a plurality of algorithms to establish a time period for cumulative use of a specific recharge and/or for identifying a particular use. Some suitable examples of mouth care implements that can recognize a particular refill are described in US Patent Nos. 7,086,111; 7,207,080; and 7,024,717.

[00078] Interconnectivity between neck 16 and cable region 12 can be provided in any suitable way. Some suitable modalities are discussed in connection with US Patent Nos. 7,086,111,7,207,080, and 7,024,717.

[00079] The toothbrush of the present invention may further comprise an energy source as discussed above. The power source can be any suitable element that can power the toothbrush. A suitable example includes batteries. The battery can be sized to minimize the amount of actual states needed inside the toothbrush. For example, when the output source consists of a light-emitting element, the sized power source can be relatively small, eg smaller than that of an AAA battery. The battery can be rechargeable or it can be disposable. Additionally, a plurality of batteries can be used. In some embodiments, the power source may include alternating current power as supplied by a utility company to a home. Other suitable energy sources are described in US Patent Application Serial No. 12/102881, filed April 15, 2008, and entitled, Personal Care Products and Methods.

[00080] In some embodiments, a user operated key may be provided which may allow the user to control the start of timing indication. The key (shown) can be in

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29/33 electrical communication with the power supply and the output signal element signal and/or the timer.

[00081] The elastomeric cable grip features can be used to overmould, at least in part, a portion of the timer, output signal element, processor, cover and/or power supply. In such embodiments, these components may be in electrical communication via wiring that may similarly be overmolded. The elastomeric grip features may include portions that are positioned for grip by the user's palm and/or portions that are positioned for grip by the user's thumb and index finger. These elastomeric grip features may be composed of the same material or may be different, for example, in color, shape, composition, hardness, similar, and/or combinations thereof.

[00082] Additionally, for use in the present invention, the term contact elements is used to refer to any suitable element that can be inserted into the oral cavity. Some suitable elements include bristle tufts, elastomeric massage elements, elastomeric cleaning elements, massage elements, tongue cleaners, soft tissue cleaners, hard surface cleaners, combinations thereof, and the like. The head can comprise a variety of contact elements. For example, the head may comprise bristles, abrasive elastomeric elements, elastomeric elements in a particular orientation or arrangement, for example, hinge fins, prophylactic cups, or the like. Some suitable examples of elastomeric cleaning elements and/or massage elements are described in US patent application publications Nos. 2007/0251040; 2004/0154112; 2006/0272112; and in US patents 6,553,604; 6,151,745. Cleaning elements can be tapered, notched,

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30/33 crimped, corrugated, or similar. Some suitable examples of such cleansing elements and/or massage elements are described in US Patent Nos. 6,151,745; 6,058,541; 5,268.005;

5,313,909; 4,802,255; 6,018,840; 5,836,769; 5,722,106; 6,475,553; and in US patent application publication no. 2006/0080794.

[00083] The contact elements can be attached to the head in any suitable way. Conventional methods include stapling, anchor-free tufting, and injection mold tufting. For contact elements comprising an elastomer, these elements may be formed integrally with each other, for example, having an integral base portion and extending outwardly therefrom.

[00084] The head may comprise a soft tissue cleaner constructed from any suitable material. Some examples of suitable materials include elastomeric materials; polypropylene, polyethylene, etc.; similar, and/or combinations thereof. The soft tissue cleaner can comprise any suitable soft tissue cleaning elements. Some examples of such elements as well as soft tissue cleaner configurations on a toothbrush are described in US Patent Applications Nos. 2006/0010628; 2005/0166344; 2005/0210612; 2006/0195995; 2008/0189888;

2006/0052806; 2004/0255416; 2005/0000049; 2005/0038461;

2004/0134007; 2006/0026784; 20070049956; 2008/0244849;

2005/0000043; 2007/140959; and in US Patent Nos. 5,980,542;

6,402,768; and 6,102,923.

[00085] For modalities that include an elastomeric element on a first side of the head and an elastomeric element on a second side of the head (opposite to the first), the elastomeric elements can be formed integrally by means of channels or spans that extend through of the head material. These

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31/33 channels or gaps can allow elastomeric material to flow through the head during an injection molding process so that the first side and second side elastomeric elements can be formed in an injection molding step.

Test method to determine the light emission efficiency [00086] Obtain three samples of the brush to be tested and three samples of the output source used in the brush. The output source samples must be identical to those used on the brush. Take all samples, ie three brush samples and three output source samples, to an independent testing laboratory. The test lab will test each of the three brush samples and each of the output source samples on an appropriately sized integrating sphere. For example, a 12 inch (30.5 cm) integrating sphere may be suitable for holding brush specimens.

[00087] The testing laboratory will calibrate all equipment before starting to measure any samples. Samples from the output source will be tested prior to brush testing. The testing laboratory will place a sample of the output source into the integrating sphere in accordance with standard testing procedures. The output source will be powered by the same voltage as that supplied to the brush. Specifically, if the brush uses two 1.5 volt clock batteries, then the output source will also be powered by two 1.5 volt clock batteries.

[00088] The output source will be activated, the integrating sphere closed and the total amount of light emitted by the output source will be measured. All other output source samples will be measured similarly. The total light output of each output source sample will be recorded and noted for each sample.

[00089] Remove the sphere output source sample

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32/33 integrator before testing a sample brush. Place a sample brush on the integrating sphere configured so as to activate the brush output source without blocking light emitted from the brush indicating element. For example, in cases where the indicating element provides a visual indication of excessive pressure being applied, an electrical harness can be used to move the brush head/neck assembly to ensure that the indicating element/output source is activated. Measure the total amount of light emitted from the sample brush. Repeat the procedure for the remaining brush samples.

[00090] The total amount of light emitted from sample output source one will be divided by the total amount of light emitted by sample brush one. The quotient is then multiplied by 100 to determine the percentage of sample one. The total amount of light emitted by sample two output source will be divided by the total amount of light emitted by sample brush two. The quotient is then multiplied by 100 to determine the percentage of sample two. The total amount of light emitted by sample three output source will be divided by the total amount of light emitted by sample three brush. The quotient is then multiplied by 100 to determine the percentage of sample three. Percentages 1, 2, and 3 will be averaged to obtain the percent efficiency.

[00091] The dimensions and values ​​presented in the present invention are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​mentioned. Instead, except where otherwise specified, each of these dimensions is intended to mean both the stated value and a range of functionally equivalent values ​​around that value. For example, a dimension displayed as 40 mm is intended for

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33/33 means about 40 mm.

[00092] Each of the documents cited in this invention, including any cross-reference, related patent, or patent application, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. Citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art in relation to any invention set forth or claimed herein, or that it, by itself or in any combination with any other reference or references, teaches, suggest or present any such invention. In addition, if there is a conflict between any meaning or definition of a term mentioned in this document and any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition ascribed to that term in this document shall take precedence.

[00093] Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it should be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the character and scope of the invention. Therefore, it is intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that fall within the scope of the present invention.

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