AN AUTO-TAP TOOTHBRUSH

Abstract

ABSTRACT AN AUTO-TAP TOOTHBRUSH The present invention discloses an auto-Tap Toothbrush represents a significant advancement in oral care, combining technology and user convenience. Central to its innovative design is an integrated circuit [2] that serves as the brain of the device, coordinating the interaction between various components to ensure a seamless user experience. The circuit [2] processes signals from the integrated touch sensor [3], which activates the toothpaste dispensing mechanism with a simple touch. Upon receiving this signal, the circuit controls the motor [1], directing it to operate in either clockwise or anti-clockwise directions to drive the high-tension spring [5]. This spring compresses and dispenses toothpaste from the replaceable cartridge [4] with precision. The circuit’s role extends to managing power distribution from the battery slot [6], ensuring consistent and efficient operation over time. By integrating these functions, the circuit not only enhances the toothbrush’s functionality but also contributes to its overall efficiency, ease of use, and durability, setting a new standard in dental care. Fig 1

Specification

Description:FORM 2

THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See Section 10; rule 13)

TITLE OF THE INVENTION
AN AUTO-TAP TOOTHBRUSH


APPLICANT
K.RAMAKRISHNAN COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
NH-45, Samayapuram,
Trichy, Tamilnadu, India- 621112


The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed.
AN AUTO-TAP TOOTHBRUSH
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to oral care devices and smart consumer products. More specifically, this invention integrates an automated dispensing system, where sensors control the release of toothpaste from a cartridge embedded within the toothbrush handle. The system ensures accurate dispensing, eliminating the need for manual application and providing a more streamlined brushing experience. By combining mechanical and electronic components, the toothbrush offers a seamless solution for daily oral hygiene.
BACKGROUND
A toothbrush is essential for maintaining oral hygiene by removing plaque, preventing tooth decay, and reducing the risk of gum disease. Regular brushing ensures that teeth and gums remain clean and healthy, which contributes significantly to physical well-being. A good oral care routine also supports fresh breath and a bright smile, enhancing one's confidence and appearance. These benefits make toothbrushes indispensable tools in daily life, underscoring the importance of effective and user-friendly designs for a wide range of individuals.
Despite the universal need for proper oral care, certain individuals encounter challenges when using traditional toothbrushes and toothpaste tubes. Those who are elderly, handicapped, blind, or suffer from nerve conditions may find squeezing toothpaste from a tube a difficult task. Limited coordination and strength can make it challenging to apply the right amount of toothpaste to a toothbrush, creating an obstacle to maintaining proper oral hygiene. This difficulty can also lead to frustration, which may discourage regular brushing and compromise oral health over time.
Frequent travelers face additional issues, as toothpaste tubes can be prone to leakage, especially when packaged in luggage. This risk of leakage can create messes and waste, which is particularly inconvenient during travel. Many travelers may also experience difficulty packing toothpaste in compliance with travel regulations, which often restrict the size and volume of liquid or paste products. These inconveniences highlight a need for a more portable, mess-free solution that allows users to maintain their oral care routine without unnecessary hassle.
Even those without physical limitations can encounter challenges with traditional toothpaste tubes. Pressing too hard can result in excessive toothpaste, causing waste, while applying insufficient pressure may prevent the toothpaste from dispensing properly. In some cases, toothpaste can fall off the brush before it's even used, which adds to the inconvenience. These issues underscore a common frustration among users who seek a more precise and convenient way to apply toothpaste, one that ensures consistency way to apply toothpaste, one that ensures consistency and eliminates the need for constant adjustments.
To address these widespread problems, a novel toothbrush design has been developed, featuring an innovative toothpaste dispensing mechanism. This design integrates a touch sensor directly into the toothbrush handle, enabling users to dispense toothpaste with just a simple touch. By eliminating the need for squeezing a tube, this system offers an accessible and efficient solution for all users, especially those who find conventional methods difficult. The touch-activated mechanism also allows users to control the amount of toothpaste dispensed, reducing waste and ensuring optimal application for effective brushing. This user-centered invention simplifies the brushing experience, making it more convenient and enjoyable for a diverse range of individuals.
OBJECT OF THE INVENTION
The primary object of the present invention is to create an innovative and user-friendly toothbrush that integrates automated toothpaste dispensing through the use of a touch sensor.
Another object of the present invention is to reduce the time and effort needed for brushing by combining both brushing and toothpaste dispensing in a single, streamlined device.
Yet another object of the present invention is to integrate a built-in toothpaste reservoir within the toothbrush handle, offering convenient and efficient storage through a refillable cartridge and replaceable battery, thereby enhancing both usability and portability.
Yet another object of the present invention is to promote better oral hygiene by ensuring the correct amount of toothpaste is dispensed for each use.
Yet another object of the present invention is to enhance the user experience by providing a compact, efficient, and easy-to-use toothbrush that simplifies the brushing routine.
Yet another object of the present invention is to extend the lifespan of the toothbrush through a modular design that allows for easy replacement of the battery and toothpaste cartridge, contributing to long-term value and sustainability.
Yet another object of the present invention is to create an energy-efficient device with low power consumption, prolonging battery life and reducing the frequency of replacements for greater convenience.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a modern, aesthetically pleasing design that appeals to a wide range of users, supporting user adoption and satisfaction.
These and other objects and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
SUMMARY
The various embodiments of the present invention disclose a toothbrush that integrates an advanced automatic toothpaste dispensing system. This innovative toothbrush combines cutting-edge technology with user-centric design, offering a seamless and highly efficient brushing experience that sets it apart from traditional toothbrushes. By using an intelligent system of mechanical and electronic components, the toothbrush allows for a more efficient and proper brushing routine, eliminating the hassle of handling a separate toothpaste tube.
At the heart of this invention is a smart integration of a circuit, high-tension spring, motor, touch sensor, and replaceable battery compactly arranged in an ergonomic design. This setup ensures that each component works harmoniously, providing a streamlined user experience. The toothpaste is stored directly within the handle, ready for dispensing through an automated mechanism, making the brush an all-in-one solution for oral care. This system makes it ideal for users seeking simplicity and functionality, allowing them to maintain their oral hygiene routine with ease.
A standout feature of this toothbrush is its touch-activated dispensing mechanism. The system is designed to respond to the user's touch, initiating the toothpaste dispensing process with precision and ease. When the touch sensor, strategically placed on the toothbrush handle, is engaged, it sends an electronic signal to the internal circuit. This signal activates the motor, which is powered by a replaceable battery housed within the device.
One of the standout features of this toothbrush is the touch-sensitive dispensing system. Designed with a user's convenience in mind, the touch sensor is placed strategically on the toothbrush handle to be easily accessed. When a user touches the sensor, it sends an electronic signal to the internal circuit, which then activates the motor powered by a replaceable battery. This responsive design ensures that the toothpaste is dispensed accurately with minimal effort. The simplicity of this mechanism provides a modern, user-friendly solution to conventional brushing.
The high-tension spring plays a crucial role in the precision dispensing of toothpaste. Upon motor activation, the spring compresses and exerts pressure on the toothpaste reservoir, releasing an exact amount of toothpaste onto the bristles. This controlled process eliminates common issues associated with traditional toothpaste applications, such as dispensing too much or too little. The result is a smooth, consistent flow of toothpaste that ensures an optional amount for each brushing, enhancing effectiveness in daily oral care.
With the integration of automatic dispensing, users can focus on brushing their teeth without needing to apply toothpaste manually. This feature streamlines the brushing routine by removing an extra step, making it easier to maintain a consistent oral care regimen. The precise dispensing mechanism ensures that the correct amount of toothpaste is applied every time, supporting healthier and more effective brushing habits and ultimately promoting better oral hygiene.
The toothbrush's portability is enhanced by its battery-operated system, which ensures that it's always ready to use whether at home or while traveling. The replaceable battery is convenient and extends the device's usability, providing uninterrupted functionality wherever the user goes. Its compact form factor makes it easy to carry, while the reliable battery operation offers peace of mind for maintaining good oral hygiene even on the go.
In response to the growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products, this toothbrush incorporates sustainable design principles. Both the toothpaste reservoir and battery are replaceable, extending the toothbrush's lifespan and reducing waste. Users can refill the reservoir and replace the battery as needed, meaning there's no need to discard the entire device when a component runs out. This approach aligns with environmentally responsible practices, making the toothbrush an ideal choice for eco-conscious users seeking long-term value and reduced environmental impact.
To further personalize the brushing experience, the toothbrush allows users to adjust the amount of toothpaste dispensed. This customizable feature ensures that users can choose their preferred amount, whether they require a little extra toothpaste or just a small amount for a quick clean. This feature promotes effective oral hygiene by giving users control over their brushing routine, ultimately contributing to better dental health and satisfaction. Merging automated toothpaste dispensing with user convenience and eco-friendly design, this toothbrush elevates daily oral care into a precise, efficient, and enjoyable ritual, blending technology, efficiency, and sustainability in a single, innovative device.
These and other aspects of the embodiments herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the following descriptions, while indicating preferred embodiments and numerous specific details thereof, are given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the embodiments herein without departing from the spirit thereof, and the embodiments herein include all such modifications.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The other objects, features, and advantages will occur to those skilled in the art from the following description of the preferred embodiment and the accompanying drawings.
Fig 1 illustrates the isometric view of the AUTO-TAP TOOTHBRUSH, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Although the specific features of the present invention are shown in some drawings and not in others. This is done for convenience only as each feature may be combined with any or all of the other features by the present invention.
List of reference numerals used in detailed descriptions and drawings:
1-Motor, 2-Circuit, 3-Touch sensor, 4-Cartridge, 5-High tension spring & 6-Battery slot.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The Auto-Tap Toothbrush has been carefully crafted to meet the user's needs at its core. Every aspect of the toothbrush, from its ergonomic shape to its intuitive controls, has been designed to enhance comfort and ease of use. The handle is contoured to fit comfortably in the user's hand, ensuring a secure grip even when wet. This thoughtful design contributes to a more pleasant brushing experience, encouraging consistent oral care routines. Here's an in-depth look at its design and features:
At the center of the Auto-Tap Toothbrush's user-friendly operation is its integrated touch sensor [3]. This sensor is a critical component that facilitates seamless interaction between the user and the toothbrush. Unlike traditional toothbrushes, where toothpaste application can be a cumbersome and wasteful process, the Auto-Tap Toothbrush simplifies the task through a simple tap. A Capacitive touch sensor [3] is highly responsive, activating the toothpaste dispensing mechanism with just a light touch, ensuring that the user can easily apply the correct amount of toothpaste every time.
The Capacitive touch sensor[3] detects touch or proximity by measuring changes in capacitance, which is the ability of a material to hold an electric charge. When a conductive object, like a human finger, comes close to or touches the sensor's surface, it disrupts the electric field, causing a measurable change in capacitance. This variation is then interpreted by the sensor's electronics to recognize a "touch" or "near-touch" event. Capacitive touch sensors are commonly used in smartphones, tablets, and other devices for their sensitivity, durability, and ability to detect multiple touches at once without moving parts, offering a smooth and responsive user experience.
A Circuit board[2], often referred to as a printed circuit board(PCB), is a flat, layered board that physically supports and electrically connects various electronic components using conductive pathways, tracks, or signal traces. These paths are typically etched from copper sheets and laminated onto a non-conductive substrate, usually made of fiberglass, plastic, or other insulating materials. Components like resistors, capacitors, transistors, and integrated circuits are mounted on the PCB and connected to achieve desired functions, making PCBs essential in nearly all modern electronics, from smartphones and computers to medical devices and industrial machinery.
A motor[1] is an electromechanical device that converts electrical energy into mechanical motion, enabling the operation of a wide range of machines and applications. Typically consisting of components such as a rotor, stator, windings, and sometimes brushes or commutators, motors function by generating magnetic fields that interact to produce rotational or linear movement. Motor[1] for linear movement also known as linear actuators, are designed to produce motion in a straight line rather than rotational motion. These motors typically convert electrical energy into linear mechanical movement using various mechanisms such as a screw, belt, or magnet.
A high-tension spring[5] is a type of mechanical spring designed to withstand and store energy when subjected to a pulling force. Unlike compression springs, which resist being compressed, tension springs are designed to resist stretching or being elongated. They typically consist of a coiled metal wire, often made of steel or stainless steel, that is wound tightly to generate a high force when pulled. The spring's ends are usually hooked or looped to allow attachment to other components, enabling it to return to its original shape when the applied tension force is released. Their durability, resilience, and ability to handle substantial stress make them essential in many mechanical systems.
A cartridge[4] material is typically made of durable, lightweight, and non-corrosive materials that ensure safe and efficient functionality. Common materials include high-quality plastics like polypropylene or polyethylene, which are resistant to moisture, toothpaste chemicals, and wear. These plastics are often selected for their ease of molding into precise shapes and their ability to withstand regular use without degradation. Additionally, the cartridge may incorporate antimicrobial agents to prevent bacterial growth, ensuring safety. The material should also be transparent or semi-transparent to allow users to monitor toothpaste levels, and it may feature a flexible design for easy installation and replacement. Overall, the choice of cartridge material balances strength, longevity, and user convenience while maintaining hygiene and performance standards.
A Battery slot[6] in a device is a compartment designed to securely hold and connect a battery to power the device. Typically, it is constructed to accommodate standard battery sizes, such as AA or rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, depending on the device's power requirements. The slot features a simple, user-friendly design with clear polarity markings to guide proper battery installation. It is often equipped with spring-loaded contacts or metal terminals that ensure a stable and reliable electrical connection. The battery slot[6] is usually enclosed with a cover or cap to protect the battery from moisture, dust, and accidental dislodging, ensuring safe and efficient operation of the device.
Fig 1 illustrates the auto-tap toothbrush in which the touch sensor [3] is based on capacitive sensing technology, which detects changes in the electrical field caused by the presence of the user's finger. This technology ensures high sensitivity and accuracy, allowing for precise activation of the dispensing mechanism. This sensor is strategically placed on the handle of the toothbrush, within easy reach of the user's fingers, making it accessible without disrupting the natural grip on the toothbrush.
The motor [1] is the powerhouse of the Auto-Tap Toothbrush, responsible for converting electrical energy into mechanical motion. This motion is essential for driving the high-tension spring [5] and ultimately dispensing toothpaste from the cartridge [4].
The motor [1] is engineered to operate in both clockwise and anti-clockwise directions, a feature that is crucial for the dual functionality of the toothbrush. In the clockwise direction, the motor [1] compresses the high-tension spring [5], which in turn, pushes the toothpaste out of the cartridge [4]. In the anti-clockwise direction, the motor [1] decompresses the spring, allowing for the removal or replacement of the toothpaste cartridge [4].
This bidirectional capability ensures that the toothbrush can perform multiple functions with a single motor [1], enhancing its versatility and reliability.
The motor [1] is designed to be highly efficient, drawing minimal power from the battery while delivering sufficient torque to compress the high-tension spring [5]. This efficiency is crucial for maintaining the battery life and ensuring that the toothbrush remains operational over an extended period. The circuit [2] plays a key role in managing the motor's power consumption, optimizing its performance based on the specific demands of the task at hand.
The high-tension spring [5] is a critical mechanical component within the Auto-Tap Toothbrush, responsible for generating the necessary force to dispense toothpaste from the cartridge [4]. The high-tension spring [5] is made from high-quality, durable materials that can withstand repeated compression and decompression cycles without losing their elasticity. This durability is essential for the long-term reliability of the toothbrush.
The high-tension spring [5] is carefully calibrated to exert just the right amount of force, ensuring that the toothpaste is dispensed smoothly and consistently. This precision prevents both under-dispensing and over-dispensing, helping to reduce waste and enhance the user experience.
When the motor [1] rotates clockwise, it compresses the high-tension spring [5], storing energy that is later used to push the toothpaste out of the cartridge [4]. This process is both smooth and efficient, with the high-tension spring [5] providing a consistent level of force throughout its compression cycle. Upon reversing the motor's direction, the high-tension spring [5] decompresses, allowing the user to easily replace or refill the toothpaste cartridge [4]. This reversible mechanism is a key feature that enhances the practicality and usability of the toothbrush.
The toothpaste cartridge [4] is designed to be easily replaceable, allowing users to maintain their toothbrush with minimal hassle. The cartridge [4] is a compact, self-contained unit that holds a pre-measured amount of toothpaste. It is designed to interface seamlessly with the dispensing mechanism, ensuring a secure fit and reliable operation. The cartridge [4] is made from recyclable materials, aligning with the toothbrush's focus on sustainability. This design choice reflects the growing demand for eco-friendly products and helps reduce the environmental impact of oral care routines.
Replacing the cartridge [4] is a simple process that involves reversing the motor's rotation to decompress the high-tension spring [5]. This action allows the user to easily remove the old cartridge [4] and insert a new one. The entire process is designed to be quick and straightforward, minimizing downtime and ensuring that the toothbrush is always ready for use. The ability to replace the cartridge [4] without discarding the entire toothbrush makes the Auto-Tap Toothbrush a more sustainable option compared to traditional toothbrushes. Moreover, the integrated time settings ensure consistent dispensing, while the refillable cartridge design promotes sustainability. It reduces waste and encourages long-term use, contributing to a more environmentally friendly approach to oral care.
The battery slot [6] is designed to accommodate standard replaceable batteries, making it easy for users to maintain the power supply of their toothbrush. This slot is conveniently located for easy access, allowing for quick battery changes without the need for tools or complicated procedures. The use of replaceable batteries extends the lifespan of the toothbrush, ensuring that it remains functional even as the battery depletes. This feature contributes to the overall sustainability of the product, as it eliminates the need to replace the entire toothbrush when the battery runs out.
The circuit [2] is responsible for managing the power supplied by the battery, ensuring that it is used efficiently to drive the motor [1] and operate the touch sensor [3]. The efficient power management helps extend the battery life, reducing the frequency of replacements and enhancing the overall user experience. The toothbrush is designed to be energy-efficient, with low power consumption that supports long-term use without compromising performance. The system's adaptability allows users to dispense additional toothpaste with multiple taps, enhancing convenience.
The Auto-Tap Toothbrush exemplifies a perfect blend of innovative technology and user-centered design. Every component, from the capacitive touch sensor [3] to the precisely engineered motor and high-tension spring, works harmoniously to deliver a seamless and efficient brushing experience. The ergonomic handle, intuitive controls, and easily replaceable cartridge emphasize convenience, ensuring that the toothbrush meets the everyday needs of users with ease and reliability.
The touch-sensitive toothbrush offers a unique approach to toothpaste dispensing, particularly addressing the needs of the elderly and persons with disabilities. For handicapped individuals, the integrated design simplifies brushing, enhancing ease of use. For blind individuals, touch-based activation and tactile feedback make the experience more accessible and user-friendly.
The presence of gel inside the handle is convenient for travelers to travel. Its touch-based control, combined with automatic dispensing, eliminates the need for squeezing tubes, offering a user-friendly, accessible, and waste-reducing solution. It effectively prevents toothpaste overflow, even with firm pressure, ensuring precise dispensing. This feature minimizes excess paste, reducing waste and promoting efficient use.
With sustainable features like a refillable cartridge, along with its portability, this toothbrush not only saves time and effort but is also well-positioned in a growing market for assistive technologies. Ultimately, it meets the evolving needs of consumers while contributing to better oral hygiene practices.
In addition to its functional benefits, the Auto-Tap Toothbrush's sustainable features reflect a strong commitment to reducing environmental impact. By incorporating recyclable materials and promoting long-term use through replaceable components, this toothbrush offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional designs. By addressing both functionality and user comfort, the Auto-Tap Toothbrush not only enhances oral care routines but also sets a new standard for modern and eco-friendly solutions.
It is noted that the above-described examples of the present invention is for the purpose of illustration only. Although the present invention has been described in conjunction with a specific example thereof, numerous modifications may be possible without materially departing from the teachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. Other substitutions, modifications, and changes may be made without departing from the spirit of the present solution. All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.
Although the embodiments herein are described with various specific embodiments, it will be obvious for a person skilled in the art to practice the embodiments herein with modifications.
, Claims:CLAIMS
WE CLAIM,
1. An Auto-tap toothbrush, comprising:
a touch sensor [3] that allows for seamless toothpaste dispensing strategically placed for easy access, and detects a light touch to enable precise control over the amount of toothpaste applied;
a motor [1] that operates in both clockwise and anti-clockwise directions, powering a high-tension spring [5] for accurate toothpaste dispensing;
a high-tension spring [5] that provides consistent force for smooth dispensing, reducing waste and ensuring long-term reliability; and,
a replaceable cartridge [4] and battery slot [6], designed for easy removal and installation.
2. The Auto-tap toothbrush as claimed in claim 1, wherein circuit-driven system ensures precise alignment and secure attachment of the toothpaste cartridge [4] with minimal user effort, significantly reducing the risk of misalignment or leakage.
3. The Auto-tap toothbrush as claimed in claim 1, wherein controlled rotation enhances hygiene by providing consistent and precise toothpaste application, minimizing the chances of spills or contamination.
4. The Auto-tap toothbrush as claimed in claim 1, wherein the high-tension spring[5] integrated within the toothpaste dispensing mechanism provides a consistent force to ensure smooth and controlled toothpaste dispensing with each activation of the device.
5. The Auto-tap toothbrush as claimed in claim 1, wherein, the circuit [2] is designed to simply cartridge [4] replacement, making it more accessible for individuals with limited mobility or strength, thereby providing a more reliable and user-friendly experience compared to traditional manual replacement methods.
6. The Auto-tap toothbrush as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cartridge [4] is easily replaceable, allowing users to quickly switch out cartridges without discarding the entire toothbrush, enhancing convenience and supporting long-term use.

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