CA2170994A1 - Dentifrice dispensing toothbrush with replaceable cartridge - Google Patents
Dentifrice dispensing toothbrush with replaceable cartridgeInfo
- Publication number
- CA2170994A1 CA2170994A1 CA002170994A CA2170994A CA2170994A1 CA 2170994 A1 CA2170994 A1 CA 2170994A1 CA 002170994 A CA002170994 A CA 002170994A CA 2170994 A CA2170994 A CA 2170994A CA 2170994 A1 CA2170994 A1 CA 2170994A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- opening
- base
- pump chamber
- side wall
- brush head
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A46—BRUSHWARE
- A46B—BRUSHES
- A46B11/00—Brushes with reservoir or other means for applying substances, e.g. paints, pastes, water
- A46B11/001—Brushes with reservoir or other means for applying substances, e.g. paints, pastes, water with integral reservoirs
- A46B11/002—Brushes with reservoir or other means for applying substances, e.g. paints, pastes, water with integral reservoirs pressurised at moment of use manually or by powered means
- A46B11/0055—Brushes with reservoir or other means for applying substances, e.g. paints, pastes, water with integral reservoirs pressurised at moment of use manually or by powered means with a reciprocating piston or plunger acting as the pressurising means
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A46—BRUSHWARE
- A46B—BRUSHES
- A46B11/00—Brushes with reservoir or other means for applying substances, e.g. paints, pastes, water
- A46B11/0072—Details
- A46B11/0079—Arrangements for preventing undesired leakage or dispensing
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B11/00—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use
- B05B11/0005—Components or details
- B05B11/0037—Containers
- B05B11/0054—Cartridges, i.e. containers specially designed for easy attachment to or easy removal from the rest of the sprayer
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B11/00—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use
- B05B11/01—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use characterised by the means producing the flow
- B05B11/02—Membranes or pistons acting on the contents inside the container, e.g. follower pistons
- B05B11/028—Pistons separating the content remaining in the container from the atmospheric air to compensate underpressure inside the container
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B11/00—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use
- B05B11/01—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use characterised by the means producing the flow
- B05B11/10—Pump arrangements for transferring the contents from the container to a pump chamber by a sucking effect and forcing the contents out through the dispensing nozzle
- B05B11/1028—Pumps having a pumping chamber with a deformable wall
- B05B11/1032—Pumps having a pumping chamber with a deformable wall actuated without substantial movement of the nozzle in the direction of the pressure stroke
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B11/00—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use
- B05B11/01—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use characterised by the means producing the flow
- B05B11/10—Pump arrangements for transferring the contents from the container to a pump chamber by a sucking effect and forcing the contents out through the dispensing nozzle
- B05B11/1094—Pump arrangements for transferring the contents from the container to a pump chamber by a sucking effect and forcing the contents out through the dispensing nozzle having inlet or outlet valves not being actuated by pressure or having no inlet or outlet valve
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A46—BRUSHWARE
- A46B—BRUSHES
- A46B2200/00—Brushes characterized by their functions, uses or applications
- A46B2200/10—For human or animal care
- A46B2200/1066—Toothbrush for cleaning the teeth or dentures
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B11/00—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use
- B05B11/0005—Components or details
- B05B11/0037—Containers
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B11/00—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use
- B05B11/0005—Components or details
- B05B11/0037—Containers
- B05B11/0038—Inner container disposed in an outer shell or outer casing
Abstract
A dentifrice dispensing toothbrush (2) is described which utilizes a compressible elastic button (14) to pump a controlled quantity of dentifrice material from a replaceable cartridge to the brush head (10). In one embodiment, a cover (4) is pro-vided which protects the brush bead (10), bristles, pumping mechanism, and otherparts of the toothbrush (2). The cover (4) also seals the conduit (26) which supplies dentrifrice material to the brush head (10) to prevent it from becoming clogged with dried dentifrice material during periods of nonuse and to prevent accidental com-pression of the button (14).
Description
21 7~4 WO 95/08g34 PCT/~JS94110320 DENTIFRICE DI~i~k..;.ll.S, ~ ;~ WITH REpT.Ar~l~aRr.~ r7~R~rl7Tnr~
P~ -r ~, -'YlND OF T~ INV~ITION
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a toothbrush which pumps dentifrice material from a repl~ce~hle cartridge to the brush head. In particular, the invention provides means which increases the pumping efficiency and includes a cover having a slidable plug for se~l in~ the opening in the brush head and pumping means during periods of non-use.
P~ -r ~, -'YlND OF T~ INV~ITION
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a toothbrush which pumps dentifrice material from a repl~ce~hle cartridge to the brush head. In particular, the invention provides means which increases the pumping efficiency and includes a cover having a slidable plug for se~l in~ the opening in the brush head and pumping means during periods of non-use.
2. Description of the Prior Art There are a variety of toothbrushes which store and dispense dentifrice material from the handle of the brush.
one type of brush dispenses the dentifrice material at the base of the brush head where the bristles are attached, such as that described in U.S. Patent No. 4,068,974. Another type dispenses dentifrice material directly onto the top of the brush surface as disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,787,765. Most brushes store dentifrice material directly in a reservoir in the brush handle as typified by the brush shown in U.S. Patent ~ITIJTE SHEE~ (RULE 26) 21 7~q~
W095/08934 PCT~S94/10320 No. 4,269,207. Other brushes store the dentifrice material in a replaceable cartridge which is positioned in the reservoir. U.s. Patent NO . 4 ,116, s70, as well as previously referenced U.S. Patent NOs. 4,269,207, 4,068,974 and 4,787,765, describe brushes having this feature. Some of the cartridge toothbrushes contain a follower disc which advances in the cartridge as material is pumped therefrom and which serves as a seal to ~Lev~l,L backflow of material. This feature is described in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,269,207 and 4,787,765. The prior art also includes tooth~rushes that store dentifrice material in their handles which have det~h~hle brush heads. Exemplary patents in this regard include U.S. Patent Nos. 4,2S9,207 and 4,332,497.
Various types of CGVeL~ have been used with toothbrushes that store and dispense dentifrice material from the handle of the brush. A cover such as that shown in U.S. Patent No.
4,521,128 protects the ~ristles and also plugs the opening which supplies dentifrice material to the ~rush head. The cover is secured to the brush head by inserting tabs on the cover into slots on the ~rush head. U.S. Patent No. 4,332,497 discloses another type of cover which contains a stopper to seal the cQ~ ;t which feeds dentifrice material to the brush head. The cover is placed over the ~rush head by inserting SUIlSrlTU~ SHEET (RULE 26) W095/08934 2 t 7 ~ 4 PCT~S94/10320 ~he brusn handle throuah an openina :n the cover and then closing a hinged portion of the cover over the brush head.
The cover is not suitable for piuaging a straight conduit which extends above the brush head base to for~ a spout since the angular motion of the cover~s stopper ~ven~s its aliqnment with the strai~ht spout opening. The type of cover shown in U.S. Patent No. 4,221,492 ~ c~s the entire toothbrush, including the handle. This cover does not contain any component for protectin~ the op~ni~g which provides dentifrice material to the brush head.
The fore~oing discussion illustrates some of the improvements which have been made in the design, structure, operation and protection of tooth~rushes t~at store dentifrice material in their handles. T~ C~ ~ t~e ad~esive, paste-like consistency of the dentifrice materiaLs used with the prior art bottom fed toot~brUsheS, has resulted in difficulties in consistently providing a s~ooth, void free flow of material.
Also, the cu~e ~ which have been used in conjunction with prior art bottom fed tooth~rushes have shortcomings which Z0 effect the protection provided for the bristles and/or the efficiency for sealing the op~nin~ in the brush head platforn particularly when the op~nin~ is extended ~y a spout. These difficulties and shortcomings associated with prior art bottom 21 709~4 WO9St08s34 PCT~S94110320 fed toothbrushes and their covers are more fully described below.
In any toot~brush w~ich utiiizes a replaceable cartridge for replenishing dentifrice material, continuous pumping after the cartridge is empty causes subsecuent pumping problems and uneven material flow when the cartridge is replaced. A
certain quantity of dentifrice material can still be pumped from the pump ohamber, channels and other areas outside of the cartridge after it is empty. However, ~his c~c~c the formation of voids in these places which results in inefficient pumping after the cartridge is replaced. For brushes that have piston-type pumping me~h~nisms~ U.S. Patent No. 5,062,728 utilizes a self-lo~ki~q me~h~nism to ~L~ L
over-pumpinq when a cartridge reaches a near empty state.
Such pumpinq merh~nisms have sliding surfaces that are subject to leakage and conta~ination during brushing and cle~nin~.
Also the clogginq of moving parts by dentifrice material impedes the spring-~ac~ function of the piston and leads to pumping failure. For this reason, piston-tYPe pumping 20 me~h~ni ~ms which are used for dentifrice dispensing toothbrushes do not have broad consumer acceptabilitY-One way to avoid over-pumpin~ involves the user's monitoring of the position of the follower disc th~u~gh a 21 70~94 Woss/08s~ PCT~S94/10320 viewing port in the handle. A viewing port as described in U.S. Patent No. 4,787,765 allows the user to determine when the cartridqe is nearly empty by observing the position of the follower disc. However, this approach does not ensure a 5 failure-free operation of the toothbrush since the user may neglect to observe the position of the follower disc through the viewing port and may neglect to refrain from further pumping when the cartridge is empty.
The use of paste like dentifrice materials in a bottom fed toothbrush has also resulted in difficulties which are caused by their tPnAPnCy to dry out when exposed to air. This often causes the passageway which terminates in the brush head base to become clogged with dentifrice material that has dried out during periods of non use. The prior art has I e~ ized and resolved this problem by providing a toothhrush cover with an attached plug that is inserted into the passageway opening thereby preventing the material therein from becoming dried out. However, the solution to this problem has created other problems. The ~ve ~ of the prior art are cumbersome to place on the brush head to enclose all bristles without damaging some of the worn bristles that have become "fanned out" by wear. Worn bristles which have lost their stiffness and shape become angled and often are wedye~ out by the sidewall of the SUBSllTUTE SHEET (RULE 26) - 2 1 7~q~
w095108934 PCT~S94110320 cover as it is positioned on the brush head. Also, while they effectively seal off the passageway which provides dentifrice material by restricting the flow of air thereto, some of the prior art covers have no means for ensuring adequate circulation of air to the brush head itself. Yet, the circulation of air through the bristles is essential for health r~onc since they must be dried between uses to prevent germ formation.
There is a need for a dentifrice dispensing toothbrush that does not utilize a piston type pumping mech~ni~m but which efficient7y overcomes problems that are caused by over-pumping. More specifically, there is a need for a cartridge toothbrush which ~l~vel~Ls further pumping when its cartridge is empty so that void formation in the dentifrice material is el;rin~ted when a new cartridge is inserted. There is also a need for a bottom fed dentifrice dispensing toothbrush that has a cover that co-,ve,liently encloses all bristles, seals the rQn~ t opening in the brush head base, permits air to freely circulate through the bristles to remove moisture and protects the pumping merh~nism from acc;~ental discharge of dentifrice material.
It is therefore an ob}ect of this invention to provide Sl~SmUTE SHEET (RULE 26) Woss/o8s34 2 1 7~99~ PCT~S94/10320 a bottom fed dentifrice dispensing toothbrush that does not use a piston type pumping mechanism and which has a replaceable cartridge which automatically ~;n~rs the pumping of the dentifrice material when the cartridge becomes empty.
- 5 It is a further object of the invention to provide a toothbrush which stores and pumps dentifrice material from its handle that has a cover that ~G1lve..iently and efficiently protects the bristles, pumping mech~nism and seals the brush head openi n~ .
~rnf~a~Y OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with the present invention, a dentifrice dispensing toothhrush is provided which utilizes a compressible elastic ~utton to efficiently pump a ~o"Lrolled ~uantity of dentifrice material in void free condition from a repl~ce~hle cartridge to the brush head. The invention also incl~des a cover for the dentifrice dispensing toothbrush which protects the brush head, ~ristles, pumping mech~ni~m and other parts of the toothbrush. The cover not only protects the brush head and its bristles, but also seals the con~it which supplies dentifrice material to brush head to ~Le~el.L
it from becoming clogged with dried dentifrice material during periods of non use. In addition it ~ve~lLs the accidental compression of the pumping button so that there is no unwanted St~SrlTUTE SHE~T (RULE 26) 2t 709q~
wossJoss34 PCT~S94110320 discharge of dentifrice material when the toothbrush is placed in a pocket, purse or the like. I5~.evver, the cover permits for adequate circulation of air through wet bristles to e~.~u~e that they are dried in a manner which reduces the possibility of germ con~min~tion.
The essential components of the tooth~rush of the present invention include l) a brush head havinq a platform with an outlet opening therethrough and to which a series of bristles are at~h~A, 2) a handle which has a housing, 3) a removable cartridge including a follower disc positioned within the housing for storing dentifrice material, 4) a pump assembly which has a pump chamber, an elastic compressible button for supplying a pumping force, a partition which divides the pump chamber into an intake compartment and a Ais~h~ge compartment, a one way check ~alve for an openi~ in the base of the pump chamber to cu--LLol the flow of dentifrice material from the cartridge to the pump chamber and an opening in the partition between the intake and discharge compartments, 5) a neck con~ini~g a con~l~it for the flow of dentifrice material from the pump chamber to the ~rush head, 6~ a plug att~ch~A to the top of the follower disc which internally blocks the dispensing movement of the dentifrice material thereby locking the toothbrush when the contents of the SU8SrlTUTE SHEET (RULE 26~
2 1 71)9q~
PCT~S94110320 _ WOgs/08934 cartridge are depleted by closing the opening in the base of the pump chamber and the opening in the partition between the intake and discharge compartments, and 7) a cover which includes a tubular housing which has an open end, a closed end, vent openings in the closed end and a slidable plug which includes a se~ljng rod which is insertable in the opening in the base of the brush head.
When the elastic button is depressed, a pumping force is applied which causes a quantity of dentifrice material to flow from a cavity in the elastic ~utton and from the pump chamber through various conduits and to the brush head. During this time, back flow of dentifrice material from the pump chamber is ~L~ve..Led either by the follower disc or by a one-way check valve which is positioned at the base of the pump chamber.
Upon release of the pumping force, the elastic button returns to its original shape due to its resilient nature. This springback action creates a vacuum force which causes dentifrice material to flow into the cavity of the compressible elastic ~utton. C~ Le--Lly, because of the required continuity of flow of material, a quantity of dentifrice material moves from the reservoir in the cartridge in the handle into the pump chamber which in turn causes forward movement of the follower disc since it is under SU8SllTUTE SHEET (RULE 26) 2 t ~
atmospheric pressure. The volume of dentifrice material that is dispensed is equivalent to the volume displaced by the advancement of the follower disc. The forward movement of the follower disc keeps the remaining dentifrice material in a p~cke~, void-free condition which ensures good pumping efficiency during subse~uent use.
The loc~i n~ means for the toothbrush of this invention ~e~e~.Ls ove ~mping when the useful contents of the removable cartridge are depleted. PL~el,~ion of overpumping eliminates the formation of voids in the dentifrice material. As discussed in more detail later, the follower disc is at its terminal position when the cartridge is empty. When in this position, the plug attached to the top of the follower disc is inserted in the opening in the base of the pump chamber and also in the op~ni n~ in the partition. The size and shape of the plug are such that it simultaneously closes both openin~c.
When this GC~ , dentifrice material is locked in the intake compartment since it can neither flow into nor from this compartment when its open;ngs are closed. R~Allce the pumping force is supplied by the compr~s~ihle elastic button that is att~h~ to the intake compartment of the pump chamber, the button cannot be compressed to move the dentifrice material while the material i5 locked in the intake compartment. Thus, SI~STI~UTE SHEET (RULE 26) 2 1 7()~94 Woss/o8934 PCT~S94/10320 the entire pump assemb~y is rendered inoperable and over pumping cannot occur. When the spent cartridge is removed, the plug att~h~ to the top of the follower disc is removed from the opening in the partition between compartments and from the opening in the base of the pump chamber. A new cartridge is inserted and neither opening becomes closed again until the contents of the new cartridge are depleted.
While the locking means improves efficiency by ~Le~e~,Ling void formation in the dentifrice material caused by overpumping, the reliability of the toothbrush operation is also increased by the cover of the invention. The cover plug is slidable in a straight path to seal the or~i ng in the brush head platform. The op~ning may be exten~ by a spout which has a straight con~l~it portion for engaging the plug thereby eliminating clogging by dried out dentifrice material.
Such clogging, if allowed to occur, blocks the flow of dentifrice material to the ~rush hand. The vent openings in the cover allow air to circulate among the bristles to ensure that they are ~ e~ly dried. While the ~L~u~Lu~e of the cover permits the bristles to be dried, it ~ Ls the dentifrice material in the base o~ning from becoming dried during periods of non use. The cover also protects the bristles, the neck portion between the ~rush head and handle SI~STITUT~ SHEET (RULE 26) 2 1 7 a ~ q 4r WO 95/08934 PCI~/US94110320 and the compressible elastic button which otherwise could be accidentally compressed during transport or other periods of non use. Even tho~h the cover serves these multiple functions, it is easy to operate, yet is aesthetically attractive.
The invention and its objects and advantages will become more apparent by referring to the accompanying drawings and to the ensuing detailed description of the preferred embodiment.
BRIEF ~ ON OF TH~ DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a pel~e~ive view of the dentifrice dispensing toothbrush of this invention with its cover at~z-rh~rl .
Figure 2 is a ~el a~e~ Live view of the dentifrice dispensing toothbrush of Figure 1 without its cover.
Figures 3A, 3B and 3C are a plan view of the unassembled basic components for the tooth~rush used in one embodiment of this invention.
Figure 4A is an orthographic view of an embodiment of the toothbrush of the invention without a cartridge inserted in the handle.
Figure 4B is an orthographic view of a cartridge which is insertable in the handle of the toothbrush depicted in SUBS~IIUTE SHEEt (RULE 26) 2 ~ 7~9~94 _ WO9s/08934 PCT~S94110320 Fiaure 4A.
Figure ~C is a perspective view of the cart~idge and valve asse~bly .hat are used in the toothbrush of this invention.
Figure 5 is a pe~a~e~Live view of the brush head used with the tOOth~rUâh of this invention.
Figure 6A is a ye.~e~Live view of a valve assembly which shows ~ one way flap chec~ valve in a closed position as used in the toothbrusA shown in Figure 3A.
Figure 6~ is a pe-a~e~Live view of the valve assembly shown in Figure 6A with the one way flap check valve in an open position.
Figure 7 is a pela~e~Live view of a follower disc as used in the cartridge of Figure 3B for the tooth~rush of this invention.
Figures 8A through 8D are orthographic views of one em~odiment of the toothbrush of this invention showing the relative positioning of parts for each step of an operating cycle.
Figures 9A, 9B and 9C are ~e~ye~ive views of a cover for the toothbru5h of t~is invention showing sequential stages of closure for its plug component.
Figures lOA and lOB are orthographic views of the Woss/08s34 PCT~S94~10320 , toothbrush of this invention with cover attached showing the placement relationship of the plug to the cover and the brush head before and after the plug is at the sealing position.
n~rAT~.Rn n~r~TPTIoN OF T~ ~K~KKED EMBOD~
S As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the dentifrice dispensing toothbrush 2 of this invention includes brush head 10, neck 12, brush handle 6 and pump assembly 8. A cover 4 is pro~ided to protect the tooth~rush during periods when it is not being used. Dentifrice material is stored in a removable cartridge which is positioned in a reservoir inside of ~rush handle 6.
The base 18 of the remova~le cartridge serves as the base for toothbrush 2 as well. Resilient elastic compressible button 14, which is positioned on pump assembly 8, is used to supply a pumping force which.causes dentifrice material to flow from the reservoir to brush head 10. Ports 16 and 126 serve as vents for trapped air when a cartridge is inserted. Port 126 is also a visual gauge for determining when the cartridge is in a near empty state. Figure 2 shows toothbrush 2 with cover 4 removed.
Figures 3A, 3B and 3C show the basic lm~c~mbled components used in one embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, brush handle 6 contains a cavity 114 for cartridge 82 which has a reservoir 108 for storing dentifrice material.
SU8S~l~UTE SHET (RULE 26) WO ~/08934 2 1 7 0 9 ~ ~ PCT~S94/10320 Pump assembly 8 includes pump chamber 47 and resilient elastic compressible button 14 for supplying a pumping force. Chamber 47 has base 56, top 52 and sidewall 54. Base 56, which is a part of valve assembly 53, has one opening 58 and top 52 has two op ni ng~, 46 and 60. Compressible elastic ~utton 14, which includes bell ~h~p~ cavity 15 and base 17, is mounted on opening 60. Bottom rim 17 of button 14 is inserted into groove 19 on the periphery of opening 60 in top 52 in a manner such thst compressible elastic button 14 remains firmly in 10 place and ~v~Ls dentifrice material from leaking around the periphery of the base of the button when a pumping force is applied. Chamber extension 110 having hollow con~llit 112 is att~rh~ to top 52 so that hollow ron~l~it 112 is aligned with opening 46.
A check valve assembly 53 is positioned at the base of pump chamber 47 as shown in Figure 3A. Figures 6A and 6B
respectively show the components of the check valve assembly in the closed and o~l~ed position. The assembly consists of flexible flap valve 66 which overlies opening 58 in pump chamber base 56. Flexible flap valve 66 is movably attached to hinge 72 which is fastened to base 56. When a pumping force is applied by depressing button 14, the valve assembly is forced to the closed position of Figure 6A with flexible Sl~ST~TUTE SHEET (RlJLE 26~
W095/~8934 2 1 ~ O 9 ~ 4 PCT~S94/10320 flap valve 66 cDvering opening 58 to prevent backflow of dentifrice material from pump chamber 47. When the pumping force is released, flexible flap valve 66 is in the open position of Figure 6B which allows dentifrice material to flow into pump chamber 47.
Pump chamber 47 contains partition 64 which extends vertically from chamber base 56 to chamber top 52 and which divides pump chamber 47 into intake compartment 48 and discharge compartment 50 as shown in Figure 4A. The top of partition 64 is positioned between openings 46 and 60 in top 52 of chamber 47 and the bottom of partition 64 is attached to chamber base 56 in a manner such that it overlies opening 58 therein. The sides of partition 64 adjoin punp chamber side wall 54. Figure 6A shows partition 64 as part of check valve assembly 53. Arched a~eLLu,e 68 is positioned in partition 64 in a manner such that it overlies flap check valve 66 and or~ning 58. The width of aperture 68 is substantially the same as the width of flap check valve 66 but does not Le~L~ict its motion. The height of a~elLuLe 68 is less than the length of the portion of flap check valve 66 that extends beyond partition 64 away from hinge 72 so as to restrsct the vertical movement of check valve 66 when in an open position. While partition 64 separates intake SI~SrlTU~E SHEET (RULE 26J
2 1 7~99~
W095/08934 PCT~S94110320 compartment 48 and ~ ch~rge compartment 50, communication between the compartments is maintained through arched aperture A 68.
As shown in Figure 5, brush head 10 includes platform 20 which is conn~cted to neck 12. Platform 20 has a series of bristles 22 att~r~P~ thereto. It also contains spout 24 and spout op~nin~ 26. Bristles 22 are configured so as to form opening 116 as a continuation of opening 26 as shown in Figure 5. Neck 12 is comprised of hollow con~tlit 118 having two open ends. Open end 76 is in communication with the end of hollow conduit 112 of chamber extension 110. The remaining end of conduit 118 terminates at or~ing 74 in platform 20. Neck 12 and chamber extension 110 are connected by joining threads 120 on extension 110 with threads 78 on neck 12. This facilitates removal and replacement of the brush head when ne~C~ry or desirable.
Cartridge 82 includes sidewall 92, top 84, top or~i ng 86, base 90, reservoir 108 and follower disc 70 as shown by Figures 3B, ~B and 4C. ~n~ r groove 94 is positioned around or~ning 86 and is mateable with a ~u,~ ,o.~ing rim 96 on the exterior surface 98 of the chamber base for sealing ~u~oses when the cartridge is placed in the handle reservoir.
Reservoir 108 of cartridge 82 contains dentifrice material SU~STlTU~E SHEET (RULE 26) W095t08934 PCT~S94/10320 ~hich ls pumpeà therefrom ~o brush head 10 by passing th~ouyl~
top opening 86, opening 58 in pump chamber base 56, pump cham~er 47, opening 46, con~ t 118, spout oroning 26 and ~ristle opening 116 to the surface of bristleS Z2 on to brush head 10. Follower disc 70 is inserted at cartridge base 9O
of reservoir 108 to y~e~ leakage of dentifrice material when a pumping force is applied to compressible elastic ~LL~., 14. ~t advances in reservoir 108 as dentifrice material is pu~ped therefrom until it reaches its terminal position by contacting tOp 84. T~e ol.~ y movement of follower disc 70 is accomplished by flap check valve 66 functioninq to block backflow of dentifrice material from pump chamber 47. ~e~t~^?
follower disc 70 is inc~ ted from the effects of the pumping force applied to compre~cihle elastic ~uLLon 14, it efficiently contacts the reservoir sidewall and provides a seal for preventing leakage of dentifrice material. Follower disc 70 has upper ~n~ r rim 102 and lower ~nulAr rim 104 positioned at the ends of cyl;~Pr 106 as shown in Figure 7.
Each annular rim has a shape which is conformable to the inner wall of cartridge 82. Both rims are flexible and have outer dimensions that are slightly larger than t~at of the inner wall of cartridge 82. This arranqe~ent e~,a~.es a snug fit of the rims with the inner wall of cartridge 82 to enhanCe the W095l08934 2 1 7 0 9 ~ 4 PCT~S94/10320 sealina capability or follower disc ~0.
wnen the contents of cartridge 82 are deple~ed, t is removed and a new cartridge is positioned in reservoir 114 by inserting it through bottom 80 of brush handle 6. When fully inserted, opening 86 of cartridge 82 is aligned with and in communication with op~ g 58 in the base of the pump chamber and cartridqe top 84 is flush ~in~t exterior surface 98 of pump chamber base 56. In order to pro~ect against le~ka1 of dentifrioe material at the con~e~ting point, a seal is formed when ~nn~lAr rim 96 on exterior surface 98 of the chamber base is mated with ~nn~ yloo~e g4 on top surface 84 of cartridge 82 after the cartridge is fully inserted. For venting e,.L.~ed air during insertion of cartridge 82, handle 6 is provided with port 126 and port 16 which is located in close proximity to pump cham~er base 56. During removal of cartridge 82, air enters port 16 to break the vacuum force and facilitate the r ~ e~s-The location of port 16 in close proximity to the flapchec~ valve requires that an air tight seal be maint~in~ in the interface area between the cartridge top and the check valve. While an air tight c~ ion can be achieVed by using st~n~d threaded co~ectors, a deep well orDning in the car~ridge top or pump assem~ly base would be re~uired to W O 95/08934 PC~r~US94/10320 accommodate the ~reaàs of the conne~sors. ~owever, the well would trap surf~cient air when ehe cartridge is inserted to impede the pumpin~ efficiency. Annular rim 96 together with mat~hing ~nn~tl~ yLoG~e 94 as used in this invention ,e~e air trapping and provide an air tight seal. The close contact between the wall of the ~L o~e and the wall of the rim increases the sealing surface area between the czrtridge top and the valve sea~ such that litt7e or no seepage of air occurs between the vent opening and the cartridge opening. The 5~ g efficiency is PnhAnre~ when multiple annular ~o~v~s and matchi ng rims are used. One advantage of this type of sealing is that the confined air space is minimal ~equivalent to the volume of the opening in the cartridge top) as comp~red to the confined air space when threaded conn~ctors are used (equivalent to the volume of the space where the threads are located). Another advantage is that it enables the engagement of a cartridge having a non-circular cross section such as an oval shape, which is the preferred shape of the handle from an e ~onomic st~n~point. A thread type sealing ~v~e~-Lo-cannot ~e used for a cartridge cylind~r of non-circular cross section as it re~uires rotational motion for enqagement and disengagement.
Figures 8A through 8C show the sequential positions of W095/08934 2 1 7 0 9 9 ~ PCT~S94110320 _he co.-~in1~nts for one operatin~ cy~le of the toothbrush. In ~he first stage, .-igure 8A, compressible elastic button 14 is in a non-pumping position and is ~aintained in its fully ext~nA~ position due to its elastic nature. Flap check valve 5 66 is in its open position as a result of fi~ g the toothbrush with the dentifrice material. In the second stage, Figure BB, compressible elastic button 14 is pllche~ down to cause dentifrice material to flow from inta~e compartment ~8 and discharge compa.i L 50 of pump chamber 47 th~yh cQnA~1its 112 and 118 to bristles 22. Tne ot~er components are ~aintained in the same positions that they had in the first stage. The pumping force applied to compr~sihle elastic button 14 causes flap check valve to move to its closed position c^~l;n~ off openi~ 58. As co~pr~ccihle elastic button 14 is being compressed, the backward movement of the dentifrice material toward cartridge ~ase 90 is bloc~ed by one-way flap chec~ valve 66. The quantity of the denti~rice material dis~ensed to the brush head is ~he same as the displacement volume of caYity lS of comprecsihle elastic button 14 during one pumping sequence.
In the third stage, as shown in Figure 8C, the comyG~ La and dentifrice material are in their ready for use positions.
Co~lessible elastic button 14 is in its initial, at rest 2 1 7~994 WO9S/08934 PCT~S94110320 ~ .
position and a cur,~,olled quantity of aentifrice material 100 is positioned on bristles 22 of ~rush head lO. ~o additional material is pumped to brush head 10 during b~hing action.
When the compressing force which had been applied to compressible elastic ~uLLo.. 14 is released, button 14 teL~L..s from its compressed position to its original shape he -~C? of the resiliency and memory of the material from which it is made. At the same time, the dentifrice material in ~u~L
cavity 15, intake c~r~rtment 48 and cartridge reservoir 108 moves with compressible elastic button 14 and follower disc advances to a new forward position that keeps the dentifrice material in a r~ condition. In all of these -v~ - Ls and during the elastic ~cO~ of button 14, the dentifrice material is under a stretC~i n~ condition ~eL~c_..
the p--ll; n~ force of oompr~seihle elastic button 14 and the resistant force of ~ollower disc 70. Void formation in the dentifrice material caused by such ~L,eLChing is Le'l'~C~'~ or eliminated ~y the pressure diff~ between the ambient atmospheric pressure and the vacuum ~ u~e, if any, within the voids.
Additional quantities of dentifrice material are dispensed ~l~u~h repeated pumpin~ actions. When reservoir 108 re~che~ a near empty state as shown in Figure 8D, residual WO9St08934 2 1 7 0 9 q ~ PCT~S94/10320 dentifrice material can still be pu~ped therefrom by depres-~ing button 14. The user is made aware when the contents of reservoir 108 are nearing depLetion by viewing the position of follower disc 70 t~u~h port 126 when it is at or near cartridge top 84.
When cartridge 108 r~ c a near empty state as shown in Fiqure 8D, follower disc 70 is in its terminal position.
In this position cartridge plug 88 ~s fully inserted in pump chamber ~ase opening S8 so as to ~L~r.L the flow of any dentifrice material therethrouqh. Plug 88 is also inserted in partition ay~L~Le 68 so that end 89 contacts the under side of flap valve 66 and forces it A~in~t the upper part of a~e~L~e 68 there~y ~lo~in~ the flow of any dentifrice material from intake compartment 48 to ~i ~h~rge co~partment ~0. 11oLeuv~, }~ plug 88 closes ~ase or~ning 58, dentifrice material cannot flow from intake compartment 48 t~.L~gl~ ~his op~ninq. ~US, wh~n t~e contents of cartridge 82 are fully ~ , intake compart~ent 48 is filled with dentifrice material that is ret~i n~ therein since both 2 0 op~n i n~5 to this compartment are cloc~ Because the dentifrice material is not compreSci hl e, elastic ~LLu-- 62 cannot be de~essed to dispense the denti~rice material. As a result of this sequence, the toothbrush automatically locks W095l08934 2 ~ 7 ~ 9 9 4 PCT~S94/10320 elas~ic button l; when the useful contents of cartridge 82 are depleted so that no additional pumping can occur.
The spent car~ridge is removed by extracting it from the base ao of reservoir 114. A new cartridge filled with dentifrice material is inserted into the reservoir. As it is moved forward into the reservoir, trapped air is vented through ports 126 and 16. After the new cartridge is fully positioned and ts useful contents are depleted, port lZ6 serves as a gauae for viewing when t~e follower disc reaches its terminal position.
If follower disc plug 88 is no~ used, button 14 can continue to be ~epressed after the cartridge is empty and the residual dentifrice material in chamber 47 will continue to be pumped therefrom. When the spent cartridge is rP~
with a new one fi~led with dentifrice material, chaDber 47, conduits 112 and 118 will have a significant volume of voids which result from the previous over pumping. This adversely effects su~sequent pumping efficiency in that when a C~hePquent pumping force is applied, irregular quantities of dentifrice material are ~i cr ~CD~ and the flow is not smooth and continl-O--c. Furthermore, when the pumping force is released, the voids have a ~Dn~Pncy to become larger hrc~t-P
the follower disc advances less than it should due to an W095/08934 2 1 7 0 9 9 ~ PCT~S94110320 inadequate vacuu~ force. Eventually, ~here is an in~hi1~ty to pump any dentifrice material due tO a complete bre~
of the vacuum force.
A5 previously ~Y~l~ i n~, ports 16 and 126 are used to s vent air durinq the r~ ~ent of the cartridge, Their locations are based on ergonomic considerations. Besides venting air, port 126 is also used to view the empty ~LaLu~
of the cartrid~e. The cartridge is prefera~ly transparent So that the location of a colored f ollower can be readily ~ic~c~ed~ As viewed t~ouy~. port 126 Which is prefera~ly in the shape of a slot, the cartridge is nearly empty when the follower is near the end of,the slot, In order to provide for a signal which i n~ tes that the ca~L idge is nearly empty, one end of the slot is positioned at a specified distance from the interface ~etween the valve seat and the cartridge top.
This distance ~tl-~S for more than one full advancement of the follower in rec~ ~-e to the full release of the ~uLLo--following one full stroke of pumping there~y providing a built in safety factor to e..~u.e that the spent cartridge is r~r~ in a timely uanner, When no more dentifriCe is seen ~ h the slot, the user ~;e~o~-n--~c pumpin~ and rert~oC
the cartridge, ~ven if the user ignores the empty state of the cartridge and contim-~s to pump, the self-lo~i~g W095/08934 2 1 7 0 ~ ~ 4 PCT~S94110320 mechanism previously described hinders the compression of the flexi~le button. Without overpumpina, no voids are created inside of the pump cha~ber. Port 126 does not vent air be~..d the end of the slot. Ilo~_v~., port 16 is pl A~ bet~een port 126 and the interface between the valve se~t and ca~L~-idge top. The two ports are prefera~ly positioned 90 de~ ees apart in case one is inadvertently cuvel~ during use.
Durlng periods of non use, cover 4 protects bristles 22 and nec~ 12 from damage. Because it is att~rh~hle to-the brush handle, it also protects elastic button 14 from being accidentally compressed during ~ a~ L or storage. The features of cover 4 of the dentifrice material in spout op~ni~g 26. As shown in Figures 9A, gB and 9C, ~over 4 is a t~h~ housing having an open end 28, a closed end 30 and a side wall 34. Part of side wall 34 is r~ec~-~ so as to form guide area 36. op~i ng 38 is positioned in guide area 36 so that it is in line with spout op~inq 26 of brush head 10 when cover 4 is in place in its cl~se~ position. Cover plug 40 includes slidab~e saddle flange 42 and se~lin~ rod 44. ~A~l~
flange 42 is sl i~hly mounted in guide area 36. se~l inq rod 44 is positioned on the underside of saddle flange 42 in a manner that permits its insertion through op~ni~ 38 and its 2l7a~
woss/08934 PCT~S94/10320 alignment with spout opening 26.
As shown in Figures 3A, 3C, lOA and lOB, cover 4 is attached to handle 6 by engaging ~ro~es 122 in the inner surface of the cover side wall with correspon~ ribs 124 on handle 4. After cover 4 is in position, plug 40 is mounted onto guide area 36 and is slid into its final position with sealing rod 44 inserted into spout o~ni~g 26. The diameter of sealing rod 44 is such that it can be inserted into spout opPning 26 and seal the opening so that dentifrice material in ~on~it 118 does not dry out and clog the opening. When the cover is fully positioned, bristle drying is enhanced by vent 32 in closed end 30 of the cover.
The features of the cover are user friendly. The prealigned position of plug 40 and CP~ rod 44 in relation to spout op~nin~ 26 ensures that the user will readily be able to seal the spout opening merely by pressing the plug downward after the cover is closed. The cover is locked when the sealing rod is in the spout op~ g. Removal of the cover and plug is accompli~hP~ simply by rlllli~g the plug upward to disengage the sealing rod from the spout op~ni ng and then moving the assembly in the axial direction. The removal process can ~e completed even when the sealing rod is not fully out of the bristles since they are flexible and yield Sm~ES Erp~E~
~t~ 9~
W095/08934 PCT~S94/10320 to the movement ~f the ~ore riqid seaiin~ rod.
The inventlon has ~een described in detail with reference to a preferred em~odiment thereof. H~w_~e~, it will be understood that variations and modifications can be effected wi~hin the spirit and scope of the invention.
one type of brush dispenses the dentifrice material at the base of the brush head where the bristles are attached, such as that described in U.S. Patent No. 4,068,974. Another type dispenses dentifrice material directly onto the top of the brush surface as disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,787,765. Most brushes store dentifrice material directly in a reservoir in the brush handle as typified by the brush shown in U.S. Patent ~ITIJTE SHEE~ (RULE 26) 21 7~q~
W095/08934 PCT~S94/10320 No. 4,269,207. Other brushes store the dentifrice material in a replaceable cartridge which is positioned in the reservoir. U.s. Patent NO . 4 ,116, s70, as well as previously referenced U.S. Patent NOs. 4,269,207, 4,068,974 and 4,787,765, describe brushes having this feature. Some of the cartridge toothbrushes contain a follower disc which advances in the cartridge as material is pumped therefrom and which serves as a seal to ~Lev~l,L backflow of material. This feature is described in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,269,207 and 4,787,765. The prior art also includes tooth~rushes that store dentifrice material in their handles which have det~h~hle brush heads. Exemplary patents in this regard include U.S. Patent Nos. 4,2S9,207 and 4,332,497.
Various types of CGVeL~ have been used with toothbrushes that store and dispense dentifrice material from the handle of the brush. A cover such as that shown in U.S. Patent No.
4,521,128 protects the ~ristles and also plugs the opening which supplies dentifrice material to the ~rush head. The cover is secured to the brush head by inserting tabs on the cover into slots on the ~rush head. U.S. Patent No. 4,332,497 discloses another type of cover which contains a stopper to seal the cQ~ ;t which feeds dentifrice material to the brush head. The cover is placed over the ~rush head by inserting SUIlSrlTU~ SHEET (RULE 26) W095/08934 2 t 7 ~ 4 PCT~S94/10320 ~he brusn handle throuah an openina :n the cover and then closing a hinged portion of the cover over the brush head.
The cover is not suitable for piuaging a straight conduit which extends above the brush head base to for~ a spout since the angular motion of the cover~s stopper ~ven~s its aliqnment with the strai~ht spout opening. The type of cover shown in U.S. Patent No. 4,221,492 ~ c~s the entire toothbrush, including the handle. This cover does not contain any component for protectin~ the op~ni~g which provides dentifrice material to the brush head.
The fore~oing discussion illustrates some of the improvements which have been made in the design, structure, operation and protection of tooth~rushes t~at store dentifrice material in their handles. T~ C~ ~ t~e ad~esive, paste-like consistency of the dentifrice materiaLs used with the prior art bottom fed toot~brUsheS, has resulted in difficulties in consistently providing a s~ooth, void free flow of material.
Also, the cu~e ~ which have been used in conjunction with prior art bottom fed tooth~rushes have shortcomings which Z0 effect the protection provided for the bristles and/or the efficiency for sealing the op~nin~ in the brush head platforn particularly when the op~nin~ is extended ~y a spout. These difficulties and shortcomings associated with prior art bottom 21 709~4 WO9St08s34 PCT~S94110320 fed toothbrushes and their covers are more fully described below.
In any toot~brush w~ich utiiizes a replaceable cartridge for replenishing dentifrice material, continuous pumping after the cartridge is empty causes subsecuent pumping problems and uneven material flow when the cartridge is replaced. A
certain quantity of dentifrice material can still be pumped from the pump ohamber, channels and other areas outside of the cartridge after it is empty. However, ~his c~c~c the formation of voids in these places which results in inefficient pumping after the cartridge is replaced. For brushes that have piston-type pumping me~h~nisms~ U.S. Patent No. 5,062,728 utilizes a self-lo~ki~q me~h~nism to ~L~ L
over-pumpinq when a cartridge reaches a near empty state.
Such pumpinq merh~nisms have sliding surfaces that are subject to leakage and conta~ination during brushing and cle~nin~.
Also the clogginq of moving parts by dentifrice material impedes the spring-~ac~ function of the piston and leads to pumping failure. For this reason, piston-tYPe pumping 20 me~h~ni ~ms which are used for dentifrice dispensing toothbrushes do not have broad consumer acceptabilitY-One way to avoid over-pumpin~ involves the user's monitoring of the position of the follower disc th~u~gh a 21 70~94 Woss/08s~ PCT~S94/10320 viewing port in the handle. A viewing port as described in U.S. Patent No. 4,787,765 allows the user to determine when the cartridqe is nearly empty by observing the position of the follower disc. However, this approach does not ensure a 5 failure-free operation of the toothbrush since the user may neglect to observe the position of the follower disc through the viewing port and may neglect to refrain from further pumping when the cartridge is empty.
The use of paste like dentifrice materials in a bottom fed toothbrush has also resulted in difficulties which are caused by their tPnAPnCy to dry out when exposed to air. This often causes the passageway which terminates in the brush head base to become clogged with dentifrice material that has dried out during periods of non use. The prior art has I e~ ized and resolved this problem by providing a toothhrush cover with an attached plug that is inserted into the passageway opening thereby preventing the material therein from becoming dried out. However, the solution to this problem has created other problems. The ~ve ~ of the prior art are cumbersome to place on the brush head to enclose all bristles without damaging some of the worn bristles that have become "fanned out" by wear. Worn bristles which have lost their stiffness and shape become angled and often are wedye~ out by the sidewall of the SUBSllTUTE SHEET (RULE 26) - 2 1 7~q~
w095108934 PCT~S94110320 cover as it is positioned on the brush head. Also, while they effectively seal off the passageway which provides dentifrice material by restricting the flow of air thereto, some of the prior art covers have no means for ensuring adequate circulation of air to the brush head itself. Yet, the circulation of air through the bristles is essential for health r~onc since they must be dried between uses to prevent germ formation.
There is a need for a dentifrice dispensing toothbrush that does not utilize a piston type pumping mech~ni~m but which efficient7y overcomes problems that are caused by over-pumping. More specifically, there is a need for a cartridge toothbrush which ~l~vel~Ls further pumping when its cartridge is empty so that void formation in the dentifrice material is el;rin~ted when a new cartridge is inserted. There is also a need for a bottom fed dentifrice dispensing toothbrush that has a cover that co-,ve,liently encloses all bristles, seals the rQn~ t opening in the brush head base, permits air to freely circulate through the bristles to remove moisture and protects the pumping merh~nism from acc;~ental discharge of dentifrice material.
It is therefore an ob}ect of this invention to provide Sl~SmUTE SHEET (RULE 26) Woss/o8s34 2 1 7~99~ PCT~S94/10320 a bottom fed dentifrice dispensing toothbrush that does not use a piston type pumping mechanism and which has a replaceable cartridge which automatically ~;n~rs the pumping of the dentifrice material when the cartridge becomes empty.
- 5 It is a further object of the invention to provide a toothbrush which stores and pumps dentifrice material from its handle that has a cover that ~G1lve..iently and efficiently protects the bristles, pumping mech~nism and seals the brush head openi n~ .
~rnf~a~Y OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with the present invention, a dentifrice dispensing toothhrush is provided which utilizes a compressible elastic ~utton to efficiently pump a ~o"Lrolled ~uantity of dentifrice material in void free condition from a repl~ce~hle cartridge to the brush head. The invention also incl~des a cover for the dentifrice dispensing toothbrush which protects the brush head, ~ristles, pumping mech~ni~m and other parts of the toothbrush. The cover not only protects the brush head and its bristles, but also seals the con~it which supplies dentifrice material to brush head to ~Le~el.L
it from becoming clogged with dried dentifrice material during periods of non use. In addition it ~ve~lLs the accidental compression of the pumping button so that there is no unwanted St~SrlTUTE SHE~T (RULE 26) 2t 709q~
wossJoss34 PCT~S94110320 discharge of dentifrice material when the toothbrush is placed in a pocket, purse or the like. I5~.evver, the cover permits for adequate circulation of air through wet bristles to e~.~u~e that they are dried in a manner which reduces the possibility of germ con~min~tion.
The essential components of the tooth~rush of the present invention include l) a brush head havinq a platform with an outlet opening therethrough and to which a series of bristles are at~h~A, 2) a handle which has a housing, 3) a removable cartridge including a follower disc positioned within the housing for storing dentifrice material, 4) a pump assembly which has a pump chamber, an elastic compressible button for supplying a pumping force, a partition which divides the pump chamber into an intake compartment and a Ais~h~ge compartment, a one way check ~alve for an openi~ in the base of the pump chamber to cu--LLol the flow of dentifrice material from the cartridge to the pump chamber and an opening in the partition between the intake and discharge compartments, 5) a neck con~ini~g a con~l~it for the flow of dentifrice material from the pump chamber to the ~rush head, 6~ a plug att~ch~A to the top of the follower disc which internally blocks the dispensing movement of the dentifrice material thereby locking the toothbrush when the contents of the SU8SrlTUTE SHEET (RULE 26~
2 1 71)9q~
PCT~S94110320 _ WOgs/08934 cartridge are depleted by closing the opening in the base of the pump chamber and the opening in the partition between the intake and discharge compartments, and 7) a cover which includes a tubular housing which has an open end, a closed end, vent openings in the closed end and a slidable plug which includes a se~ljng rod which is insertable in the opening in the base of the brush head.
When the elastic button is depressed, a pumping force is applied which causes a quantity of dentifrice material to flow from a cavity in the elastic ~utton and from the pump chamber through various conduits and to the brush head. During this time, back flow of dentifrice material from the pump chamber is ~L~ve..Led either by the follower disc or by a one-way check valve which is positioned at the base of the pump chamber.
Upon release of the pumping force, the elastic button returns to its original shape due to its resilient nature. This springback action creates a vacuum force which causes dentifrice material to flow into the cavity of the compressible elastic ~utton. C~ Le--Lly, because of the required continuity of flow of material, a quantity of dentifrice material moves from the reservoir in the cartridge in the handle into the pump chamber which in turn causes forward movement of the follower disc since it is under SU8SllTUTE SHEET (RULE 26) 2 t ~
atmospheric pressure. The volume of dentifrice material that is dispensed is equivalent to the volume displaced by the advancement of the follower disc. The forward movement of the follower disc keeps the remaining dentifrice material in a p~cke~, void-free condition which ensures good pumping efficiency during subse~uent use.
The loc~i n~ means for the toothbrush of this invention ~e~e~.Ls ove ~mping when the useful contents of the removable cartridge are depleted. PL~el,~ion of overpumping eliminates the formation of voids in the dentifrice material. As discussed in more detail later, the follower disc is at its terminal position when the cartridge is empty. When in this position, the plug attached to the top of the follower disc is inserted in the opening in the base of the pump chamber and also in the op~ni n~ in the partition. The size and shape of the plug are such that it simultaneously closes both openin~c.
When this GC~ , dentifrice material is locked in the intake compartment since it can neither flow into nor from this compartment when its open;ngs are closed. R~Allce the pumping force is supplied by the compr~s~ihle elastic button that is att~h~ to the intake compartment of the pump chamber, the button cannot be compressed to move the dentifrice material while the material i5 locked in the intake compartment. Thus, SI~STI~UTE SHEET (RULE 26) 2 1 7()~94 Woss/o8934 PCT~S94/10320 the entire pump assemb~y is rendered inoperable and over pumping cannot occur. When the spent cartridge is removed, the plug att~h~ to the top of the follower disc is removed from the opening in the partition between compartments and from the opening in the base of the pump chamber. A new cartridge is inserted and neither opening becomes closed again until the contents of the new cartridge are depleted.
While the locking means improves efficiency by ~Le~e~,Ling void formation in the dentifrice material caused by overpumping, the reliability of the toothbrush operation is also increased by the cover of the invention. The cover plug is slidable in a straight path to seal the or~i ng in the brush head platform. The op~ning may be exten~ by a spout which has a straight con~l~it portion for engaging the plug thereby eliminating clogging by dried out dentifrice material.
Such clogging, if allowed to occur, blocks the flow of dentifrice material to the ~rush hand. The vent openings in the cover allow air to circulate among the bristles to ensure that they are ~ e~ly dried. While the ~L~u~Lu~e of the cover permits the bristles to be dried, it ~ Ls the dentifrice material in the base o~ning from becoming dried during periods of non use. The cover also protects the bristles, the neck portion between the ~rush head and handle SI~STITUT~ SHEET (RULE 26) 2 1 7 a ~ q 4r WO 95/08934 PCI~/US94110320 and the compressible elastic button which otherwise could be accidentally compressed during transport or other periods of non use. Even tho~h the cover serves these multiple functions, it is easy to operate, yet is aesthetically attractive.
The invention and its objects and advantages will become more apparent by referring to the accompanying drawings and to the ensuing detailed description of the preferred embodiment.
BRIEF ~ ON OF TH~ DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a pel~e~ive view of the dentifrice dispensing toothbrush of this invention with its cover at~z-rh~rl .
Figure 2 is a ~el a~e~ Live view of the dentifrice dispensing toothbrush of Figure 1 without its cover.
Figures 3A, 3B and 3C are a plan view of the unassembled basic components for the tooth~rush used in one embodiment of this invention.
Figure 4A is an orthographic view of an embodiment of the toothbrush of the invention without a cartridge inserted in the handle.
Figure 4B is an orthographic view of a cartridge which is insertable in the handle of the toothbrush depicted in SUBS~IIUTE SHEEt (RULE 26) 2 ~ 7~9~94 _ WO9s/08934 PCT~S94110320 Fiaure 4A.
Figure ~C is a perspective view of the cart~idge and valve asse~bly .hat are used in the toothbrush of this invention.
Figure 5 is a pe~a~e~Live view of the brush head used with the tOOth~rUâh of this invention.
Figure 6A is a ye.~e~Live view of a valve assembly which shows ~ one way flap chec~ valve in a closed position as used in the toothbrusA shown in Figure 3A.
Figure 6~ is a pe-a~e~Live view of the valve assembly shown in Figure 6A with the one way flap check valve in an open position.
Figure 7 is a pela~e~Live view of a follower disc as used in the cartridge of Figure 3B for the tooth~rush of this invention.
Figures 8A through 8D are orthographic views of one em~odiment of the toothbrush of this invention showing the relative positioning of parts for each step of an operating cycle.
Figures 9A, 9B and 9C are ~e~ye~ive views of a cover for the toothbru5h of t~is invention showing sequential stages of closure for its plug component.
Figures lOA and lOB are orthographic views of the Woss/08s34 PCT~S94~10320 , toothbrush of this invention with cover attached showing the placement relationship of the plug to the cover and the brush head before and after the plug is at the sealing position.
n~rAT~.Rn n~r~TPTIoN OF T~ ~K~KKED EMBOD~
S As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the dentifrice dispensing toothbrush 2 of this invention includes brush head 10, neck 12, brush handle 6 and pump assembly 8. A cover 4 is pro~ided to protect the tooth~rush during periods when it is not being used. Dentifrice material is stored in a removable cartridge which is positioned in a reservoir inside of ~rush handle 6.
The base 18 of the remova~le cartridge serves as the base for toothbrush 2 as well. Resilient elastic compressible button 14, which is positioned on pump assembly 8, is used to supply a pumping force which.causes dentifrice material to flow from the reservoir to brush head 10. Ports 16 and 126 serve as vents for trapped air when a cartridge is inserted. Port 126 is also a visual gauge for determining when the cartridge is in a near empty state. Figure 2 shows toothbrush 2 with cover 4 removed.
Figures 3A, 3B and 3C show the basic lm~c~mbled components used in one embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, brush handle 6 contains a cavity 114 for cartridge 82 which has a reservoir 108 for storing dentifrice material.
SU8S~l~UTE SHET (RULE 26) WO ~/08934 2 1 7 0 9 ~ ~ PCT~S94/10320 Pump assembly 8 includes pump chamber 47 and resilient elastic compressible button 14 for supplying a pumping force. Chamber 47 has base 56, top 52 and sidewall 54. Base 56, which is a part of valve assembly 53, has one opening 58 and top 52 has two op ni ng~, 46 and 60. Compressible elastic ~utton 14, which includes bell ~h~p~ cavity 15 and base 17, is mounted on opening 60. Bottom rim 17 of button 14 is inserted into groove 19 on the periphery of opening 60 in top 52 in a manner such thst compressible elastic button 14 remains firmly in 10 place and ~v~Ls dentifrice material from leaking around the periphery of the base of the button when a pumping force is applied. Chamber extension 110 having hollow con~llit 112 is att~rh~ to top 52 so that hollow ron~l~it 112 is aligned with opening 46.
A check valve assembly 53 is positioned at the base of pump chamber 47 as shown in Figure 3A. Figures 6A and 6B
respectively show the components of the check valve assembly in the closed and o~l~ed position. The assembly consists of flexible flap valve 66 which overlies opening 58 in pump chamber base 56. Flexible flap valve 66 is movably attached to hinge 72 which is fastened to base 56. When a pumping force is applied by depressing button 14, the valve assembly is forced to the closed position of Figure 6A with flexible Sl~ST~TUTE SHEET (RlJLE 26~
W095/~8934 2 1 ~ O 9 ~ 4 PCT~S94/10320 flap valve 66 cDvering opening 58 to prevent backflow of dentifrice material from pump chamber 47. When the pumping force is released, flexible flap valve 66 is in the open position of Figure 6B which allows dentifrice material to flow into pump chamber 47.
Pump chamber 47 contains partition 64 which extends vertically from chamber base 56 to chamber top 52 and which divides pump chamber 47 into intake compartment 48 and discharge compartment 50 as shown in Figure 4A. The top of partition 64 is positioned between openings 46 and 60 in top 52 of chamber 47 and the bottom of partition 64 is attached to chamber base 56 in a manner such that it overlies opening 58 therein. The sides of partition 64 adjoin punp chamber side wall 54. Figure 6A shows partition 64 as part of check valve assembly 53. Arched a~eLLu,e 68 is positioned in partition 64 in a manner such that it overlies flap check valve 66 and or~ning 58. The width of aperture 68 is substantially the same as the width of flap check valve 66 but does not Le~L~ict its motion. The height of a~elLuLe 68 is less than the length of the portion of flap check valve 66 that extends beyond partition 64 away from hinge 72 so as to restrsct the vertical movement of check valve 66 when in an open position. While partition 64 separates intake SI~SrlTU~E SHEET (RULE 26J
2 1 7~99~
W095/08934 PCT~S94110320 compartment 48 and ~ ch~rge compartment 50, communication between the compartments is maintained through arched aperture A 68.
As shown in Figure 5, brush head 10 includes platform 20 which is conn~cted to neck 12. Platform 20 has a series of bristles 22 att~r~P~ thereto. It also contains spout 24 and spout op~nin~ 26. Bristles 22 are configured so as to form opening 116 as a continuation of opening 26 as shown in Figure 5. Neck 12 is comprised of hollow con~tlit 118 having two open ends. Open end 76 is in communication with the end of hollow conduit 112 of chamber extension 110. The remaining end of conduit 118 terminates at or~ing 74 in platform 20. Neck 12 and chamber extension 110 are connected by joining threads 120 on extension 110 with threads 78 on neck 12. This facilitates removal and replacement of the brush head when ne~C~ry or desirable.
Cartridge 82 includes sidewall 92, top 84, top or~i ng 86, base 90, reservoir 108 and follower disc 70 as shown by Figures 3B, ~B and 4C. ~n~ r groove 94 is positioned around or~ning 86 and is mateable with a ~u,~ ,o.~ing rim 96 on the exterior surface 98 of the chamber base for sealing ~u~oses when the cartridge is placed in the handle reservoir.
Reservoir 108 of cartridge 82 contains dentifrice material SU~STlTU~E SHEET (RULE 26) W095t08934 PCT~S94/10320 ~hich ls pumpeà therefrom ~o brush head 10 by passing th~ouyl~
top opening 86, opening 58 in pump chamber base 56, pump cham~er 47, opening 46, con~ t 118, spout oroning 26 and ~ristle opening 116 to the surface of bristleS Z2 on to brush head 10. Follower disc 70 is inserted at cartridge base 9O
of reservoir 108 to y~e~ leakage of dentifrice material when a pumping force is applied to compressible elastic ~LL~., 14. ~t advances in reservoir 108 as dentifrice material is pu~ped therefrom until it reaches its terminal position by contacting tOp 84. T~e ol.~ y movement of follower disc 70 is accomplished by flap check valve 66 functioninq to block backflow of dentifrice material from pump chamber 47. ~e~t~^?
follower disc 70 is inc~ ted from the effects of the pumping force applied to compre~cihle elastic ~uLLon 14, it efficiently contacts the reservoir sidewall and provides a seal for preventing leakage of dentifrice material. Follower disc 70 has upper ~n~ r rim 102 and lower ~nulAr rim 104 positioned at the ends of cyl;~Pr 106 as shown in Figure 7.
Each annular rim has a shape which is conformable to the inner wall of cartridge 82. Both rims are flexible and have outer dimensions that are slightly larger than t~at of the inner wall of cartridge 82. This arranqe~ent e~,a~.es a snug fit of the rims with the inner wall of cartridge 82 to enhanCe the W095l08934 2 1 7 0 9 ~ 4 PCT~S94/10320 sealina capability or follower disc ~0.
wnen the contents of cartridge 82 are deple~ed, t is removed and a new cartridge is positioned in reservoir 114 by inserting it through bottom 80 of brush handle 6. When fully inserted, opening 86 of cartridge 82 is aligned with and in communication with op~ g 58 in the base of the pump chamber and cartridqe top 84 is flush ~in~t exterior surface 98 of pump chamber base 56. In order to pro~ect against le~ka1 of dentifrioe material at the con~e~ting point, a seal is formed when ~nn~lAr rim 96 on exterior surface 98 of the chamber base is mated with ~nn~ yloo~e g4 on top surface 84 of cartridge 82 after the cartridge is fully inserted. For venting e,.L.~ed air during insertion of cartridge 82, handle 6 is provided with port 126 and port 16 which is located in close proximity to pump cham~er base 56. During removal of cartridge 82, air enters port 16 to break the vacuum force and facilitate the r ~ e~s-The location of port 16 in close proximity to the flapchec~ valve requires that an air tight seal be maint~in~ in the interface area between the cartridge top and the check valve. While an air tight c~ ion can be achieVed by using st~n~d threaded co~ectors, a deep well orDning in the car~ridge top or pump assem~ly base would be re~uired to W O 95/08934 PC~r~US94/10320 accommodate the ~reaàs of the conne~sors. ~owever, the well would trap surf~cient air when ehe cartridge is inserted to impede the pumpin~ efficiency. Annular rim 96 together with mat~hing ~nn~tl~ yLoG~e 94 as used in this invention ,e~e air trapping and provide an air tight seal. The close contact between the wall of the ~L o~e and the wall of the rim increases the sealing surface area between the czrtridge top and the valve sea~ such that litt7e or no seepage of air occurs between the vent opening and the cartridge opening. The 5~ g efficiency is PnhAnre~ when multiple annular ~o~v~s and matchi ng rims are used. One advantage of this type of sealing is that the confined air space is minimal ~equivalent to the volume of the opening in the cartridge top) as comp~red to the confined air space when threaded conn~ctors are used (equivalent to the volume of the space where the threads are located). Another advantage is that it enables the engagement of a cartridge having a non-circular cross section such as an oval shape, which is the preferred shape of the handle from an e ~onomic st~n~point. A thread type sealing ~v~e~-Lo-cannot ~e used for a cartridge cylind~r of non-circular cross section as it re~uires rotational motion for enqagement and disengagement.
Figures 8A through 8C show the sequential positions of W095/08934 2 1 7 0 9 9 ~ PCT~S94110320 _he co.-~in1~nts for one operatin~ cy~le of the toothbrush. In ~he first stage, .-igure 8A, compressible elastic button 14 is in a non-pumping position and is ~aintained in its fully ext~nA~ position due to its elastic nature. Flap check valve 5 66 is in its open position as a result of fi~ g the toothbrush with the dentifrice material. In the second stage, Figure BB, compressible elastic button 14 is pllche~ down to cause dentifrice material to flow from inta~e compartment ~8 and discharge compa.i L 50 of pump chamber 47 th~yh cQnA~1its 112 and 118 to bristles 22. Tne ot~er components are ~aintained in the same positions that they had in the first stage. The pumping force applied to compr~sihle elastic button 14 causes flap check valve to move to its closed position c^~l;n~ off openi~ 58. As co~pr~ccihle elastic button 14 is being compressed, the backward movement of the dentifrice material toward cartridge ~ase 90 is bloc~ed by one-way flap chec~ valve 66. The quantity of the denti~rice material dis~ensed to the brush head is ~he same as the displacement volume of caYity lS of comprecsihle elastic button 14 during one pumping sequence.
In the third stage, as shown in Figure 8C, the comyG~ La and dentifrice material are in their ready for use positions.
Co~lessible elastic button 14 is in its initial, at rest 2 1 7~994 WO9S/08934 PCT~S94110320 ~ .
position and a cur,~,olled quantity of aentifrice material 100 is positioned on bristles 22 of ~rush head lO. ~o additional material is pumped to brush head 10 during b~hing action.
When the compressing force which had been applied to compressible elastic ~uLLo.. 14 is released, button 14 teL~L..s from its compressed position to its original shape he -~C? of the resiliency and memory of the material from which it is made. At the same time, the dentifrice material in ~u~L
cavity 15, intake c~r~rtment 48 and cartridge reservoir 108 moves with compressible elastic button 14 and follower disc advances to a new forward position that keeps the dentifrice material in a r~ condition. In all of these -v~ - Ls and during the elastic ~cO~ of button 14, the dentifrice material is under a stretC~i n~ condition ~eL~c_..
the p--ll; n~ force of oompr~seihle elastic button 14 and the resistant force of ~ollower disc 70. Void formation in the dentifrice material caused by such ~L,eLChing is Le'l'~C~'~ or eliminated ~y the pressure diff~ between the ambient atmospheric pressure and the vacuum ~ u~e, if any, within the voids.
Additional quantities of dentifrice material are dispensed ~l~u~h repeated pumpin~ actions. When reservoir 108 re~che~ a near empty state as shown in Figure 8D, residual WO9St08934 2 1 7 0 9 q ~ PCT~S94/10320 dentifrice material can still be pu~ped therefrom by depres-~ing button 14. The user is made aware when the contents of reservoir 108 are nearing depLetion by viewing the position of follower disc 70 t~u~h port 126 when it is at or near cartridge top 84.
When cartridge 108 r~ c a near empty state as shown in Fiqure 8D, follower disc 70 is in its terminal position.
In this position cartridge plug 88 ~s fully inserted in pump chamber ~ase opening S8 so as to ~L~r.L the flow of any dentifrice material therethrouqh. Plug 88 is also inserted in partition ay~L~Le 68 so that end 89 contacts the under side of flap valve 66 and forces it A~in~t the upper part of a~e~L~e 68 there~y ~lo~in~ the flow of any dentifrice material from intake compartment 48 to ~i ~h~rge co~partment ~0. 11oLeuv~, }~ plug 88 closes ~ase or~ning 58, dentifrice material cannot flow from intake compartment 48 t~.L~gl~ ~his op~ninq. ~US, wh~n t~e contents of cartridge 82 are fully ~ , intake compart~ent 48 is filled with dentifrice material that is ret~i n~ therein since both 2 0 op~n i n~5 to this compartment are cloc~ Because the dentifrice material is not compreSci hl e, elastic ~LLu-- 62 cannot be de~essed to dispense the denti~rice material. As a result of this sequence, the toothbrush automatically locks W095l08934 2 ~ 7 ~ 9 9 4 PCT~S94/10320 elas~ic button l; when the useful contents of cartridge 82 are depleted so that no additional pumping can occur.
The spent car~ridge is removed by extracting it from the base ao of reservoir 114. A new cartridge filled with dentifrice material is inserted into the reservoir. As it is moved forward into the reservoir, trapped air is vented through ports 126 and 16. After the new cartridge is fully positioned and ts useful contents are depleted, port lZ6 serves as a gauae for viewing when t~e follower disc reaches its terminal position.
If follower disc plug 88 is no~ used, button 14 can continue to be ~epressed after the cartridge is empty and the residual dentifrice material in chamber 47 will continue to be pumped therefrom. When the spent cartridge is rP~
with a new one fi~led with dentifrice material, chaDber 47, conduits 112 and 118 will have a significant volume of voids which result from the previous over pumping. This adversely effects su~sequent pumping efficiency in that when a C~hePquent pumping force is applied, irregular quantities of dentifrice material are ~i cr ~CD~ and the flow is not smooth and continl-O--c. Furthermore, when the pumping force is released, the voids have a ~Dn~Pncy to become larger hrc~t-P
the follower disc advances less than it should due to an W095/08934 2 1 7 0 9 9 ~ PCT~S94110320 inadequate vacuu~ force. Eventually, ~here is an in~hi1~ty to pump any dentifrice material due tO a complete bre~
of the vacuum force.
A5 previously ~Y~l~ i n~, ports 16 and 126 are used to s vent air durinq the r~ ~ent of the cartridge, Their locations are based on ergonomic considerations. Besides venting air, port 126 is also used to view the empty ~LaLu~
of the cartrid~e. The cartridge is prefera~ly transparent So that the location of a colored f ollower can be readily ~ic~c~ed~ As viewed t~ouy~. port 126 Which is prefera~ly in the shape of a slot, the cartridge is nearly empty when the follower is near the end of,the slot, In order to provide for a signal which i n~ tes that the ca~L idge is nearly empty, one end of the slot is positioned at a specified distance from the interface ~etween the valve seat and the cartridge top.
This distance ~tl-~S for more than one full advancement of the follower in rec~ ~-e to the full release of the ~uLLo--following one full stroke of pumping there~y providing a built in safety factor to e..~u.e that the spent cartridge is r~r~ in a timely uanner, When no more dentifriCe is seen ~ h the slot, the user ~;e~o~-n--~c pumpin~ and rert~oC
the cartridge, ~ven if the user ignores the empty state of the cartridge and contim-~s to pump, the self-lo~i~g W095/08934 2 1 7 0 ~ ~ 4 PCT~S94110320 mechanism previously described hinders the compression of the flexi~le button. Without overpumpina, no voids are created inside of the pump cha~ber. Port 126 does not vent air be~..d the end of the slot. Ilo~_v~., port 16 is pl A~ bet~een port 126 and the interface between the valve se~t and ca~L~-idge top. The two ports are prefera~ly positioned 90 de~ ees apart in case one is inadvertently cuvel~ during use.
Durlng periods of non use, cover 4 protects bristles 22 and nec~ 12 from damage. Because it is att~rh~hle to-the brush handle, it also protects elastic button 14 from being accidentally compressed during ~ a~ L or storage. The features of cover 4 of the dentifrice material in spout op~ni~g 26. As shown in Figures 9A, gB and 9C, ~over 4 is a t~h~ housing having an open end 28, a closed end 30 and a side wall 34. Part of side wall 34 is r~ec~-~ so as to form guide area 36. op~i ng 38 is positioned in guide area 36 so that it is in line with spout op~inq 26 of brush head 10 when cover 4 is in place in its cl~se~ position. Cover plug 40 includes slidab~e saddle flange 42 and se~lin~ rod 44. ~A~l~
flange 42 is sl i~hly mounted in guide area 36. se~l inq rod 44 is positioned on the underside of saddle flange 42 in a manner that permits its insertion through op~ni~ 38 and its 2l7a~
woss/08934 PCT~S94/10320 alignment with spout opening 26.
As shown in Figures 3A, 3C, lOA and lOB, cover 4 is attached to handle 6 by engaging ~ro~es 122 in the inner surface of the cover side wall with correspon~ ribs 124 on handle 4. After cover 4 is in position, plug 40 is mounted onto guide area 36 and is slid into its final position with sealing rod 44 inserted into spout o~ni~g 26. The diameter of sealing rod 44 is such that it can be inserted into spout opPning 26 and seal the opening so that dentifrice material in ~on~it 118 does not dry out and clog the opening. When the cover is fully positioned, bristle drying is enhanced by vent 32 in closed end 30 of the cover.
The features of the cover are user friendly. The prealigned position of plug 40 and CP~ rod 44 in relation to spout op~nin~ 26 ensures that the user will readily be able to seal the spout opening merely by pressing the plug downward after the cover is closed. The cover is locked when the sealing rod is in the spout op~ g. Removal of the cover and plug is accompli~hP~ simply by rlllli~g the plug upward to disengage the sealing rod from the spout op~ni ng and then moving the assembly in the axial direction. The removal process can ~e completed even when the sealing rod is not fully out of the bristles since they are flexible and yield Sm~ES Erp~E~
~t~ 9~
W095/08934 PCT~S94/10320 to the movement ~f the ~ore riqid seaiin~ rod.
The inventlon has ~een described in detail with reference to a preferred em~odiment thereof. H~w_~e~, it will be understood that variations and modifications can be effected wi~hin the spirit and scope of the invention.
Claims (8)
1. A dentifrice dispensing toothbrush comprising:
a. a pump assembly which consists of:
i. a pump chamber having a base which has an interior surface and an exterior surface, a top, a side wall disposed between the interior surface of the base and the top, a first opening positioned in the base, a second opening positioned in either the sidewall or the top and a third opening positioned in the top:
ii. a resilient, elastic, compressible button for supplying a pumping force, said button having an external surface, an internal surface and a base which is fixed to the second opening in the top or side wall of the pump chamber in a manner such that the button is depressed when a pumping force is applied to its external surface forcing dentifrice material to flow from the pump chamber through the third opening in the top thereof, and is returned to its original shape by its resilient force when the pumping force is released causing dentifrice material to flow to the pump chamber through the first opening in the base of the chamber, iii. a partition which divides the pump chamber into an intake compartment and a discharge compartment, said partition being attached to the top of he pump chamber between the second and third openings and to the interior surface of the base of the pump chamber in a manner such that it overlies the first opening;
iv. a flap check valve attached to the interior surface of the base for preventing backflow of dentifrice material through the first opening in the base of the pump chamber;
v. an arched aperture in said partition for placing the intake compartment and discharge compartment in communication with each other, said arched aperture being positioned in the end of the partition that is attached to the interior surface of the base in a manner such that it overlies the flap check valve and the first opening, the width of said arched aperture being substantially the same as the width of the flap check valve and the height of said arched aperture being less than the length of the flap check valve:
b. a brush head having a platform with an outlet opening therethrough and a series of bristles which are attached to the platform:
c. a neck comprising a hollow conduit having two open ends, one of which is in communication with the opening in the platform of the brush head and the remaining of which is in communication with the third opening in the top of the pump chamber; and d. a brush handle comprising a housing for storing a removable cartridge, said housing being comprised of a tubular side wall having a top which is attached to the exterior surface of the base of the pump chamber and a bottom which is open;
e. a removable cartridge stored in said housing, said removable cartridge being comprised of:
i. a top which has an interior surface and an exterior surface, said top having an opening therethrough which is in communication with the opening in the base of the pump chamber;
ii. a base;
iii. a side wall disposed between the base and the top;
iv. a follower disc; and f. locking means for preventing pumping action when the follower disc is at its terminal position, said locking means comprising a plug which is attached to the follower disc and which simultaneously blocks the flap check valve in its open position while sealing off the first opening and the arched aperture when the follower disc is at its terminal positton, thereby preventing further flow of dentifrice material from the cartridge and the intake chamber to the discharge chamber and the brush head.
a. a pump assembly which consists of:
i. a pump chamber having a base which has an interior surface and an exterior surface, a top, a side wall disposed between the interior surface of the base and the top, a first opening positioned in the base, a second opening positioned in either the sidewall or the top and a third opening positioned in the top:
ii. a resilient, elastic, compressible button for supplying a pumping force, said button having an external surface, an internal surface and a base which is fixed to the second opening in the top or side wall of the pump chamber in a manner such that the button is depressed when a pumping force is applied to its external surface forcing dentifrice material to flow from the pump chamber through the third opening in the top thereof, and is returned to its original shape by its resilient force when the pumping force is released causing dentifrice material to flow to the pump chamber through the first opening in the base of the chamber, iii. a partition which divides the pump chamber into an intake compartment and a discharge compartment, said partition being attached to the top of he pump chamber between the second and third openings and to the interior surface of the base of the pump chamber in a manner such that it overlies the first opening;
iv. a flap check valve attached to the interior surface of the base for preventing backflow of dentifrice material through the first opening in the base of the pump chamber;
v. an arched aperture in said partition for placing the intake compartment and discharge compartment in communication with each other, said arched aperture being positioned in the end of the partition that is attached to the interior surface of the base in a manner such that it overlies the flap check valve and the first opening, the width of said arched aperture being substantially the same as the width of the flap check valve and the height of said arched aperture being less than the length of the flap check valve:
b. a brush head having a platform with an outlet opening therethrough and a series of bristles which are attached to the platform:
c. a neck comprising a hollow conduit having two open ends, one of which is in communication with the opening in the platform of the brush head and the remaining of which is in communication with the third opening in the top of the pump chamber; and d. a brush handle comprising a housing for storing a removable cartridge, said housing being comprised of a tubular side wall having a top which is attached to the exterior surface of the base of the pump chamber and a bottom which is open;
e. a removable cartridge stored in said housing, said removable cartridge being comprised of:
i. a top which has an interior surface and an exterior surface, said top having an opening therethrough which is in communication with the opening in the base of the pump chamber;
ii. a base;
iii. a side wall disposed between the base and the top;
iv. a follower disc; and f. locking means for preventing pumping action when the follower disc is at its terminal position, said locking means comprising a plug which is attached to the follower disc and which simultaneously blocks the flap check valve in its open position while sealing off the first opening and the arched aperture when the follower disc is at its terminal positton, thereby preventing further flow of dentifrice material from the cartridge and the intake chamber to the discharge chamber and the brush head.
2. The dentrifice dispensing toothbrush described in claim 1 wherein an annular rim is positioned on the exterior surface of the base of the pump chamber in close proximity to the periphery of the opening in the base, and an annular groove is positioned on the exterior surface of the top of the removable cartridge in close proximity to the opening in the top, said groove being mateable with the rim on the exterior surface of the base of the pump chamber when tne removable cartridge is stored in the housing.
3. The dentifrice dispensing toothbrush described in claim 1 wherein the brush handle housing has a vent opening positioned through its tubular side wall.
4 . The dentrifice dispensing toothbrush described in claim 1 wherein the brush head is detachable and replaceable
5. The dentrifice dispensing toothbrush described in claim 1 wherein the brush head includes a spout which is attached to the outlet opening in the platform.
6. The dentrifice dispensing toothbrush described in claim 1 including a cover for the brush head, neck and pump assembly comprising:
a. a tubular housing having:
i. an open end which is attached to the brush handle;
ii. a closed end with one or more vent openings therethrough;
iii. a side wall disposed between the open end and the closed end, said side wall having a guide area on a portion of its surface and an opening through the side wall positioned in the guide area in line with the outlet opening of the brush head platform when the cover is in the closed position; and b. a plug comprised of a slidable saddle flange having a sealing rod attached to its inner surface, said saddle flange being slidably mounted in the guide area of the side wall surface in a manner such that the sealing rod is engaged through the opening in the side wall and is aligned and mateable with the opening in the platform of the brush head.
a. a tubular housing having:
i. an open end which is attached to the brush handle;
ii. a closed end with one or more vent openings therethrough;
iii. a side wall disposed between the open end and the closed end, said side wall having a guide area on a portion of its surface and an opening through the side wall positioned in the guide area in line with the outlet opening of the brush head platform when the cover is in the closed position; and b. a plug comprised of a slidable saddle flange having a sealing rod attached to its inner surface, said saddle flange being slidably mounted in the guide area of the side wall surface in a manner such that the sealing rod is engaged through the opening in the side wall and is aligned and mateable with the opening in the platform of the brush head.
7. A dentifrice dispensing toothbrush comprising:
a. a pump assembly which consists of:
i. a pump chamber having a base which has an interior surface and an exterior surface, a top, a side wall disposed between the interior surface of the base and the top, a first opening positioned in the base, a second opening positioned in either the sidewall or the top and a third opening positioned in the top;
ii. a resilient, elastic, compressible button for supplying a pumping force, said button having an external surface, an internal surface and a base which is fixed to the second opening in the top or side wall of the pump chamber in a manner such that the button is depressed when a pumping force is applied to its external surface forcing dentifrice material to flow from the pump chamber through the third opening in the top thereof, and is returned to its original shape by its resilient force when the pumping force is released causing dentifrice material to flow to the pump chamber through the first opening in the base of the chamber;
iii. a flap check valve attached to the interior surface of the base for preventing backflow of dentifrice material through the first opening in the base of the pump chamber;
b. A brush head having a platform with an outlet opening therethrough and a series of bristles which are attached to the platform;
c. a neck comprising a hollow conduit having two open ends, one of which is in communication with the opening in the platform of the brush head and the remaining of which is in communication with the third opening in the top of the pump chamber;
d. a brush handle comprising a housing for storing a removable cartridge, said housing being comprised of a tubular side wall having a top which is attached to the exterior surface of the base of the pump chamber and a bottom which is open;
e. a removable cartridge stored in said housing, said removable cartridge being comprised of:
i. a top which has an interior surface and an exterior surface, said top having an opening therethrough which is in communication with the opening in the base of the pump chamber;
ii. a base:
iii. a side wall disposed between the base and the top;
iv. a follower disc; and f. a cover for the brush head, neck and pump assembly comprising:
i. a tubular housing having an open end which is attached to the brush handle, a closed end with one or more vent openings therethrough, a side wall disposed between the open end and the closed end, said side wall having a guide area on a portion of its surface and an opening through the side wall positioned in the guide area in line with the outlet opening of the brush head platform when the cover is in the closed position; and ii. a plug comprised of a slidable saddle flange having a sealing rod attached to its inner surface, said saddle flange being slidably mounted in the guide area of the side wall surface in a manner such that the sealing rod is engaged through the opening in the side wall and is aligned and mateable with the opening in the platform of the brush head.
a. a pump assembly which consists of:
i. a pump chamber having a base which has an interior surface and an exterior surface, a top, a side wall disposed between the interior surface of the base and the top, a first opening positioned in the base, a second opening positioned in either the sidewall or the top and a third opening positioned in the top;
ii. a resilient, elastic, compressible button for supplying a pumping force, said button having an external surface, an internal surface and a base which is fixed to the second opening in the top or side wall of the pump chamber in a manner such that the button is depressed when a pumping force is applied to its external surface forcing dentifrice material to flow from the pump chamber through the third opening in the top thereof, and is returned to its original shape by its resilient force when the pumping force is released causing dentifrice material to flow to the pump chamber through the first opening in the base of the chamber;
iii. a flap check valve attached to the interior surface of the base for preventing backflow of dentifrice material through the first opening in the base of the pump chamber;
b. A brush head having a platform with an outlet opening therethrough and a series of bristles which are attached to the platform;
c. a neck comprising a hollow conduit having two open ends, one of which is in communication with the opening in the platform of the brush head and the remaining of which is in communication with the third opening in the top of the pump chamber;
d. a brush handle comprising a housing for storing a removable cartridge, said housing being comprised of a tubular side wall having a top which is attached to the exterior surface of the base of the pump chamber and a bottom which is open;
e. a removable cartridge stored in said housing, said removable cartridge being comprised of:
i. a top which has an interior surface and an exterior surface, said top having an opening therethrough which is in communication with the opening in the base of the pump chamber;
ii. a base:
iii. a side wall disposed between the base and the top;
iv. a follower disc; and f. a cover for the brush head, neck and pump assembly comprising:
i. a tubular housing having an open end which is attached to the brush handle, a closed end with one or more vent openings therethrough, a side wall disposed between the open end and the closed end, said side wall having a guide area on a portion of its surface and an opening through the side wall positioned in the guide area in line with the outlet opening of the brush head platform when the cover is in the closed position; and ii. a plug comprised of a slidable saddle flange having a sealing rod attached to its inner surface, said saddle flange being slidably mounted in the guide area of the side wall surface in a manner such that the sealing rod is engaged through the opening in the side wall and is aligned and mateable with the opening in the platform of the brush head.
8. A dentifrice dispensing toothbrush comprising:
a. a pump assembly which consists of:
i. a pump chamber having a base which has an interior surface and an exterior surface, a top, a side wall disposed between the interior surface of the base and the top, a first opening positioned in the base, an annular rim positioned on the exterior surface of the base in close proximity to the opening in the base, a second opening positioned in either the sidewall or the top and a third opening positioned in the top:
ii. a resilient, elastic, compressible button for supplying a pumping force, said button having an external surface, an internal surface and a base which is fixed to the second opening in the top or side wall of the pump chamber in a manner such that the button is depressed when a pumping force is applied to its external surface forcing dentifrice material to flow from the pump chamber through the third opening in the top thereof, and is returned to its original shape by its resilient force when the pumping force is released causing dentifrice material to flow to the pump chamber through the first opening in the base of the chamber;
iii. a flap check valve attached to the interior surface of the base for preventing backflow of dentifrice material through the first opening in the base of the pump chamber;
b . A brush head having a platform with an outlet opening therethrough and a series of bristles which are attached to the platform;
c. a neck comprising a hollow conduit having two open ends, one of which is in communication with the opening in the platform of the brush head and the remaining of which is in communication with the third opening in the top of the pump chamber;
d. a brush handle comprising a housing for storing a removable cartridge, said housing being comprised of a tubular side wall having a top which is attached to the exterior surface of the base of the pump chamber and a bottom which is open; and e. a removable cartridge stored in said housing, said removable cartridge being comprised of:
i. a top which has an interior surface, an exterior surface, an opening therethrough which is in communication with the opening in the base of the pump chamber and an annular groove positioned on its exterior surface in close proximity to the opening in the top, said groove being mateable with the rim on the exterior surface of the base of the pump chamber when the removable cartridge is stored in the housing:
ii. a base;
iii. a side wall disposed between the base and the top; and iv. a follower disc.
a. a pump assembly which consists of:
i. a pump chamber having a base which has an interior surface and an exterior surface, a top, a side wall disposed between the interior surface of the base and the top, a first opening positioned in the base, an annular rim positioned on the exterior surface of the base in close proximity to the opening in the base, a second opening positioned in either the sidewall or the top and a third opening positioned in the top:
ii. a resilient, elastic, compressible button for supplying a pumping force, said button having an external surface, an internal surface and a base which is fixed to the second opening in the top or side wall of the pump chamber in a manner such that the button is depressed when a pumping force is applied to its external surface forcing dentifrice material to flow from the pump chamber through the third opening in the top thereof, and is returned to its original shape by its resilient force when the pumping force is released causing dentifrice material to flow to the pump chamber through the first opening in the base of the chamber;
iii. a flap check valve attached to the interior surface of the base for preventing backflow of dentifrice material through the first opening in the base of the pump chamber;
b . A brush head having a platform with an outlet opening therethrough and a series of bristles which are attached to the platform;
c. a neck comprising a hollow conduit having two open ends, one of which is in communication with the opening in the platform of the brush head and the remaining of which is in communication with the third opening in the top of the pump chamber;
d. a brush handle comprising a housing for storing a removable cartridge, said housing being comprised of a tubular side wall having a top which is attached to the exterior surface of the base of the pump chamber and a bottom which is open; and e. a removable cartridge stored in said housing, said removable cartridge being comprised of:
i. a top which has an interior surface, an exterior surface, an opening therethrough which is in communication with the opening in the base of the pump chamber and an annular groove positioned on its exterior surface in close proximity to the opening in the top, said groove being mateable with the rim on the exterior surface of the base of the pump chamber when the removable cartridge is stored in the housing:
ii. a base;
iii. a side wall disposed between the base and the top; and iv. a follower disc.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US127,828 | 1993-09-28 | ||
| US08/127,828 US5346324A (en) | 1991-09-19 | 1993-09-28 | Dentifrice dispensing toothbrush with replaceable cartridge |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2170994A1 true CA2170994A1 (en) | 1995-04-06 |
Family
ID=22432172
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002170994A Abandoned CA2170994A1 (en) | 1993-09-28 | 1994-09-12 | Dentifrice dispensing toothbrush with replaceable cartridge |
Country Status (5)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US5346324A (en) |
| EP (1) | EP0724393A4 (en) |
| JP (1) | JPH09502905A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2170994A1 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO1995008934A1 (en) |
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| US5921692A (en) * | 1997-03-21 | 1999-07-13 | Weber; Miriam | Dentifrice material dispensing and refilling system |
| US5909977A (en) * | 1997-03-31 | 1999-06-08 | Kuo; Youti | Dentifrice dispensing toothbrush with refillable cartridge |
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| AU2014253557B2 (en) * | 2010-03-04 | 2015-12-03 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Fluid dispensing oral care implement |
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| US9510668B2 (en) * | 2011-04-29 | 2016-12-06 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement having visual indicator of depletion of a fluid |
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| EP2911554B1 (en) | 2012-10-26 | 2017-04-26 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
| WO2014119977A1 (en) | 2013-02-04 | 2014-08-07 | BURBO, Aleksandrs | Toothbrush with toothpaste container and dosing trigger |
| WO2016108131A1 (en) * | 2014-12-29 | 2016-07-07 | Koninklijke Philips N.V. | Automatic filling mechanism and method for a hand-held oral cleaning device |
| EP3253328B1 (en) * | 2015-02-05 | 2019-09-11 | Koninklijke Philips N.V. | Docking and charging station and filling operation for a hand-held oral cleaning device |
| US9930957B2 (en) * | 2015-03-09 | 2018-04-03 | Martin E. Hellkamp | Dental devices with liquid applicator |
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| EP3397112B1 (en) * | 2015-12-28 | 2020-03-04 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Brush with fluid delivery |
| FR3052989B1 (en) * | 2016-06-27 | 2020-02-21 | Aptar France Sas | FLUID PRODUCT DELIVERY AND APPLICATION ASSEMBLY |
| US10743648B1 (en) * | 2017-02-06 | 2020-08-18 | Thomas Paul Cogley | Animal toothbrush system |
| US10849405B2 (en) * | 2017-09-20 | 2020-12-01 | Elc Management Llc | Cap and vial applicator system for applying two cosmetic products |
| CN108158199A (en) * | 2017-12-12 | 2018-06-15 | 沪东中华造船(集团)有限公司 | A kind of push type goes out urushoil painting brush automatically |
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-
1993
- 1993-09-28 US US08/127,828 patent/US5346324A/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
1994
- 1994-09-12 EP EP94928106A patent/EP0724393A4/en not_active Withdrawn
- 1994-09-12 CA CA002170994A patent/CA2170994A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 1994-09-12 WO PCT/US1994/010320 patent/WO1995008934A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 1994-09-12 JP JP7510329A patent/JPH09502905A/en active Pending
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| WO1995008934A1 (en) | 1995-04-06 |
| EP0724393A4 (en) | 1999-06-30 |
| EP0724393A1 (en) | 1996-08-07 |
| JPH09502905A (en) | 1997-03-25 |
| US5346324A (en) | 1994-09-13 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued |