WO2006057513A1

WO2006057513A1 - An toothbrush apparatus with audio output function

Info

Publication number: WO2006057513A1
Application number: PCT/KR2005/003973
Authority: WO
Inventors: Woonyoung Lee
Original assignee: Woonyoung Lee
Priority date: 2004-11-24
Filing date: 2005-11-24
Publication date: 2006-06-01
Also published as: KR20060058742A; US20080307593A1; KR100591669B1

Abstract

It is an object of the present invention to provide a toothbrush apparatus with audio output function comprising a toothbrush unit and an audio output unit, wherein the toothbrush unit detects the toothbrush-generated vibrations and conducts the radio transmission of such detected signals to the audio output unit and the said audio output unit outputs various sounds, including voice. The present invention does not have the audio output unit built inside the toothbrush. Rather, it has a separate structure to output audio signals. As a result, the present invention completely resolves the waterproofing problem. Further, the present invention is able to provide a wide variety of audio signals. To accomplish the above object of the present invention, a novel toothbrush apparatus with audio output function consists of a toothbrush unit comprising a toothbrush, a vibration detection part built inside the toothbrush, and a radio transmission means that conducts the radio transmission of vibration detection data from the vibration detection part, and an audio output unit that is separated from the toothbrush unit and that receives the radio transmission of vibration detection data from the said toothbrush unit and outputs the specified audio signals.

Description

A TOOTHBRUSH APPARATUS WITH AUDIO OUTPUT

FUNCTION

Technical Field

[1] This invention relates to a toothbrush, more specifically, to a toothbrush apparatus with audio output function comprising a toothbrush unit and an audio output unit, wherein the said toothbrush unit detects the toothbrush-generated vibrations and conducts the radio transmission of such detected signals to the audio output unit and the said audio output unit outputs various sounds, including voice. Background Art

[2] At present, there are many kinds of toothbrush products that have the

[3] audio function, such as output of melody or announcement. Such products include the inventions of the Korean utility model patent application no. 1999-0036909, the Korean utility model patent no. 0163317, and the Korean patent application no. 2004-0004088. Such conventional toothbrush inventions with audio output function has the handle with an audio output unit.

[4] However, such structure has some disadvantages. For example, since the toothbrush is always exposed to water, it has to be completely waterproof. Especially, to realize the audio output function, at least the speaker unit has to be exposed. Then, water or humidity may penetrate into internal circuit board through such speaker, leading to damages to the audio output unit.

[5] In addition, such conventional structure has limited the realization of the audio output function. In other words, since the speaker has to be positioned inside the toothbrush handle, the speaker's output is unavoidably limited. Further, the audio signals generated on the use of the toothbrush are pre-memorized on its fabrication, resulting in limited range of audio signals. If those conventional toothbrush products are designed to have many audio signals and to allow users to select the desired signals, it has to contain a separate key input unit. In this case, such separate key input unit is also vulnerable to water. Disclosure of Invention Technical Problem

[6] Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems found in conventional toothbrush products. It is an object of the present invention to provide a toothbrush apparatus with audio output function comprising a toothbrush unit and an audio output unit, wherein the said toothbrush unit detects the toothbrush-generated vibrations and conducts the radio transmission of such detected signals to the audio output unit and the said audio output unit outputs various sounds, including voice. The present invention does not have the audio output unit built inside the toothbrush. Rather, it has a separate structure to output audio signals. As a result, the present invention completely resolves the waterproofing problem. Further, the present invention is able to provide a wide variety of audio signals.

[7] To accomplish the above object of the present invention, a novel toothbrush apparatus with audio output function consists of a toothbrush unit comprising a toothbrush, a vibration detection part built inside the toothbrush, and a radio transmission means that conducts the radio transmission of vibration detection data from the vibration detection part, and an audio output unit that is separated from the said toothbrush unit and that receives the radio transmission of vibration detection data from the said toothbrush unit and outputs the specified audio signals.

[8] The radio transmission means of the said toothbrush unit consists of a control part that creates and generates No. 1 vibration detection data if the vibration detection signals are repeatedly received from the said vibration detection part during the specific No. 1 time period, No. 2 vibration detection data if the vibration detection signals are not repeatedly received from the said vibration detection part during the specific No. 2 time period after the specific No. 1 time period, No. 3 vibration detection data if the vibration detection signals are repeatedly received from the said vibration detection part during the specific No. 2 time period after the specific No. 1 time period, and No. 4 vibration detection data if the vibration detection signals are repeatedly received from the said vibration detection part during the specific No. 3 time period after the specific No. 2 time period and then, the vibration detection signals are discontinued, a transmission part that modulates the vibration detection data of No. 1 to No. 4 under the control of the said control part according to the specific radio communication standard and outputs them, and an antenna that conducts the radio transmission of signals from the said transmission part.

[9] The said audio output unit consists of a memory part with multiple audio data, an audio output means comprising a speaker, an antenna that detects and receives the radio transmission of signals from the radio transmission means of the said toothbrush unit, a receiving part that demodulates the signals from the antenna, and a control part that checks No. 1 to No. 4 vibration detection data contained in the demodulated signals and controls the output of audio data saved at the said memory part cor¬ responding to the checked vibration detection data to the speaker through the said audio output means. Further, the said audio output unit consists of a key input part for selection of various operation modes and functions, a display part that shows the time and functions selected or set at the key input part according to the control of the said control part, and an audio input means for input of user's voice or other audio data. Moreover, the said control part performs control functions to save the audio data entered through the said audio input means at the said memory part. In addition, the control part of the said audio output unit performs control functions to update the mapping data on audio data entered through the said input means and saved at the said memory part and No. 1 to No. 4 vibration detection data, on request of mapping setting, save such updated mapping data at the specified area of the said memory part, check No. 1 to No. 4 vibration detection data contained in the signals demodulated at the said receiving part, and output the audio data saved at the said memory part to the speaker through the said audio output means based on the mapping data saved at the said memory part and the checked vibration detection data.

[10] Meanwhile, the radio transmission means of the said toothbrush unit consists of a control part that creates and outputs vibration detection data if the vibration detection signals are repeatedly received from the said vibration detection part during a specific period, a transmission part that modulates the said vibration detection data according to the specified radio communication standard under the control of the said control part and outputs them, and an antenna that conducts radio outputs of signals received from the said transmission part. And, the said audio output unit consists of a memory part with multiple audio data saved, an audio output means comprising a speaker, an antenna that detects and receives the radio transmission signals from the radio transmission means of the said toothbrush unit, a receiving part that demodulates the received signals from the said antenna, and a control part that performs control function to check the vibration detection data contained in the said demodulated signals and output No. 1 audio data saved at the said memory part to the speaker through the said audio output means if the vibration detection data are repeatedly entered during the specific No. 1 time period, No. 2 audio data saved at the said memory part to the speaker through the said audio output means if the vibration detection data are not repeatedly entered during the specific No. 2 time period from the said receiving part after the specific No. 1 time period, No. 3 audio data saved at the said memory part to the speaker through the said audio output means if the vibration detection data are repeatedly entered during the specific No. 2 time period from the said receiving part after the specific No. 1 time period, and No. 4 audio data saved at the said memory part to the speaker through the said audio output means if the entry of the vibration detection data from the said receiving part is discontinued after the specific No. 2 time period. The said audio output unit further comprises a key input part for selection of various operation modes and functions, a display part that shows the time and functions selected or set at the key input part according to the control of the said control part, and an audio input means for input of user's voice or other audio data. Moreover, the said control part performs control functions to save the audio data entered through the said audio input means at the said memory part. In addition, the control part of the said audio output unit performs control functions to update the mapping data on audio data entered through the said input means and saved at the said memory part and No. 1 to No. 4 audio data, on request of mapping setting, save such updated mapping data at the specified area of the said memory part, check vibration detection data contained in the signals demodulated at the said receiving part, and output the audio data saved at the said memory part to the speaker through the said audio output means based on the mapping data saved at the said memory part and the checked vibration detection data.

[11] The said toothbrush unit further includes a low- voltage detection part that detects the voltage level of the power part and, if the voltage level is low (below the specified one), delivers the signal of such low-voltage status to the said control part. In addition, the said control part perform control functions to transmit the signal of low-voltage detection through the said radio transmission means, if the said low-voltage detection part detects the low-voltage status. Moreover, the control part of the said audio output unit perform control functions to extract the specified audio data corresponding to the low- voltage detection signal from the memory part and output them to the audio output means, if it receives the low- voltage detection signal from the toothbrush unit through the receiving part.

[12]

Technical Solution

[13]

[14] A preferred embodiment of the toothbrush apparatus with audio output function will be described in detain in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[15] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the toothbrush unit of the toothbrush apparatus with audio output function of the present invention, while Figure 2 is a cutaway view showing the toothbrush unit of the toothbrush apparatus with audio output function of the present invention.

[16] As shown in these figures, the toothbrush unit (1) according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention consists of a brush part (2), a handle part (4), and a connection part (3). It is desirable that the connection between the handle part (4) and the connection part (3) has several incisions and some of such incisions have the screw thread. The connection part (3) is in the cylindrical shape and its one end (i.e., where it is connected with the handle part (4)) has the screw thread inside the cylindrical form to allow connection with the screw thread of the handle part (4) on combination with the said handle part (4). One side of the said brush part (2) is communicated through the connection part (3) to be connected with the handle part (4). Then, if the connection part (3) is inserted into the connecting part of the handle part (4) and screw- connected with the handle part (4), one side of the brush part (1) is firmly connected with the handle part (4). Meanwhile, the inside of the handle part (4) has a vibration detection part (11) and a PCB (5) with several circuits. In addition, at least one battery (6) can be positioned inside the handle part (4). The opposite side of the part connecting with the handle part (4) has a space for battery (the vibration of the toothbrush at the handle part or others and a circuit conducting the radio transmission of any detected vibration signals to an external unit, and the circuit structure is treated to be waterproofing.

[17] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the circuit structure built in one 6). It is desirable to design the battery space to be sealed by a closing part.

[18] Meanwhile, the toothbrush unit of the present invention is not limited by the example shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2. The present invention covers any structures that comprises a part detecting embodiment of the toothbrush unit of the present invention.

[19] As shown in this figure, the circuit structure of the toothbrush unit consists of a control part (10), a vibration detection part (11), an oscillation part (12), a power part (13), a low-voltage detection part (14), a transmission part (15), and an antenna (16).

[20] The said vibration detection part (11) is an element that can detect the angle of the movement of the toothbrush if the toothbrush is tilted or vibrated. It can be realized by any commonly known technology. For example, it may employ the mercury-based vibration detection technology or other available technologies. The said oscillation part (12) is to generate the base clock for signals to be used in the said control part (10) or others, or the base signals to display the time.

[21] The said power part (13) contains the battery or other battery charger for stable power supply to internal circuits. The said low-voltage detection part (14) detects any Io w- voltage status, if the power level supplied to the said power part (13) is below the specific point, and notifies such status to the said control part (10).

[22] The said transmission part is to modulate data according to the specified radio com¬ munication standard under the control of the said control part (10) and transmit them through the antenna (16). Any radio communication standards suitable for short- distance communication can be employed. Further, for the said antenna, it is desirable to have a structure patterned onto the said PCB. However, if the antenna is treated to be waterproofing, any structures can be employed.

[23] The said control part (10) is responsible for overall circuit controls. In addition, it conducts the control function to output the specified vibration detection data through the said transmission part on the basis of the vibration detection signals entered as the vibration is detected at the said vibration detection part (11). Further, it conducts the control function to output the low-voltage detection data through the said transmission part as the low- voltage detection signals are entered from the said low- voltage detection part (14). The said control part (10) has unique identification codes, which are contained in the radio transmission signals from the transmission part.

[24] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the circuit structure of the audio output unit in one embodiment of the toothbrush apparatus with audio output function.

[25] As shown in this figure, the audio output unit consists of a control part (20), an antenna (22), a receiving part (24), a key input part (26), a microphone (28), a voice input part (30), a memory part (32), a display part (34), an audio processing part (36), an audio amplification part (38), a speaker (40), an oscillation part (42), and a power part (44).

[26] Multiple audio data (audio signals) are saved at the said memory part (32). Types of such audio data may include 1) audio data prior to tooth-brushing, 2) audio data during tooth-brushing, 3) audio data for pre-mature termination of tooth-brushing before the time set for tooth-brushing, 4) audio data when tooth-brushing is terminated after the time set for tooth-brushing, and 5) audio data for warning of low- voltage. Each type may include several audio data.

[27] The said receiving part (24) receives the signals through the antenna (22) from the toothbrush unit, demodulates them according to the radio communication standard, and transmits them to the control part (20). Although it is desirable for the antenna to have the structure of patterned PCB, any shapes can be employed for the antenna.

[28] The said key input part (26) is to select various modes and set functions. The type of audio output signals, data for the display part (34), and user's voice memory modes to be saved at the memory part can be selected and set.

[29] The said display part (34) can employ conventional liquid-crystal display elements and, desirably, has a function of displaying the time under usual conditions. Further, it is desirable to change the time set at the said key input part.

[30] The said microphone (28) is to record the user's voice data, if necessary, and save them at the said memory part (32). The said voice input part (30) has the structure of conducting the low-pass filtering of voice signals entered through the said microphone (28) and outputting the voice data digitalized through the analog/digital conversion. These digital voice data are saved at the memory part (32) under the control of the control part (20).

[31] When the user play the voice data saved through key input, the control part (20) controls extraction of the saved voice data from the said memory part (32) and output of such data through the audio processing part (36), the audio amplification part (38), and the speaker (40). In this case, the user may delete the voice data with use of the key input part (26) if he/she does not want them. [32] The said audio processing part (36) conduct the digital/analog conversion of the audio data (voice data) extracted and outputted from the said memory part (32) under the control of the said control part (20), while the said audio identification codes, vibration detection data, and low- voltage detection data contained in such demodulated signals and to output the specified audio amplification part (38) amplifies the analog- converted audio signals (voice signals) and outputs them through the said speaker (40).

[33] The said oscillation part (42) is to generate the base clock for signals to be used in the said control part (20) or others, or the base signals to display the time. The said power part (44) is to supply power to individual elements and can be structured to contain the battery or other battery charger.

[34] The said control part (20) is responsible for overall control of individual elements.

In addition, it conducts the control function to check the data saved at the said memory part (32) corresponding to such checked detection data to the speaker (40 through the said audio processing part (36) and the said audio amplification part (38).

[35] Figure 5 shows the operational flow of the toothbrush unit in one embodiment of the toothbrush apparatus with audio output function.

[36] As shown in this figure, when any vibration is detected by the vibration detection part (11) and such vibration detection signals are entered (Step SlO), the control part (10) determines if such vibration detection signals are repeatedly entered during the specific No. 1 time period (Step S11~S12). If such signals are not repeatedly entered, it ignores the vibration detection signals of the above step SlO. The reason why such de¬ termination is made for No. 1 time period is to ignore the cases where vibration is detected at the vibration detection part (11), for example, by simply touching the toothbrush unit rather than grabbing the unit to brush the teeth. Meanwhile, if it is determined that the vibration detection signals are repeatedly entered at the above step S 12, it controls transmission of No. 1 (detection) data, including its unique iden¬ tification codes, through the transmission part (15) and the antenna (16) (Step S13). The said No. 1 (detection) data are to output "audio data prior to tooth-brushing" saved at the memory part (32) of the said audio output unit.

[37] Then, the said control part (10) checks if the vibration detection signals are repeatedly entered from the said vibration detection part (11) during the specific No. 1 time period and No. 2 time period (Step S14-S15). When such repeated vibration is terminated during the specific No. 2 time period, it controls transmission of No. 2 (detection) data, including its unique identification codes, through the transmission part (15) and the antenna (16) (Step S16) and its status is returned into Step SlO. The said No. 2 (detection) data are to output "audio data for pre-mature termination of tooth- brushing before the time set for tooth-brushing".

[38] Meanwhile, if the repeated vibration is detected at S15, the said control part (10) controls transmission of No. 3 (detection) data, including its unique identification codes, through the transmission part (15) and the antenna (16) (Step S 17). The said No. 3 (detection) data are to output "audio data during tooth-brushing" saved at the memory part (32) of the said audio output unit.

[39] Then, the said control part (10) checks if the vibration detection signals are repeatedly entered from the said vibration detection part (11) during the specific No. 2 time period and No. 3 time period (Step S18-S19). When such repeated vibration is terminated during the specific No. 3 time period, it controls transmission of No. 4 (detection) data, including its unique identification codes, through the transmission part (15) and the antenna (16) (Step S20) and its status is returned into Step SlO. The said No. 4 (detection) data are to output "audio data when tooth-brushing is terminated after the time set for tooth-brushing" saved at the said memory part (32) of the said audio output unit. Meanwhile, this figure explains the operational flow of the said control part (10) only from the aspect of vibration detection at the said vibration detection part, but the control part (10) of the present invention actually controls the transmission of low- voltage detection data through the transmission part (15) and the antenna (16) if the low- voltage detection signals are entered from the said low-voltage detection part (14). The said low-voltage detection data are to output "audio data for warning of low voltage" saved at the memory part (32) of the said audio output unit and allow users to exchange batteries of the toothbrush unit.

[40] Figure 6 shows the operational flow of the audio output unit in one embodiment of the toothbrush apparatus with audio output function. It depicts the operation flow when detection signals are received at the audio output unit according to the control flow of Figure 5. In this figure, it is assumed that the audio output unit has unique iden¬ tification codes matched to data received from the antenna (22) and the receiving part (24).

[41] At first, if the control part (20) determines that No. 1 (detection) data are received through the receiving part, the control part (20) extracts "audio data prior to tooth- brushing" equivalent to No. 1 data from the memory part (32) and outputs them to the speaker (40) through the audio processing part (36) and the audio amplification part (38) (Step S21-S22). In this case, the user is holding the toothbrush unit and doing other acts, such as squeezing the toothpaste, in order to brush the teeth. Therefore, it is desirable to output the audio data, such as "Hi! Are you going to brush your teeth? Let's brush the teeth!", or combination of audio data and music data.

[42] In addition, if the said control part (20) determines that No. 2 (detection) data are received through the receiving part, the control part (20) extracts "audio data for pre¬ mature termination of tooth-brushing before the time set for tooth-brushing" equivalent to No. 2 data from the memory part (32) and outputs them to the speaker (40) through the audio processing part (36) and the audio amplification part (38) (Step S23-S24). In this case, the user stops brushing the teeth before the time set for tooth-brushing. Therefore, it is desirable to output the audio data, such as "Why do you stop brushing your teeth so quickly?" or combination of audio data and music data.

[43] Further, if the said control part (20) determines that No. 3 (detection) data are received through the receiving part, the control part (20) extracts "audio data during tooth-brushing" equivalent to No. 3 data from the memory part (32) and outputs them to the speaker (40) through the audio processing part (36) and the audio amplification part (38) (Step S25-S26). In this case, the user is holding the toothbrush unit and brushing his/her teeth. Therefore, it is desirable to output the music data, such as cheerful songs.

[44] Moreover, if the said control part (20) determines that No. 4 (detection) data are received through the receiving part, the control part (20) extracts "audio data when tooth-brushing is terminated after the time set for tooth-brushing" equivalent to No. 4 data from the memory part (32) and outputs them to the speaker (40) through the audio processing part (36) and the audio amplification part (38) (Step S27-S28). In this case, the user stops brushing his/her teeth after sufficient time of tooth-brushing. Therefore, it is desirable to output the audio data, such as "See you again!" or combination of audio data and music data.

[45] Meanwhile, this figure explains the operational flow of the said control part (20) only from the aspect of vibration detection at the said vibration detection part, but the control part (20) of the present invention extracts "audio data for warning of low- voltage" from the said memory part (32) and outputs them to the speaker (4) through the audio processing part (36) and the audio amplification part (38) if the low-voltage detection signals are detected by the said low-voltage detection part (14) and such low- voltage detection data are received at the said audio output unit. In this case, the toothbrush unit is under exchange of batteries or requires recharging. Therefore, it is desirable to output the audio data, such as "Hello, I am hungry — ", "Please change batteries — ", or "Please recharge me — ", or warning sounds.

[46] It is desirable to match audio data saved at the said memory part (32) with No. 1 to

No. 4 (detection) data and low-voltage detection data and to save such mapped data at the specified area of the said memory part (32).

[47] Further, the control part (20) desirably performs control functions to update the mapping data, when the user request mapping resetting of No. 1 to No. 4 (detection) data and low- voltage detection data through the key input part (26), save such updated mapping data at the specified area of the said memory part (32), check No. 1 to No. 4 (detection) data and low- voltage detection data contained in the signals demodulated at the said receiving part (24), and output the audio data saved at the said memory part (32) to the speaker through the said audio processing part (36) and the audio am¬ plification part (38) based on the mapping data at the memory part (32) and the detection data or low- voltage detection data checked as above.

[48] Figure 7 shows the operational flow of the toothbrush unit in another embodiment of the toothbrush apparatus with audio output function.

[49] As shown in this figure, when vibration is detected at the vibration detection part

(11) and vibration detection signals are entered (Step S3), the control part (10) in the example embodiment of the present invention determines if the vibration detection signals are repeatedly entered during a specific period (Step S31-S32) and, if such signals are not repeatedly entered, it ignores such vibration detection at the above step S30. The reason why such determination is made during a specific period is to ignore the cases where vibration is detected at the vibration detection part (11), for example, by simply touching the toothbrush unit rather than grabbing the unit to brush the teeth. Meanwhile, if it is determined that the vibration detection signals are repeatedly entered at the above step S32, it controls transmission of vibration signals, including its unique identification codes, through the transmission part (15) and the antenna (16) (Step S13).

[50] Figure 8 shows the operational flow of the audio output unit in another embodiment of the toothbrush apparatus with audio output function. This figure depicts the flow of receiving detection signals at the audio output unit according to the control flow of Figure 7. In this figure, it is assumed that the audio output unit has unique iden¬ tification codes matched to data received from the antenna (22) and the receiving part (24).

[51] As shown in this figure, when vibration signals are received from the receiving part

(24) (Step S40), the control part (20) determines if the vibration signals are repeatedly entered during a specific No. 1 time period (Step S41-S42) and, if such signals are not repeatedly entered, it ignores such vibration signals received at the above step S40. The reason why such determination is made during a specific No. 1 time period is to ignore the cases where vibration is detected at the vibration detection part (11), for example, by simply touching the toothbrush unit rather than grabbing the unit to brush the teeth and such vibration signals are received at the audio output unit. Meanwhile, if it is determined that the vibration signals are repeatedly entered at the above step S42, the control part (20) extracts "audio data prior to tooth-brushing" as No. 1 audio signals from the memory part (32) and outputs them to the speaker (40) through the audio processing part (36) and the audio amplification part (38) (Step S43).

[52] Then, the said control part (20) checks if the vibration detection signals are repeatedly entered during the specific No. 1 time period and No. 2 time period (Step S44-S45). When such repeated vibration is terminated during the specific No. 2 time period, it extracts "audio data for pre-mature termination of tooth-brushing before the time set for tooth-brushing" as No. 2 audio signals from the memory part (32) and outputs them to the speaker (40) through the audio processing part (36) and the audio amplification part (38) (Step S46). The control part's status is returned into step S40.

[53] Meanwhile, if it is determined that the repeated vibration signals are received at

S45, the said control part (20) extracts "audio data during tooth-brushing" as No. 3 audio signals from the memory part (32) and outputs them to the speaker (40) through the audio processing part (36) and the audio amplification part (38) (Step S48).

[54] Then, if it is determined that no repeated vibration signals are received, the said control part (20) extracts "audio data when tooth-brushing is terminated after the time set for tooth-brushing" as No. 4 audio signals from the memory part (32) and outputs them to the speaker (40) through the audio processing part (36) and the audio am¬ plification part (38) (Step S48-S49). The said control part (20) goes back to the above step S40.

[55] Meanwhile, this figure explains the operational flow of the said control part (20) only from the aspect of vibration detection at the said vibration detection part, but the control part (20) of the present invention extracts "audio data for warning of low- voltage" from the said memory part (32) and outputs them to the speaker (4) through the audio processing part (36) and the audio amplification part (38) if the low-voltage detection signals are detected by the said low-voltage detection part (14) and such low- voltage detection data are received at the said audio output unit.

[56] Figure 9 is a block diagram of circuits built inside the toothbrush unit in another embodiment of the toothbrush apparatus with audio output function. Figure 10 is a block diagram showing circuits of the audio output unit in another embodiment of the toothbrush apparatus with audio output function. Figure 11 shows communication between the toothbrush unit and the audio output unit in another embodiment of the toothbrush apparatus with audio output function. Unlike other example embodiment, this example embodiment in these figures has a structure that, when the toothbrush unit transmits data on radio communication between the toothbrush unit and the audio output unit, the audio output unit transmits the signals confirming that such data are received.

[57] The above examples are based on the case when the user is manually brushing his/ her teeth. However, the present invention is also applicable to automatic toothbrush. In this case, the presence or absence of actual tooth-brushing can be determined by the said vibration detection part. However, such determination may be based on the vibration switch (on/off). Although the preferred embodiment of the present invention has been disclosed for illustrative purpose, those who are skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications, additions, and substitutions are possible, without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention as disclosed in the accompanying claims.

Advantageous Effects [58] As clearly illustrated and demonstrated as above, the present invention does not have the audio output unit inside the toothbrush, but it consists of two separate units.

The toothbrush unit has a system to detect vibration of the toothbrush and conduct the radio transmission of such detection result to the separate audio output unit. In this way, the present invention resolves the waterproofing problems and enables use of various audio signals. [59]

Brief Description of the Drawings [60] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the toothbrush unit of the toothbrush apparatus with audio output function of the present invention. [61] Figure 2 is a cutaway view showing the toothbrush unit of the toothbrush apparatus with audio output function of the present invention. [62] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the circuit structure built in one embodiment of the toothbrush unit of the present invention. [63] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the circuit structure of the audio output unit in one embodiment of the toothbrush apparatus with audio output function. [64] Figure 5 shows the operational flow of the toothbrush unit in one embodiment of the toothbrush apparatus with audio output function. [65] Figure 6 shows the operational flow of the audio output unit in one embodiment of the toothbrush apparatus with audio output function. [66] Figure 7 shows the operational flow of the toothbrush unit in another embodiment of the toothbrush apparatus with audio output function. [67] Figure 8 shows the operational flow of the audio output unit in another embodiment of the toothbrush apparatus with audio output function. [68] Figure 9 is a block diagram of circuits built inside the toothbrush unit in another embodiment of the toothbrush apparatus with audio output function. [69] Figure 10 is a block diagram showing circuits of the audio output unit in another embodiment of the toothbrush apparatus with audio output function. [70] Figure 11 shows communication between the toothbrush unit and the audio output unit in another embodiment of the toothbrush apparatus with audio output function. [71] <Legend>

[72] 1 : Toothbrush unit 2: Brush part

[73] 3: Connection part 4: Handle part

[74] 5: PCB 6: Battery [75] 10: Control part 11 : Vibration detection part

[76] 12: Oscillation part 13: Power part

[77] 14: Low-voltage detection part 15: Transmission part

[78] 15A: Transmission/Receiving part 16: Antenna

[79] 20: Control part 22: Antenna

[80] 24: Receiving part 24A: Transmission/Receiving part

[81] 26: Key input part 28: Microphone

[82] 30: Voice input part 32: Memory part

[83] 34: Display part 36: Audio processing part

[84] 38: Audio amplification part 40: Speaker

[85]

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention [86] It is preferred to embody the invention that outputs audio signals only when users brush their teeth. In other words, it is a key point to recognize if the act of brushing the teeth is actually done and output the signals. [87]

Mode for the Invention [88] Since it is difficult to actually recognize the act of brushing the teeth, the present invention considers the vibration of the toothbrush unit as the act of brushing the teeth and outputs audio signals. [89]

Industrial Applicability [90] The present invention is applicable to any applications that recognize movement and output audio or voice signals.

Sequence Listing [91] Not applicable

Claims

[1] A toothbrush apparatus with audio output function comprising a toothbrush unit consisting of a toothbrush, a vibration detection part built inside the toothbrush, and a radio transmission means that conducts the radio transmission of vibration detection data from the vibration detection part, and an audio output unit that is separated from the said toothbrush unit and that receives the radio transmission of vibration detection data from the said toothbrush unit and outputs the specified audio signals.

[2] The toothbrush apparatus with audio output function as claimed in claim 1, wherein the radio transmission means of the said toothbrush unit consists of a control part that creates and generates No. 1 vibration detection data if the vibration detection signals are repeatedly received from the said vibration detection part during the specific No. 1 time period, No. 2 vibration detection data if the vibration detection signals are not repeatedly received from the said vibration detection part during the specific No. 2 time period after the specific No. 1 time period, No. 3 vibration detection data if the vibration detection signals are repeatedly received from the said vibration detection part during the specific No. 2 time period after the specific No. 1 time period, and No. 4 vibration detection data if the vibration detection signals are repeatedly received from the said vibration detection part during the specific No. 3 time period after the specific No. 2 time period and then, the vibration detection signals are iod, No. 2 vibration detection data if the vibration detection signals are not repeatedly received from the said vibration detection part during the specific No. 2 time period after the specific No. 1 time period, No. 3 vibration detection data if the vibration detection signals are repeatedly received from the said vibration detection part during the specific No. 2 time period after the specific No. 1 time period, and No. 4 vibration detection data if the vibration detection signals are repeatedly received from the said vibration detection part during the specific No. 3 time period after the specific No. 2 time period and then, the vibration detection signals a discontinued, a transmission part that modulates the vibration detection data of No. 1 to No. 4 under the control of the said control part according to the specific radio communication standard and outputs them, and an antenna that conducts the radio transmission of signals from the said transmission part.

[3] The toothbrush apparatus with audio output function as claimed in claim 1, wherein the said audio output unit consists of a memory part with multiple audio data, an audio output means comprising a speaker, an antenna that detects and receives the radio transmission of signals from the radio transmission means of the said toothbrush unit, a receiving part that demodulates the signals from the antenna, and a control part that checks No. 1 to No. 4 vibration detection data contained in the demodulated signals and controls the output of audio data saved at the said memory part corresponding to the checked vibration detection data to the speaker through the said audio output means.

[4] The toothbrush apparatus with audio output functions as claimed in claim 1, wherein the said audio output unit as claimed in claim 3 further comprises a key input part for selection of various operation modes and functions, a display part that shows the time and functions selected or set at the key input part according to the control of the said control part, and an audio input means for input of user's voice or other audio data, and the said control part performs control functions to save the audio data entered through the said audio input means at the said memory part.

[5] The toothbrush apparatus with audio output functions as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control part of the said audio output unit as claimed in claim 4 performs control functions to update the mapping data on audio data entered through the said input means and saved at the said memory part and No. 1 to No. 4 vibration detection data, on request of mapping setting, save such updated mapping data at the specified area of the said memory part, check No. 1 to No. 4 vibration detection data contained in the signals demodulated at the said receiving part, and output the audio data saved at the said memory part to the speaker through the said audio output means based on the mapping data saved at the said memory part and the checked vibration detection data.

[6] The toothbrush apparatus with audio output functions as claimed in claim 1, wherein the radio transmission means of the said toothbrush unit consists of a control part that creates and outputs vibration detection data if the vibration detection signals are repeatedly received from the said vibration detection part during a specific period, a transmission part that modulates the said vibration detection data according to the specified radio communication standard under the control of the said control part and outputs them, and an antenna that conducts radio outputs of signals received from the said transmission part.

[7] The toothbrush apparatus with audio output functions as claimed in claim 1, wherein the audio out unit consists of a memory part with multiple audio data saved, an audio output means comprising a speaker, an antenna that detects and receives the radio transmission signals from the radio transmission means of the said toothbrush unit, a receiving part that demodulates the received signals from the said antenna, and a control part that performs control function to check the vibration detection data contained in the said demodulated signals and output No. 1 audio data saved at the said memory part to the speaker through the said audio output means if the vibration detection data are repeatedly entered during the specific No. 1 time period, No. 2 audio data saved at the said memory part to the speaker through the said audio output means if the vibration detection data are not repeatedly entered during the specific No. 2 time period from the said receiving part after the specific No. 1 time period, No. 3 audio data saved at the said memory part to the speaker through the said audio output means if the vibration detection data are repeatedly entered during the specific No. 2 time period from the said receiving part after the specific No. 1 time period, and No. 4 audio data saved at the said memory part to the speaker through the said audio output means if the entry of the vibration detection data from the said receiving part is discontinued after the specific No. 2 time period.

[8] The toothbrush apparatus with audio output functions as claimed in claim 1, wherein the audio output unit as claimed in claim 7 further comprises a key input part for selection of various operation modes and functions, a display part that shows the time and functions selected or set at the key input part according to the control of the said control part, and an audio input means for input of user's voice or other audio data, and the said control part performs control functions to save the audio data entered through the said audio input means at the said memory part.

[9] The toothbrush apparatus with audio output functions as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control part of the audio output unit as claimed in claim 8 performs control functions to update the mapping data on audio data entered through the said input means and saved at the said memory part and No. 1 to No. 4 audio data, on request of mapping setting, save such updated mapping data at the specified area of the said memory part, check vibration detection data contained in the signals demodulated at the said receiving part, and output the audio data saved at the said memory part to the speaker through the said audio output means based on the mapping data saved at the said memory part and the checked vibration detection data.

[10] The toothbrush apparatus with audio output functions as claimed in any of claims

1 to 9, wherein the said toothbrush unit further includes a low-voltage detection part that detects the voltage level of the power part and, if the voltage level is low (below the specified one), delivers the signal of such low-voltage status to the said control part and the said control part perform control functions to transmit the signal of low- voltage detection through the said radio transmission means, if the said low-voltage detection part detects the low-voltage status.

[11] The toothbrush apparatus with audio output functions as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control part of the said audio output unit as claimed in claim 10 perform control functions to extract the specified audio data corresponding to the low-voltage detection signal from the memory part and output them to the audio output means, if it receives the low-voltage detection signal from the toothbrush unit through the receiving part.

Vibration detection part, Oscillation part, Power part, Control part Check of repeated vibration during the specific No. 1 time period, Output of audio signals corresponding to No. 1 data, Receipt of vibration signals terminated