Oral care implement

Provided is an oral care implement (1), comprising: a body (100); a carrier (130) connected to the body (100) and movable relative to the body (100), the carrier carrying one or more cleaning elements (134); a carrier drive mechanism (200) operable to drive movement of the carrier (130) relative to the body (100); an auxiliary device (400); and an auxiliary device drive mechanism (600) that is selectively engagable with the carrier drive mechanism (200) during operation of the carrier drive mechanism, so as to selectively operate the auxiliary device (400) during movement of the carrier (130) relative to the body (100). Also provided is a method of operating the oral care implement (1), and a kit of parts for an oral care implement.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a U.S. national stage application under 35 U.S.C. §371 of PCT Application No. PCT/US2011/066594, filed Dec. 21, 2011, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an oral care implement, and more particularly to an oral care implement such as a toothbrush that has an auxiliary device and a mechanism for operating the auxiliary device. The auxiliary device may be a pump for pumping a fluid from an outlet of the implement.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Oral care implements such as toothbrushes are typically used in conjunction with a dentifrice or similar oral care product for cleansing the teeth and/or soft tissue in the oral cavity. The dentifrice or product may contain one or more ingredients which, when administered with the oral care implement generally via a brushing or rubbing action, provide an oral health benefit to the user, such as removing plaque and debris from the surface of the teeth and/or gums, polishing and whitening teeth, reducing sensitivity, reducing oral surface bacteria populations, and other benefits. However, it is often advantageous when brushing one's teeth or rubbing soft tissue in one's oral cavity to supplement the oral care benefit(s) by further dispensing one or more additional oral care products in a fluid form into the oral cavity, or by further stimulating the soft tissue, in order to optimize the oral care regimen.

US2010/278582 and US2005/238412 disclose respective electric toothbrushes, each with two motors. One of the motors is for driving movement of a brush head, while the other of the motors is for driving a pump. U.S. Pat. No. 5,142,723 describes a toothbrush with a motor that concurrently drives both a brush head and a pump. US2010/0284728 discloses an electric toothbrush with a moveable brush head, a pump for pumping fluid to the brush head, and a motor. Rotation of the motor in either direction drives movement of the brush head, and the pump is driven only in one rotation direction of the motor.

Each of these prior art toothbrushes has inherent problems, such as being bulky and/or heavy, wasteful of oral care fluid, or inconvenient to use.

An improved oral care implement, such as a toothbrush, capable of dispensing a fluid while in the oral cavity, or stimulating soft tissue, is therefore desired.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A first aspect of the present invention may provide an oral care implement, such as a toothbrush, comprising: a body; a carrier connected to the body and movable relative to the body, the carrier carrying one or more cleaning elements; a carrier drive mechanism operable to drive movement of the carrier relative to the body; an auxiliary device; and an auxiliary device drive mechanism that is selectively engagable with the carrier drive mechanism during operation of the carrier drive mechanism, so as to selectively operate the auxiliary device during movement of the carrier relative to the body.

Preferably, the auxiliary device drive mechanism is selectively engagable with the carrier drive mechanism through relative movement of at least part of the auxiliary device drive mechanism and at least part of the carrier drive mechanism. More preferably, the auxiliary device drive mechanism is selectively engagable with the carrier drive mechanism through movement of at least part of the auxiliary device drive mechanism relative to the body and relative to at least part of the carrier drive mechanism. Preferably the oral care implement comprises a clutch that is operable by a user to selectively engage the auxiliary device drive mechanism with the carrier drive mechanism.

Optionally, the carrier drive mechanism comprises a first movable part and the auxiliary device drive mechanism comprises a second movable part, wherein the operation of the carrier drive mechanism causes movement of the first movable part, and wherein the second moveable part is selectively engagable with the first movable part during the movement of the first movable part.

The first movable part may be a first rotatable part and the movement of the first movable part comprises rotation of the first rotatable part.

The second movable part may be a second rotatable part. Preferably the first rotatable part is rotatable about a first axis and the second rotatable part is rotatable about a second axis.

The second rotatable part may be selectively engagable with the first rotatable part by changing a distance between the first axis and the second axis. For example, the second rotatable part may be selectively engagable with the first rotatable part by reducing a distance between the first axis and the second axis.

The first axis may be parallel to the second axis or non-parallel, such as perpendicular, to the second axis.

The first and second axes may be coaxial, in which case the first rotatable part may be selectively engagable with the first rotatable part by changing a distance between the first and second rotatable parts in a direction parallel to the axes.

Preferably the first rotatable part comprises a first gear and the second rotatable part comprises a second gear.

Optionally, one of the first movable part and the second movable part comprises a rotatable element and the other of the first movable part and the second movable part comprises an elongate flexible element. The rotatable element may comprise one of a pulley and a toothed wheel, and the elongate flexible element may comprise one of a belt, a chain, a wire and a cable.

Preferably the auxiliary device drive mechanism is biased out of engagement with the carrier drive mechanism.

Preferably the oral care implement comprises a selector that is operable by a user to cause the auxiliary device drive mechanism to engage with the carrier drive mechanism. The selector may be movable between first and second positions. Preferably the selector is biased to the first position, wherein, when the selector is in the first position, the auxiliary device drive mechanism is disengaged from the carrier drive mechanism, and, when the selector is in the second position, the auxiliary device drive mechanism is engaged with the carrier drive mechanism.

The oral care implement may comprise an electromagnet and a metallic or ferromagnetic member, wherein when the electromagnet is energized, the electromagnet and the member move relative to one another to cause the auxiliary device drive mechanism to engage with the carrier drive mechanism.

The oral care implement may comprise a timer configured to measure a predetermined period of time from engagement of the auxiliary device drive mechanism with the carrier drive mechanism, wherein the implement is configured such that, when the timer has measured elapse of the predetermined period of time, the auxiliary device drive mechanism is disengaged from the carrier drive mechanism.

Preferably the auxiliary device comprises a pump, preferably a peristaltic pump, and more preferably a rotary peristaltic pump.

The oral care implement may comprise a reservoir for holding a fluid, one or more outlets formed in a surface of the body, and a fluid flow channel that links the reservoir to the one or more outlets, wherein the pump is operable to pump fluid from the reservoir to the one or more outlets via the fluid flow channel.

Preferably, the pump comprises a peristaltic pump and the fluid flow channel comprises a compressible tube, a first portion of the tube being compressed between two components of the peristaltic pump, wherein operation of the peristaltic pump comprises movement of at least one of the two components relative to the first portion of the tube, such that compression of the first portion of the tube is relaxed and such that a second, different portion of the tube, which second portion is closer than the first portion of the tube to the one or more outlets, becomes compressed between two components, whereby fluid is pumpable along the tube towards the one or more outlets. Preferably the peristaltic pump comprises a rotary peristaltic pump in which at least one of the two components is rotatable about an axis.

Optionally, the carrier drive mechanism comprises a motor and one or more elements coupling the motor to the carrier, wherein rotation of an output shaft of the motor drives movement of the carrier relative to the body. The oral care implement may comprise one or more batteries electrically connected to the motor. Preferably the body comprises a housing and the reservoir is located in a space between an outer wall of the housing and one of the one or more batteries.

A second aspect of the present invention may provide a kit of parts for an oral care implement, such as a toothbrush, the kit of parts comprising: a handle; and a head connectable to the handle, the head comprising a carrier that is movable relative to the handle when the head is connected to the handle, the carrier carrying one or more cleaning elements; wherein the handle comprises: a carrier drive mechanism operable to drive movement of the carrier relative to the handle when the head is connected to the handle; an auxiliary device; and an auxiliary device drive mechanism that is selectively connectable to the carrier drive mechanism during operation of the carrier drive mechanism, so as to selectively operate the auxiliary device during movement of the carrier relative to the handle.

A third aspect of the present invention may provide a method of operating an oral care implement, such as a toothbrush, which oral care implement comprises a body; a carrier connected to the body and movable relative to the body, the carrier carrying one or more cleaning elements; a carrier drive mechanism operable to drive movement of the carrier relative to the body; an auxiliary device; and an auxiliary device drive mechanism that is selectively engagable with the carrier drive mechanism during operation of the carrier drive mechanism, so as to selectively operate the auxiliary device during movement of the carrier relative to the body; wherein the method comprises: operating the carrier drive mechanism to drive movement of the carrier relative to the body; and selectively connecting the auxiliary device drive mechanism to the carrier drive mechanism during operation of the carrier drive mechanism, so as to selectively operate the auxiliary device during movement of the carrier relative to the body.

A fourth aspect of the present invention may provide an oral care implement, comprising: a body, one or more outlets being formed in a surface of the body; a rotary peristaltic pump being disposed within the body; and a fluid flow channel that links the pump to the one or more outlets, wherein the pump is operable to pump fluid to the one or more outlets via the fluid flow channel; wherein the fluid flow channel comprises a compressible tube; wherein the pump comprises a rotor and a housing, a first portion of the compressible tube being compressed between the rotor and the housing; and wherein the rotor is rotatable about an axis that is in a fixed position relative to the body.

The oral care implement of the fourth aspect may comprise a carrier connected to the body and movable relative to the body, the carrier carrying one or more cleaning elements; a carrier drive mechanism operable to drive movement of the carrier relative to the body; and a pump drive mechanism that is engaged with the carrier drive mechanism, so as to operate the pump during movement of the carrier relative to the body. Preferably, the pump drive mechanism is selectively engagable with the carrier drive mechanism during operation of the carrier drive mechanism, so as to selectively operate the pump during movement of the carrier relative to the body.

A fifth aspect of the present invention may provide a kit of parts for an oral care implement, the kit of parts comprising: a handle; and a head connectable to the handle, wherein the head comprises one or more cleaning elements and a first fluid flow channel, wherein one or more outlets are formed in a surface of the head, and the first fluid flow channel is in fluid communication with the one or more outlets; wherein the handle comprises a housing, within which are disposed: a rotary peristaltic pump; and a second fluid flow channel that engages the first fluid flow channel when the head is connected to the handle so as to link the pump to the one or more outlets when the head is connected to the handle, whereby the pump is operable to pump fluid to the one or more outlets via the first and second fluid flow channels; wherein the second fluid flow channel comprises a compressible tube; wherein the pump comprises a rotor and a housing, a first portion of the compressible tube being compressed between the rotor and the housing; and wherein the rotor is rotatable about an axis that is in a fixed position relative to the housing of the handle.

In the kit of parts of the fifth aspect, preferably the head comprises a carrier that is movable relative to the handle when the head is connected to the handle, the carrier carrying the one or more cleaning elements. Preferably the handle comprises a carrier drive mechanism that is operable to drive movement of the carrier relative to the handle when the head is connected to the handle, and a pump drive mechanism that is engaged with the carrier drive mechanism so that the pump is operated during movement of the carrier relative to the handle.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In the following description, the invention is discussed in terms of a toothbrush, but could be in the form of another oral care implement, such as a tissue cleansing implement. The oral care implement is preferably self-contained, portable and hand-held. Further, it is understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural and functional modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention, as defined by the claims.

FIG. 1illustrates a toothbrush according to an embodiment of the present invention, generally designated with the reference numeral1. The toothbrush1generally comprises a body100that comprises a handle110, a head120, and a neck140that connects the handle110to the head120. The head120is that part of the toothbrush1that is intended to be inserted into a user's mouth during use, although in practice at least part of the neck140may also be inserted into the user's mouth during use. The toothbrush1has a longitudinal axis L, which may also be considered a longitudinal axis L of the head120and the neck140.

The head120comprises a support122and a carrier130, each of which may be made of a rigid material, such as polypropylene. The support122has a front brushing side or surface124, an opposing back side or surface125, and two opposing lateral sides126,127that join the front and back sides or surfaces124,125. A distance between the lateral sides126,127defines a width of the head120. The shape of the front and back surfaces124and125respectively may be generally planar/flat, curved, or any combination thereof. The front brushing surface124is preferably substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the head120.

The carrier130is connected to the support122and is movable relative to the support122and thus relative to the body100of the toothbrush1. In this embodiment, the carrier130is rotatable relative to the support122about an axis C that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the head120and that is substantially perpendicular to the width of the head120. In embodiments in which the front brushing surface124is planar, the axis C is preferably normal to the plane in which the front brushing surface124lies.

The carrier130carries one or more cleaning elements134. The cleaning elements134extend from a front face132of the carrier130, which front face132faces in the same direction as the front brushing surface124of the support122. The front face132of the carrier130and the front brushing surface124are preferably coplanar. The cleaning element(s)134preferably comprise tooth cleaning elements, but may instead or additionally comprise soft tissue cleaning elements. Such tooth cleaning elements may be connected to the carrier130by any suitable conventional attachment method used in the art including, without limitation, anchor free tufting (AFT) in mold tufting (IFT) and stapled/anchored. Tooth cleaning elements may include a variety of bristle and/or flexible elastomeric cleaning and/or polishing elements. It should be noted that the cleaning elements134in the drawings are illustrated substantially in block without the individual bristle strands being detailed for convenience and clarity so as to not obscure other structures on head120. As shown inFIG. 1, cleaning elements134collectively define an overall maximum height H measured upwards and transverse to front face132of the carrier130and define an imaginary nominal reference brushing plane BP. Brushing plane BP is roughly defined by the upper free ends of the cleaning elements134(with lower fixed ends being attached to the front face132) and is offset from the front face132(with some variation allowing for varying heights of some of the cleaning elements134).

Any provided bristles are preferably made from nylon, although other materials could be used. The bristles also preferably have a generally circular cross-sectional shape, but could have other cross-sectional shapes as well. The diameter of the bristles can vary depending on the desired cleaning action of the bristles. Any provided soft tissue cleaning element(s) are preferably made from an elastomer, such as a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), or rubber. The soft tissue cleaning element(s) may comprise one or more tissue engaging elements, such as elongated cleaning elements, which may be linear or nonlinear, and/or one or more nubs.

As used herein, a “nub” is generally meant to include a column-like protrusion (without limitation to the cross-sectional shape of the protrusion) which is upstanding from a base surface. In a general sense, the nub, in the preferred construction, has a height that is greater than the width at the base of the nub (as measured in the longest direction). Nevertheless, nubs could include projections wherein the widths and heights are roughly the same or wherein the heights are somewhat smaller than the base widths. Moreover, in some circumstances (e.g., where the nub tapers to a tip or includes a base portion that narrows to a smaller projection), the base width can be substantially larger than the height.

The cleaning elements134carried by the carrier130may be arranged in any suitable pattern and the invention is not limited by any particular arrangement, shape, type, and/or number of cleaning element(s)134provided.

In some embodiments, any one or more of the front brushing surface124itself, the back surface125, and the two opposing lateral sides126,127of the head120may include an elastomeric tongue cleaner and/or other tooth or soft tissue cleaning elements (not shown), of any of the forms discussed above. For example, as shown inFIG. 1, a number of tooth cleaning elements128extend from the front brushing surface124and surround the carrier130. The toothbrush head120may have an elongated elliptical or oval shape in top view; however, in other embodiments the head120may be round in top view.

The handle110is a member that is dimensioned so that a user can readily grip and manipulate the toothbrush1. The handle110may have any suitable ergonomic and aesthetically pleasing configuration dimensioned to be gripped by a user, and is not limited to the appearance illustrated in the enclosed drawings.

The handle110comprises an outer shell or housing112, which preferably is made of a relatively rigid plastic material, such as polypropylene. Within the housing112is housed a motor202and a pair of batteries203. A user-operable switch201, such as a toggle switch, is disposed on an outer side of the housing112. The switch201is configured such that, when the switch201is operated by a user, the motor202becomes electrically connected to the batteries203, so that the motor202becomes powered by the batteries203to cause rotation of an output shaft of the motor202relative to the housing112. The switch201comprises a user-contactable surface201a, which in this embodiment is a dome-shaped surface, and an electric switch201bwithin the housing112. The surface201aand the electric switch201bare relatively disposed such that, when a force is applied to the surface201aby a user, the electric switch201bis caused to change from an open state, in which an electric circuit205comprising the motor202and the batteries203is incomplete, to a closed state, in which the circuit205is complete and current flows through the motor202.

The switch201need not be of the specific form illustrated inFIG. 1, but could take any form suitable to be operable by a user to cause operation of the motor202.

Although in this embodiment only a pair of batteries203is provided, in other embodiments there may be provided more than two batteries203to which the motor202becomes electrically connected when the switch201is operated by a user, or only a single battery203.

The output shaft of the motor202is connected to a first end of a drive element208. In this embodiment, the drive element208comprises a drive shaft that is mounted within the toothbrush1so as to be rotatable about a longitudinal axis D of the drive element208relative to the body100, which longitudinal axis D of the drive element208is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the toothbrush1. A first end of the drive shaft208is located within the housing112of the handle110, and the drive shaft208extends to within the support122of the head120.

A second end of the drive shaft208, which is located within the head120, is connected to the carrier130, in this embodiment by a pair of meshed gears (not shown). One of the gears is mounted on, or integral with, the drive shaft208and is rotatable about the longitudinal axis D of the drive shaft208, and the other of the gears is mounted on, or integral with, the carrier130and is rotatable about the axis C of rotation of the carrier130. The meshed gears may, for example, be a pair of meshed bevel gears or a worm and a wheel. The invention is not limited to the use of meshed gears to connect the carrier130and drive shaft208, but instead encompasses any arrangement suitable and operable to connect the carrier130and drive shaft208such that movement of the drive shaft208relative to the body100translates into movement of the carrier130relative to the body100.

While in the illustrated embodiment the drive element208acts on the carrier130to rotate the carrier130continuously (i.e. over an angle of more than 360°), in alternative embodiments the drive element208and the carrier130may be suitably connected such that movement of the drive element208drives the carrier130to oscillate the carrier130back and forth in two opposing rotational directions about its axis C of rotation over a total angle that is less than 360°. Such a suitable connection could comprise, for example, a bent end of the rotatable drive element208engaging a slot formed in the carrier130, such that the bent end and the slot cooperate as a cam-and-follower mechanism. Moreover, the invention is not limited such that movement of the carrier130relative to the support122and the body100as a whole is necessarily rotational movement. In some embodiments, the drive element208drives the carrier130to translate the carrier130relative to the support122and the body100. In alternative embodiments, the drive element208drives the carrier130to rock the carrier130relative to the support122and the body100.

Mounted on, or integral with, another part of the drive shaft208that is closer to the motor202is a gear204, which is referred to herein as a first gear204. The first gear204rotates about the longitudinal axis D of the drive shaft208when the drive shaft208rotates. Together, the motor202, the drive shaft208and the first gear204are herein referred to as an example of a “carrier drive mechanism”200. Rotation of the output shaft of the motor202drives rotation of the drive shaft208(and the first gear204), which in turn drives rotation of the carrier130. That is, the carrier drive mechanism200is operable to drive movement, in this case rotation, of the carrier130relative to the body100of the toothbrush1. The first gear204is referred to herein as a movable part of the carrier drive mechanism200, and more particularly as a rotatable part of the carrier drive mechanism200.

The toothbrush1also comprises an auxiliary device400. In this embodiment, the auxiliary device400comprises a pump, and more specifically a positive displacement pump in the form of a peristaltic pump400. The pump400in this embodiment is disposed within the housing112of the handle110and is described in more detail below.

The toothbrush1further comprises a fluid transport system500. The fluid transport system500comprises a reservoir502holding, or for holding, a fluid, an outlet510formed in the front brushing surface124of the support122of the head120, and a fluid flow channel that links the reservoir502to the outlet510. The fluid flow channel comprises a first channel portion504in direct fluid communication with the reservoir502and disposed within the housing112, a third channel portion508in direct fluid communication with the outlet510and disposed in the neck140, and a second channel portion506fluidly connecting the first and third channel portions504,508. In this embodiment, each of the first and third channel portions504,508are flexible tubes. In alternative embodiments, the first and third channel portions504,508may be channels integrally formed with the housing112and the neck140, respectively, during molding of the housing112and the neck140. The peristaltic pump400is operable to pump fluid from the reservoir502to the outlet510via the fluid flow channel, as will be described in more detail below.

While in the illustrated embodiment the outlet510is formed in the front brushing surface124of the support122, in other embodiments the outlet510may be formed elsewhere on the head120, such as on one of the opposing back surface125, and the two opposing lateral sides126,127. In some embodiments, a plurality of outlets510may be provided on the head120, with each of the outlets510being in fluid communication with the third channel portion508. In some embodiments, alternatively or additionally to the provision of one or more outlets510on the head120, there may be provided one or more such outlets510elsewhere on the body100of the implement1, such as on the neck140.

The reservoir502is made of a soft material, such as a thermally-sealable plastic film, and is configured to collapse to avoid negative pressure as fluid is pumped out of the reservoir502by the pump400. The reservoir502could, for example, take the form of a collapsible bag, pouch or bellows. In any event, the reservoir502deforms as the quantity of fluid it contains decreases. The collapsible reservoir502is disposed within the housing112of the handle110. More specifically, the reservoir502is disposed in a space between an outer wall of the housing112and one or more of the battery(ies)203that power the motor202, as shown for example inFIG. 5. This space may be considered an irregularly-shaped space, yet the flexible nature of the material of the reservoir502is such that the reservoir502conforms to the available space between the housing112and the battery(ies)203.

The reservoir502may be made of any suitable deformable and collapsible material. The selected material, however, should be compatible with the oral care agent or fluid that is to be stored within the reservoir502and preferably should not be corroded, embrittled, cracked, or otherwise degraded by the oral care agents or fluid during storage therein for a reasonable period of time.

The fluid held in the reservoir is preferably an oral care fluid. The fluid may contain one or more active or inactive oral care agents. The fluid may serve as a carrier mechanism for one or more active oral care agents, and/or may be of any suitable viscosity substance, ranging from preferably moderately viscous pastes/gels or less viscous liquid compositions to very viscous liquids, so long as the fluid may be transported from the reservoir502, through the fluid flow channel, and dispensed from the outlet(s)510by the pump400described herein.

Any suitable active or inactive oral care agent can be used in embodiments of the present invention. For example, the oral care agent may include whitening agents, including without limitation, peroxide containing tooth whitening compositions. Suitable peroxide containing tooth whitening compositions are disclosed in U.S. patent Ser. No. 11/403,372, filed Apr. 13, 2006, to the present assignee, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference. While a tooth whitening agent is one agent that may be used in the present invention, any other suitable other oral agents can be used and stored within reservoir502. Contemplated possible oral care agents include without limitation, antibacterial agents; oxidative or whitening agents; enamel strengthening or repair agents; tooth erosion preventing agents; tooth anti-sensitivity ingredients; gum health actives; nutritional ingredients; tartar control or anti-stain ingredients; enzymes; sensate ingredients; flavors or flavor ingredients; breath freshening ingredients; oral malodor reducing agents; anti-attachment agents or sealants; diagnostic solutions; occluding agents, dry mouth relief ingredients; catalysts to enhance the activity of any of these agents; colorants or aesthetic ingredients; and combinations thereof. The oral care agent may comprise toothpaste. However, preferably the fluid is free of (i.e., is not) toothpaste. Instead, the oral care agent is intended to provide supplemental oral care benefits in addition to merely brushing one's teeth.

The reservoir502may be replaceable. The reservoir502may be removably attached to the first channel portion504via any suitable conventional non-permanent mechanical coupling means including without limitation a threaded connection, releasable frictional or snap fit, or other. In a preferred exemplary embodiment, a threaded connection is used, wherein the reservoir502is rotatably attached to the first channel portion504. Accordingly, a distal coupling end of the reservoir502may include a neck having male threads which are rotatably coupled with a complementary female threaded socket disposed on the first channel portion504. Any suitable threading configuration and pitch may be used so long as reservoir may be removably attached to the first channel portion504. In other possible embodiments contemplated, the neck of the reservoir has a female threaded socket which rotatably couples with a male threaded neck on the first channel portion504. Accordingly, the invention is not limited to either of the foregoing threaded constructions or other arrangements. The housing112of the handle110may include an opening, which may be covered and uncoverable by a door, through which a user is able to access the reservoir502to initially connect, or later replace, the reservoir502.

In some embodiments, the reservoir502is refillable while connected to the first channel portion504. In such embodiments, the reservoir may include a valve or an openable closure, through which fluid may be injected into the interior of the reservoir502from outside of the housing112.

The possible forms and positions of the reservoir502discussed above are not limiting on the scope of the invention, unless otherwise stated in the claims.

In this embodiment, the pump400is a rotary peristaltic pump that takes the form shown inFIG. 2A. The pump400comprises two components, namely a pump housing410and a rotor420, each of which is made of a rigid, or substantially rigid, material. Preferably the pump housing410and the rotor420are made of a material that is more rigid than the material from which the second channel portion506is made. The second channel portion506comprises an elastically-deformable compressible tube, while the pump housing410and the rotor420are preferably of a relatively hard material such as a plastics or metallic material.

The rotor420is disposed within the pump housing410and is mounted to the pump housing410for rotation about a rotor axis R relative to the compressible tube506and the pump housing410. The rotor axis R is fixed relative to the pump housing410and is parallel to the longitudinal axis D of the drive shaft208, i.e. the axis of rotation of the first gear204.

The rotor420comprises a ring member421and four arms422extending radially from an external circumference of the ring member421. A respective shoe or wiper423is disposed at the radial end of each of the arms422. The compressible tube506is disposed between the pump housing410and the shoes423of the rotor420. Measured in a radial direction from the axis R about which the rotor420rotates, a gap G between the pump housing410and the outer radial side of each of the shoes423is smaller than the diameter or width of the compressible tube506in the same direction. Accordingly, one or more portions of the compressible tube506are compressed (i.e. pinched) between the pump housing410and the rotor420at any one point in time. As the rotor420rotates relative to the compressible tube506and relative to the pump housing410, compression of any one portion of the compressible tube506that is initially compressed by one of the shoes423is relaxed and a second portion of the compressible tube506becomes compressed. The second portion of the compressible tube506is closer to the third channel portion508than the first portion of the compressible tube506, so fluid in the compressible tube506downstream from the compressed portion of the compressible tube506is pushed by the shoe423towards the third channel portion508and thus towards the outlet(s)510. That is, as the rotor420rotates, a portion of the tube506occludes or closes, thus forcing the fluid through the tube506. Additionally, as the compressive force on the portion of the tube506is relaxed and the portion of the tube506is allowed to recover to, or towards, its natural more open state after the passing of the shoe423, flow of fluid is induced from the reservoir502to the compressible tube506via the first channel portion504. Accordingly, the pump400acts to pump fluid from the reservoir502to the outlet(s)510by peristalsis.

It will be appreciated that the rate at which fluid is pumped by the pump400is proportional to each of: (a) the inner cross sectional area of the tube506, (b) the diameter of the pump housing410, and (c) the rotation speed of the rotor420.

In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 2A, the rotor420has four arms422and associated shoes423disposed at equal intervals around the circumference of the ring member421. That is, the shoes423are circumferentially spaced 90° apart, such that the circumferential spacing between any two of the shoes423is equal to the circumferential spacing between any other two of the shoes423. This equal spacing provides a regular and relatively smooth pumping action of fluid towards the outlet(s)510. In other embodiments, the spacings need not be equal. In some embodiments, the ring member421also includes an opening through which the drive element208extends. The opening in the ring member421is sufficiently large to allow for the rotation of the ring member421without interference or friction from the drive element208which extends from the motor202through the opening (not shown) and to the carrier130.

In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 2A, the rotor420has four shoes423. However, in other embodiments, the rotor420may have more or fewer shoes423. For example,FIG. 2Bshows an embodiment in which the rotor420has only three arms422and shoes423equally spaced at 120° intervals, andFIG. 2Cshows an embodiment in which the rotor420has only two arms422and shoes423equally spaced at 180° intervals (i.e. diametrically opposed). It is conceivable that, in other embodiments, the rotor420may have only one arm422and an associated shoe423, or may have more than four arms422and shoes423.

The shoes or wipers423in the illustrated embodiments are each immovable relative to the ring member421of the rotor420, so the shoes or wipers423slide along the inner surface of the tube506as the rotor420rotates. However, in other embodiments, some or all of the shoes423may be replaced by rollers that are rotatably mounted to their respective arms422, so that the rollers rotate relative to the rotor420as the rotor420rotates relative to the compressible tube506. Such an arrangement reduces frictional losses in the pump400, since the rollers roll on the surface of the tube506as the rotor420rotates.

In the embodiment shown inFIG. 2A, the ring member421of the rotor420comprises an internal, or annular, gear424that has a circular ring of teeth425, which teeth are all equidistantly spaced from the rotor axis R. A pinion gear434with teeth435that are meshed with the teeth425of the internal gear424also is provided.

The pinion gear434is mounted to the pump housing410for rotation about a pinion axis P relative to the pump housing410. The pinion axis P is parallel to, offset from, and fixed relative to, the rotor axis R. Rotation of the pinion gear434drives rotation of the internal gear424relative to the compressible tube506. The pinion gear434has fewer teeth than the internal gear424, such that rotation speed of the internal gear424and the rotor420is less than rotation speed of the pinion gear434, and such that the gears424and434act as a torque multiplier when the internal gear424is driven by the pinion gear434.

As shown inFIG. 3A, the pinion gear434is connected to a driving gear604, which driving gear604is mounted for rotation about the same pinion axis P as the pinion gear434. The driving gear604and the pinion gear434may be integrally formed, or one may be rotationally-fixed on an axle with which the other is integrally formed, or both may be rotationally-fixed on an axle. In any event, rotation of the driving gear604causes rotation of the pinion gear434. Since the pinion axis P is fixed relative to the pump housing410, it will be appreciated that the centre of the driving gear604is fixed relative to the pump housing410.

The driving gear604is referred to herein as comprised in an “auxiliary device drive mechanism”600. In this embodiment, the auxiliary device drive mechanism600is considered to comprise the driving gear604and the element (not shown) to which the driving gear604is connected and about which it rotates. Moreover, the driving gear604is referred to herein as a movable part of the auxiliary device drive mechanism600, more particularly a rotatable part of the auxiliary device drive mechanism600.

FIG. 3Ashows the second gear604spaced from the first gear204of the carrier drive mechanism200. That is, the first and second gears204,604are disengaged from one another. Accordingly, when the toothbrush1is in the state illustrated inFIG. 3A, rotation of the output shaft of the motor202does not drive rotation of the rotor420via the auxiliary device drive mechanism600. However, the auxiliary device drive mechanism600is selectively engagable with the carrier drive mechanism200during operation of the carrier drive mechanism200(i.e. while the drive shaft208and first gear204are rotated by the motor202), so as to selectively operate the auxiliary device400while the carrier130is moving relative to the body100, as will now be described in more detail.

The pump housing410is mounted on the housing112but is movable relative to the housing112. For example, the pump housing410may be slidable relative to the housing112. On the other hand, the position of the longitudinal axis D of the drive shaft208is fixed relative to the housing112and the body100as a whole.

As illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 3A, the toothbrush1comprises a selector114that is operable by a user to cause the second gear604to engage with the first gear204, which results in the auxiliary device drive mechanism600being engaged with the carrier drive mechanism200. The selector114is movable by a user between a first position or state, shown inFIG. 3A, and a second position or state (not shown), at which the first and second gears204,604are engaged and the auxiliary device drive mechanism600and the carrier drive mechanism200are engaged. A first end of the selector114protrudes through a hole116in the housing112of the handle110from the inside of the housing112to the outside of the housing112, while a second, opposite end of the selector114is directly or indirectly fixed to the pump housing410and is movable therewith relative to the housing112. A flexible cover117is fixed to the outside surface of the housing112over the hole116and over the first end of the selector114. The cover117prevents dust or moisture from entering the interior of the handle110through the hole116.

The selector114is biased from its second position to its first position by a resilient element115, which in the present embodiment comprises a coil spring, as shown inFIG. 3A. The resilient element115is connected between the pump housing410and the housing112, biases the second gear604away from the first gear204, and thus acts to bias the auxiliary device drive mechanism600out of engagement with the carrier drive mechanism200.

When a user wishes to clean their teeth using the cleaning elements134carried by the movable carrier130, they apply a force to the surface201aof the switch201, which causes the electric switch201bto adopt its closed state. This completes the electric circuit205, current flows through the motor202, the output shaft of the motor202rotates. In turn, the drive shaft208moves, which drives the carrier130to move relative to the body100.

When the user subsequently wishes to apply the fluid held in the reservoir502to their oral cavity, e.g. to their teeth or gums, they move the selector114from its first state to its second state against the biasing force of the resilient element115. Since the position of the axis P of rotation of the second gear604is fixed relative to the pump housing410, and since the pump housing410is caused to move when the selector114moves, movement of the selector114from its first to its second state causes the pump housing410and the second gear604to be moved relative to the body100and relative to the carrier drive mechanism200in a direction towards the carrier drive mechanism200. This causes the distance between the axis D of rotation of the first gear204and the axis P of rotation of the second gear604, which is parallel to the axis D of rotation of the first gear204, to reduce until the first and second gears204,604mesh. Since the first gear204already is rotating about its axis D of rotation, meshing of the first and second gears204,604causes rotation of the second gear604about its axis P of rotation, and thus operation of the pump400to pump fluid from the reservoir502through the outlet(s)510and into the user's mouth.

When the user subsequently wishes to stop the application of fluid to their oral cavity, they release the selector114, which returns to its first state under the biasing effect of the resilient element115. This causes the pump housing410and the auxiliary device drive mechanism600to be moved relative to the body100and relative to the carrier drive mechanism200in a direction away from the carrier drive mechanism200, such that the distance between the axis D of rotation of the first gear204and the axis P of rotation of the second gear604increases until the first and second gears204,604disengage. Accordingly, the auxiliary device drive mechanism600and the carrier drive mechanism200become disengaged and operation of the pump400ceases.

In each of the embodiments shown inFIGS. 2B and 2C, the rotor420does not comprise an internal gear. Rather, the rotor420is rotatable about its axis R on an axle (not shown) that is mounted to the pump housing410. Either a gear equivalent to the pinion gear434discussed above is mounted on, or integral with, the axle and engaged directly (or indirectly via other gear(s)) with a gear equivalent to the second gear604, or the second gear604is itself mounted on, or integral with, the axle.

In the above described embodiment, the resilient element115comprises a coil spring. In alternative embodiments, the resilient element115may comprise a different form of spring. The resilient element may comprise an elastically-deformable membrane (such as is shown inFIG. 3B) or one or more elastically deformable beams connected between the pump housing410and the housing112of the handle110. When the selector114in its second state, the membrane or beam(s) is/are deformed from a natural, equilibrium state, the first and second gears204,604are meshed and thus the carrier drive mechanism200and the auxiliary device drive mechanism600are engaged. A user's subsequent release of the selector114allows the membrane or beam(s) to relax towards its/their equilibrium state, which is indicated by the dotted lines inFIG. 3Bfor the embodiment utilizing a membrane115. It will be appreciated that such relaxation of the resilient element115causes the carrier drive mechanism200and the auxiliary device drive mechanism600to disengage, and thus operation of the pump to cease.

A further embodiment of the present invention is illustrated inFIG. 3C. In this embodiment, the selector114comprises an electrical switch that is switchable by a user (such as by pressing the switch) between a first state, in which a pump actuation electrical circuit comprising the electrical switch114, one or more batteries and an electromagnet118, is incomplete or open, and a second state in which the pump actuation electrical circuit is complete or closed. The battery(ies) preferably is/are the batteries203that is/are used to power the motor202. The electromagnet118is fixed directly or indirectly to one of the housing112and the auxiliary device drive mechanism600. On the other hand, a ferromagnetic element119is fixed directly or indirectly to the other of the housing112and the auxiliary device drive mechanism600. The electromagnet118and ferromagnetic element119are relatively disposed, when the electromagnet118is not energized, such that subsequent energisation of the electromagnet118would result in relative movement between the electromagnet118and the ferromagnetic element119to cause movement of the auxiliary device drive mechanism600relative to the housing112in a direction towards the carrier drive mechanism200.

Accordingly, as will be appreciated, when a user wishes to operate the pump400to expel fluid from the outlet(s)510during driving of movement of the carrier130, they switch the selector114from its first state to its second state to close the pump actuation electrical circuit, which causes a current to flow through the electromagnet118. This causes the relative movement between the electromagnet118and the ferromagnetic element119, and thus the movement of the auxiliary device drive mechanism600relative to the housing112. Given that the longitudinal axis D of the first gear204is fixed relative to the housing112, this operation also causes movement of the auxiliary device drive mechanism600towards the carrier drive mechanism200, which causes engagement of the first and second gears204,604of the respective drive mechanisms200,600, and thus operation of the pump400.

Subsequent switching of the selector114to its first position opens the electrical circuit and de-energises the electromagnet118. A resilient element115connected between the auxiliary device drive mechanism600and the housing112biases the auxiliary device drive mechanism600in a direction away from the carrier drive mechanism200so as to increase the distance between the axes D, P of rotation of the first and second gears204,604such that the first and second gears204,604disengage and operation of the pump400ceases.

The switching of the selector114to its first position may be manually performed by the user. Alternatively, the electromagnet118may be automatically energized for a predetermined period of time, after which it is de-energised. For example, toothbrush1may comprise a timer (not shown) and a control circuit (not shown) that are connected to the pump actuation electrical circuit. The timer is configured to measure a predetermined period of time from a point in time at which it is estimated that the auxiliary device drive mechanism600and the carrier drive mechanism200first engage following switching of the selector114to its second position. This point in time may be estimated to be the point in time at which the pump actuation electrical circuit is closed, or a point in time shortly after that. The predetermined period of time is preferably between 1 and 30 seconds, more preferably between 2 and 15 seconds, and most preferably between 3 and 7 seconds. A user interface, such as a dial, may be provided via which a user is able to select the duration of the predetermined period of time.

When the timer has measured expiry of the predetermined period of time, the control circuit controls the switch114to move to its first state, which causes the pump actuation electrical circuit to become incomplete. In turn, this causes de-energisation of the electromagnet118, and subsequent disengagement of the auxiliary device drive mechanism600from the carrier drive mechanism200through the above-described biasing influence of the resilient element115.

Accordingly, the oral care implement1of the present invention may comprise a timer that measures a predetermined period of time from a point in time when the auxiliary device drive mechanism600and the carrier drive mechanism200become engaged, and a controller that causes disengagement of the auxiliary device drive mechanism600and the carrier drive mechanism200after the timer has determined that the predetermined period of time has expired. Alternatively, a timer and control circuit (not shown) may be may be connected to the switch201. The timer is configured to measure a predetermined period of time from a point in time at which it is estimated that the carrier device mechanism has been activated. The point in time may be estimated to be the point in time at which the switch201bis put into a closed state, in which the circuit205is complete. After expiry of the first predetermine period of time, the electromagnet118may be automatically energized for a second predetermined period of time, after which it is de-energized. In this embodiment, the timer controls when the auxiliary drive mechanism600is engaged and operating to dispense a fluid, then continues to be engaged for a second predetermined period of time, and is then automatically disengaged. Therefore the fluid dispensing is done automatically and the user doesn't need to depress anything other than the initial switch201.

In each of the embodiments described above, the second gear604is rotatable about an axis P that is parallel to the axis D of rotation of the first gear204. However, in alternative embodiments, these two axes P, D may be non-parallel. In some embodiments, one of the first and second gears204,604may comprise an external gear and the other of the first and second gears204,604may comprise a cooperating worm gear, as is shown by way of example inFIG. 4, such that these two axes P, D are perpendicular to one another. In some embodiments, both of the first and second gears204,604may comprise cooperating bevel gears that are rotatable about respective non-parallel axes, such as axes that are perpendicular to one another. Other arrangements of cooperating, meshable gears that are rotatable about respective non-parallel axes will be apparent to the skilled person.

In the embodiments described above, the first and second gears204,604are moved relative to one another in such a manner that a distance between their axes P, D of rotation reduces to engage the drive mechanisms200,600. In other embodiments, this need not be the case. For example, in some embodiments, the second gear604may be moved in a direction parallel to its axis P of rotation and parallel to the longitudinal axis D of the drive shaft208, to mesh the second gear604with the first gear204to engage the drive mechanisms200,600. As such, the distance between the axes P, D of rotation remains unchanged.

In alternative embodiments, the distance between the axes P, D of rotation increases to engage the drive mechanisms200,600. For example, the first gear204may comprise an internal gear. The rotation axis of the second gear604may be located close to the rotation axis of the first gear204when the first and second gears204,604disengaged. Subsequent movement of the rotation axis of the second gear604away from the rotation axis of the first gear204would cause meshing of the first and second gears204,604, and thus engagement of the drive mechanisms200,600.

In a variation to the embodiments discussed above, the gear204on the drive shaft208may not be the gear that the second gear604engages and disengages. For example, the gear204on the drive shaft208may be engaged permanently with a third gear (not shown) that is part of the carrier drive mechanism200and that is caused to rotate by the carrier drive mechanism200. In such a case, it may be with this third gear that the second gear604of the auxiliary device drive mechanism600engages and disengages to engage and disengage the drive mechanisms200,600.

Similarly, in some embodiments the gear604mounted for rotation about the same axis P as the pinion gear434may not be the gear with which the gear of the carrier drive mechanism engages and disengages. For example, the gear604may permanently be engaged with another gear (not shown), and it is with this other gear that a gear of the carrier drive mechanism200(whether or not the gear204mounted on the drive shaft208) engages and disengages.

Indeed, any number of gears may be provided as a breakable gear train configured to selectively transmit movement of the carrier drive mechanism200to the auxiliary device400. That is, the auxiliary device drive mechanism600may comprise a first train of gears indirectly connected to the auxiliary device400and the carrier drive mechanism200may comprise a second train of gears indirectly connected to the motor202, and one or more of the first train of gears may be configured to selectively engage and disengage one or more of the second train of gears, in order to selectively operate the auxiliary device during operation of the motor202.

In all of the above described embodiments, the first and second rotatable parts of the carrier drive mechanism200and the auxiliary device drive mechanism600are respective engagable first and second gears204,604, respectively. However, the present invention is not limited to the employment of engagable first and second rotatable parts that are necessarily gears. For example, in some embodiments, the first and second engagable rotatable parts may comprise respective wheels with surfaces that may be engaged with one another and subsequently disengaged, in order to selectively transmit rotation of the first rotatable part to the second rotatable part. The surfaces would have respective coefficients of friction sufficient such that, when the surfaces of the wheels are brought into engagement, driven rotation of the first rotatable part of the carrier drive mechanism200is transmitted at least partially to the second rotatable part of the auxiliary device drive mechanism600, to a degree sufficient to operate the pump or other provided auxiliary device400. The surfaces may be respective circumferential surfaces of the first and second rotatable parts, respective axial end faces of the first and second rotatable parts, or a circumferential surface of one of the rotatable parts and an axial end face of the other of the first and second rotatable parts.

In all of the above described embodiments, the first and second movable parts of the carrier drive mechanism200and the auxiliary device drive mechanism600are respective engagable first and second rotatable parts, respectively. However, the present invention is not limited to the employment of engagable first and second movable parts that are necessarily both rotatable. For example, in some embodiments, one of the first and second engagable movable parts comprises a rack, and the other of the first and second engagable movable parts comprises a pinion that is selectively engaged with the rack. In such embodiments, the pinion may be moved in a direction parallel to, or perpendicular to, its axis of rotation in order to engage and disengage the rack.

The rack may be mounted on the drive element208, in which case the drive element208may be driven by the motor202in an axial direction along the longitudinal axis D of the drive element208. For example, the first end of the drive element208may be connected to the output shaft of the motor202via a suitable first linkage, such as a cam-and-follower arrangement, such that rotation of the output shaft of the motor202is translated into back-and-forth axial movement of the drive shaft208. The second end of the drive element208is connected to the carrier130via a suitable second linkage to convert the back-and-forth axial movement of the drive element208into movement of the carrier130. If the carrier130is rotatable relative to the support122, the second linkage may comprise a cam-and-follower arrangement disposed, such that back-and-forth axial movement of the drive element208is translated into rotation of the carrier130. Alternatively, if the carrier130is moveable linearly in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis D of the drive element208, the carrier130may be fixed directly or indirectly to the drive element208, such that the carrier130follows the back-and-forth axial movement of the drive element208.

In an alternative embodiment, the rack may be part of the auxiliary device drive mechanism600, and the pinion is mounted on, or integral with the drive element208, and the drive element208may be rotatable about its longitudinal axis D.

In a variation to these embodiments, the rack is replaced by a flat surface and the pinion is replaced by a wheel with a circumferential surface. The surfaces would have respective coefficients of friction sufficient to transmit movement between the flat surface and the wheel. The flat surface and the circumferential surface may be selectively engaged with one another and subsequently disengaged, in order to selectively transmit linear movement of the flat surface to the wheel or vice versa, depending on which of the two drive mechanisms200,600each of the surfaces belongs to.

In other embodiments, one of the first and second movable parts may be a rotatable element, such as a pulley or a wheel, and the other of the first and second movable parts may be an elongate flexible element, such as belt chain, cable or wire, that is selectively engagable with the rotatable element. For example, in the embodiment shown inFIG. 3D, the auxiliary device drive mechanism600comprises a pulley606and a belt608. The carrier drive mechanism200comprises a drive pulley206mounted on, or integral with, the drive shaft208. The drive pulley206rotates with the drive shaft208. The belt608initially is loose fitting on the pulley206,606. That is, when the auxiliary device drive mechanism600and the carrier drive mechanism200are disengaged, the belt is not engaged with one or both of the drive pulley206and the pulley606. Subsequent relative movement of the drive pulley206and the pulley606in a manner such that a distance between the drive pulley206and the pulley606increases until the belt608is engaged with both of the pulleys206,606results in engagement of the two drive mechanisms200,600. The movement may comprise movement of the axis of rotation of one of the drive pulley206and the pulley606relative to the housing112, while the axis of rotation of the other of the drive pulley206and the pulley606remains fixed relative to the housing112. Alternatively, the movement may comprise movement of the axes of rotation of both of the pulleys206,606relative to the housing112.

In a variation to the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 3D, the pulleys may be replaced with respective toothed wheels and the elongate flexible element comprises a chain with links that are engagable with the teeth of the toothed wheels.

In still further embodiments of the present invention, neither of the respective first and second movable parts of the carrier drive mechanism200and the auxiliary device drive mechanism600are rotatable parts. For example, in respective variations to each of the above described embodiments, the drive element208may be driven back-and-forth by the motor202in axial directions along its longitudinal axis D, in a manner similar to that described above. The drive element208comprises a male or female first moveable element that follows the motion of the drive element208. The auxiliary device drive mechanism600comprises a female or male second moveable element that is selectively engagable with the first moveable element to engage the two drive mechanisms200,600. When the first and second moveable elements are engaged, the second moveable element is moved back-and-forth along a linear path by the back-and-forth axial movement of the first moveable element parallel to the longitudinal axis D of the drive element208.

In all of the above-described embodiments, the movement of the second moveable element of the auxiliary device drive mechanism600, as driven by the first moveable element of the carrier drive mechanism200, is translated within the auxiliary device drive mechanism600into movement suitable to drive the auxiliary device400, such as a pump.

In each of the above-described embodiments, the drive element208comprises a single substantially linear elongate element. In respective variations to each of the embodiments, the drive element208may instead comprise one or more elements, each of which may be linear or nonlinear, that link the output shaft of the motor202to the carrier130. The form of the drive element208is not to be considered limited to any of the forms discussed above, unless otherwise stated in the claims.

In each of the above-described embodiments, at least part of the auxiliary drive mechanism600is moved relative to the housing112and relative to the carrier drive mechanism200in order to engage and disengage the two drive mechanisms200,600. In respective variations to each of the above-described embodiments, the carrier drive mechanism200may instead or additionally move relative to the housing112in order to engage and disengage the two drive mechanisms200,600.

In many of the above-described embodiments, the pump housing410is moved relative to the housing112and relative to the carrier drive mechanism200in order to engage and disengage the two drive mechanisms200,600. In respective variations to those embodiments, the pump housing410may instead be fixed relative to the housing112, and either of both of (a) at least part of the carrier drive mechanism200and (b) at least part of the auxiliary device drive mechanism600may be moved relative to the housing112in order to engage and disengage the two drive mechanisms200,600, In those respective variations, the second end of the selector114may be connected to one of the drive mechanisms200,600that is configured to move relative to the housing112during engagement/disengagement of the drive mechanisms200,600, rather than to the pump housing410.

For example, in a first variation to the embodiment ofFIGS. 1 and 3A, the pump housing410and the longitudinal axis D of the drive element208are fixed relative to the housing112. The auxiliary device drive mechanism600comprises the gear604and another gear (not shown). The another gear has an axis of rotation that is moveable relative to the gear604in an arc about the axis P of rotation of the gear604while maintaining meshing of the teeth of the another gear and the gear604. Through this movement of the axis of rotation of the another gear, the another gear is engagable and disengagable with the first gear204on the drive element208.

In a second variation to the embodiment ofFIGS. 1 and 3A, the pump housing410is fixed relative to the housing112(such that the rotor axis A is fixed in position relative to the housing112), and the carrier drive mechanism200comprises the gear204and another gear (not shown). The another gear has an axis of rotation that is moveable relative to the gear204in an arc about the axis D of rotation of the gear204while maintaining meshing of the teeth of the another gear and the gear204. Through this movement of the axis of rotation of the another gear, the another gear is engagable and disengagable with the gear604of the auxiliary device drive mechanism600.

In each of these two variations, the selector114is connected to the axis of the another gear and is biased by a resilient element115to its first position, such that the drive mechanisms200,600are biased to a relative position at which they are disengaged.

In each of the above-described embodiments, the rotor420of the pump400is rotatable about an axis R that is parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the implement1. In alternative embodiments, such as that shown inFIG. 4, the rotor420is rotatable about an axis that is nonparallel, such as perpendicular, to the longitudinal axis L of the implement1. In such alternative embodiments, the rotor420may take any of the forms described herein, for example any of those shown inFIGS. 2A to 2C.

In each of the above-described embodiments, the auxiliary device400comprises a pump. In respective variations to each of those embodiments, the auxiliary device does not comprise a pump. Preferably the auxiliary device is a mechanically drivable device. The auxiliary device could comprise, for example, a soft tissue massaging element or an element that causes vibration of the head120.

In each of the above embodiments, the head120is integrally formed with the handle110. In respective variations to each of the above embodiments, the head120may instead be detachably connected to the handle110. In such alternative embodiments, the invention provides a kit of parts for an oral care implement1, which kit of parts comprises a handle110and one or more heads120that is/are connectable, preferably detachably, to the handle110. The neck140may be integrally formed with the head120and removable from the handle110together with the head120. Alternatively, the neck140may be integrally formed with the handle110, and the head120is removable from both the neck140and the handle110.

The kit of parts may comprise one or more reservoirs502, which are connectable to the first channel portion504of the fluid transport system500, and which are packaged and provided to a user or consumer outside of the handle110. The one or more reservoirs502may each contain fluids of the same or different compositions.

In each of the above-described embodiments, the carrier drive mechanism200is permanently connected to the carrier130and operable to drive movement of the carrier130relative to the body100. In respective variations to each of the embodiments, the carrier drive mechanism200may instead be selectively connectable and disconnectable to the carrier130and operable, when connected to the carrier, to drive movement of the carrier130relative to the body100.

In each of the above-described embodiments, the carrier drive mechanism200and the auxiliary device drive mechanism600are selectively engagable with one another. In respective variations to each of the described embodiments, the drive mechanisms200,600may instead be permanently engaged to one another, such that the motor202, when electrically connected to the battery(ies)203, always drives movement of the carrier130and operation of the auxiliary device400. In such scenarios, when the auxiliary device400comprises a rotary peristaltic pump, the axis of rotation of the rotor420preferably is fixed in position relative to the housing112and the body100generally.

In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the oral care implement1comprises a body100, one or more outlets510being formed in a surface of the body100, and preferably in a surface of a head120of the body100. Disposed within the body100, and preferably within a handle110of the body100, are a rotary peristaltic pump400and a fluid flow channel506,508that links the pump400to the one or more outlets510, in much the same way as discussed above. As discussed above, the pump400is operable to pump fluid to the one or more outlets510via the fluid flow channel506,508. Preferably the fluid is pumped from a reservoir502disposed within the handle110, as discussed above. The fluid flow channel comprises a compressible tube506, and the pump400comprises a rotor420and a pump housing410, a first portion of the compressible tube506being compressed between the rotor420and the housing410, as discussed above. The rotor420is rotatable about an axis R that is in a fixed position relative to the handle110and relative to the body100as a whole.

In a still further embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a kit of parts for an oral care implement, the kit of parts comprising: a handle110; and a head120connectable to the handle110, wherein the head120comprises one or more cleaning elements134and a first fluid flow channel508, wherein one or more outlets510are formed in a surface of the head120, and the first fluid flow channel508is in fluid communication with the one or more outlets. The handle110comprises a housing112, within which are disposed a rotary peristaltic pump400and a second fluid flow channel506that engages the first fluid flow channel508when the head120is connected to the handle110so as to link the pump400to the one or more outlets510when the head120is connected to the handle110. The pump400is operable to pump fluid to the one or more outlets510via the first and second fluid flow channels506,508. As discussed above, the second fluid flow channel comprises a compressible tube506, and the pump400comprises a rotor420and a pump housing410, wherein a first portion of the compressible tube506is compressed between the rotor420and the housing410. The rotor420is rotatable about an axis R that is in a fixed position relative to the housing112of the handle110.

Other modifications to the described embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art and are within the scope of the invention, as defined by the appended claims.