Patent Description:
The present invention is directed to an oral care implement handle as defined in the claims. The oral care implement handle includes a gripping portion and a stem protruding from a shoulder of the gripping portion. The stem includes a post located at a distal end of the stem. The post may have a non-circular transverse profile. More specifically, the post includes a hub portion and a protuberance. The protuberance protrudes radially from a side surface of the hub portion, and upward from the shoulder of the gripping portion. The refill head may include a sleeve having an inner surface that defines an internal cavity for receiving the stem of the handle. The internal cavity may include a distal section having a central portion and at least one slot portion extending radially from the central portion. Thus, the internal cavity of the sleeve portion may have a profile configured to receive the stem of the oral care implement handle including the non-circular post thereof.

An oral care implement handle comprises: a gripping portion extending from a proximal end to a distal end; a stem comprising an attachment portion protruding from a first transverse shoulder at the distal end of the gripping portion, the stem extending along a stem axis and configured to be detachably coupled to a replaceable oral care device, the attachment portion of the stem comprising: a second transverse shoulder axially spaced from the first transverse shoulder; and a post protruding from the second transverse shoulder, the post terminating in a closed distal end that forms a free end of the attachment portion of the stem, the post comprising a hub portion extending along the stem axis and a plurality of protuberances protruding (<NUM>) radially from a side surface of the hub portion; and (<NUM>) upward from the second transverse shoulder; and a vibration generating device, characterized in that the plurality of protuberances are circumferentially arranged about the hub portion in a spaced-apart manner from one another.

Useful for understanding the invention is an oral care implement handle comprising: a gripping portion extending from a proximal end to a distal end; a stem comprising an attachment portion protruding from the distal end of the gripping portion, the stem extending along a stem axis and configured to be detachably coupled to a replaceable oral care device, the attachment portion of the stem comprising a post terminating in a closed distal end that forms a free end of the attachment portion of the stem, the closed distal end of the post having a non-circular transverse profile.

Further useful for understanding the invention is an oral care refill head comprising: a sleeve portion extending from a proximal end to a distal end, the sleeve portion comprising: an inner surface that defines an internal cavity; the internal cavity extending along a sleeve axis from an open bottom end at the proximal end of the sleeve portion and a closed top end, the internal cavity configured to receive an attachment portion of a stem of an oral care implement handle; the internal cavity comprising a proximal section adjacent the open bottom end and a distal section adjacent the closed top end; and the distal section of the internal cavity comprising a central portion located on the sleeve axis and at least one slot portion radially extending from the central portion.

Further useful for understanding the invention is an oral care refill head comprising: a sleeve portion extending from a proximal end to a distal end, the sleeve portion comprising: an inner surface that defines an internal cavity that extends along an axis, the internal cavity configured to receive an attachment portion of a stem of an oral care implement handle; and wherein a transverse cross-section of the internal cavity comprises a central portion and a plurality of slot portions radially extending from the central portion, the plurality of slot portions being circumferentially equi-spaced from one another.

An oral care implement comprises: a handle as defined in the claims comprising: a gripping portion extending from a proximal end to a distal end, the distal end of the gripping portion forming a first transverse shoulder; a stem extending along a stem axis and comprising an attachment portion protruding from the first transverse shoulder that houses a vibration generating device, the attachment portion comprising: a second transverse shoulder axially spaced from the first transverse shoulder; and a post protruding from the second transverse shoulder, the post terminating in a closed distal end that forms a free end of the attachment portion of the stem, the post comprising a hub portion extending along the stem axis and a plurality of protuberances protruding (<NUM>) radially from a side surface of the hub portion; and (<NUM>) upward from the second transverse shoulder, the plurality of protuberances terminating in a side terminal surface; a replaceable oral care device coupled to the stem of the oral care implement handle. The oral care implement may comprise: a sleeve portion extending from a proximal end to a distal end, the sleeve portion comprising an inner surface that defines an internal cavity; and
wherein the refill head is detachably coupled to the stem of the handle such that the attachment portion of the handle is located within the internal cavity of the sleeve portion of the refill head and the side terminal surface of the at least one protuberance is in surface contact with the inner surface of the sleeve portion.

It should be understood that the specific examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention, which is defined in the claims.

The following description of the preferred embodiment(s) is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit its application, or uses, which is defined in the claims.

Referring to <FIG> concurrently, an oral care implement <NUM> is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The oral care implement <NUM> generally comprises a handle <NUM> as defined in the claims and a replaceable oral care device <NUM> that may be a refill head <NUM>. The refill head <NUM> is detachably coupled to the handle <NUM>. Thus, the refill head <NUM> may be repetitively coupled to and detached from the handle <NUM> as desired. This enables the handle <NUM> to be kept and reused while the refill head <NUM> is replaced with a new refill head when the cleaning elements of the refill head <NUM> become worn. This is desirable because often the handle contains or otherwise houses the expensive electronic components of an oral care implement and the handle usually long outlasts the tooth cleaning elements. Thus, by permitting the refill head <NUM> to be detached from the handle <NUM> and replaced with another refill head, the same handle can be used with different refill heads <NUM>, thereby prolonging the life of the oral care implement <NUM>.

In the exemplified embodiment, the oral care implement <NUM> is a powered or electric toothbrush (including a vibration generating device that moves a bristle holder or vibrates the head or portions thereof). Of course, the invention is not to be so limited in all embodiments and in other embodiments the oral care implement <NUM> may be a manual toothbrush, a tongue scraper, a gum and soft tissue cleanser, a water pick, an interdental device, a tooth polisher, a specially designed ansate implement having tooth engaging elements, or any other type of implement that is commonly used for oral care.

The handle <NUM> extends along a longitudinal axis A-A and comprises a gripping portion <NUM> extending from a proximal end <NUM> to a distal end <NUM> and a stem <NUM> that extends or protrudes from the distal end <NUM> of the gripping portion <NUM>. The distal end <NUM> of the gripping portion <NUM> forms a first transverse shoulder <NUM> of the stem <NUM>. In the exemplified embodiment, the stem <NUM> is not directly attached to the gripping portion <NUM>, but rather it extends through an opening <NUM> in the distal end <NUM> of the gripping portion <NUM>. Thus, stating that the stem <NUM> extends from the distal end <NUM> of the gripping portion <NUM> does not require a direct coupling between the stem <NUM> and the distal end <NUM> of the gripping portion <NUM>, but merely requires that the stem <NUM> extends in the longitudinal direction A-A beyond the distal end <NUM> of the gripping portion <NUM>. Of course, the stem <NUM> may be directly coupled to and extend directly from the distal end <NUM> of the gripping portion <NUM> in some embodiments. The first transverse shoulder <NUM> circumferentially surrounds the stem <NUM> as it protrudes form the distal end <NUM> of the gripping portion <NUM>.

In the exemplified embodiment, the gripping portion <NUM> of the handle <NUM> comprises an actuator <NUM> on its outer surface that enables a user to power the oral care implement <NUM> on and off. In the exemplified embodiment, the actuator <NUM> is located on a front surface of the gripping portion <NUM> of the handle <NUM>. The actuator <NUM>, when depressed, engages a switch that powers a motor <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> and causes the motor <NUM>, via its coupling to an eccentric <NUM>, to create vibrations that enhance a user's cleaning experience. Thus, the actuator <NUM> is configured to activate and deactivate a vibration generating device <NUM> (which may comprise the motor <NUM>, the eccentric <NUM>, and a power source) that is housed within the handle <NUM>, as described more fully below. The details of these electronic components will be described more fully herein below.

The refill head <NUM> comprises a sleeve portion <NUM> and a head portion <NUM>. The sleeve portion <NUM> is the portion that fits over the stem <NUM> of the handle <NUM> to couple the refill head <NUM> to the handle <NUM>. The head portion <NUM> has a plurality of tooth cleaning elements <NUM> extending therefrom for cleaning a user's oral cavity such as the teeth and gums. Additional details of the refill head <NUM> will be provided below with reference to <FIG>.

In the exemplified embodiment, the gripping portion <NUM> of the handle <NUM> comprises a first part <NUM> and a second part <NUM> that are detachably coupled together. The first and second parts <NUM>, <NUM> may be detachably coupled together via mating screw threads, interference fit, boss/detent, or the like. Of course, it is possible in other embodiments for the gripping portion <NUM> to be formed from a single unitary component. However, the two-part gripping portion <NUM> may make it easier to assemble the various components of the oral care implement <NUM> together. When coupled together, the first and second parts <NUM>, <NUM> collectively define a handle cavity <NUM>. An O-ring <NUM> (or other type of gasket) may be provided between the first and second parts <NUM>, <NUM> of the gripping portion <NUM> to seal the interface of the first and second parts <NUM>, <NUM> so that water and other fluids cannot pass into the handle cavity <NUM> during use of the oral care implement <NUM> or otherwise.

An electronics component <NUM> is housed within the handle cavity <NUM>. The electronics component <NUM> comprises a circuit board <NUM> comprising the electronic circuitry necessary for proper operation of the oral care implement <NUM>, including processor(s), memory device(s), switch(es) <NUM>, resistors, capacitors, and the like. The electronics component <NUM> also comprises a chassis <NUM> that holds a power source <NUM>, which is shown as a battery exploded away from the electronics component <NUM> in <FIG>. Of course, more than one battery may be used. In the exemplified embodiment, the circuit board <NUM> is coupled to one side of the chassis <NUM> and the batteries are housed within a compartment located on the opposite side of the chassis <NUM>. Of course, other arrangements are possible in other embodiments. Generally, the electronics component <NUM> is configured to be coupled to the motor <NUM> to control operation of the motor <NUM> such that when the switch <NUM> is on the motor <NUM> is operating and when the switch <NUM> is off the motor <NUM> is not operating. On/off of the switch <NUM> may be controlled via actuation of the actuator <NUM>.

A gasket <NUM> is provided at the junction of the stem <NUM> and the gripping portion <NUM> to prevent the ingress of liquids at the location of the junction of those two components. The gasket <NUM> is coupled to the stem <NUM> so as to surround a portion of a lower portion <NUM> of the stem <NUM>. Furthermore, the gasket <NUM> presses against the inner surface of the second component <NUM> of the gripping portion <NUM> to maintain the stem <NUM> in position without the stem <NUM> falling into the handle cavity <NUM>. A portion of the gasket <NUM> may be visible when the handle <NUM> is fully assembled with the refill head <NUM> detached therefrom, as best illustrated in <FIG>. The interaction of the gasket <NUM> with the stem <NUM> and the gripping portion <NUM> is best shown in <FIG>. A second gasket <NUM> may be coupled to another portion of the lower portion <NUM> of the stem <NUM> and collectively the gasket <NUM> and the second gasket <NUM> operate to prevent the ingress of fluids. Of course, one or both of the gasket <NUM> and the second gasket <NUM> may be omitted in alternative embodiments.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the stem <NUM> comprises an inner surface <NUM> that defines an inner cavity <NUM> that houses the motor <NUM>, the eccentric <NUM>, a coupling member <NUM> that couples the motor <NUM> to the eccentric <NUM>, and a shaft <NUM>. The motor <NUM>, the eccentric <NUM>, and the power source <NUM> (or various other combinations of the components housed within the stem <NUM>) may be referred to herein collectively as the vibration generating device <NUM> because these components are coupled together and operate collectively to impart vibrations to the head portion <NUM> and the tooth cleaning elements <NUM> of the refill head <NUM>. The motor <NUM> is electrically coupled to the electronics component <NUM> and the power source <NUM> via conductive wires <NUM> to control operation of the motor <NUM>. When the motor <NUM> is activated, the eccentric <NUM> is caused to rotate due to its coupling to the motor <NUM>. Due to the off-center rotation of the eccentric <NUM> relative to a central axis of the motor <NUM>, rotation of the eccentric <NUM> imparts vibrations to the head portion <NUM> of the refill head <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG> concurrently, the stem <NUM> of the handle <NUM> will be further described. The stem <NUM> extends along a stem axis B-B and is configured to be detachably coupled to the refill head <NUM> (or, more generically, to a replaceable oral care device as it need not be limited to being configured for coupling to the refill head <NUM> described herein specifically). Thus, the stem <NUM> can in actuality be coupled to any replaceable oral care device that is capable of receiving the stem <NUM> therein and being locked thereto, at least in a temporary sense, such that the oral care device remains coupled to the stem <NUM> during use of the oral care implement <NUM>.

The stem <NUM> comprises the lower portion <NUM> and an attachment portion <NUM>. When the handle <NUM> is fully assembled, the lower portion <NUM> of the stem <NUM> is located within the cavity <NUM> of the gripping portion <NUM> and the attachment portion <NUM> of the stem <NUM> protrudes from the first transverse shoulder <NUM> at the distal end <NUM> of the gripping portion <NUM>. As described more fully below, the refill head <NUM> receives the attachment portion <NUM> of the stem <NUM> when coupled thereto. As seen in <FIG>, a portion of the lower portion <NUM> of the stem <NUM> is surrounded by the gasket <NUM> and the gasket <NUM> terminates at the first transverse shoulder <NUM> whereas the attachment portion <NUM> of the stem <NUM> extends beyond the first transverse shoulder <NUM>.

The attachment portion <NUM> of the stem <NUM> comprises a base portion <NUM> and a post <NUM>. The base portion <NUM> protrudes from the first transverse shoulder <NUM> and terminates in a distal surface <NUM> that forms a second transverse shoulder <NUM> of the stem <NUM>. The second transverse shoulder <NUM>, which is formed by the distal end <NUM> of the base portion <NUM> of the attachment portion <NUM> of the stem <NUM>, is axially spaced apart from the first transverse shoulder <NUM>, which is formed by the distal end <NUM> of the gripping portion <NUM> of the handle <NUM>. The post <NUM> protrudes from the second transverse shoulder <NUM> and terminates in a closed distal end <NUM> that forms a free end of the attachment portion <NUM> of the stem <NUM>. In the exemplified embodiment, the closed distal end <NUM> of the post <NUM> comprises a depression <NUM> that is located on or aligned with the stem axis B-B.

In the exemplified embodiment, the stem <NUM> is an integrally formed structure that includes the lower portion <NUM> and the attachment portion <NUM> (with the attachment portion <NUM> comprising the base portion <NUM> and the post <NUM>). Thus, the stem <NUM> may be a monolithic component formed from a rigid material, such as plastic or the like. In some embodiments the stem <NUM> is formed via injection molding, although this manufacturing technique is not required in all embodiments.

The base portion <NUM> comprises a locking feature <NUM> configured to mate with a locking feature of the refill head <NUM>. In the exemplified embodiment, the locking feature <NUM> is a protuberance or boss that protrudes from an outer surface <NUM> of the base portion <NUM> and it is received within a recess, notch, or slot of the refill head <NUM>. Furthermore, in the exemplified embodiment the base portion <NUM> also comprises one or more alignment protuberances <NUM> protruding from the outer surface <NUM> of the base portion <NUM>. The size, shape, structure, depth, thickness, length, or the like of the locking feature <NUM> and/or the alignment protuberances <NUM> are not intended to be limiting of the present invention in all embodiments. Thus, various locking features <NUM> and alignment protuberances <NUM> may be used on the base portion <NUM> to ensure proper alignment between the refill head <NUM> and the handle <NUM> and to facilitate locking of the refill head <NUM> to the handle <NUM>.

As noted above, the post <NUM> protrudes from the second transverse shoulder <NUM> at the distal end <NUM> of the base portion <NUM> of the stem <NUM> and terminates at the closed distal end <NUM>. The post <NUM> has a smaller diameter (or maximum width measured transverse to the stem axis B-B) than the second transverse shoulder <NUM>, and thus a portion of the second transverse shoulder <NUM> is exposed between an outermost surface/edge of the post <NUM> and an outer edge <NUM> of the second transverse shoulder <NUM>. As best seen in <FIG>, in the exemplified embodiment the closed distal end <NUM> of the post <NUM> of the stem <NUM> has a non-circular transverse profile. More specifically, in the exemplified embodiment the transverse profile of the closed distal end <NUM> of the post <NUM> is not circular, but rather it has a very specific shape to ensure that only a refill head having a similar shaped inner cavity can receive the stem <NUM>, and more specifically the post <NUM> of the stem <NUM>, therein.

In the exemplified embodiment, the post <NUM> comprises a hub portion <NUM> extending along the stem axis B-B and at least one protuberance <NUM> that extends from the hub portion <NUM>. Specifically, the hub portion <NUM> has an outer surface (or a side surface) <NUM> and the at least one protuberance <NUM> extends radially from the outer surface <NUM> of the hub portion <NUM>. The outer surface <NUM> of the hub portion <NUM> is the exposed portion of the hub portion <NUM> that extends between the second transverse shoulder <NUM> and the closed distal end <NUM> of the post <NUM>. Of course, the invention is not to be so limited and it is also possible that the at least one protuberance <NUM> could protrude upwardly from the second transverse shoulder <NUM> of the stem <NUM> rather than protruding radially from the outer surface <NUM> of the hub portion <NUM>. Thus, in such an embodiment the at least one protuberance <NUM> could be spaced apart from the outer surface <NUM> of the hub portion <NUM> and thus could extend from the second transverse shoulder <NUM> alongside of the hub portion <NUM>. However, in the exemplified embodiment the at least one protuberance <NUM> protrudes both radially from the outer surface <NUM> of the hub portion <NUM> and upwardly from the second transverse shoulder <NUM>. Thus, the at least one protuberance <NUM> is connected directly to both the hub portion <NUM> and the second transverse shoulder <NUM>, although this is not required in all embodiments.

In the exemplified embodiment, the hub portion <NUM> has a circular cross-sectional shape. Furthermore, in the exemplified embodiment each of the protuberances <NUM> is a rib that protrudes radially from the outer surface <NUM> of the hub portion <NUM> and upward from the second transverse shoulder <NUM>. In the exemplified embodiment, each of the protuberances <NUM> extends linearly from the hub portion <NUM> to a side terminal surface <NUM> thereof and thus the lateral side surfaces of the protuberances <NUM> that extend between the hub portion <NUM> and the side terminal surface <NUM> are linear. However, in other embodiments the protuberances <NUM> may instead be wavy or otherwise non-linear. In the exemplified embodiment, the portions of the outer surface <NUM> of the hub portion <NUM> located between the adjacent ones of the protuberances <NUM> are arcuate and more specifically convex. The protuberances <NUM> are elongated in a direction of the stem axis B-B, meaning that the protuberances <NUM> have a height measured in the direction of the stem axis B-B that is greater than a width of the protuberances <NUM> measured in a direction transverse to the stem axis B-B from the outer surface <NUM> of the hub portion <NUM> to the side terminal surface <NUM> of the protuberance.

In the exemplified embodiment, there are a plurality (i.e., three) of the protuberances <NUM> extending radially from the hub portion <NUM> in a spaced apart manner. Of course, more or less than three of the protuberances <NUM> may be used in other embodiments. In the exemplified embodiment, the protuberances <NUM> are circumferentially arranged about the hub portion <NUM> in a spaced apart manner relative to one another as defined in the claims. Thus, portions of the outer surface <NUM> of the hub portion <NUM> that are located between the protuberances <NUM> are exposed. Although not required in all embodiments, in the exemplified embodiment the plurality of protuberances <NUM> are arranged in an equi-spaced manner relative to one another. Thus, in the exemplified embodiment because there are three of the protuberances <NUM>, they are spaced apart by approximately <NUM>°. In the exemplified embodiment, no two protuberances <NUM> are located <NUM>° apart from one another. In certain embodiments, the circumferential distance between any two of the protuberances <NUM> is less than <NUM>°, more specifically less than <NUM>°, more specifically less than <NUM>°, and still more specifically <NUM>° or less. Thus, there is no plane that comprises the stem axis B-B that intersects the side terminal surfaces <NUM> of two or the protuberances <NUM>.

As best seen in <FIG>, in the exemplified embodiment at least one of the protuberances <NUM> faces the same direction as the actuator <NUM>. Thus, the actuator <NUM> is located on the front surface of the gripping portion <NUM> of the handle <NUM> and at least one of the protuberances <NUM> extends from the hub portion <NUM> in the direction of the front surface of the gripping portion <NUM>. Of course, the various protuberances <NUM> could be positioned at any circumferential location along the hub portion <NUM> in other embodiments such that each of the protuberances <NUM> may be located at any desired position along the hub portion <NUM>.

As noted above, in certain embodiments the closed distal end <NUM> of the post <NUM> comprises a non-circular transverse profile. In that regard, the hub portion <NUM> of the post <NUM> forms a circular central region of the post <NUM> and each of one or more protuberances <NUM> forms an arm region of the post <NUM> that extends radially outward from the circular central region. It is this combination of the circular central region and the one or more arms that forms the non-circular transverse profile of the post <NUM>.

In the exemplified embodiment, the hub portion <NUM> and each of the protuberances <NUM> extend the same height from the second transverse shoulder <NUM>, measured in the direction of the stem axis B-B. Thus, the hub portion <NUM> has an upper terminal surface <NUM> and each of the protuberances <NUM> has an upper terminal surface <NUM>. The upper terminal surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> of the hub portion <NUM> and the protuberances <NUM> collectively define the free end of the attachment portion <NUM> of the stem <NUM>. The upper terminal surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> of the hub portion <NUM> and the protuberances <NUM> are aligned on a plane C-C that is orthogonal to the stem axis B-B. In the exemplified embodiment, the plane C-C is perpendicular to the stem axis B-B. Thus, in the exemplified embodiment the protuberances <NUM> are exactly the same height as the hub portion <NUM> in that both extend from the distal end <NUM> of the base portion <NUM> to the free end of the attachment portion <NUM>. Of course, this is not required in all embodiments and the protuberances <NUM> could be taller or shorter than the hub portion <NUM> in alternative embodiments.

As noted above, each of the protuberances <NUM> extends from the hub portion <NUM> to the side terminal surface <NUM> of the protuberance <NUM>. The side terminal surface <NUM> of each of the protuberances <NUM> is spaced a first radial distance R1 from the stem axis B-B. Furthermore, the outer edge <NUM> of the second transverse shoulder <NUM> is spaced a second radial distance R2 from the stem axis B-B. In the exemplified embodiment, the second radial distance R2 is greater than the first radial distance R1. Thus, none of the protuberances <NUM> extend all the way to the outer edge <NUM> of the second transverse shoulder <NUM>. Rather, in the exemplified embodiment a portion of the second transverse shoulder <NUM> extends between the side terminal surface <NUM> of each of the protuberances <NUM> and the outer edge <NUM> of the second transverse shoulder <NUM>. Of course, in alternative embodiments the protuberances <NUM> could extend all the way to the outer edge <NUM> of the second transverse shoulder <NUM> so that the first and second radial distances R1, R2 are equal, or the protuberances <NUM> could extend beyond the outer edge <NUM> of the second transverse shoulder <NUM> so that first radial distance R1 is greater than the second radial distance R2.

Referring to <FIG>, as noted above the stem <NUM> houses the motor <NUM>, the eccentric <NUM>, and the coupling member <NUM> within the inner cavity <NUM> of the stem <NUM>. Furthermore, in the exemplified embodiment a shaft <NUM> that supports the eccentric <NUM> is partially embedded within an upper portion of the stem <NUM>. Specifically, the shaft <NUM> comprises a first portion <NUM> that is embedded within the upper portion of the stem <NUM> and a second portion <NUM> that protrudes from an upper wall <NUM> of the inner cavity <NUM> and extends into the inner cavity <NUM>. Specifically, the first portion <NUM> of the shaft <NUM> extends into the hub portion <NUM> of the post <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> of the shaft <NUM> extends into the inner cavity <NUM> of the stem <NUM> to support the eccentric <NUM>.

The eccentric <NUM> is positioned within the cavity <NUM> so that it is in direct contact with the second portion <NUM> of the shaft <NUM>. Thus, as the eccentric <NUM> rotates, vibrations are transmitted from the eccentric <NUM> to the shaft <NUM>. Having the first portion <NUM> of the shaft <NUM> extend into the hub portion <NUM> of the post <NUM> facilitates transmitting the vibrations to the head portion <NUM> of the refill head <NUM>. Portions of the stem <NUM>, and more specifically the post <NUM>, may be in surface contact with the inner surface <NUM> of the sleeve portion <NUM> of the refill head <NUM> to ensure acceptable transmission of the vibrations from the eccentric <NUM> to the head portion <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG> concurrently, the refill head <NUM> will be described in detail. The refill head <NUM> comprises the sleeve portion <NUM> and the head portion <NUM> that is coupled to the sleeve portion <NUM>. The sleeve and head portions <NUM>, <NUM> may be integrally formed as a single unitary structure. The sleeve and head portions <NUM>, <NUM> may comprise a base or body portion formed of a hard plastic material such as polypropylene or the like and an elastomeric material may be overmolded onto the base or body portion. In the exemplified embodiment, the refill head <NUM> comprises the plurality of tooth cleaning elements <NUM> that extend from a front surface <NUM> of the head portion <NUM> and a soft tissue cleaner <NUM> is located on a rear surface <NUM> of the head portion <NUM>. The soft tissue cleaner <NUM> comprises a pad portion <NUM> and a plurality of protuberances or nubs <NUM> protruding from the pad portion <NUM>. The soft tissue cleaner <NUM> may be formed of a resilient material such as a thermoplastic elastomer. Of course, the soft tissue cleaner <NUM> could be omitted in some alternative embodiments.

The tooth cleaning elements <NUM> are illustrated on the head with a specific arrangement and pattern. Specifically, the tooth cleaning elements <NUM> include a combination of filament bristles <NUM> and elastomeric cleaning elements <NUM> that collectively form a bristle field. The elastomeric cleaning elements <NUM> may be formed integrally with the soft tissue cleaner <NUM> when both of these elements are included, as they are in the exemplified embodiment.

In certain embodiments, the exact structure, pattern, orientation, and material of the tooth cleaning elements <NUM> are not to be limiting of the present invention. Thus, the term "tooth cleaning elements" may be used herein in a generic sense to refer to any structure that can be used to clean, polish or wipe the teeth and/or soft oral tissue (e.g. tongue, cheek, gums, etc.) through relative surface contact. Common examples of "tooth cleaning elements" include, without limitation, bristle tufts, filament bristles, fiber bristles, nylon bristles, spiral bristles, rubber bristles, elastomeric protrusions, flexible polymer protrusions, combinations thereof, and/or structures containing such materials or combinations. Suitable elastomeric materials include any biocompatible resilient material suitable for uses in an oral hygiene apparatus. To provide optimum comfort as well as cleaning benefits, the elastomeric material of the tooth or soft tissue engaging elements has a hardness property in the range of A8 to A25 Shore hardness. One suitable elastomeric material is styrene-ethylene/butylene-styrene block copolymer (SEBS) manufactured by GLS Corporation. Nevertheless, SEBS material from other manufacturers or other materials within and outside the noted hardness range could be used.

The tooth cleaning elements <NUM> of the present invention can be connected to the head portion <NUM> in any manner known in the art. For example, staples/anchors, in-mold tufting (IMT) or anchor free tufting (AFT) could be used to mount the cleaning elements/tooth engaging elements. In certain embodiments, the invention can be practiced with various combinations of stapled, IMT or AFT bristles. In the exemplified embodiment, the filament bristles <NUM> are secured to the head portion <NUM> using staples/anchors and the elastomeric cleaning elements <NUM> are integrally formed with the soft tissue cleaner <NUM> through one or more passageways <NUM> extending through the head portion <NUM> from the front surface <NUM> to the rear surface <NUM> thereof.

The sleeve portion <NUM> of the refill head <NUM> extends from a proximal end <NUM> to the head portion <NUM>. Furthermore, the sleeve portion <NUM> of the refill head <NUM> comprises an outer surface <NUM> and an opposite inner surface <NUM>, the inner surface <NUM> defining an internal cavity <NUM>. An opening <NUM> is formed into the proximal end <NUM> of the sleeve portion <NUM> that forms a passageway into the internal cavity <NUM>. The internal cavity <NUM> is sized and shaped to receive the attachment portion <NUM> of the stem <NUM> of the handle <NUM> when the refill head <NUM> is coupled to the handle <NUM>.

The internal cavity <NUM> of the sleeve portion <NUM> extends along a sleeve axis D-D from an open bottom end <NUM> (formed by the opening <NUM>) at the proximal end <NUM> of the sleeve portion <NUM> to a closed top end <NUM> that is formed by an upper wall <NUM> of the sleeve portion <NUM>. The inner surface <NUM> of the sleeve portion <NUM> comprises a sleeve shoulder <NUM> that is axially spaced from the proximal end <NUM> of the sleeve portion <NUM>. The sleeve shoulder <NUM> faces the proximal end <NUM> of the sleeve portion <NUM>.

The internal cavity <NUM> of the sleeve portion <NUM> comprises a proximal section <NUM> adjacent to the open bottom end <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM> and a distal section <NUM> that is adjacent to the closed top end <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM>. More specifically, the proximal section <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM> extends from the open bottom end <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM> to the sleeve shoulder <NUM> and the distal section <NUM>. of the internal cavity <NUM> extends from the sleeve shoulder <NUM> to the closed top end <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM> (i.e., to the upper wall <NUM> of the sleeve portion <NUM>). The proximal section <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM> has a first axial length L1 measured in the direction of the sleeve axis D-D and the distal section <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM> has a second axial length L2 measured in the direction of the sleeve axis D-D. In the exemplified embodiment, the first axial length L1 is greater than the second axial length L2 (a ratio of L1:L2 is between <NUM>:<NUM> and <NUM>:<NUM>, more specifically <NUM>:<NUM> and <NUM>:<NUM>, and still more specifically <NUM>:<NUM> and <NUM>:<NUM>, although the invention should not be so limited in all embodiments). Furthermore, in the exemplified embodiment the proximal section <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM> tapers with distance from the proximal end <NUM> of the sleeve portion <NUM> towards the sleeve shoulder <NUM>. Nonetheless, due to the sleeve shoulder <NUM> being the dividing line between the proximal and distal sections <NUM>, <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM>, the proximal section <NUM> has a minimum diameter (or width measured transverse to the sleeve axis D-D) that is greater than a maximum diameter (or width measured transverse to the sleeve axis D-D) of the distal section <NUM>.

Referring specifically to <FIG>, the distal section <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM> will be further described. <FIG> illustrates a cross-section taken through the distal section <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM> and it reveals that the distal section <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM> comprises a central portion <NUM> located on the sleeve axis D-D and at least one slot portion <NUM> radially extending from the central portion <NUM>. In the exemplified embodiment, there are three of the slot portions <NUM>, although more or less than three slot portions <NUM> may be included in other embodiments. The slot portions <NUM> are circumferentially arranged about the central portion <NUM> in a spaced-apart manner from one another. In the exemplified embodiment the number of slot portions <NUM> matches the number of protuberances <NUM> of the post <NUM> of the attachment portion <NUM> of the stem <NUM>, as described more fully below with reference to <FIG>. Each of the slot portions <NUM> has an open lower end formed into the sleeve shoulder <NUM> and terminates at an upper surface. Furthermore, in the exemplified embodiment each of the slot portions <NUM> of the distal section <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM> comprises a substantially constant transvers cross-sectional area.

The central portion <NUM> of the distal section <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM> is defined by a plurality of arcuate sidewalls <NUM>. Adjacent ones of the arcuate sidewalls <NUM> are separated by one of the plurality of slot portions <NUM>. Furthermore, each of the slot portions <NUM> is defined by first and second sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM> that extend radially outward from the central portion <NUM> and terminate in an end wall surface <NUM>. Thus, each of the first and second sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM> extend from one of the arcuate sidewalls <NUM> to the end wall surface <NUM>. In the exemplified embodiment, the central portion <NUM> is circular and the slot portions <NUM> are rectangular, although the invention need not be limited to these specific shapes in all embodiments. As seen in <FIG>, in the exemplified embodiment one of the slot portions <NUM> extends radially in a first direction from the sleeve axis D-D, and at least one of the tooth cleaning elements <NUM> extends from the head portion <NUM> in the first direction. Thus, one of the slot portions <NUM> extends in the same direction as one or more of the tooth cleaning elements <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, cross-sections of the assembled oral care implement <NUM> are illustrated whereby the refill head <NUM> is coupled to the stem <NUM> of the handle <NUM>. As can be seen, the attachment portion <NUM> of the stem <NUM> is located within the internal cavity <NUM> of the refill head <NUM> such that the post <NUM> is located within the distal section <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM>. More specifically, the hub portion <NUM> of the post <NUM> is located within the central portion <NUM> of the distal section <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM> and the protuberances <NUM> of the post <NUM> are located within the slot portions <NUM> of the distal section <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM>. In this particular embodiment, the exposed portions of the outer surface <NUM> of the hub portion <NUM> are in contact with the arcuate sidewall surfaces <NUM> defining the central portion <NUM> of the distal section <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM> and the side terminal surfaces <NUM> of the protuberances <NUM> are in contact with the end wall surfaces <NUM> of the slot portions <NUM> of the distal section <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM>.

Thus, in this embodiment there is a reasonably snug fit between the post <NUM> and the distal section <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM>. This ensures that vibrations generated by the vibration generating device <NUM> are transmitted to the refill head <NUM> so that they can benefit a user during toothbrushing. Of course, minor gaps may be present for tolerance to ensure that the post <NUM> of the stem <NUM> can fit within the distal section <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM>. However, such gaps when included should be quite small to ensure that vibrations are transmitted to the head portion <NUM> of the refill head <NUM> as described herein.

<FIG> illustrates a cross-sectional view similar to <FIG> except in accordance with an alternative embodiment. Specifically, in this embodiment the post <NUM> has the exact same structure as previously described in that it comprises a hub portion <NUM> and a plurality of protuberances <NUM> protruding from the outer surface <NUM> of the hub portion <NUM>. What is difference in this embodiment is the shape/configuration of the distal section <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM> of the sleeve portion <NUM> of the refill head <NUM>. Specifically, the distal section <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM> in this embodiment does not include a central portion and slot portions extending radially therefrom. Rather, the distal section <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM> is defined by an inner surface <NUM> which in the exemplified embodiment is a continuous, annular surface in the shape of a circle. Thus, there are no sidewalls and end wall surfaces, but rather a singular inner surface <NUM> defines the entirety of the distal section <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM>.

Thus, when fully assembled, the outer surface <NUM> of the hub portion <NUM> of the post <NUM> is spaced apart from the inner surface <NUM> of the distal section <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM> of the sleeve portion <NUM> of the refill head <NUM> while the side terminal surfaces <NUM> of the protuberance <NUM> of the post <NUM> are in surface contact with the inner surface <NUM> of the distal section <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM> of the sleeve portion <NUM> of the refill head <NUM>. Thus, there are several air gaps <NUM> that remain that are bounded by adjacent protuberances <NUM>, a portion of the inner surface <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM>, and a portion of the outer surface <NUM> of the hub portion <NUM>. Because there are three protuberances <NUM> in the exemplified embodiment, there are also three air gaps <NUM>, although more or less air gaps will be included based on the number of protuberances <NUM>.

Thus, in this embodiment there is conformal surface contact between the side terminal surfaces <NUM> of the protuberances <NUM> and the inner surface <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM>, but there is no surface contact between the outer surface <NUM> of the hub portion <NUM> and the inner surface <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM>. Vibrations generated by the vibration generating device <NUM> may still be transmitted through the post <NUM> to the refill head <NUM> via the contact between the protuberances <NUM> and the inner surface <NUM> of the internal cavity <NUM>.

While the invention has been described with respect to specific examples including presently preferred modes of carrying out the invention, those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous variations and permutations of the above described systems and techniques. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural and functional modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Thus, the scope of the invention is construed broadly as set forth in the claims.

Aspects of the oral care implement handle.

The invention refers to an oral care implement handle comprising: a gripping portion extending from a proximal end to a distal end; a stem comprising an attachment portion protruding from a first transverse shoulder at the distal end of the gripping portion, the stem extending along a stem axis and configured to be detachably coupled to a replaceable oral care device, the attachment portion of the stem comprising: a second transverse shoulder axially spaced from the first transverse shoulder; and a post protruding from the second transverse shoulder, the post terminating in a closed distal end that forms a free end of the attachment portion of the stem, the post comprising a hub portion extending along the stem axis and a plurality of protuberances protruding (<NUM>) radially from a side surface of the hub portion; and (<NUM>) upward from the second transverse shoulder; and a vibration generating device, characterized in that the plurality of protuberances are circumferentially arranged about the hub portion in a spaced-apart manner from one another.

The plurality of protuberances can be arranged in a circumferentially equi-spaced manner from one another.

The plurality of protuberances can comprise a rib that protrudes radially from the side surface of the hub portion and upward from the second transverse shoulder.

The closed distal end of the post can comprise a depression located on the stem axis.

The gripping portion can comprise an actuator on a front surface of the gripping portion for activating and deactivating the vibration generating device; and one of the plurality of protuberances and the actuator can face the same direction. Each of the plurality of protuberances can have an upper terminal surface and the hub portion has an upper terminal surface that collectively define the free end of the attachment portion of the stem and are can be located in a plane orthogonal to the stem axis.

The attachment portion of the stem can comprise a base portion protruding from the first transverse shoulder and can terminate in a distal surface that forms the second transverse shoulder.

The base portion can comprise a locking feature configured to mate with a locking feature of the replaceable oral care device, the locking feature protruding from a side surface of the base portion.

The base portion can comprise one or more alignment protuberances protruding from a side surface of the base portion.

Each of the plurality of protuberances can have a side terminal surface spaced a first radial distance from the stem axis and the second transverse shoulder can have an outer edge spaced a second radial distance from the stem axis, the second radial distance greater than the first radial distance.

The vibration generating device can comprise a power source, a motor operably coupled to the power source, and an eccentric weight operably coupled to the motor; and wherein a portion of a shaft that supports the eccentric weight can extend into the hub portion of the post.

An oral care implement comprises: the oral care implement handle according to the claims; and a replaceable oral care device coupled to the stem of the oral care implement handle.

The replaceable oral care device can comprise a sleeve portion comprising an inner surface that defines an internal cavity, and wherein the attachment portion of the stem is located within the internal cavity of the sleeve portion.

The plurality of protuberances can terminate in a side terminal surface that is in surface contact with the inner surface of the sleeve portion of the replaceable oral care device.

The side surface of the hub portion can be spaced apart from the inner surface of the sleeve portion of the replaceable oral care device such that a gap exists between the side surface of the hub portion and the inner surface of the sleeve portion.

The sleeve portion of the replaceable oral care device can extend from a proximal end to a distal end, the internal cavity comprising a proximal section adjacent the proximal end and a distal section adjacent the distal end, and wherein the distal section of the internal cavity can comprise a profile that is configured to receive the post of the attachment portion of the stem.

Claim 1:
An oral care implement handle (<NUM>) comprising:
a gripping portion (<NUM>) extending from a proximal end (<NUM>) to a distal end (<NUM>);
a stem (<NUM>) comprising an attachment portion (<NUM>) protruding from a first transverse shoulder (<NUM>) at the distal end (<NUM>) of the gripping portion (<NUM>), the stem (<NUM>) extending along a stem axis (B-B) and configured to be detachably coupled to a replaceable oral care device, the attachment portion (<NUM>) of the stem (<NUM>) comprising:
a second transverse shoulder (<NUM>) axially spaced from the first transverse shoulder (<NUM>); and
a post (<NUM>) protruding from the second transverse shoulder (<NUM>), the post (<NUM>) terminating in a closed distal end (<NUM>) that forms a free end of the attachment portion (<NUM>) of the stem (<NUM>), the post (<NUM>) comprising a hub portion (<NUM>) extending along the stem axis (B-B) and a plurality of protuberances (<NUM>) protruding (<NUM>) radially from a side surface of the hub portion (<NUM>); and (<NUM>) upward from the second transverse shoulder (<NUM>); and
a vibration generating device (<NUM>);
characterized in that
the plurality of protuberances (<NUM>) are circumferentially arranged about the hub portion (<NUM>) in a spaced-apart manner from one another.