Patent Description:
<CIT> discloses an oral care apparatus comprising a handle member and a hollow sensor housing member connected to the handle member. The hollow sensor housing member may include a series of sensors, including a battery, motor for advancing dispensation of solution out of a cartridge, motion sensors and vibration motors to enhance brushing experience.

<CIT> discloses an oral care apparatus comprising a housing containing a drive train assembly resonantly driven by a power system and a printed circuit board with a microprocessor for creating a drive signal for the power system. A magnet is provided at a rear end of the drive train assembly, and at least one sensor is mounted within the oral care apparatus for measuring a strength of the magnetic field within the housing.

The present invention is directed to an oral care apparatus comprising: an oral care implement comprising a body having an internal cavity; a tracking module extending along a longitudinal axis, the tracking module comprising: a coupling portion configured to couple the tracking module to the body of the oral care implement; and an electronics portion comprising at least one sensor configured to measure at least one of a position, an orientation, and a movement of the oral care implement when the tracking module is coupled to the oral care implement; wherein the electronics portion and the coupling portion are coupled together so as to be freely rotatable about the longitudinal axis relative to one another; and wherein the oral care apparatus is alterable between: (<NUM>) an attached state in which the tracking module is coupled to the oral care implement with the electronics portion of the tracking module at least partially positioned within the internal cavity of the body; and (<NUM>) a detached state in which the tracking module is completely separated from the oral care implement.

This disclosure also describes an oral care apparatus comprising: an oral care implement comprising a body having an internal cavity; a tracking module extending along a longitudinal axis, the tracking module comprising: a coupling portion configured to couple the tracking module to the body of the oral care implement; and an electronics portion comprising at least one sensor configured to measure at least one of a position, an orientation, and a movement of the oral care implement when the tracking module is coupled to the oral care implement; wherein at least a portion of the tracking module is positioned within the internal cavity of the body of the oral care implement so that the electronics portion of the tracking module is non-rotatable relative to the body of the oral care implement while the coupling portion of the tracking module is rotatable relative to the body of the oral care implement to couple the tracking module to the body of the oral care implement.

This disclosure also describes a method of assembling an oral care apparatus that includes an oral care implement and a tracking module that monitors a user's oral care hygiene behavior, the method comprising: providing an oral care implement comprising an internal cavity; providing a tracking module comprising a coupling portion and an electronics portion, the electronics portion comprising at least one sensor configured to measure at least one of a position an orientation, and a movement of the oral care implement when the tracking module is coupled to the oral care implement; inserting at least a portion of the electronics portion of the tracking module into the internal cavity of the body of the oral care implement thereby preventing relative rotational movement between the electronics portion of the tracking module and the body of the oral care implement; and rotating the coupling portion of the tracking module relative to the electronics portion of the tracking module and relative to the body of the oral care implement to couple the tracking module to the oral care implement.

This disclosure also describes an oral care apparatus comprising: an oral care implement comprising a body having an internal cavity; a tracking module extending along a longitudinal axis, the tracking module comprising: a coupling portion configured to couple the tracking module to the body of the oral care implement; and an electronics portion comprising at least one sensor configured to measure at least one of a position, an orientation, and a movement of the oral care implement when the tracking module is coupled to the oral care implement; wherein the oral care apparatus is alterable between: (<NUM>) an attached state in which the tracking module is coupled to the oral care implement with the electronics portion of the tracking module at least partially positioned within the internal cavity of the body; and (<NUM>) a detached state in which the tracking module is separated from the oral care implement; and wherein the electronics portion of the tracking module can only be positioned within the internal cavity of the body in a single orientation relative to the body.

This disclosure also describes an oral care apparatus comprising: an oral care implement comprising a body having an internal cavity, the body extending along a longitudinal axis from a proximal end to a distal end; a tracking module comprising: a coupling portion configured to couple the tracking module to the body of the oral care implement; and an electronics portion comprising a power source and a printed circuit board having at least one sensor thereon, the at least one sensor configured to measure at least one of a position, an orientation, and a movement of the oral care implement when the tracking module is coupled to the oral care implement; wherein the oral care apparatus is alterable between: (<NUM>) an attached state in which the tracking module is coupled to the oral care implement with the electronics portion of the tracking module at least partially positioned within the internal cavity of the body; and (<NUM>) a detached state in which the tracking module is completely separated from the oral care implement; and wherein in the attached state the printed circuit board is located adjacent to the proximal end of the body of the oral care implement and the power source is located between the printed circuit board and the distal end of the body of the oral care implement.

This disclosure also describes an oral care apparatus comprising: an oral care implement comprising a body having an inner surface that defines an internal cavity, at least one protuberance extending from the inner surface into the internal cavity; a tracking module comprising a coupling portion configured to couple the tracking module to the body of the oral care implement, the coupling portion comprising a neck portion that terminates in a lower distal edge and an upper distal edge, the upper distal edge formed by an upstanding wall extending upwardly from the lower distal edge; a notch formed into the upstanding wall and extending from the upper distal edge downwardly towards the lower distal edge, the notch dividing the upstanding wall into a first portion and a second portion; and wherein the oral care apparatus is alterable between: (<NUM>) a detached state in which the tracking module is completely separated from the oral care implement; and (<NUM>) an attached state in which the tracking module is at least partially located within the internal cavity of the oral care implement and the tracking module is coupled to the oral care implement; and wherein in the attached state the protuberance extending from the inner surface of the body of the oral care implement nests within the notch in the upstanding wall of the neck portion of the tracking module.

This disclosure also describes an oral care implement comprising: a body extending along a longitudinal axis from a proximal end to a distal end, the body having an inner surface that defines an internal cavity, the inner surface of the body having a first semicircular portion and a second semicircular portion that collectively form the inner surface of the body without overlapping; the inner surface of the body comprising a first alignment feature, a second alignment feature, and a third alignment feature that are circumferentially spaced apart from one another along the inner surface of the body; and wherein the first alignment feature is located along the first semicircular portion of the inner surface of the body and a majority of the second and third alignment features are located along the second semicircular portion of the inner surface of the body.

This disclosure also describes an oral care implement comprising: a body extending along a longitudinal axis from a proximal end to a distal end, the body having an inner surface that defines an internal cavity and an opening at the proximal end; the inner surface of the body having a transverse cross-sectional profile comprising: a first concave portion, a second concave portion, and a third concave portion; and a first channel, a second channel, and a third channel; and wherein the first and second concave portions are separated by the first channel, the second and third concave portions are separated by the second channel, and the third and first concave portions are separated by the third channel.

It should be understood that the detailed description and 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 by the appended claims.

In addition, all references cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

Features of the present invention may be implemented in software, hardware, firmware, or combinations thereof. The computer programs described herein are not limited to any particular embodiment and may be implemented in an operating system, application program, foreground or background processes, driver, or any combination thereof. The computer programs may be executed on a single computer or server processor or multiple computer or server processors.

Processors described herein may be any central processing unit (CPU), microprocessor, micro-controller, computational, or programmable device or circuit configured for executing computer program instructions (e.g., code). Various processors may be embodied in computer and/or server hardware of any suitable type (e.g., desktop, laptop, notebook, tablets, cellular phones, etc.) and may include all the usual ancillary components necessary to form a functional data processing device including without limitation a bus, software and data storage such as volatile and non-volatile memory, input/output devices, graphical user interfaces (GUIs), removable data storage, and wired and/or wireless communication interface devices including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, LAN, etc..

Computer-executable instructions or programs (e.g., software or code) and data described herein may be programmed into and tangibly embodied in a non-transitory computer-readable medium that is accessible to and retrievable by a respective processor as described herein which configures and directs the processor to perform the desired functions and processes by executing the instructions encoded in the medium. A device embodying a programmable processor configured to such non-transitory computer-executable instructions or programs may be referred to as a "programmable device," or "device," and multiple programmable devices in mutual communication may be referred to as a "programmable system. " It should be noted that non-transitory "computer-readable medium" as described herein may include, without limitation, any suitable volatile or non-volatile memory including random access memory (RAM) and various types thereof, read-only memory (ROM) and various types thereof, USB flash memory, and magnetic or optical data storage devices (e.g., internal/external hard disks, floppy discs, magnetic tape CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, optical disk, ZIP™ drive, Blu-ray disk, and others), which may be written to and/or read by a processor operably connected to the medium.

In certain embodiments, the present invention may include computer-implemented processes and apparatuses such as processor-based data processing and communication systems or computer systems for practicing those processes. The present invention may also be embodied in the form of software or computer program code embodied in a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, which when loaded into and executed by the data processing and communications systems or computer systems, the computer program code segments configure the processor to create specific logic circuits configured for implementing the processes.

Referring first to <FIG> concurrently, an oral care apparatus <NUM> will be described in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The oral care apparatus <NUM> generally comprises an oral care implement <NUM> and a tracking module <NUM>. The oral care implement <NUM> is used for cleaning a user's oral cavity (i.e., the teeth, gums, and teeth) in a normal manner and the tracking module <NUM> is used for tracking a user's toothbrushing habits and/or generating data about the user's toothbrushing habits, and/or transmitting that data to an external electronic device where it may be shown on a display. The tracking module <NUM> may include a processor or other circuitry that makes the tracking module <NUM> a "smart" device. Thus, in some embodiments the tracking module <NUM> may be considered a smart module. Alternatively, the tracking module <NUM> may only include the sensors and a transmitter to transmit data to an external device, and the external electronic device may have the processor to perform the required processing of the data. The oral care implement <NUM> functions in a similar manner to a standard toothbrush except that it also has a cavity for housing the tracking module <NUM>. In one embodiment, the tracking module includes all of the electronic technology associated with the oral care apparatus <NUM> that enables the oral care apparatus <NUM> to track a user's toothbrushing habits and provide coaching and instant feedback to the user.

The oral care implement <NUM> and the tracking module <NUM> are configured so as to be detachably couplable to one another. Specifically, the oral care apparatus <NUM> is alterable between: (<NUM>) an attached state, illustrated in <FIG>, in which the tracking module <NUM> is coupled to the oral care implement; and (<NUM>) a detached state, illustrated in <FIG>, in which the tracking module <NUM> is completely separated from the oral care implement <NUM>. The oral care apparatus <NUM> can be readily and easily altered between the attached and detached states as will be appreciated from the description that follows. When assembled, the tracking module <NUM> is held together as a single part and thus attaching it to and separating it from the oral care implement <NUM> is a simple task that can be accomplished in a matter of a few seconds.

As will be discussed in greater detail below, in the exemplified embodiment the tracking module <NUM> is coupled to the oral care implement <NUM> by inserting a portion of the tracking module <NUM> into an internal cavity of the oral care implement <NUM>. As a result, with the oral care apparatus <NUM> in the attached state, most of the tracking module <NUM> is covered from view due to it being located within the internal cavity of the oral care implement <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, with the oral care apparatus <NUM> in the attached state a portion of the tracking module <NUM> protrudes from the end of the oral care implement <NUM> so as to be exposed. This exposed portion of the tracking module <NUM> may serve some functional purposes (e.g., as a stand, as an indicator, etc.), as described in more detail herein below.

In some embodiments, the oral care implement <NUM> does not include any (i.e., is free of) electronic components. Thus, the oral care implement <NUM> does not include any switches, power sources, circuitry, wiring, or the like. Rather, all of the electronic components associated with the oral care apparatus <NUM> are formed as a part of the tracking module <NUM>. The oral care implement <NUM> merely serves as the device that is used for oral cavity cleaning and as a housing for holding the tracking module <NUM>. This enables the oral care implement <NUM> to be replaceable in a cost-effective manner while the tracking module <NUM> may be reused with a replacement oral care implement <NUM>. This is important because the electronic circuitry of the oral care apparatus <NUM> is the most expensive part thereof, and enabling the tracking module <NUM> to be reused with replacement oral care implements <NUM> results in reduced costs for the consumer. Furthermore, in the event that the tracking module <NUM> stores data relevant to a particular user's oral hygiene habits, enabling the user to continue to use that tracking module <NUM> even as the oral care implement <NUM> requires replacement increases the longevity of the oral care apparatus <NUM> and reduces consumer frustration in having to "start over" with a new tracking module <NUM> each time the oral care implement <NUM> requires replacement (i.e., every three months or so). Thus, if the oral care implement <NUM> requires replacement, a user can simply remove the tracking module <NUM> from the oral care implement <NUM> and dispose of the oral care implement <NUM>, purchase a new oral care implement <NUM>, attach the tracking module <NUM> to the new oral care implement <NUM>, and continue using the oral care apparatus <NUM> with the new oral care implement <NUM> in the normal manner.

In the exemplified embodiment, the oral care implement <NUM> is a manual toothbrush. Thus, the invention will be described herein with the details predominately directed to a manual toothbrush. However, in certain other embodiments the oral care implement <NUM> can take on other forms such as being a powered toothbrush (including a motor that moves a bristle holder or a vibratory element that vibrates the head or portions thereof), 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. Still further, the oral care implement <NUM> may not be one that is specifically used for oral care in all embodiments, but rather it may be an implement such as a deodorant application implement, a face or body cleaning implement, a make-up applicator implement, a razor or shaving implement, a hairbrush, or the like. Thus, it is to be understood that the inventive concepts discussed herein can be applied to any type of personal care implement unless a specific type of implement is specified in the claims.

In the exemplified embodiment, the oral care implement <NUM> generally includes a body <NUM> comprising a handle <NUM> and a head <NUM>. The oral care implement <NUM> generally extends along a longitudinal axis A-A from a proximal end <NUM> to a distal end <NUM>. Conceptually, the longitudinal axis A-A is a reference line that is generally coextensive with the three-dimensional center line of the body <NUM>. Because the body <NUM> may, in certain embodiments, be a non-linear structure, the longitudinal axis A-A of the body <NUM> may also be non-linear in certain embodiments. However, the invention is not to be so limited in all embodiments and in certain other embodiments the body <NUM> may have a simple linear arrangement and thus a substantially linear longitudinal axis A-A.

The handle <NUM> is an elongated structure that provides the mechanism by which the user can hold and manipulate the oral care implement <NUM> during use. In the exemplified embodiment, the handle <NUM> is generically depicted having various contours for user comfort. Of course, the invention is not to be so limited in all embodiments and in certain other embodiments the handle <NUM> can take on a wide variety of shapes, contours and configurations, none of which are limiting of the present invention unless so specified in the claims.

In the exemplified embodiment, the body <NUM> including the handle <NUM> and the head <NUM> is formed of a rigid plastic material, such as, for example without limitation, polymers and copolymers of ethylene, propylene, butadiene, vinyl compounds, and polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate. Of course, the handle <NUM> may include a resilient material, such as a thermoplastic elastomer, as a grip cover that is molded over portions of or the entirety of the handle <NUM> to enhance the gripability of the handle <NUM> during use. For example, portions of the handle <NUM> that are typically gripped by a user's palm during use may be overmolded with a thermoplastic elastomer or other resilient material to further increase comfort to a user.

The head <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> is coupled to the handle <NUM> and comprises a front surface <NUM>, an opposing rear surface <NUM>, and a peripheral surface extending between the front and rear surfaces <NUM>, <NUM>. In the exemplified embodiment, the head <NUM> is formed integrally with the handle <NUM> as a single unitary structure using a molding, milling, machining or other suitable process. However, in other embodiments the handle <NUM> and the head <NUM> may be formed as separate components which are operably connected at a later stage of the manufacturing process by any suitable technique known in the art, including without limitation thermal or ultrasonic welding, a tight-fit assembly, a coupling sleeve, threaded engagement, adhesion, or fasteners. In some embodiments, the head <NUM> may be detachable from the handle <NUM> (see, for example, <FIG>).

In the exemplified embodiment, a plurality of tooth cleaning elements <NUM> extend from the front surface <NUM> of the head <NUM>. In the exemplified embodiment, the tooth cleaning elements <NUM> are generically illustrated. 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 <NUM> in any manner known in the art. For example, staples/anchors, in-mold tufting (IM'I') 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 AFT, a plate or membrane is secured to the brush head such as by ultrasonic welding. The bristles extend through the plate or membrane. The free ends of the bristles on one side of the plate or membrane perform the cleaning function. The ends of the bristles on the other side of the plate or membrane are melted together by heat to be anchored in place. Any suitable form of cleaning elements may be used in the broad practice of this invention. Alternatively, the bristles could be mounted to tuft blocks or sections by extending through suitable openings in the tuft blocks so that the base of the bristles is mounted within or below the tuft block.

Although not illustrated herein, in certain embodiments a soft tissue cleanser may be coupled to or positioned on the rear surface <NUM> of the head <NUM> for cleaning the gums, tongue, and other soft tissue surfaces within a user's oral cavity. An example of a suitable soft tissue cleanser that may be used with the present invention and positioned on the rear surface <NUM> of the head <NUM> is disclosed in <CIT> to the assignee of the present application, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference. In certain other embodiments, the soft tissue cleanser may include protuberances, which can take the form of elongated ridges, nubs, or combinations thereof. Of course, the invention is not to be so limited and in certain embodiments the oral care implement <NUM> may not include any soft tissue cleanser.

As best illustrated in <FIG>, the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> comprises an inner surface <NUM> and an outer surface <NUM>. The inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> defines an internal cavity <NUM>, which is a hollow space within which a portion of the tracking module <NUM> is positioned when the oral care apparatus <NUM> is in the attached state. The oral care implement <NUM> also comprises an opening <NUM> at the proximal end <NUM> of the body <NUM> that forms a passageway into the internal cavity <NUM>. Thus, as described in greater detail below, the tracking module <NUM> may be placed into the internal cavity <NUM> by passing the tracking module <NUM> through the opening <NUM> at the proximal end <NUM> of the body <NUM> and into the internal cavity <NUM>. The tracking module <NUM> may also be removed from the internal cavity <NUM> of the body <NUM> through the opening <NUM>.

The tracking module <NUM> extends from a first end <NUM> to a second end <NUM> along a longitudinal axis B-B. The tracking module <NUM> generally comprises a coupling portion <NUM> and an electronics portion <NUM>. The coupling portion <NUM> is the portion of the tracking module <NUM> that is configured to couple the tracking module <NUM> to the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM>. The electronics portion <NUM> comprises the electronic components associated with the oral care apparatus <NUM> for achieving a desired functionality. In one exemplary embodiment, the oral care apparatus <NUM> is intended to track the position, orientation, and/or movement of the oral care implement <NUM> while a user brushes his or her teeth to provide a user with real-time information about his or her brushing habits and technique and/or to provide a user with feedback after completion of brushing. To achieve this tracking of the position, orientation, and/or movement of the oral care implement <NUM>, in the exemplified embodiment the electronics portion <NUM> comprises at least one sensor that is configured to measure at least one of a position, an orientation, and a movement of the oral care implement <NUM> when the tracking module <NUM> is coupled to the oral care implement <NUM>. The sensor can then generate date indicative of the position, orientation, and/or movement of the oral care implement <NUM> and can transmit that data to an external electronic device, as described in more detail below with reference to <FIG>. Of course, the invention is not limited to the tracking module <NUM> being configured to track the position, orientation, and/or movement or the oral care implement <NUM> in all embodiments and other functional goals and purposes may be achieved by the tracking module <NUM> in other embodiments as an alternative to or in addition to those noted herein.

Referring to <FIG>, an electronic schematic illustrating one exemplary embodiment of the electronic portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> is shown in operable communication with an external electronic device <NUM>. The electronic portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> may comprise a processor <NUM>, at least one sensor <NUM>, a power source <NUM>, a wireless transmitter or transceiver <NUM>, and an illumination source <NUM> that are operably coupled together in the manner required to provide power to each of the components and ensure that the processor <NUM> can receive instructions from and send instructions to each of the other components as needed. It should be appreciated that not all of these components are required in all embodiments. For example, the illumination source <NUM> may be an optional component. Furthermore, the processor <NUM> may be omitted and the processing may occur within the external electronic device <NUM>.

The at least one sensor <NUM> may be a single sensor or it may be multiple sensors in different embodiments. Specifically, the tracking module <NUM> may comprise <NUM>-axis sensors including a <NUM>-axis accelerometer, a <NUM>-axis gyroscope, and a <NUM>-axis magnetometer. Of course, the invention is not to be so limited and the tracking module <NUM> may comprise <NUM>-axis sensors or the like in other embodiments as desired. A <NUM>-axis sensor may include a <NUM>-axis accelerometer and a <NUM>-axis gyroscope, or it may include a <NUM>-axis accelerometer and a <NUM>-axis magnetometer, or it may include a <NUM>-axis gyroscope and a <NUM>-axis magnetometer. Various combinations are possible so long as they enable the tracking module <NUM> to perform its function, which in the exemplified embodiment is tracking position, orientation, and/or movement of the oral care implement <NUM> within a user's oral cavity during toothbrushing. Thus, for purposes of this disclosure, the at least one sensor <NUM> may be selected from the group consisting of an accelerometer, a gyroscope, and a magnetometer, and the at least one sensor <NUM> may include more than one of these components.

The transceiver <NUM> may be any device configured to permit communication between the tracking module <NUM> and another electronic device (i.e., the external electronic device <NUM>). Thus, the transceiver may be a Bluetooth transceiver, Wi-Fi, Near Field Communication (NFC), GSM/UMTS, infrared wireless communication, satellite communication, Zigbee, or the like. In the exemplified embodiment communication between the tracking module <NUM> and the external electronic device <NUM> is wireless, but it may be wired in other embodiments. The power source <NUM> may be any source capable of providing power to the other electronic components of the tracking module <NUM>. In the exemplified embodiment the power source <NUM> may be a battery, but the invention is not to be so limited in all embodiments and the power source <NUM> may take on any other form as would be readily appreciated by persons in the art.

As described herein, the oral care apparatus <NUM>, and more specifically the tracking module <NUM>, is configured to communicate with an external electronic device <NUM>. Such an external electronic device <NUM> may be a mobile phone (e.g., smart phone), a laptop, a tablet, a microcomputer with telecommunication means, or any other device having a display means for displaying information related to toothbrushing activity or the like. In the exemplified embodiment, the external electronic device <NUM> comprises a processor <NUM>, a transceiver <NUM> (or a receiver), a power source <NUM>, and a display <NUM> that are operably coupled together for proper operation of the external electronic device <NUM>. The external electronic device <NUM> may also include a memory which may be incorporated into the processor <NUM> or may be a separate component that is operably coupled to the processor <NUM>. The tracking module <NUM> may communicate wirelessly with the external electronic device <NUM> via a communication connection between the transceiver <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> and the transceiver <NUM> of the external electronic device <NUM> (which may be Bluetooth in the exemplified embodiment).

In certain embodiments as described herein, the tracking module <NUM> tracks the position, orientation, location, and/or movement of the oral care implement <NUM> during use. The sensor <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> may generate data indicative of the position, orientation, location, and/or movement of the oral care implement <NUM> and, via its operable connection to the transceiver <NUM> (and perhaps also to the processor <NUM>), transmit that data to the external electronic device <NUM> where it can be displayed on the display <NUM> of the external electronic device <NUM>. The display <NUM> may illustrate, using graphics in real-time, the location of the oral care implement <NUM> within a user's oral cavity. The graphics may illustrate regions of the oral cavity that have already been brushed and regions that have not yet been brushed during a single oral care cleaning session. The graphics may include a game to encourage an individual to brush thoroughly, in a specific brushing pattern, for a specific duration, in a specific location within the oral cavity, or the like. Thus, by placing the tracking module <NUM> into operable communication with the external electronic device <NUM>, a user can be provided with information regarding his or her brushing habits both during a brushing session (real-time or live) and after completion of a brushing session. The tracking module <NUM> and/or the external electronic device <NUM> (such as through a software application that is downloaded and saved on the external electronic device <NUM>) may keep track of a user's brushing habits over time to provide the user with that information so that the user can make adjustments to his or her brushing style if needed.

As noted above, <FIG> provide different views of the oral care apparatus <NUM> in the attached state. <FIG> provides a view of the oral care apparatus <NUM> in the detached state with the power source <NUM> also detached from the tracking module <NUM>. <FIG> provides a view of the oral care apparatus <NUM> in the detached state with the power source <NUM> attached to the tracking module <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> concurrently, the structural details of the tracking module <NUM>, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, will be described. The tracking module <NUM> comprises the coupling portion <NUM> and the electronics portion <NUM>, which are illustrated in their fully assembled forms but separated from one another in <FIG>. In the exemplified embodiment, the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> comprises a first component <NUM><NUM> and a second component <NUM> that are coupled together. In some embodiments, each of the first and second components <NUM>, <NUM> of the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> are formed of a transparent plastic material. Forming the coupling portion <NUM> out of a transparent material enables a light from a light source to be readily seen through the coupling portion <NUM> so that the light can be used as an indicator, as described in more detail below. However, the first and second components <NUM>, <NUM> may be formed of other materials in other embodiments and need not be transparent in all embodiments. Furthermore, although in the exemplified embodiment the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> comprises the first component <NUM> and the second component <NUM> as separate structures that are coupled together, the invention is not to be so limited in all embodiments. Rather, in alternative embodiments the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> may be a single unitary and integral component such that the first and second components <NUM>, <NUM> thereof are a single part.

The first component <NUM><NUM> forms an end cap having an outer surface <NUM> and an inner surface <NUM> that defines a cavity <NUM>. When the first and second components <NUM>, <NUM> are coupled together, a lower portion <NUM> of the second component <NUM> is located within the cavity <NUM> of the first component <NUM> and a neck portion <NUM> of the second component <NUM> extends from the first component <NUM>. The neck portion <NUM> of the second component <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> comprises an inner surface <NUM> that defines a cavity <NUM> and an outer surface <NUM> having a first connection feature <NUM> thereon. The first connection feature <NUM> of the neck portion <NUM> of the second component <NUM> of the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> facilitates coupling of the tracking module <NUM> to the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM>, as described more fully herein below. In the exemplified embodiment, the first connection feature <NUM> comprises screw threads. However, the invention is not to be so limited and the first connection feature <NUM> can take on other structural forms so long as it is configured to couple with a connection feature comprised by the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM>.

The coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> further comprises a personalization ring <NUM>. The personalization ring <NUM> is coupled to a top edge of the first component or end cap <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM>. The personalization ring <NUM> may be detachably coupled to the first component <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> so that it can be swapped out or exchanged for a different personalization ring <NUM>, as discussed in more detail below with reference to <FIG>. The personalization ring <NUM> may be any color, pattern, texture, or the like to assist a user in identifying the tracking module <NUM> or oral care apparatus <NUM> that belongs to that particular user. The personalization ring <NUM> is exposed in the fully assembled oral care apparatus <NUM> (in the attached state) so that it is visible for identification purposes.

The electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> comprises a chassis <NUM> having an outer surface <NUM>. The chassis <NUM> comprises a first portion <NUM> forming a first compartment <NUM> that retains the power source <NUM> and a second portion <NUM> forming a second compartment <NUM> that retains the at least one sensor <NUM>. More specifically, in the exemplified embodiment the first compartment <NUM> is size and shaped to hold a battery therein when a battery (such as a AA or AAA alkaline battery) is used as the power source <NUM>. However, the size of the first compartment <NUM> may be modified as needed so that it is configured to retain any desired power source. Furthermore, as seen in <FIG>, the at least one sensor <NUM> is located on a printed circuit board <NUM> on which the at least one sensor <NUM> and all of the other necessary circuit components (i.e., the processor <NUM>, the transceiver <NUM>, the illumination source <NUM>, capacitors, diodes, resistors, integrated circuits, and the like) are mounted in the traditional manner. The printed circuit board <NUM> is then retained within the second compartment <NUM> formed by the second portion <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>. The printed circuit board <NUM> may be removably positioned within the second compartment <NUM> via engagement between a slot of the second compartment <NUM> and opposing edges of the printed circuit board <NUM>. Alternatively, the printed circuit board <NUM> may be non-removably coupled to the chassis <NUM> within the second compartment <NUM> by using adhesive, welding, or the like to securely retain the printed circuit board <NUM> in place within the second compartment <NUM>.

A first electrical contact element <NUM> is in contact with a first terminal of the power source <NUM> and with a first electrical contact (not shown) on the printed circuit board <NUM>. A second electrical contact element <NUM> is in contact with a second terminal of the power source <NUM> and with a second electrical contact (not shown) on the printed circuit board <NUM>. The first and second electrical contact elements <NUM>, <NUM> are electrically isolated from one another. In this manner, power from the power source <NUM> is supplied to the printed circuit board <NUM> and the electronic components thereon. Thus, the tracking module <NUM> is a stand-alone unit that includes all of the electronic circuitry needed to perform the toothbrushing tracking functions described herein including a power source to power the electronic circuitry.

The chassis <NUM> has a third portion <NUM> located in between the first and second portions <NUM>, <NUM>. Furthermore, the chassis <NUM> has a locking feature <NUM> within the third portion <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> between the first and second portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>. The locking feature <NUM> facilitates coupling of the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> to the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM>, the details of which will be described herein below. In the exemplified embodiment, the locking feature <NUM> is an annular groove formed into the third portion <NUM> of the chassis <NUM>. Of course, the invention is not to be so limited in all embodiments and the locking feature <NUM> may be an annular ridge or the like in other embodiments.

The electronics portion <NUM> and the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> are coupled together in the following manner. First, a battery or other power source <NUM> is placed within the first compartment <NUM> and the printed circuit board <NUM> is placed within the second compartment <NUM>. Next, the second portion <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> with the printed circuit board <NUM> retained in the second compartment <NUM> is inserted into the cavity <NUM> of the neck portion <NUM> of the second component <NUM> of the coupling portion <NUM>. The electronics portion <NUM> and the coupling portion <NUM> continue to be translated towards one another in the axial direction until the locking feature <NUM> (i.e., the annular groove) of the chassis <NUM> is aligned with a channel <NUM> formed into the outer surface <NUM> of the neck portion <NUM> of the second component <NUM> of the coupling portion <NUM>.

Next, a locking element <NUM> is inserted through the channel <NUM> until the locking element <NUM> at least partially nests within the annular groove of the locking feature <NUM>. In the exemplified embodiment, the locking element <NUM> comprises a staple and it is a separate component from the coupling portion <NUM> and the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM>. However, the locking element <NUM> may be an integral part of the coupling portion <NUM> or the electronics portion <NUM> in other embodiments. The locking element <NUM> remains engaged with the neck portion <NUM> of the second component <NUM> of the coupling portion <NUM> as it nests within the annular groove of the locking feature <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> of the electronics portion <NUM>. Thus, the locking element <NUM> is coupled to the neck portion <NUM> of the coupling portion <NUM> and nests within the annular groove of the locking feature <NUM> of the electronics portion <NUM>. As a result, once the locking element <NUM> is inserted into the channel <NUM> and nests within the annular groove of the locking feature <NUM>, the coupling portion <NUM> and the electronics portion <NUM> are substantially fixed relative to one another in an axial direction. Thus, the coupling portion <NUM> and the electronics portion <NUM> cannot be readily separated from one another without first disengaging the locking element <NUM> from the annular groove of the locking feature <NUM>. However, when coupled together in this manner, the electronics portion <NUM> and the coupling portion <NUM> are freely rotatable about the longitudinal axis B-B relative to one another. The electronics portion <NUM> and the coupling portion <NUM> are not movable relative to one another in the axial direction.

The relative rotation between the coupling portion <NUM> and the electronics portion <NUM> is illustrated in <FIG> illustrates the locking element <NUM> in place so that a bight portion <NUM> of the locking element <NUM> is located within the channel <NUM> of the neck portion <NUM> of the coupling portion <NUM> and the legs <NUM> of the locking element <NUM> extend into openings <NUM> on an opposite side of the neck portion <NUM> of the coupling portion <NUM>. Furthermore, the legs <NUM> also nest within the annular groove of the locking feature <NUM>. This manner of coupling the coupling portion <NUM> to the electronics portion <NUM> permits those two components to be freely rotatable about the longitudinal axis B-B relative to one another. This is best shown by comparing <FIG> where it can be seen that the coupling portion <NUM> is rotating about the longitudinal axis B-B while the electrics portion <NUM> remains in the same rotational position. The coupling portion <NUM> and the electronics portion <NUM> can rotate freely in both rotational directions relative to one another even while remaining coupled axially together due to the locking element <NUM>. Stated another way, although the coupling portion <NUM> and the electronics portion <NUM> are freely rotatable relative to one another (they can be rotated <NUM>° relative to one another), the coupling portion and the electronics portion <NUM> are substantially fixed relative to one another in the axial direction.

In an alternative embodiment, the locking feature <NUM> may be an integral part of the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> rather than being a staple or some other type of component that is separate from the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM>. For example, referring briefly to <FIG>, an alternative embodiment of a portion of a tracking module 200a is illustrated in cross-section. In this embodiment, the staple is omitted and instead the locking element 270a is formed as an annular flange that is an integral part of the coupling portion 210a. Thus, in this embodiment the coupling portion 210a of the tracking module 200a is coupled to the electronics portion 250a of the tracking module 200a by way of the locking element 270a (i.e., the annular flange) nesting within the annular groove of the locking feature 261a. The third portion 260a of the chassis 251a may have a ramped surface 262a to facilitate coupling of the coupling portion 210a to the electronics portion 250a. Specifically, as the electronics portion 250a is inserted into the cavity 219a of the neck portion 217a, the neck portion 217a. can flex outwardly as the locking element 270a rides along the ramped surface 262a. Once coupled as shown in <FIG>, the coupling portion 210a and the electronics portion 250a are substantially fixed relative to one another in the axial direction. However, the engagement between the annular flange of the coupling portion 210a and the annular groove 261a of the electronics portion 250a enables the coupling portion 210a and the electronics portion 250a to be freely rotatable relative to one another about the longitudinal axis B-B of the tracking module 200a.

In both the main embodiment illustrated in <FIG> and the alternative embodiment shown in <FIG>, the coupling portion <NUM> and the electronics portion <NUM> are coupled together so as to be substantially fixed relative to one another in the axial direction while being freely rotatable about the longitudinal axis B-B relative to one another. Of course, further alternative embodiments are also possible so long as the coupling portion <NUM> and the electronics portion <NUM> are coupled together so as to be freely rotatable relative to one another about the rotational axis while being substantially fixed relative to one another in the direction of the longitudinal axis B-B. Thus, although grooves and ridges/protuberances are illustrated and described herein as being formed into one of the coupling portion <NUM> or the electronics portion <NUM>, it may be swapped in alternative embodiments. For example, the electronics portion <NUM> may have a flange that fits within a groove formed into the coupling portion <NUM> as an alternative to that which is depicted in <FIG>.

By enabling the coupling portion <NUM> to freely rotate relative to the electronics portion <NUM>, the electronics portion <NUM> can be held in the internal cavity <NUM> of the body <NUM> in a fixed rotational position while permitting the coupling portion <NUM> to rotate relative to the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module and relative to the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM>. It is this structural feature that facilitates coupling of the tracking module <NUM> to the oral care implement <NUM> while ensuring that the electronics portion <NUM> remains in a specific orientation for taking consistent measurements, as described in more detail below with reference to <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the neck portion <NUM> of the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> terminates in a lower distal edge <NUM> and an upper distal edge <NUM>. Specifically, the neck portion <NUM> comprises an upstanding wall <NUM> that extends from the lower distal edge <NUM> to the upper distal edge <NUM>. Furthermore, a notch <NUM> is formed into the upstanding wall <NUM> and extends from the upper distal edge <NUM> in a direction towards the lower distal edge <NUM>. The notch <NUM> divides the upstanding wall <NUM> into a first portion <NUM> and a second portion <NUM>. The notch <NUM> receives a protuberance of the oral care implement <NUM> to provide the user with a tactile indication that the tracking module <NUM> is fully coupled to the oral care implement <NUM>, as discussed in detail below.

Referring to <FIG>, a cross-sectional view of the oral care implement apparatus <NUM> is provided at the location of the notch <NUM>. Thus, <FIG> illustrate the oral care apparatus <NUM> with the tracking module <NUM> located within the internal cavity <NUM> of the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM>. As can be seen, there is a protuberance <NUM> extending from the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> into the internal cavity <NUM>. As the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> is being rotated relative to the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> as discussed herein above, at some point the upstanding wall <NUM> becomes axially aligned with the protuberance <NUM>. The protuberance <NUM> then rides along the first portion <NUM> of the upstanding wall <NUM> until the protuberance <NUM> nests within the notch <NUM>. This progression is illustrated in <FIG>. Thus, the protuberance <NUM> rides along the first portion <NUM> of the upstanding wall <NUM> during rotation of the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> relative to the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> until the protuberance <NUM> falls into and becomes nests within the notch <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. In this regard, the first portion <NUM> of the upstanding wall <NUM> comprises a ramped or chamfered surface <NUM> that facilitates this process.

As a result of the interaction between the upstanding wall <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> and the protuberance <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM>, a user perceptible tactile event occurs when the tracking module <NUM> is fully coupled to the oral care implement <NUM>. Specifically, a user might couple the tracking module <NUM> to the oral care implement <NUM> via rotation of the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> relative to the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> as described previously. During this rotation, the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> moves axially within the internal cavity <NUM> of the body <NUM> until the protuberance <NUM> and the upstanding wall <NUM> are at the same axial elevation. At this point, the user will continue to rotate the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> relative to the body <NUM>, but the user will be able to feel, with his or her hand, the protuberance <NUM> riding along the first portion <NUM> of the upstanding wall <NUM> and then snapping into the notch <NUM>. Thus, this provides the user with a tactile indication that no further rotation of the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> is needed because the tracking module <NUM> is fully coupled to the oral care implement <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a cross-section of the oral care apparatus <NUM> is illustrated in the attached state to show the interaction between the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> and the tracking module <NUM> that maintains the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> in a specific orientation relative to the body <NUM>. In the exemplified embodiment, the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> comprises a plurality of alignment channels <NUM> formed therein. In the exemplified embodiment, there are three of the alignment channels <NUM> formed into the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM>. Of course, more or less than three of the alignment channels <NUM> are possible in other embodiments. Furthermore, in this embodiment the chassis <NUM> of the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> comprises a plurality alignment ridges <NUM> protruding from its outer surface <NUM>. There are three of the alignment ridges <NUM> illustrated in the exemplified embodiment, but more or less than three of the alignment ridges <NUM> are possible in other embodiments. Although the alignment channels <NUM> are formed into the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> and the alignment ridges <NUM> are protruding from the outer surface <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> in the exemplified embodiment, the invention is not to be so limited and in other embodiments alignment channels may be formed into the chassis <NUM> while respective alignment ridges are protruding from the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM>. Furthermore, although the alignment channels <NUM> are illustrated as being formed directly into the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM>, in other embodiments the oral care implement <NUM> may include an insert component that is positioned within the internal cavity <NUM> and the alignment channels <NUM> (or alignment ridges as the case may be) may be formed into the insert component.

The alignment ridges <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> are angularly/rotationally aligned with the alignment channels <NUM> in the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> so that when the tracking module <NUM> is positioned within the internal cavity <NUM> of the body <NUM>, the alignment ridges <NUM> nest within the alignment channels <NUM>. Due to the angular location of the alignment channels <NUM> and the alignment ridges <NUM>, the tracking module <NUM> can only be positioned within the internal cavity <NUM> of the body <NUM> in a single orientation and position relative to the body <NUM>. Specifically, because there are three of the alignment ridges <NUM> and alignment channels <NUM>, there is only one orientation relative to the body <NUM> at which the tracking module <NUM> can be inserted into the internal cavity <NUM>. Although three alignment ridges <NUM> and alignment channels <NUM> are illustrated in the exemplified embodiment, this can also be achieved with one, two, or more than three of the alignment ridges <NUM> and alignment channels <NUM> and/or using other mechanically interlocking and mating features, such as any type of lock-and-key type mating relationship between a feature on the tracking module <NUM> and a feature on the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM>. Furthermore, although in the exemplified embodiment the alignment ridges <NUM> are on the tracking module <NUM> and the alignment channels <NUM> are formed into the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM>, this may be reversed in other embodiments.

In the exemplified embodiment, if the tracking module <NUM> were rotated in either direction and in any degree relative to the body that is different than that which is shown in <FIG>, the alignment ridges <NUM> would not be aligned with the alignment channels <NUM> and the tracking module <NUM> would be prevented from being inserted into the internal cavity <NUM> in that orientation. Thus, the tracking module <NUM> must be rotated relative to the body <NUM> until the alignment ridges <NUM> are exactly aligned with the alignment channels <NUM>, and then the tracking module <NUM> can be translated into the internal cavity <NUM>. In the exemplified embodiment, in the single orientation the at least one sensor <NUM> is aligned with the tooth cleaning elements <NUM> and/or faces in the same direction as the tooth cleaning elements <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the invention described herein may be directed to the oral care implement <NUM> by itself. Specifically, as discussed above the oral care implement <NUM> may be sold as a "refill" such that the tracking module <NUM> may be reused with different oral care implements <NUM>. The refill oral care implements <NUM> may be needed when the tooth cleaning elements <NUM> thereof become splayed and require replacement. Alternatively, different oral care implements having different tooth cleaning element patterns and/or configurations may be desired when each achieves a different purpose (general cleaning, gentle cleaning for sensitive teeth/gums, abrasive or thorough cleaning, tooth whitening, or the like). Thus, in some embodiments the oral care implement <NUM> may in itself form an inventive apparatus.

Still referring to <FIG>, the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> comprises a first semicircular portion <NUM> and a second semicircular portion <NUM> that collectively form the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM>. The first and second semicircular portions <NUM>, <NUM> have an interface located along a plane E-E that is parallel to the longitudinal axis A-A of the oral care implement <NUM> and located centrally between front and rear surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> of the body <NUM>. Stated another way, the plane E-E extends between lateral sides of the body <NUM> that are located between the front and rear surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> of the body <NUM>. The plane E-E divides the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> into the first and second semicircular portions <NUM>, <NUM>.

Specifically, each of the first and second semicircular portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the body <NUM> form a <NUM>° portion of the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> so that collectively the first and second semicircular portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the body <NUM> form the entire <NUM>° of the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM>. In that regard, the first and second semicircular portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> do not overlap one another. The inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> comprises a first alignment feature <NUM>, a second alignment feature <NUM>, and a third alignment feature <NUM>. In the exemplified embodiment, each of the first, second, and third alignment features <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> comprises one of the channels <NUM> described previously. Of course, the invention is not to be so limited and each of the first, second, and third alignment features <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be formed by a ridge, rib, protrusion, or the like in other embodiments so long as it ensures proper alignment of the tracking module <NUM> when the tracking module <NUM> is being inserted into the internal cavity <NUM> of the body <NUM> as described herein.

In the exemplified embodiment, the first alignment feature <NUM> is located along the first semicircular portion <NUM> of the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> and the second and third alignment features <NUM>, <NUM> are located along the second semicircular portion <NUM> of the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM>. In the exemplified embodiment, an entirety of the second and third alignment features <NUM>, <NUM> is located along the second semicircular portion <NUM> of the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM>. In an alternative embodiment, a majority of the second and third alignment features <NUM>, <NUM> may be located along the second semicircular portion <NUM>. What this means is more than one-half of the length of the second and third alignment features <NUM>, <NUM> would be located within the second semicircular portion <NUM> while the remaining portion of the second and third alignment features <NUM>, <NUM> would be located within the first semicircular portion <NUM>.

In the exemplified embodiment, due to the locations of the alignments features <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> is asymmetrical about the plane E-E that is parallel to the longitudinal axis A-A of the body <NUM> and intersects the opposing lateral sides of the body <NUM>. Furthermore, the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> may be symmetrical about a plane F-F that is parallel to the longitudinal axis A-A of the body <NUM> and intersects the front and rear surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> of the body <NUM>.

The structure of inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> will now be described in terms of its transverse cross-sectional profile, as illustrated in <FIG>. Specifically, the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> comprises a first concave portion <NUM>, a second concave portion <NUM>, a third concave portion <NUM>, a first channel <NUM>, a second channel <NUM>, and a third channel <NUM>. The first and second concave portions <NUM>, <NUM> are separated by the first channel <NUM>, the second and third concave portions <NUM>, <NUM> are separated by the second channel <NUM>, and the third and first concave portions <NUM>, <NUM> are separated by the third channel <NUM>. The first concave portion <NUM>, the second concave portion <NUM>, and the first channel <NUM> form the first semicircular portion <NUM> of the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> and the third concave portion <NUM>, the second channel <NUM>, and the third channel <NUM> form the second semicircular portion <NUM> of the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM>. In this embodiment, the third concave portion <NUM> is longer than each of the first and second concave portions <NUM>, <NUM> and therefore forms a greater portion/percentage of the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> than the first and second concave portions <NUM>, <NUM>. As seen in <FIG>, the transverse cross-sectional profile of the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> is asymmetrical about the plane E-E that is parallel to the longitudinal axis A-A of the body <NUM> and intersects first and second lateral sides of the body <NUM> and symmetrical about the plane F-F that is parallel to the longitudinal axis A-A of the body <NUM> and intersects the front surface <NUM> and the rear surface <NUM> of the body <NUM>.

Once the tracking module <NUM> is positioned within the internal cavity <NUM> of the body <NUM>, the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> is prevented from rotating relative to the body <NUM> due to the engagement between the alignment ridges <NUM> of the chassis <NUM> of the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> and the alignment channels <NUM> formed into the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM>. Thus, even if a person were to attempt to rotate the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> relative to the body <NUM>, it would not be possible. Specifically, if one were to attempt to rotate the electronics portion <NUM> clockwise, a wall <NUM> of a first one of the alignment ridges <NUM> would engage a wall <NUM> of a first one of the alignment channels <NUM> to prevent such clockwise rotation of the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM>. If one were to attempt to rotate the electronics portion counter-clockwise, a wall <NUM> of a second one of the alignment ridges <NUM> would engage a wall <NUM> of a second one of the alignment channels <NUM> to prevent such counter-clockwise rotation of the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM>.

Thus, the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> is configured to be positioned within the internal cavity <NUM> of the body <NUM> in a single orientation. It is not possible to position the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> in the internal cavity <NUM> in any orientation other than the single orientation. Furthermore, it is not possible to rotate the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> relative to the body <NUM> when the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> is positioned within the internal cavity <NUM> of the body <NUM>. Thus, the alignment channels <NUM> and the alignment ridges <NUM> operate to ensure proper alignment of the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> relative to the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> and to maintain the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> in the single acceptable orientation. The alignment channels <NUM> and the alignment ridges <NUM> may also be referred to herein as anti-rotation channels and anti-rotation ridges because they prevent rotation of the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> while the tracking module <NUM> is positioned within the internal cavity <NUM> of the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM>.

Turning now to <FIG>, the process of assembling the oral care apparatus <NUM> by inserting the tracking module <NUM> into the internal cavity <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> and coupling the tracking module <NUM> to the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> will be described. First, the alignment ridges <NUM> of the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> are aligned with the alignment channels <NUM> of the body <NUM>. Next, the first end <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> is inserted through the opening <NUM> in the proximal end <NUM> of the body <NUM> and into the internal cavity <NUM>. The tracking module <NUM> is continued to be moved into the internal cavity <NUM> by translating the tracking module <NUM> relative to the body <NUM> in a direction of the longitudinal axis A-A until it can no longer be translated (see <FIG>).

As noted previously, the outer surface <NUM> of the neck portion <NUM> of the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> comprises a first connection feature <NUM> thereon which in the exemplified embodiment comprises first screw threads. Furthermore, the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> comprises a second connection feature <NUM> thereon which in the exemplified embodiment comprises second screw threads. The second connection feature <NUM> is located adjacent to the proximal end <NUM> of the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM>. Stated another way, the second screw threads are located closely adjacent to the opening <NUM> at the proximal end <NUM> of the body <NUM> with only a small space between the proximal end <NUM> and the beginning of the second screw threads. During insertion of the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> into the internal cavity <NUM> of the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM>, as soon as the first screw threads of the first connection feature <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> abut against the second screw threads of the second connection feature <NUM> of the body <NUM>, the tracking module <NUM> can no longer be moved into the internal cavity <NUM> simply by translating the tracking module <NUM> in the direction of the longitudinal axis A-A. The abutment between the first and second screw threads of the first and second connection features <NUM>, <NUM> is illustrated in <FIG>.

Once translation of the tracking module <NUM> is stopped as noted above, the alignment ridges <NUM> of the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> are nesting within the alignment channels <NUM> of the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM>. As a result, when the tracking module <NUM> is in this position relative to the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> (see <FIG>), the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> is prevented from rotating relative to the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM>. This is to ensure that the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM>, and more specifically the sensors thereon, remain in the proper predetermined orientation relative to the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> at all times during use.

At this point in the assembly process, the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> is rotated relative to the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> (and relative to the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM>, which is prevented from rotating as described herein) to mate or engage the first screw threads of the first connection feature <NUM> with the second screw threads of the second connection feature <NUM>. Specifically, rotating the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> will automatically cause the first and second screw threads of the first and second connection features <NUM>, <NUM> to engage one another, thereby coupling the tracking module <NUM> to the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates the oral care apparatus <NUM> with the tracking module <NUM> fully coupled to the oral care implement <NUM>.

Each time that the tracking module <NUM> is coupled to the oral care implement <NUM>, the sensors <NUM> are in the exact same location and orientation relative to the body <NUM>, and more specifically relative to the tooth cleaning elements <NUM>. Specifically, the sensors <NUM> are in the exact same axial position and the exact same circumferential position. Thus, the sensors <NUM> are located in the exact same place any time that the tracking module <NUM> is coupled to the oral care implement <NUM>. If there is an accelerometer and a magnetometer, the accelerometer is always in the same exact location and the magnetometer is always in the exact same location when the tracking module <NUM> is coupled to the oral care implement. This is to ensure that the measurements being taken by those sensors <NUM> are consistent and accurate during each usage of the oral care apparatus <NUM>.

As noted previously, while the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> is being rotated relative to the body <NUM>, the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> does not and can not rotate relative to the body <NUM>. Rather, due to the interaction between the alignment ridges <NUM> and the alignment channels <NUM>, the electronics portion <NUM> is held in place without rotating. Thus, when at least a portion of the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> is located within the internal cavity <NUM> of the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM>, the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> is non-rotatable relative to the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> while the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> is rotatable relative to the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> to couple the tracking module <NUM> to the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM>. Stated another way, the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> is prohibited from rotating relative to the body <NUM> during rotation of the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM>. Thus, during rotation of the coupling portion <NUM> to engage the first and second screw threads, the coupling portion <NUM> rotates relative to the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> and relative to the electronics portion <NUM>.

Although the first and second connection features <NUM>, <NUM> are illustrated and described herein as being screw threads, the invention is not to be so limited in all embodiments. Rather, other structural components may be used that permit rotation of the coupling portion <NUM> relative to the body <NUM> to result in the tracking module <NUM> being coupled to the body <NUM>. Specifically, the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> and the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> may have other mating structures that interact and engage each other upon rotation of the coupling portion <NUM> relative to the body <NUM>. For example, a protrusion on the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> may engage a notch on the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> such as, for example, via an interference fit. The rotation of the coupling portion <NUM> may not result in translation of the tracking module <NUM> into the cavity <NUM> (as it does with the screw thread engagement of the exemplified embodiment), but it may instead simply lock the tracking module <NUM> in place. Variations to this are possible and would be appreciated by persons skilled in the art.

As noted above, the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> can only be positioned within the internal cavity <NUM> of the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> in a single orientation relative to the body <NUM>. This is due to the location of the alignment ridges <NUM> on the chassis <NUM> and the alignment channels in the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM>. It is important to maintain the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> in the same orientation relative to the body <NUM> at all times to ensure that the measurements being taken by the sensors of the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> are consistent and accurate. Specifically, in some embodiments the tracking module <NUM> is configured to measure the position or orientation of the oral care implement <NUM> during toothbrushing. If the sensors that are measuring the position or orientation of the oral care implement <NUM> may be located in different orientations relative to the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM>, different measurements will be sensed. Thus, each time that the tracking module <NUM> is coupled to the body <NUM>, the sensors must be oriented in the same manner in order to ensure consistency among the measurements taken by the sensors.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, in the exemplified embodiment the printed circuit board <NUM> has a front surface <NUM> and an opposite rear surface <NUM>. The electronic components including the at least one sensor <NUM> are located on the front surface <NUM> of the printed circuit board <NUM>. In the exemplified embodiment, in the single and only orientation that the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> is permitted to be placed within the internal cavity <NUM> of the body <NUM>, the front surface <NUM> of the printed circuit board <NUM> and the front surface <NUM> of the head <NUM> (from which the tooth cleaning elements <NUM> extend) face the same direction. Of course, other possibilities exist such as the rear surface <NUM> of the printed circuit board <NUM> and the front surface <NUM> of the head <NUM> facing the same direction. It may merely be important in some embodiments that the printed circuit board <NUM>, and hence also the sensors thereon, are positioned within the internal cavity <NUM> of the body <NUM> in the same orientation each time that the tracking module <NUM> is coupled to the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> regardless of what that specific orientation may be.

When the oral care apparatus <NUM> is in the attached state as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the tracking module <NUM> is coupled to the oral care implement <NUM> with the printed circuit board <NUM> located adjacent to the proximal end <NUM> of the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> and the power source <NUM> located between the printed circuit board <NUM> and the distal end <NUM> of the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM>. Thus, the printed circuit board <NUM> and the sensors positioned thereon are located at (or closely adjacent to) the proximal end <NUM> of the body <NUM>. In the exemplified embodiment, the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> has a length L1 measured between the proximal end distal ends <NUM>, <NUM>, and the printed circuit board <NUM> is located within a bottom-most one-tenth of the length L1 of the body <NUM>.

This positioning of the printed circuit board <NUM>, and specifically the at least one sensor <NUM>, may be important in some embodiments to ensure accurate and consistent measurements can be taken by the sensor <NUM>. In the exemplified embodiment, the printed circuit board <NUM> is located within the cavity <NUM> of the neck portion <NUM> so that the printed circuit board <NUM> is aligned with the first connection feature <NUM>. Stated another way, a plane C-C that is transverse to the longitudinal axis B-B of the tracking module <NUM> intersects the printed circuit board <NUM> and the first connection feature <NUM> (i.e., the screw threads on the neck portion <NUM>).

Furthermore, in the exemplified embodiment, the printed circuit board <NUM> protrudes beyond the proximal end <NUM> of the body <NUM>. Thus, there also exists a plane D-D that is transverse to the longitudinal axis B-B that intersects a portion of the printed circuit board <NUM> without also intersecting the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM>. In the exemplified embodiment, the illumination source <NUM> is positioned on the printed circuit board <NUM> at a location such that a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis B-B of the tracking module that intersects the illumination source <NUM> does not also intersect the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM>. Thus, a first portion of the printed circuit board <NUM> is located within the internal cavity <NUM> of the body <NUM> and a second portion of the printed circuit board <NUM> protrudes from the proximal end <NUM> of the body <NUM>. The second portion of the printed circuit board <NUM> includes the illumination source <NUM> in the exemplified embodiment.

Furthermore, in the exemplified embodiment the end cap (i.e., the first component <NUM>) of the coupling portion <NUM> is in the shape of a truncated cone having a wider diameter at the bottom end than the top end. When the tracking module <NUM> is coupled to the oral care implement <NUM>, at least a portion of the electronics portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> is located within the internal cavity <NUM> of the body <NUM> and at least a portion of the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> protrudes from the distal end <NUM> of the body <NUM>. More specifically, the first component <NUM> of the coupling portion <NUM> protrudes from the distal end <NUM> of the body <NUM>. By having a truncated cone shape as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the second component <NUM> of the coupling portion <NUM> is configured to maintain the oral care apparatus <NUM> in an upright position when the oral care apparatus <NUM> is in the attached state. Specifically, if the bottom end of the first component <NUM> is placed upon a horizontal surface such as a desk, a sink, or the like, the oral care apparatus <NUM> will be maintained in an upright orientation with the longitudinal axis A-A of the oral care implement <NUM> extending perpendicularly from the horizontal surface.

Furthermore, as best seen in <FIG>, the outer surface <NUM> of the first component <NUM> of the coupling portion <NUM> is flush with the outer surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM>. In some embodiments, the personalization ring <NUM> may be located adjacent the proximal end <NUM> of the body <NUM>, in which case the outer surface of the personalization ring <NUM> may be flush with the outer surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> of the oral care implement. This provides the oral care apparatus <NUM> with a seamless appearance that is aesthetically pleasing and that lacks protrusions or portions that "jut" outwardly to enhance comfort during handling and use.

Referring to <FIG>, in this embodiment the illumination source <NUM> referred to above with reference to <FIG> is illustrated in an illuminated state. Because the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> is transparent, when the illumination source <NUM> is illuminated, it lights up the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM>. Due to the location of the circuit board <NUM> within the cavity <NUM> of the neck portion <NUM>, when the illumination source <NUM> is illuminated, the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> will light up. In certain embodiments, the illumination source <NUM> may comprise one or more LEDs. Alternatively, the illumination source <NUM> may be something other than LED, such as OLED, incandescent, fluorescent (such as compact fluorescent light or CFL), halogen, or the like. When the illumination source <NUM> includes one LED, it may be configured to light up in multiple different colors. When the illumination source <NUM> comprises multiple LEDs, each might be configured to illuminate in a different color. For example, the illumination source <NUM> might illuminate in a first color to indicate Bluetooth (or other wireless) connectivity with the external electronic device <NUM>, a second color to indicate that the tracking module <NUM> is recording and/or otherwise tracking a toothbrushing session, a third color to indicate the status of the battery (i.e., low battery), and the like. Thus, the illumination source <NUM> may function as an indicator light to provide information to a user based on the color, flashing pattern, brightness, or the like at which the illumination source <NUM> is illuminated.

Furthermore, in the exemplified embodiment a bottom surface <NUM> of the second component <NUM> of the coupling portion <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> forms a lens for concentrating and/or dispersing the light generated by the illumination source <NUM>. By forming the bottom surface <NUM> of the second component <NUM> as a lens, the light from the illumination source <NUM> can be directed in a desired manner to ensure that it is readily seen by a user to provide the user with useful information. The illumination source <NUM> is placed directly adjacent to the lens as seen in <FIG> to facilitate proper dispersion of the light generated by the illumination source <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a portion of the oral care apparatus <NUM> is illustrated with the personalization rings 290a-290c having different styles. The personalization rings 290a-290c may have different colors, textures, patterns, materials, or the like. As discussed above, the personalization rings 290a-290c may be detachably coupled to the oral care apparatus <NUM>, and more specifically to the tracking module <NUM>. As a result, a user can swap out the personalization rings 290a-290c as desired to use a particular personalization ring 290a-290c that the user most prefers based on color, pattern, material, texture, theme, or the like. The purpose of <FIG> is to exemplify that different personalization rings <NUM> may be attached to the oral care apparatus <NUM> to enable quick and easy identification of which oral care apparatus <NUM> belongs to which user.

Referring to <FIG>, an alternative embodiment of an oral care apparatus 1000a is illustrated. The oral care apparatus 1000a is identical to the oral care apparatus <NUM> described above except that in this embodiment the body 101a comprises a handle portion 110a and a head portion 120a that are detachable from one another. Thus, the head portion 120a in this embodiment is a refill head so that the head portion 120a can be replaced without also replacing the handle portion 110a. The handle portion 110a and the head portion 120a may include features to facilitating coupling of the two portions together.

Use of the oral care apparatus <NUM> will now be described. First, a user will make sure that the tracking module <NUM> has a working power source <NUM> (i.e., battery). Next, the tracking module <NUM> is inserted into the cavity <NUM> of the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> and the tracking module <NUM> is coupled to the body <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> in the manner described in detail herein above. The oral care apparatus <NUM> may be left in this attached state all the time, both during use and in between uses. Thus, the oral care apparatus <NUM> may be stored in the attached state. The only reasons to alter the oral care apparatus <NUM> from the attached state to the detached state are to change the power source <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> or to attach the tracking module <NUM> to another oral care implement <NUM> when replacement of the first oral care implement <NUM> is required (due to splaying of the bristles, etc. oral care implements are supposed to be replaced every three months).

When a user desires to use the oral care apparatus <NUM> for teeth cleaning, the user will pick up the oral care apparatus <NUM>, apply dentifrice or the like to the tooth cleaning elements <NUM>, apply water to the tooth cleaning elements <NUM> as desired, and then insert the head <NUM> of the oral care implement <NUM> into the user's oral cavity. The user will then brush in the normal manner. The tracking module <NUM> may be configured to automatically power on upon detecting that the user is cleaning the oral cavity or brushing the teeth. Thus, in the exemplified embodiment neither the oral care implement <NUM> nor the tracking module <NUM> has a power button. Rather, the tracking module <NUM> powers on automatically upon detecting that the oral care implement <NUM> is being used for tooth cleaning. Upon being powered on, the tracking module <NUM>, and more specifically the one or more sensors <NUM> thereof, will begin measuring the position, orientation, and/or movement of the oral care implement and generating data indicative of the position, orientation, and/or movement of the oral care implement. Of course, in other embodiments the tracking module <NUM> may include a power button or the like to initiate activation thereof.

The tracking module <NUM> may be in operable communication with an external electronic device <NUM> as described herein. Thus, a user may open an application on the external electronic device <NUM> to initiate communication between the oral care apparatus <NUM> and the external electronic device <NUM>. This can be achieved by a user opening an application on a smart phone, or the like. In such an embodiment, once communication is established between the oral care apparatus <NUM> and the external electronic device <NUM>, the data being generated by the one or more sensors <NUM> of the tracking module <NUM> may be transmitted to the external electronic device <NUM>. This data can then be used to provide the user with real-time coaching and instant feedback regarding his or her toothbrushing technique. The display of the external electronic device <NUM> may display a game or other visual representation of the user's toothbrushing to indicate to the user how effectively he or she is brushing, which teeth/portions of the oral cavity have been brushed and which have not, and other information which may be desirable for a user to be presented with to enhance their oral hygiene experience and encourage proper brushing.

Claim 1:
An oral care apparatus (<NUM>) comprising:
an oral care implement (<NUM>) comprising a body (<NUM>) having an internal cavity (<NUM>);
a tracking module (<NUM>) extending along a longitudinal axis (B-B), the tracking module (<NUM>) comprising:
a coupling portion (<NUM>) configured to couple the tracking module (<NUM>) to the body (<NUM>) of the oral care implement (<NUM>); and
an electronics portion (<NUM>) comprising at least one sensor (<NUM>) configured to measure at least one of a position, an orientation, and a movement of the oral care implement (<NUM>) when the tracking module (<NUM>) is coupled to the oral care implement (<NUM>);
wherein the oral care apparatus (<NUM>) is alterable between: an attached state in which the tracking module (<NUM>) is coupled to the oral care implement (<NUM>); and a detached state in which the tracking module (<NUM>) is completely separated from the oral care implement (<NUM>),
characterized in that
the electronics portion (<NUM>) and the coupling portion (<NUM>) are coupled together so as to be freely rotatable about the longitudinal axis (B-B) relative to one another; and
in the attached state, the electronics portion (<NUM>) of the tracking module (<NUM>) is at least partially positioned within the internal cavity (<NUM>) of the body (<NUM>).