Patent Application
20160338480
The invention relates generally to mechanical, electrical, or electromechanical devices, and provides rotational components, methods, and related devices and other applications that are useful for a wide variety of purposes.
Electromechanical devices are ubiquitous. Some of these devices include rotating components and are used in many different applications.
In one aspect, the invention provides a handheld device (e.g., tooth brushing devices, etc.) that includes a head portion comprising at least one housing that comprises top and bottom areas, wherein the top area comprises at least one top opening and the bottom area comprises at least one bottom opening, wherein the housing comprises at least one rotational component receiving area that communicates with the top and bottom openings. The handheld device also includes at least a first rotational component body structure portion disposed at least partially within the rotational component receiving area, which first rotational component body structure portion comprises a top surface, a bottom surface, and at least one orifice disposed at least partially through the first rotational component body structure portion, which orifice is configured to reversibly receive at least one section of at least a second rotational component body structure portion that comprises, or is configured to comprise, at least one implement through the bottom opening such that a segment of the second rotational component body structure portion is reversibly received in and/or through the top opening, and wherein the first rotational component body structure portion comprises at least one gear component disposed on at least one segment of the first rotational component body structure portion between the top and bottom surfaces of the first rotational component body structure portion. The handheld device also includes at least one drive mechanism component or portion thereof that operably engages the gear component of the first rotational component body structure portion and effects rotation of at least the first rotational component body structure portion and the second rotational component body structure portion at least partially around at least one rotational axis when the orifice reversibly receives the second rotational component body structure portion through the bottom opening. In addition, the handheld device also includes a handle portion operably connected or connectable to the head portion.
In some embodiments, the handle portion is reversibly connectable to the head portion. In certain embodiments, the handheld device includes more than one top opening, more than one bottom opening, more than one rotational component receiving area, and/or more than one first rotational component body structure portions, wherein neighboring pairs of first rotational component body structure portions are configured to rotate in opposite directions relative to one another. In some embodiments, the first rotational component body structure portion, the second rotational component body structure portion, and/or parts thereof comprise at least one resilient coupling that resiliently couples the portions and/or the parts thereof to one another. In certain embodiments, the first and/or second rotational component body structure portion comprises at least one alignment component or portion thereof that is configured to reversibly align the first and second rotational component body structure portions relative to one another. In some embodiments, the handheld device includes more than one second rotational component body structure portion. In some of these embodiments, at least one of the second rotational component body structure portions lacks one or more implements. In some of these embodiments, one or more of the second rotational component body structure portions comprise, or are configured to comprise, the implement. In some of these embodiments, at least a portion of the implement comprises at least one cross-sectional shape selected from the group consisting of: a circle, an oval, a square, a rectangle, a trapezoid, an irregular n-sided polygon, and a regular n-sided polygon.
In some embodiments, the drive mechanism component or a portion thereof comprises at least one chain of meshed gear components that is configured to effect rotation of at least the first rotational component body structure portion and the second rotational component body structure portion when the orifice reversibly receives the second rotational component body structure portion through the bottom opening. In certain embodiments, the drive mechanism component or a portion thereof comprises at least one shaft component that is configured to effect rotation of at least the first rotational component body structure portion and the second rotational component body structure portion when the orifice reversibly receives the second rotational component body structure portion through the bottom opening.
In some embodiments, the handheld device includes at least one retaining mechanism or portion thereof (e.g., a cover component or the like) that is configured to reversibly retain the first and/or second rotational component body structure portion disposed in the rotational component receiving area. In some of these embodiments, the retaining mechanism or portion thereof comprises at least one attachment component or portion thereof that is configured to reversibly attach the retaining mechanism or portion thereof to the head and/or handle portion.
In some embodiments, the handheld device includes the second rotational component body structure portion. In some of these embodiments, the second rotational component body structure portion comprises the implement.
In another aspect, the invention provides a handheld device that includes a head portion comprising at least one housing that comprises top and bottom areas, wherein the top area comprises at least one top opening and the bottom area comprises at least one bottom opening, wherein the housing comprises at least one rotational component receiving area that communicates with the top and bottom openings, which rotational component receiving area is configured to reversibly receive at least a portion of at least one interchangeable rotational component through the bottom opening such that a segment of the interchangeable rotational component that comprises, or is configured to comprise, at least one implement is reversibly received in and/or through the top opening, which interchangeable rotational component comprises at least one gear component. The handheld device also includes at least one drive mechanism component or portion thereof that operably engages the gear component of the interchangeable rotational component and effects rotation of at least the interchangeable rotational component when the rotational component receiving area reversibly receives at least the portion of the interchangeable rotational component through the bottom opening. In addition, the handheld device also includes a handle portion operably connected or connectable to the head portion.
In some embodiments, the handle portion is reversibly connectable to the head portion. In some embodiments, the handheld device includes more than one top opening, more than one bottom opening, more than one rotational component receiving area, and/or more than one interchangeable rotational components, wherein neighboring pairs of the interchangeable rotational components are configured to rotate in opposite directions relative to one another. In some embodiments, the handheld device includes more than one interchangeable rotational component. In some of these embodiments, at least one of the interchangeable rotational components lacks one or more implements. In some of these embodiments, one or more of the interchangeable rotational components comprise, or are configured to comprise, the implement. In some of these embodiments, at least a portion of the implement comprises at least one cross-sectional shape selected from the group consisting of: a circle, an oval, a square, a rectangle, a trapezoid, an irregular n-sided polygon, and a regular n-sided polygon.
In some embodiments, segments of the interchangeable rotational component comprise at least one resilient coupling that resiliently couples the segments to one another. In some embodiments, the interchangeable rotational component comprises at least one alignment component or portion thereof that is configured to reversibly align the interchangeable rotational component and the housing relative to one another.
In some embodiments, the drive mechanism component or a portion thereof comprises at least one chain of meshed gear components that is configured to effect rotation of at least the interchangeable rotational component when the rotational component receiving area reversibly receives at least the portion of the interchangeable rotational component through the bottom opening. In some embodiments, the drive mechanism component or a portion thereof comprises at least one shaft component that is configured to effect rotation of at least the interchangeable rotational component when the rotational component receiving area reversibly receives at least the portion of the interchangeable rotational component through the bottom opening.
In some embodiments, the handheld device includes at least one retaining mechanism or portion thereof (e.g., a cover component or the like) that is configured to reversibly retain the interchangeable rotational component disposed in the rotational component receiving area. In some of these embodiments, the retaining mechanism or portion thereof comprises at least one attachment component or portion thereof that is configured to reversibly attach the retaining mechanism or portion thereof to the head and/or handle portion.
In some embodiments, the handheld device includes the interchangeable rotational component. In some of these embodiments, the interchangeable rotational component comprises the implement.
In another aspect, the invention provides a handheld device that includes a head portion comprising at least one housing that comprises top and bottom areas, wherein the top area comprises at least two top openings and the bottom area comprises at least two bottom openings, wherein the housing comprises at least two rotational component receiving areas that communicate with one or more of the top and bottom openings, wherein each of the rotational component receiving areas comprises at least a first rotational component body structure portion disposed at least partially within at least one of the rotational component receiving areas, which first rotational component body structure portion comprises a top surface, a bottom surface, and at least one orifice disposed at least partially through the first rotational component body structure portion, which orifice is configured to reversibly receive at least one section of at least a second rotational component body structure portion that comprises, or is configured to comprise, at least one implement through the top opening such that a segment of the second rotational component body structure portion is reversibly received in and/or through the top opening, wherein the first rotational component body structure portion comprises at least one gear component disposed on at least one segment of the first rotational component body structure portion between the top and bottom surfaces of the first rotational component body structure portion, and wherein the gear component of one of the first rotational component body structure portions operably engages the gear component of at least one other first rotational component body structure portion. The handheld device also includes at least one drive mechanism component or portion thereof that operably engages at least one of the gear components of the first rotational component body structure portions such that neighboring pairs of first rotational component body structure portions rotate in opposite directions relative to one another. In addition, the handheld device also includes a handle portion operably connected or connectable to the head portion. In some embodiments, the handle portion is reversibly connectable to the head portion.
In some embodiments, the handheld device includes more than two top openings, more than two bottom openings, more than two rotational component receiving areas, and/or more than two first rotational component body structure portions, wherein neighboring pairs of first rotational component body structure portions are configured to rotate in opposite directions relative to one another. In some embodiments, the handheld device includes more than two second rotational component body structure portions. In some of these embodiments, at least one of the second rotational component body structure portions lacks one or more implements. In some of these embodiments, one or more of the second rotational component body structure portions comprise, or are configured to comprise, the implement. In some of these embodiments, at least a portion of the implement comprises at least one cross-sectional shape selected from the group consisting of: a circle, an oval, a square, a rectangle, a trapezoid, an irregular n-sided polygon, and a regular n-sided polygon.
In some embodiments, one or more of the first rotational component body structure portions, the second rotational component body structure portions, and/or parts thereof comprise at least one resilient coupling that resiliently couples the portions and/or the parts thereof to one another. In some embodiments, one or more of the first and/or second rotational component body structure portions comprise at least one alignment component or portion thereof that is configured to reversibly align the first and second rotational component body structure portions relative to one another.
In some embodiments, the drive mechanism component or a portion thereof comprises at least one chain of meshed gear components that is configured to effect rotation of at least one of the first rotational component body structure portions. In some embodiments, the drive mechanism component or a portion thereof comprises at least one shaft component that is configured to effect rotation of at least one of the first rotational component body structure portions.
In some embodiments, the handheld device includes at least one retaining mechanism or portion thereof (e.g., a cover component or the like) that is configured to reversibly retain one or more of the first and/or second rotational component body structure portions disposed in the rotational component receiving areas. In some of these embodiments, the retaining mechanism or portion thereof comprises at least one attachment component or portion thereof that is configured to reversibly attach the retaining mechanism or portion thereof to the head and/or handle portion.
In some embodiments, the handheld device includes one or more of the second rotational component body structure portions. In some of these embodiments, the second rotational component body structure portions comprise the implements. In some of these embodiments, the implements of one of the second rotational component body structure portions are different from the implements of another of the second rotational component body structure portions.
In another aspect, the invention provides a handheld device that includes a head portion comprising at least one housing that comprises top and bottom areas, wherein the top area comprises at least one top opening, wherein the housing comprises at least one rotational component receiving area that communicates with the top opening, which rotational component receiving area is configured to reversibly receive at least a portion of at least one interchangeable rotational component through the top opening such that a segment of the interchangeable rotational component that comprises, or is configured to comprise, at least one implement is reversibly received in and/or through the top opening, which interchangeable rotational component comprises at least one gear component. The handheld device also includes at least one drive mechanism component or portion thereof that operably engages the gear component of the interchangeable rotational component and effects rotation of at least the interchangeable rotational component when the rotational component receiving area reversibly receives at least the portion of the interchangeable rotational component through the top opening. In addition, the handheld device also includes a handle portion operably connected or connectable to the head portion. In some embodiments, the handle portion is reversibly connectable to the head portion.
In some embodiments, the handheld device includes more than one top opening, one or more bottom openings, more than one rotational component receiving area, and/or more than one interchangeable rotational component, wherein neighboring pairs of the interchangeable rotational components are configured to rotate in opposite directions relative to one another.
In some embodiments, the handheld device includes more than one interchangeable rotational component. In some of these embodiments, at least one of the interchangeable rotational components lacks one or more implements. In some of these embodiments, one or more of the interchangeable rotational components comprise, or are configured to comprise, the implement. In some of these embodiments, at least a portion of the implement comprises at least one cross-sectional shape selected from the group consisting of: a circle, an oval, a square, a rectangle, a trapezoid, an irregular n-sided polygon, and a regular n-sided polygon.
In some embodiments, segments of the interchangeable rotational component comprise at least one resilient coupling that resiliently couples the segments to one another. In some embodiments, the interchangeable rotational component comprises at least one alignment component or portion thereof that is configured to reversibly align the interchangeable rotational component and the housing relative to one another.
In some embodiments, the drive mechanism component or a portion thereof comprises at least one chain of meshed gear components that is configured to effect rotation of at least the interchangeable rotational component when the rotational component receiving area reversibly receives at least the portion of the interchangeable rotational component through the top opening. In some embodiments, the drive mechanism component or a portion thereof comprises at least one shaft component that is configured to effect rotation of at least the interchangeable rotational component when the rotational component receiving area reversibly receives at least the portion of the interchangeable rotational component through the top opening.
In some embodiments, the handheld device includes at least one retaining mechanism or portion thereof (e.g., a cover component or the like) that is configured to reversibly retain the interchangeable rotational component disposed in the rotational component receiving area. In some embodiments, the retaining mechanism or portion thereof comprises at least one attachment component or portion thereof that is configured to reversibly attach the retaining mechanism or portion thereof to the head and/or handle portion.
In some embodiments, the handheld device includes the interchangeable rotational component. In some of these embodiments, the interchangeable rotational component comprises the implement.
In another aspect, the invention provides a handheld device that includes a head portion comprising at least one housing that comprises top and bottom areas, wherein the top area comprises at least one top opening and the bottom area comprises at least one bottom opening, wherein the housing comprises at least one rotational component receiving area that communicates with the top and bottom openings, which rotational component receiving area is configured to reversibly receive at least one interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof through the bottom opening such that a segment of the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof is reversibly disposed in and/or through the top opening. The handheld device also includes at least one drive mechanism component or portion thereof that is configured to operably engage and effect rotation of at least the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof at least partially around at least one rotational axis when the rotational component or portion thereof is received in the rotational component receiving area. In addition, the handheld device also includes a handle portion operably connected or connectable to the head portion.
In another aspect, the invention provides a tooth brushing device that includes a head portion comprising at least one housing that comprises top and bottom areas, wherein the top area comprises at least one top opening and the bottom area comprises at least one bottom opening, wherein the housing comprises at least one rotational component receiving area that communicates with the top and bottom openings, which rotational component receiving area is configured to reversibly receive one or more interchangeable rotational components or portions thereof through the bottom opening and wherein the top opening is configured to reversibly receive a segment of the interchangeable rotational components or portions thereof. The tooth brushing device also includes at least one drive mechanism component or portion thereof that is configured to operably engage and effect rotation of at least the interchangeable rotational components or portions thereof at least partially around at least one rotational axis when the interchangeable rotational components or portions thereof are disposed in the rotational component receiving area. In addition, the tooth brushing device also includes a handle portion operably connected or connectable to the head portion.
In another aspect, the invention provides a tooth brushing device that includes a head portion comprising at least one housing that comprises top and bottom areas, wherein the top area comprises at least one top opening and the bottom area comprises at least one bottom opening, wherein the housing comprises at least one rotational component receiving area that communicates with the top and bottom openings, which rotational component receiving area is configured to reversibly receive one or more interchangeable rotational components or portions thereof through the bottom opening and wherein the top opening is configured to reversibly receive a segment of the interchangeable rotational components or portions thereof. The tooth brushing device also includes at least one drive mechanism component or portion thereof that is configured to operably engage and effect rotation of at least the interchangeable rotational components or portions thereof at least partially around at least one rotational axis when the interchangeable rotational components or portions thereof are disposed in the rotational component receiving area. In addition, the tooth brushing device also includes a handle portion operably connected or connectable to the head portion.
In another aspect, the invention provides a handheld device that includes a head portion comprising at least one housing that comprises top and bottom areas, wherein the top area comprises at least one top opening and the bottom area comprises at least one bottom opening, wherein the housing comprises at least one rotational component receiving area that communicates with the top and bottom openings, which rotational component receiving area is configured to reversibly receive one or more interchangeable rotational components or portions thereof through the bottom opening and wherein the top opening is configured to reversibly receive a segment of the interchangeable rotational components or portions thereof. The handheld device also includes at least one interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof disposed in the rotational component receiving area, wherein the interchangeable rotational component comprises at least one gear component and wherein at least the segment of the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof is disposed in and/or through the top opening. The handheld device also includes at least one drive mechanism component or portion thereof comprising at least one gear component that operably engages the gear component of the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof, which drive mechanism component or portion thereof is configured to effect rotation of at least the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof at least partially around at least one rotational axis. In addition, the handheld device also includes a handle portion operably connected to the head portion. In some embodiments, the handle portion is reversibly connectable to the head portion. In some embodiments, the segment of the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof comprises at least one implement.
In some embodiments, the handheld device includes at least one retaining mechanism or portion thereof (e.g., a cover component or the like) that is configured to retain the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof disposed in the rotational component receiving area at least when the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof rotates at least partially around the rotational axis. In some of these embodiments, the retaining mechanism or portion thereof comprises at least one attachment component or portion thereof that is configured to reversibly attach the retaining mechanism or portion thereof to the head and/or handle portion.
In another aspect, the invention provides a handheld device that includes a head portion comprising at least one housing that comprises top and bottom areas, wherein the top area comprises at least one top opening and the bottom area comprises at least one bottom opening, wherein the housing comprises at least one rotational component receiving area that communicates with the top and bottom openings, which rotational component receiving area is configured to reversibly receive one or more interchangeable rotational components or portions thereof through the bottom opening and wherein the top opening is configured to reversibly receive a segment of the interchangeable rotational components or portions thereof. The handheld device also includes at least one interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof disposed in the rotational component receiving area, wherein the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof comprises at least a first portion and is configured to comprise at least a second portion, wherein the first portion comprises at least one gear component, and wherein the second portion comprises at least a first segment that is configured to be disposed in and/or through the top opening. The handheld device also includes at least one drive mechanism component or portion thereof comprising at least one gear component that operably engages the gear component of the first portion of the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof, which drive mechanism component or portion thereof is configured to effect rotation of at least the first portion of the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof at least partially around at least one rotational axis. In additions, the handheld device also includes a handle portion operably connected to the head portion.
In some embodiments, the first and/or second portion comprises at least one attachment component or portion thereof that is configured to reversibly attach the first and second portions to one another. In some embodiments, the first and/or second portion comprises at least one alignment component or portion thereof that is configured to reversibly align the first and second portions relative to one another. In some embodiments, the first segment of the second portion comprises at least one implement. In some embodiments, the handle portion is reversibly connectable to the head portion.
In some embodiments, the handheld device includes at least one retaining mechanism or portion thereof (e.g., a cover component or the like) that is configured to retain the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof disposed in the rotational component receiving area at least when the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof rotates at least partially around the rotational axis. In some embodiments, the retaining mechanism or portion thereof comprises at least one attachment component or portion thereof that is configured to reversibly attach the retaining mechanism or portion thereof to the head and/or handle portion.
In another aspect, the invention provides a handheld device that includes a head portion comprising at least one housing that comprises top and bottom areas, wherein the top area comprises at least one top opening and the bottom area comprises at least one bottom opening, wherein the housing comprises at least one rotational component receiving area that communicates with the top and bottom openings, which rotational component receiving area is configured to reversibly receive one or more interchangeable rotational components or portions thereof at least through the top opening and wherein the bottom opening is configured to reversibly receive at least a segment of the interchangeable rotational components or portions thereof. The handheld device also includes at least one interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof disposed in the rotational component receiving area, wherein the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof comprises at least a first portion comprising at least a first portion opening that is configured to reversibly receive at least a part of at least a second portion of the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof, wherein the first portion comprises at least one gear component, and wherein the second portion comprises at least a first segment that is configured to be disposed in and/or through the top opening and at least a second segment that is configured to be disposed in and/or through the bottom opening. The handheld device also includes at least one drive mechanism component or portion thereof comprising at least one gear component that operably engages the gear component of the first portion of the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof, which drive mechanism component or portion thereof is configured to effect rotation of at least the first portion of the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof at least partially around at least one rotational axis. In addition, the handheld device also includes a handle portion operably connected to the head portion. In some embodiments, the first portion opening is disposed through the first portion of the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof.
In some embodiments, the handheld device includes at least one retaining mechanism or portion thereof (e.g., a cover component or the like) that is configured to retain the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof disposed in the rotational component receiving area at least when the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof rotates at least partially around the rotational axis. In some of these embodiments, the retaining mechanism or portion thereof comprises at least one attachment component or portion thereof that is configured to reversibly attach the retaining mechanism or portion thereof to the head and/or handle portion. In some of these embodiments, the retaining mechanism or portion thereof comprises at least one recess component and wherein the second portion of the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof comprises at least one tapered projection component, wherein the recess component and the tapered projection are configured to interlock with one another to reversibly retain the retaining mechanism and the second portion positioned relative to one another when the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof rotates at least partially around the rotational axis. In some of these embodiments, the tapered projection component comprises at least one tenon and the recess component comprises at least one mortise (e.g., dovetail joint components, etc.). In some of these embodiments, the second segment of the second portion comprises the tapered projection component. In some embodiments, wherein the retaining mechanism or portion thereof comprises at least one recess component and wherein the second portion of the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof comprises at least one projection component, wherein the recess component and the projection are configured to interlock with one another to reversibly retain the retaining mechanism and the second portion positioned relative to one another when the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof rotates at least partially around the rotational axis. In some of these embodiments, at least portions of the recess component and the projection component that are configured to interlock with one another comprise at least one cross-sectional shape selected from the group consisting of: a circle, an oval, a square, a rectangle, a trapezoid, an irregular n-sided polygon, and a regular n-sided polygon.
In some embodiments, the first and/or second portion comprises at least one attachment component or portion thereof that is configured to reversibly attach the first and second portions to one another. In some embodiments, the first and/or second portion comprises at least one alignment component or portion thereof that is configured to reversibly align the first and second portions relative to one another. In some embodiments, the first segment of the second portion comprises at least one implement. In some embodiments, the handle portion is reversibly connectable to the head portion.
In another aspect, the invention provides a handheld device that includes a head portion comprising at least one housing that comprises top and bottom areas, wherein the top area comprises at least two top openings and the bottom area comprises at least two bottom openings, wherein the housing comprises at least two rotational component receiving areas that communicate with one or more of the top and bottom openings, which rotational component receiving areas are each configured to reversibly receive one or more interchangeable rotational components or portions thereof through the top and/or bottom opening, and wherein at least a first interchangeable rotational component is configured to rotate at least partially around a first rotational axis and wherein at least a second interchangeable rotational component is configured to rotate at least partially around a second rotational axis when the interchangeable rotational components are disposed in the rotational component receiving areas. The handheld device also includes at least one drive mechanism component or portion thereof that is configured to operably engage one or more of the interchangeable rotational components or portions thereof to effect rotation of at least a portion of the first interchangeable rotational component at least partially around the first rotational axis in a first direction and at least a portion of the second interchangeable rotational component at least partially around the second rotational axis in a second direction when the interchangeable rotational components are disposed in the rotational component receiving areas. In addition, the handheld device also includes a handle portion operably connected or connectable to the head portion.
In another aspect, the invention provides a device that includes at least one housing that comprises top and bottom areas, wherein the top area comprises at least one top opening and the bottom area comprises at least one bottom opening, wherein the housing comprises at least one rotational component receiving area that communicates with the top and bottom openings, which rotational component receiving area is configured to reversibly receive one or more interchangeable rotational components or portions thereof at least through the bottom opening and wherein the top opening is configured to reversibly receive at least a segment of the interchangeable rotational components or portions thereof. The device also includes at least one drive mechanism component or portion thereof that is configured to operably engage and effect rotation of at least the interchangeable rotational components or portions thereof at least partially around at least one rotational axis when the rotational components or portions thereof are disposed in the rotational component receiving area.
In another aspect, the invention provides interchangeable rotational component that includes at least one body structure portion that comprises a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein the top surface comprises, or is configured to comprise, at least one implement. The interchangeable rotational component also includes at least one gear component disposed on at least one segment of the body structure portion between the top and bottom surfaces, which gear component is configured to operably engage at least one gear component of another rotational component and/or a gear component of a drive mechanism component or portion thereof of a device. At least a segment of the body structure portion and/or the gear component of the interchangeable rotational component is configured to be reversibly received in at least one rotational component receiving area disposed in a housing of the device through a top and/or a bottom opening in the housing such that the drive mechanism component or portion thereof effects rotation of the interchangeable rotational component when the segment is received in the rotational component receiving area and the gear component of the interchangeable rotational component operably engages the gear component of another rotational component and/or the gear component of the drive mechanism component or portion thereof.
In some embodiments, the gear component of the interchangeable rotational component is disposed substantially around the portion of the body structure. In some embodiments, the body structure portion and/or the gear component of the interchangeable rotational component comprises at least one alignment component or portion thereof that is configured to reversibly align the interchangeable rotational component and at least the device housing relative to one another when the segment is received in the rotational component receiving area.
In some embodiments, the interchangeable rotational component includes the implement. In some of these embodiments, at least a portion of the implement comprises at least one cross-sectional shape selected from the group consisting of: a circle, an oval, a square, a rectangle, a trapezoid, an irregular n-sided polygon, and a regular n-sided polygon. In some of these embodiments, the implement comprises at least one flossing component. In some of these embodiments, the implement comprises at least one bristle component. In some of these embodiments, the implement comprises at least one polishing component. In some embodiments, the implement comprises at least one cap component.
In another aspect, the invention provides interchangeable rotational component that includes at least a first rotational component body structure portion that comprises a top surface, a bottom surface, and at least one orifice disposed at least partially through the first rotational component body structure portion, which orifice is configured to reversibly receive at least one segment of at least one second rotational component body structure portion. The interchangeable rotational component also includes at least a second rotational component body structure portion that comprises a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein the top surface comprises, or is configured to comprise, at least one implement. In addition, the interchangeable rotational component also includes at least one gear component disposed on at least one segment of the first rotational component body structure portion between the top and bottom surfaces of the first rotational component body structure portion, which gear component is configured to operably engage at least one gear component of another rotational component and/or a gear component of a drive mechanism component or portion thereof of a device. At least a segment of the interchangeable rotational component is configured to be reversibly received in at least one rotational component receiving area disposed in a housing of the device through a top and/or a bottom opening in the housing such that the drive mechanism component or portion thereof effects rotation of the interchangeable rotational component when the segment of the interchangeable rotational component is received in the rotational component receiving area and the gear component of the interchangeable rotational component operably engages the gear component of another rotational component and/or the gear component of the drive mechanism component or portion thereof.
In some embodiments, the first and/or second rotational component body structure portion comprises at least one attachment component or portion thereof that is configured to reversibly attach the first and second rotational component body structure portions to one another. In some embodiments, the first and/or second rotational component body structure portion comprises at least one alignment component or portion thereof that is configured to reversibly align the first and second rotational component body structure portions relative to one another. In some embodiments, the gear component of the first rotational component body structure portion is disposed substantially around the first rotational component body structure portion.
In some embodiments, the interchangeable rotational component includes at least one tapered projection component configured to interlock with at least one recess component of at least one retaining mechanism (e.g., a cover component or the like) of the device to reversibly retain the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof and the retaining mechanism positioned relative to one another when the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof is received in the rotational component receiving area and rotates at least partially around a rotational axis. In some embodiments, the interchangeable rotational component includes at least one projection component configured to interlock with at least one recess component of at least one retaining mechanism of the device to reversibly retain the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof and the retaining mechanism positioned relative to one another when the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof is received in the rotational component receiving area and rotates at least partially around a rotational axis. In some of these embodiments, at least portions of the recess component and the projection component that are configured to interlock with one another comprise at least one cross-sectional shape selected from the group consisting of: a circle, an oval, a square, a rectangle, a trapezoid, an irregular n-sided polygon, and a regular n-sided polygon.
In some embodiments, the interchangeable rotational component includes the implement. In some of these embodiments, at least a portion of the implement comprises at least one cross-sectional shape selected from the group consisting of: a circle, an oval, a square, a rectangle, a trapezoid, an irregular n-sided polygon, and a regular n-sided polygon. In some of these embodiments, the implement comprises at least one flossing component. In some of these embodiments, the implement comprises at least one bristle component. In some of these embodiments, the implement comprises at least one polishing component. In some embodiments, the implement comprises at least one cap component.
In another aspect, the invention provides a method of positioning a rotational component in a device. The method includes placing at least part of at least one rotational component through at least one top opening of a housing of the device into at least one rotational component receiving area that communicates with the top opening such that at least one gear component of the rotational component operably engages at least one drive mechanism component or portion thereof of the device. The method also includes placing a retaining mechanism (e.g., a cover component or the like) at least proximal to the top opening such that at least a portion of the rotational component comprising at least one implement extends at least partially through at least one orifice of the retaining mechanism to retain the rotational component in the rotational component receiving area, thereby positioning the rotational component in the device.
In another aspect, the invention provides a method of interchanging rotational components of a device. The method includes moving at least one retaining mechanism of the device such that at least two openings of a housing of the device are exposed. The method also includes removing at least first and second rotational components or portions thereof through the openings, wherein at least one of the first and second rotational components or portions thereof comprises one or more implements. The method also includes placing at least segments of at least third and fourth rotational components or portions thereof through the openings of the housing, wherein at least one of the third and fourth rotational components or portions thereof comprises one or more implements. The method also includes moving the retaining mechanism of the device such that the openings of the housing of the device are at least partially covered to retain the third and fourth rotational components or portions thereof are retained in the housing of the device, thereby interchanging the rotational components of the device.
In another aspect, the invention provides a handheld device that includes a head portion comprising at least one housing that comprises top, bottom, and side areas, wherein the top area comprises at least one top opening and the side area comprises at least one side opening, wherein the housing comprises at least one rotational component receiving area that communicates with the top and side openings, which rotational component receiving area is configured to reversibly receive at least one interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof at least through the side opening such that a segment of the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof is reversibly disposed in and/or through the top opening. The handheld device also includes at least one drive mechanism component or portion thereof that is configured to operably engage and effect rotation of at least the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof at least partially around at least one rotational axis when the rotational component or portion thereof is received in the rotational component receiving area. In addition, the handheld device also includes a handle portion operably connected or connectable to the head portion. In some embodiments, the handheld device includes at least one retaining mechanism or portion thereof that is configured to reversibly retain the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof disposed in the rotational component receiving area. In some of these embodiments, the retaining mechanism or portion thereof comprises at least one movable segment that is configured to move such that the interchangeable rotational component or portion thereof is reversibly receivable at least through the side opening. In some embodiments, the handheld device includes at least one coupling component that movably couples the movable segment at least to the housing. In some of these embodiments, the coupling component comprises at least one hinge component or the like.
In another aspect, the invention provides an interchangeable rotational component that includes at least one body structure portion that comprises a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein the top surface comprises, or is configured to comprise, at least one implement, which body structure portion comprises, or is configured to comprise, at least one gear component, which gear component is configured to operably engage at least one gear component of another rotational component and/or a gear component of a drive mechanism component or portion thereof of a device, wherein at least a segment of the body structure portion and/or the gear component of the interchangeable rotational component is configured to be reversibly received in at least one rotational component receiving area disposed in a housing of the device such that the drive mechanism component or portion thereof effects rotation of the interchangeable rotational component when the segment is received in the rotational component receiving area and the gear component of the interchangeable rotational component operably engages the gear component of another rotational component and/or the gear component of the drive mechanism component or portion thereof.
In one aspect, the invention provides a toothbrush head component that includes a housing comprising a head portion and a neck portion that are operably connected to one another, wherein the head portion comprises a top area that comprises at least first and second top openings, and wherein the head portion comprises at least first and second rotational component receiving areas that communicate with one or more of the top openings. The toothbrush head component also includes a first rotational component that is configured to rotate around a first rotational axis, which first rotational component comprises a first body structure component that is at least partially disposed in the first rotational component receiving area, which first body structure component comprises at least first and second gear components, and at least one orifice disposed at least partially through the first body structure component, which orifice is configured to reversibly receive at least one section of at least a first interchangeable rotational component through the first top opening such that a segment of the first interchangeable rotational component is reversibly received in and/or through the first top opening. The toothbrush head component also includes a second rotational component that is configured to rotate around a second rotational axis, wherein the first and second rotational axes are substantially parallel to one another, which second rotational component comprises a second body structure component that is at least partially disposed in the second rotational component receiving area, which second body structure component comprises at least a first gear component and at least one orifice disposed at least partially through the second body structure component, which orifice is configured to reversibly receive at least one section of at least a second interchangeable rotational component through the second top opening such that a segment of the second interchangeable rotational component is reversibly received in and/or through the second top opening, wherein the first and/or second interchangeable rotational component comprises, or is configured to comprise, at least one implement, and wherein the first gear component of the second body structure component operably engages the first gear component of the first body structure component. In addition, the toothbrush head component also includes a drive mechanism component or portion thereof at least partially disposed in the neck portion of the housing, which drive mechanism component or portion thereof comprises at least one shaft component that is configured to rotate around a third rotational axis, which shaft component comprises at least one shaft gear component that operably engages the second gear component of the first body structure component such that when the shaft component continuously rotates in one direction around the third rotational axis, the first rotational component continuously rotates in a first direction around the first rotational axis and the second rotational component continuously rotates in a second direction around the second rotational axis, wherein the first and second directions are substantially opposite one another.
In some embodiments, the third rotational axis is substantially perpendicular to, and intersects with, the first and second rotational axes. In some embodiments, at least one retaining mechanism or portion thereof that is configured to reversibly retain at least one of the interchangeable rotational components when the orifice reversibly receives the section of the interchangeable rotational component. In some embodiments, the toothbrush head component includes a handle portion operably connected or connectable to the head portion. In some embodiments, the toothbrush head component includes the first and/or second interchangeable rotational component. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the implement comprises at least one cross-sectional shape selected from the group consisting of: a circle, an oval, a square, a rectangle, a trapezoid, an irregular n-sided polygon, and a regular n-sided polygon. In some embodiments, the implement is selected from the group consisting of: a flossing component, a bristle component, a polishing component, and a cap component. In some embodiments, an interchangeable rotational component is configured to be reversibly received by one or more of the orifices of the toothbrush head component. In some embodiments, a tooth brushing device includes the toothbrush head component. In some embodiments, the head portion comprises a bottom area that comprises at least first and second bottom openings and wherein one or more of the first and second rotational component receiving areas communicate with one or more of the bottom openings.
In another aspect, the invention provides a toothbrush rotational component that includes a body structure component that comprises at least first and second gear components, and at least one orifice disposed at least partially through the body structure component, wherein the first gear component of the body structure component is configured to operably engage at least one gear component of another toothbrush rotational component and wherein the second gear component of the body structure component is configured to operably engage at least one shaft gear component of a toothbrush head component. The toothbrush rotational component also includes an interchangeable rotational component that comprises, or is configured to comprise, at least one implement, wherein at least one section of the interchangeable rotational component is reversibly received in the orifice of the body structure component.
In some embodiments, at least one retaining mechanism or portion thereof that is configured to reversibly retain the section of the interchangeable rotational component in the orifice of the body structure component. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the implement comprises at least one cross-sectional shape selected from the group consisting of: a circle, an oval, a square, a rectangle, a trapezoid, an irregular n-sided polygon, and a regular n-sided polygon. In some embodiments, the implement is selected from the group consisting of: a flossing component, a bristle component, a polishing component, and a cap component.
In another aspect, the invention provides an interchangeable rotational component that includes a base component comprising top and bottom surfaces, wherein at least one implement extends from the top surface, and at least one shaft component that extends from the bottom surface of the base component, which shaft component is configured to be received, and reversibly retained, at least partially in an orifice of a body structure component of a toothbrush rotational component.
In some embodiments, at least a portion of the implement comprises at least one cross-sectional shape selected from the group consisting of: a circle, an oval, a square, a rectangle, a trapezoid, an irregular n-sided polygon, and a regular n-sided polygon. In some embodiments, the implement is selected from the group consisting of: a flossing component, a bristle component, a polishing component, and a cap component. In some embodiments, the interchangeable rotational component includes at least a portion of a retaining mechanism that reversibly retains the interchangeable rotational component positioned relative to the body structure component of the toothbrush rotational component when the shaft component is at least partially disposed in the orifice of the body structure component of the toothbrush rotational component. In some embodiments, the shaft component comprises the portion of the retaining mechanism, which portion of the retaining mechanism is configured to engage another portion of the retaining mechanism that is disposed on a one or more surfaces that define the orifice of the body structure component. In some of these embodiments, the retaining mechanism comprises one or more resilient coupling components.
In another aspect, the invention provides a handheld device that includes a head portion comprising at least one housing that comprises a top area, wherein the top area comprises at least one top opening, wherein the housing comprises at least one rotational component receiving area that communicates with the top opening. The handheld device also includes at least a first rotational component body structure portion disposed at least partially within the rotational component receiving area, which first rotational component body structure portion comprises at least one orifice disposed at least partially through the first rotational component body structure portion, which orifice is configured to reversibly receive at least one section of at least a second rotational component body structure portion through the top opening such that a segment of the second rotational component body structure portion is reversibly received in and/or through the top opening, and wherein the first rotational component body structure portion comprises at least one gear component. The handheld device also includes at least one drive mechanism component or portion thereof that operably engages the gear component of the first rotational component body structure portion and effects rotation of at least the first rotational component body structure portion and the second rotational component body structure portion at least partially around at least one rotational axis when the orifice reversibly receives the second rotational component body structure portion through the bottom opening. In addition, the handheld device also includes a handle portion operably connected or connectable to the head portion.
In some embodiments, the handle portion is reversibly connectable to the head portion. In some embodiments, the handheld device includes more than one top opening. In some embodiments, the handheld device includes more than one bottom opening. In some embodiments, the handheld device includes more than one rotational component receiving area. In some embodiments, the handheld device includes more than one first rotational component body structure portion, wherein neighboring pairs of first rotational component body structure portions are configured to rotate in opposite directions relative to one another. In some embodiments, the handheld device includes more than one second rotational component body structure portion. In some embodiments, the handheld device includes at least one retaining mechanism or portion thereof that is configured to reversibly retain the first and/or second rotational component body structure portion disposed in the rotational component receiving area.
In some embodiments, the first rotational component body structure portion, the second rotational component body structure portion, and/or parts thereof comprise at least one resilient coupling that resiliently couples the portions and/or the parts thereof to one another. In some embodiments, the first and/or second rotational component body structure portion comprises at least one alignment component or portion thereof that is configured to reversibly align the first and second rotational component body structure portions relative to one another. In some embodiments, the drive mechanism component or a portion thereof comprises at least one chain of meshed gear components that is configured to effect rotation of at least the first rotational component body structure portion and the second rotational component body structure portion when the orifice reversibly receives the second rotational component body structure portion through the top opening. In some embodiments, the drive mechanism component or a portion thereof comprises at least one shaft component that is configured to effect rotation of at least the first rotational component body structure portion and the second rotational component body structure portion when the orifice reversibly receives the second rotational component body structure portion through the top opening. In some embodiments, the shaft component comprises at least one shaft gear component that meshes with the gear component of the first rotational component body structure portion. In some embodiments, at least one of the second rotational component body structure portions lacks one or more implements. In some embodiments, one or more of the second rotational component body structure portions comprise, or are configured to comprise, at least one implement. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the implement comprises at least one cross-sectional shape selected from the group consisting of: a circle, an oval, a square, a rectangle, a trapezoid, an irregular n-sided polygon, and a regular n-sided polygon. In some embodiments, the retaining mechanism or portion thereof comprises at least one attachment component or portion thereof that is configured to reversibly attach the retaining mechanism or portion thereof to the head and/or handle portion. In some of these embodiments, the housing comprises a bottom area that comprises at least one bottom opening that communicates with the orifice and the top opening.
In some embodiments, the handle portion includes the second rotational component body structure portion. In some of these embodiments, the second rotational component body structure portion comprises at least one implement. In some of these embodiments, the second rotational component body structure portion is configured to comprise at least one implement.
In some embodiments, the first rotational component body structure portion and/or the head portion comprises at least one alignment structure or portion thereof (e.g., a bearing surface structure, etc.) that is configured to align the first rotational component body structure portion and the head portion relative to one another at least when the first rotational component body structure portion rotates at least partially around the rotational axis. In some of these embodiments, the alignment structure or portion thereof comprises at least one protrusion component and at least one protrusion component receiving area that is configured to receive the protrusion component. In some of these embodiments, the first rotational component body structure portion comprises the protrusion component and wherein the housing and/or at least one housing component structure at least partially disposed in the housing comprises the protrusion component receiving area. In some of these embodiments, the first rotational component body structure portion comprises the protrusion component receiving area and wherein the housing or a housing component structure at least partially disposed in the housing comprises the protrusion component. In some of these embodiments, the first rotational component body structure portion comprises a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein the gear component is disposed on at least one segment of the first rotational component body structure portion between the top and bottom surfaces, wherein a top protrusion component extends from the top surface, and wherein a bottom protrusion component extends from the bottom surface. In some of these embodiments, the housing and/or the at least one housing component structure comprises a top protrusion component receiving area that is configured to receive the top protrusion component and a bottom protrusion component receiving area that is configured to receive the bottom protrusion component. In some of these embodiments, the first rotational component body structure portion comprises the protrusion component and wherein the protrusion component comprises at least a portion of the orifice. In some of these embodiments, the orifice is disposed through the first rotational component body structure portion. In some of these embodiments, at least a portion of the orifice of the first rotational component body structure portion comprises at least one cross-sectional shape selected from the group consisting of: a circle, an oval, a square, a rectangle, a trapezoid, a hexagon, an irregular n-sided polygon, and a regular n-sided polygon. In some of these embodiments, at least a portion of the orifice comprises at least one cross-sectional shape selected from the group consisting of: a circle, an oval, a square, a rectangle, a trapezoid, a hexagon, an irregular n-sided polygon, and a regular n-sided polygon. In some of these embodiments, at least a portion of the section of the second rotational component body structure portion comprises at least one cross-sectional shape selected from the group consisting of: a circle, an oval, a square, a rectangle, a trapezoid, a hexagon, an irregular n-sided polygon, and a regular n-sided polygon.
In another aspect, the invention provides a handheld device that includes a head portion comprising at least one housing that comprises a top area, wherein the top area comprises at least two top openings, wherein the housing comprises at least one rotational component receiving area that communicates with the top openings. The handheld device also includes at least a two rotational components disposed at least partially within the rotational component receiving areas, wherein at least a first rotational component is configured to rotate at least partially around a first rotational axis, wherein at least a second rotational component is configured to rotate at least partially around a second rotational axis, wherein the first and second rotational components each comprise at least a first gear component, wherein the first gear components of the first and second rotational components operably engage one another, wherein at least one of the rotational components comprises at least a second gear component, and wherein at least one of the rotational components comprises at least one implement. The handheld device also includes at least one drive mechanism component or portion thereof comprising at least one shaft component that comprises at least one shaft gear component that operably engages the second gear component, which drive mechanism component or portion thereof effects rotation of the first rotational component at least partially around the first rotational axis and the second rotational component at least partially around the second rotational axis such that when the first rotational component rotates in a first direction, the second rotational component rotates in a second direction, which first and second directions are substantially opposite one another. In addition, the handheld device also includes a handle portion operably connected or connectable to the head portion.
In another aspect, the invention provides a handheld device head portion that includes a head portion configured to reversibly operably connect to a handle portion of at least one handheld device, which head portion comprises at least one housing that comprises a top area comprising at least two top openings that communicate with at least one rotational component receiving area that is at least partially disposed within the housing. The handheld device head portion also includes at least a two rotational components disposed at least partially within the rotational component receiving areas, wherein at least a first rotational component is configured to rotate at least partially around a first rotational axis, wherein at least a second rotational component is configured to rotate at least partially around a second rotational axis, wherein the first and second rotational components each comprise at least a first gear component, wherein the first gear components of the first and second rotational components operably engage one another, wherein at least one of the rotational components comprises at least a second gear component, and wherein at least one of the rotational components comprises at least one implement. In addition, the handheld device head portion also includes at least one shaft component or portion thereof that comprises at least one shaft gear component that operably engages the second gear component, which shaft component or portion thereof is configured to effect rotation of the first rotational component at least partially around the first rotational axis and the second rotational component at least partially around the second rotational axis such that when the first rotational component rotates in a first direction, the second rotational component rotates in a second direction, which first and second directions are substantially opposite one another.
The description provided herein is better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings which are included by way of example and not by way of limitation. It will be understood that like reference numerals identify like components throughout the drawings, unless the context indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that some or all of the figures may be schematic representations for purposes of illustration and do not necessarily depict the actual relative sizes or locations of the elements shown.
Before describing the invention in detail, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to particular methods, rotational components, rotary units, rotary mechanisms, or devices, which can vary. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” also include plural referents unless the context clearly provides otherwise. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting. Further, unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. In describing and claiming the invention, the following terminology, and grammatical variants thereof, will be used in accordance with the definitions set forth below.
The term “counter-rotate” or “contra-rotate” refers to objects that rotate in opposite directions relative to one another. In some embodiments, for example, rotary mechanisms include rotational components that are configured to rotate in opposite directions.
The term “communicate” refers to the direct or indirect transfer or transmission, and/or capability of directly or indirectly transferring or transmitting, something at least from one thing to another thing. In some embodiments, for example, devices include housings having openings through which at least portions of rotational components can be transferred to positions those portions within housing receiving areas or cavities.
The invention relates to devices that are configured to include rotational components that are readily interchangeable with one another and related methods that are suitable for use in numerous applications. In some embodiments, for example, devices include multiple rotary units are assembled in rotary mechanisms such that neighboring pairs of rotational components counter-rotate or contra-rotate relative to one another during operation of the rotary mechanisms. Rotational components generally include one or more implements that are structured to perform or effect one or more types of work as the rotational components rotate relative to one another in a given rotary mechanism. In certain embodiments, for example, implements are configured for use in various dental applications. The representative embodiments described herein are intended to illustrate, but not to limit, the invention. Essentially any combination of components or portions thereof described herein are optionally utilized or adapted for use together in certain embodiments.
In some embodiments, a given rotary mechanism and device includes only one rotational component. In certain other embodiments, the invention provides rotary or rotational mechanisms that include more than one rotational component or rotary unit (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or more rotational components or rotary units). Rotary mechanisms also typically include at least one counter-rotational mechanism operably coupled to one or more of the rotational components. The counter-rotational mechanism is generally configured to effect substantially simultaneous counter-rotation of the rotational components relative to one another when movement of at least a portion of the counter-rotational mechanism is effected. Rotary mechanisms also typically include drive mechanisms operably coupled to the counter-rotational mechanism and/or rotational components. Drive mechanisms are typically configured to effect movement of at least the portion of the counter-rotational mechanisms such that the rotational components substantially simultaneously counter-rotate relative to one another. In some embodiments, for example, multiple rotary units are included as components (e.g., rotational components and counter-rotational mechanisms, etc.) of rotary mechanisms.
Drive mechanism component 104 includes a chain of meshed gear components 122 that mesh with gear component 118 of one rotational component 110 and extend from head portion 102 to handle portion 106. As shown, one gear component 122 includes gear 124 that meshes with gear 126. Gear 126 is operably connected to motor component 128 via shaft component 130. Motor component 128 is also operably connected to switch component 132 (e.g., an on/off switch, etc.) and power source component 134 (e.g., a rechargeable battery, etc.). During operation, motor component 128 effects rotation of shaft component 130, gears 124 and 126, and gear components 122 such that neighboring pairs of rotational components 110 rotate at least partially around rotational axis 112, 114, or 116 in directions (see, directional arrows shown, for example, in
Other drive mechanism components are also optionally used with rotational components 110. As shown in
To further illustrate,
In some exemplary embodiments, rotational components or portions thereof include resilient couplings, which generate resiliency in those rotational components or portions thereof (e.g., independent rotational component resiliency in applications that use multiple rotational components that include resilient couplings) in a given device. For example,
Handheld device 1200 also includes a drive mechanism component that directly operably engages a gear component 118 of one interchangeable rotational component 200 in this exemplary embodiment. The drive mechanism component of handheld device 1200 is configured similar to drive mechanism component 104 described herein. Other drive mechanism component configurations are optionally used. For example, drive mechanism component 105 described herein is optionally adapted for use with handheld device 1200. As shown, the drive mechanism component of handheld device 1200 includes a chain of meshed gear components 1216 that mesh with gear component 118 of one interchangeable rotational component 200 and extend from head portion 1202 to handle portion 1218. As shown, one gear component of chain of meshed gear components 1216 includes gear 1220 that meshes with gear 1222. Gear 1222 is operably connected to motor component 1224 via shaft component 1226. Motor component 1224 is also operably connected to switch component 1228 (e.g., an on/off switch, etc.) and power source component 1230 (e.g., a rechargeable battery, etc.). During operation, motor component 1224 effects rotation of shaft component 1226, gears 1222 and 1220, chain of meshed gear components 1216, and gear components 118 such that the depicted neighboring pair of interchangeable rotational components 200 rotate in directions (see, directional arrows shown, for example, in
As shown, handheld device 1200 also includes retaining mechanism 1232 (e.g., a cover component) that is configured to reversibly retain interchangeable rotational components 200 disposed in rotational component receiving areas 1214. Although not within view, retaining mechanism 1232 includes attachment components (e.g., molded projections and corresponding receiving areas and a latch mechanism) that are configured to reversibly attach retaining mechanism 1232 to head portion 1202. Essentially any attachment component is adapted for use in attaching retaining mechanisms and head and/or handle portions to one another, such as hinges and latch components, tongue and groove-type sliding mechanisms, clamping mechanisms, and clipping mechanism, among many others.
Handheld device 1300 also includes a drive mechanism component that effects the rotation of interchangeable rotational component 204. Although not completely within view (e.g., portion of chain of meshed gear components 122 within view), the drive mechanism component of handheld device 1300 is configured similar to drive mechanism component 104 described herein. Other drive mechanism component configurations are optionally used. For example, drive mechanism component 105 described herein is optionally adapted for use with handheld device 1300.
In the exemplary embodiment shown, head portion 1302 (other than interchangeable rotational component 206 and retaining mechanism 1332) is fabricated integral with handle portion 1318. In other embodiments, head portions and handle portions are detachable from or reversibly connectable to one another.
As shown, handheld device 1300 also includes retaining mechanism 1332 (e.g., a cover component) that is configured to reversibly retain interchangeable rotational component 204 disposed in rotational component receiving areas 1314. Although not within view, retaining mechanism 1332 includes attachment components (e.g., molded projections and corresponding receiving areas and a latch mechanism) that are configured to reversibly attach retaining mechanism 1332 to head portion 1302 such a portion of interchangeable rotational component 204 that includes implement 206 is disposed through, and able to rotate within, orifice 1333 of retaining mechanism 1332. Ring component 1335 of retaining mechanism 1332 is an exemplary alignment component that is configured to reversibly align interchangeable rotational component 204 and housing 1304 relative to one another. Essentially any attachment component is adapted for use in attaching retaining mechanisms and head and/or handle portions to one another, such as hinges and latch components, corresponding threaded regions, tongue and groove-type sliding mechanisms, clamping mechanisms, and clipping mechanism, among many others.
To further illustrate,
As shown, first rotational component body structure portions 1404 also include gear components 1418 disposed on at least one segment of first rotational component body structure portions 1404 between top surface 1406 and bottom surface 1408 of first rotational component body structure portions 1404. Gear components 1418 operably engage (e.g., mesh) one another such that the neighboring pair of interchangeable rotational components depicted counter-rotate (see, e.g., the directional arrow shown in
In certain embodiments, interchangeable rotational components or portions thereof include various types of attachment components, alignment components, and/or portions thereof, which are configured to reversibly attach and/or align first and second rotational component body structure portions relative to one another. To illustrate, first rotational component body structure portions 1404 include projection components 1420 that fit at least partially within, for example, corresponding recess components 1422 of second rotational component body structure portions 1402, 1608, 1604, 1605, 1612, 1616, 1624, and/or 1620 to align and/or attach (e.g., in when recess components include compression fit features that compress at least portions of corresponding projection components, etc.).
Handheld device 1500 also includes a drive mechanism component that effects the rotation of, for example, second rotational component body structure portions 1402. Although not completely within view (e.g., portion of chain of meshed gear components 122 within view), the drive mechanism component of handheld device 1500 is configured similar to drive mechanism component 104 described herein. Other drive mechanism component configurations are optionally used. For example, drive mechanism component 105 described herein is optionally adapted for use with handheld device 1500.
In the exemplary embodiment shown, head portion 1502 (other than second rotational component body structure portions 1402 and retaining mechanism 1532) is fabricated integral with handle portion 1519. In other embodiments, head portions and handle portions are detachable from or reversibly connectable to one another.
As shown, handheld device 1500 also includes retaining mechanism 1532 (e.g., a cover component) that is configured to reversibly retain second rotational component body structure portions 1402 disposed in rotational component receiving areas 1514. As shown, retaining mechanism 1532 includes recess component 1535 that is configured to interlock with projection component 1537 (e.g., a tapered projection component) to reversibly retain second rotational component body structure portions 1402 and retaining mechanism 1532 positioned relative to one another when second rotational component body structure portions 1402 are received in rotational component receiving areas 1514 and rotate at least partially around rotational axes. Retaining mechanism 1532 also includes attachment component 1539 and 1541 (e.g., corresponding tongue and groove-type sliding mechanisms) that are configured to reversibly attach retaining mechanism 1532 to head portion 1502. Essentially any attachment component is adapted for use in attaching retaining mechanisms and head and/or handle portions to one another, such as hinges and latch components, clamping mechanisms, and clipping mechanisms, among many others.
To further illustrate,
As shown, first rotational component body structure portions 1704 also include gear components 1718 disposed on at least one segment of first rotational component body structure portions 1704 between top surface 1706 and bottom surface 1708 of first rotational component body structure portions 1704. Gear components 1718 operably engage (e.g., mesh) one another such that the neighboring pair of interchangeable rotational components depicted counter-rotate (see, e.g., the directional arrow shown in
In certain embodiments, interchangeable rotational components or portions thereof include various types of attachment components, alignment components, and/or portions thereof, which are configured to reversibly attach and/or align first and second rotational component body structure portions relative to one another. To illustrate, second rotational component body structure portions 1702, 1908, 1904, 1905, 1912, 1916, 1924, and 1920 include projection components 1720 that fit at least partially within, for example, corresponding recess components 1722 of first rotational component body structure portions 1704 to align and/or attach (e.g., in when recess components include compression fit features that compress at least portions of corresponding projection components, etc.).
Handheld device 1800 also includes a drive mechanism component that effects the rotation of, for example, second rotational component body structure portions 1702. Although not completely within view (e.g., portion of chain of meshed gear components 122 within view), the drive mechanism component of handheld device 1800 is configured similar to drive mechanism component 104 described herein. Other drive mechanism component configurations are optionally used. For example, drive mechanism component 105 described herein is optionally adapted for use with handheld device 1800.
In the exemplary embodiment shown, head portion 1802 (other than second rotational component body structure portions 1702 and retaining mechanism 1832) is fabricated integral with handle portion 1819. In other embodiments, head portions and handle portions are detachable from or reversibly connectable to one another.
As shown, handheld device 1800 also includes retaining mechanism 1832 (e.g., a cover component) that is configured to reversibly retain second rotational component body structure portions 1702 disposed in rotational component receiving areas 1814, for example, when second rotational component body structure portions 1702 rotate at least partially around rotational axes. Retaining mechanism 1832 also includes attachment component 1839 and 1841 (e.g., corresponding tongue and groove-type sliding mechanisms) that are configured to reversibly attach retaining mechanism 1832 to head portion 1802. Essentially any attachment component is adapted for use in attaching retaining mechanisms and head and/or handle portions to one another, such as hinges and latch components, clamping mechanisms, and clipping mechanisms, among many others.
Handheld device 2000 also includes a drive mechanism component that effects the rotation of interchangeable rotational components 2000. Although not completely within view (e.g., portion of chain of meshed gear components 122 within view), the drive mechanism component of handheld device 2000 is configured similar to drive mechanism component 104 described herein. Other drive mechanism component configurations are optionally used. For example, drive mechanism component 105 described herein is optionally adapted for use with handheld device 2000.
In the exemplary embodiment shown, head portion 2002 (other than interchangeable rotational component 200 and retaining mechanism 2032) is fabricated integral with handle portion 2018. In other embodiments, head portions and handle portions are detachable from or reversibly connectable to one another.
As shown, handheld device 2000 also includes retaining mechanism 2032 that is configured to reversibly retain interchangeable rotational components 200 disposed in rotational component receiving areas 2014. Retaining mechanism 2032 includes movable segments 2031 that are configured to move such that the interchangeable rotational components 200 are reversibly receivable at least through side opening 2011. As shown, coupling components 2033 (e.g., hinge components) movably couple movable segment 2031 at least to housing 2004.
In some embodiments, the handheld devices (e.g., toothbrushing devices, household cleaning devices, etc.) or component thereof (e.g., toothbrush head components, household cleaning device head components, etc.) of the invention include rotational components (e.g., first rotational component body structure portions, second rotational component body structure portions, etc.). For example,
As also shown, rotary mechanism 2100 also includes second rotational component 2114 that is configured to rotate around second rotational axis 2116. In this exemplary embodiment, first rotational axis 2104 and second rotational axis 2116 are substantially parallel to one another. In other embodiments, first rotational axis 2104 and second rotational axis 2116 are not substantially parallel to one another. Second rotational component 2114 includes second body structure component 2118 that is configured to be at least partially disposed in a rotational component receiving area (not shown in
The handheld devices (e.g., toothbrushing devices, household cleaning devices, etc.) or component thereof (e.g., toothbrush head components, household cleaning device head components, etc.) of the invention also typically include drive mechanism components or portions thereof at least partially disposed in neck and/or handle portions of device or component housings. For example, rotary mechanism 2100 includes shaft component 2126 (only a portion is shown) that is configured to rotate around third rotational axis 2128. In the embodiment shown, third rotational axis 2128 is substantially perpendicular to, and intersects with, first rotational axis 2104 and/or second rotational axis 2116. In other embodiments, third rotational axis 2128 is not substantially perpendicular to, and/or does not intersect with, first rotational axis 2104 and/or second rotational axis 2116. As shown, shaft component 2126 includes shaft gear component 2130 (e.g., a bevel gear or the like) that operably engages (e.g., meshes with) second gear component 2110 of first body structure component 2102. When the shaft component 2126 continuously rotates in one direction around third rotational axis 2128, first rotational component 2102 continuously rotates in a first direction around first rotational axis 2104 and second rotational component 2114 continuously rotates in a second direction around second rotational axis 2116 in which the first and second directions are substantially opposite one another. Shaft component 2126 is typically operably connected to a motor component that effects rotation of shaft component 2126. Shaft components, motors, and other drive mechanism components or portions thereof that are optionally adapted for use with rotary mechanism 2100 are described herein.
The invention also provides various types of interchangeable rotational components (e.g., second rotational component body structure portions, etc.). To illustrate,
To further illustrate,
As shown, interchangeable rotational component 2318 includes base component 2320, which includes top surface 2322 and bottom surface 2324. Implements 2326 (shown as bristle components) extend from top surface 2322. Shaft component 2328 extends from bottom surface 2322 of base component 2320. Shaft component 2328 is configured to be received, and reversibly retained, at least partially in orifices 2316 of the body structure components of rotational components 2308 and 2310. Additional examples of interchangeable rotational components and implements that are optionally adapted for use with toothbrush head component 2300 are described herein. As also shown, interchangeable rotational component 2318 also includes portion 2330 (shown as a tapered projection component) of a retaining mechanism that reversibly retains interchangeable rotational component 2318 positioned relative to the body structure components of rotational components 2308 and 2310 when shaft component 2328 is at least partially disposed in orifices 2316 of rotational components 2308 and 2310. Portion 2330 of interchangeable rotational component 2318 is configured to interlock with recess components of retaining mechanism portion 2332 (shown as a sliding component in an open position) to reversibly retain interchangeable rotational component 2318 (e.g., a second rotational component body structure portion) when interchangeable rotational component 2318 is received in orifices 2316 of rotational components 2308 and 2310 and rotate around rotational axes in toothbrush head component 2300.
Toothbrush head component 2300 also includes shaft component 2334, which includes shaft gear component 2336 (e.g., a star gear component, etc.). Shaft gear component 2336 meshes with second gear component 2314 of rotational component 2308. When the shaft component 2334 continuously rotates in one direction around its rotational axis, rotational component 2308 continuously rotates in a first direction around its rotational axis and rotational component 2310 continuously rotates in a second direction around its rotational axis in which the first and second directions are substantially opposite one another. Shaft component 2334 is typically operably connected to a motor component that effects rotation of shaft component 2334. Shaft components, motors, and other drive mechanism components or portions thereof that are optionally adapted for use with toothbrush head component 2300 are described herein.
To further illustrate,
The devices of the invention include various retaining mechanism embodiments. Retaining mechanisms are typically included to retain and permit the rotation of interchangeable rotational components relative to other device components (e.g., toothbrush head components, cleaning head components, etc.) during usage. To illustrate,
To further illustrate,
To further illustrate,
To further illustrate,
To further illustrate,
To further illustrate,
Device components (e.g., head portions, handle portions, interchangeable rotational components, rotational component body structure portions, drive mechanism components, gear components, shafts, device housings, etc.) are optionally formed by various fabrication techniques or combinations of such techniques including, e.g., cast molding, stamping, machining, embossing, extrusion, engraving, injection molding, etching (e.g., electrochemical etching, etc.), or other techniques. These and other suitable fabrication techniques are generally known in the art and described in, e.g., Molinari et al. (Eds.), Metal Cutting and High Speed Machining, Kluwer Academic Publishers (2002), Altintas, Manufacturing Automation: Metal Cutting Mechanics, Machine Tool Vibrations, and CNC Design, Cambridge University Press (2000), Stephenson et al., Metal Cutting Theory and Practice, Marcel Dekker (1997), Fundamentals of Injection Molding, W. J. T. Associates (2000), Whelan, Injection Molding of Thermoplastics Materials, Vol. 2, Chapman & Hall (1991), Rosato, Injection Molding Handbook, 3.rd Ed., Kluwer Academic Publishers (2000), Fisher, Extrusion of Plastics, Halsted Press (1976), and Chung, Extrusion of Polymers: Theory and Practice, Hanser-Gardner Publications (2000), which are each incorporated by reference. Exemplary materials optionally used to fabricate device components include, e.g., metal, glass, wood, polymethylmethacrylate, polyethylene, polydimethylsiloxane, polyetheretherketone, polytetrafluoroethylene, polystyrene, polyvinylchloride, polypropylene, polysulfone, polymethylpentene, and polycarbonate, among many others. In certain embodiments, following fabrication, device components are optionally further processed, e.g., by painting, coating surfaces with a hydrophilic coating, a hydrophobic coating, or the like.
Exemplary rotary units, rotational mechanisms, related applications, and other aspects, which are optionally adapted, e.g., for use with the rotary units and rotational mechanisms described herein are also described in, e.g., U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/451,468, entitled “HANDHELD DEVICES AND RELATED METHODS”, filed Apr. 19, 2012 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,684,883, issued Apr. 1, 2014), U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/187,302, entitled “HANDHELD DEVICES AND RELATED METHODS”, filed Feb. 23, 2014 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,956,258, issued Feb. 17, 2015), U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/327,519, entitled “ROTARY UNITS, MECHANISMS, AND RELATED DEVICES”, filed on Jul. 9, 2014, U.S. Patent Application No. 62/186,229, entitled “ROTARY UNITS, MECHANISMS, AND RELATED DEVICES”, filed on Jun. 29, 2015, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/339,382, entitled “HANDHELD DEVICES AND RELATED METHODS”, filed Jul. 23, 2014, which are each incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes.
While the foregoing invention has been described in some detail for purposes of clarity and understanding, it will be clear to one skilled in the art from a reading of this disclosure that various changes in form and detail can be made without departing from the true scope of the invention. For example, all the techniques and apparatus described above can be used in various combinations. All publications, patents, patent applications, and/or other documents cited in this application are incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, patent application, and/or other document were individually indicated to be incorporated by reference for all purposes.
This application is a continuation-in-part of, and claims the benefit of priority from, U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 15/194,761, filed Jun. 28, 2016, which claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/186,229, filed Jun. 29, 2015 and is a continuation-in-part of, and claims the benefit of priority from, U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 14/327,519, filed Jul. 9, 2014 (now U.S. Pat. No. 9,382,973, issued Jul. 5, 2016), which is a continuation of, and claims the benefit of priority from, U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 14/187,302, filed Feb. 23, 2014 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,956,258, issued Feb. 17, 2015), which is a continuation of, and claims the benefit of priority from, U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 13/451,468, filed Apr. 19, 2012 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,684,883, issued Apr. 1, 2014), which is a continuation-in-part of, and claims the benefit of priority from, U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 13/423,413, filed Mar. 19, 2012 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,672,799, issued Mar. 18, 2014), which is a continuation-in-part of, and claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 13/219,683, filed Aug. 28, 2011 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,715,133, issued May 6, 2014), which is a continuation-in-part of, and claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 13/184,332, filed Jul. 15, 2011 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,668,618, issued Mar. 11, 2014), which claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 61/365,290, filed Jul. 16, 2010 and 61/376,725, filed Aug. 25, 2010, which are each incorporated by reference in their entirety. U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 13/184,332, filed Jul. 15, 2011 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,668,618, issued Mar. 11, 2014) is also continuation-in-part of, and claims the benefit of priority from, U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 12/577,326, filed Oct. 12, 2009 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,152,679, issued Apr. 10, 2012), which claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/104,748, filed on Oct. 12, 2008 and is a continuation of and claims the benefit of priority from International Patent Application No. PCT/US09/60386, filed on Oct. 12, 2009, which are each incorporated by reference in their entirety. This application also claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/197,092, filed Jul. 26, 2015, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62186229 | Jun 2015 | US | |
| 61365290 | Jul 2010 | US | |
| 61376725 | Aug 2010 | US | |
| 61104748 | Oct 2008 | US | |
| 62197092 | Jul 2015 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 14187302 | Feb 2014 | US |
| Child | 14327519 | US | |
| Parent | 13451468 | Apr 2012 | US |
| Child | 14187302 | US | |
| Parent | PCT/US09/60386 | Oct 2009 | US |
| Child | 12577326 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 15194761 | Jun 2016 | US |
| Child | 15218354 | US | |
| Parent | 14327519 | Jul 2014 | US |
| Child | 15194761 | US | |
| Parent | 13423413 | Mar 2012 | US |
| Child | 13451468 | US | |
| Parent | 13219683 | Aug 2011 | US |
| Child | 13423413 | US | |
| Parent | 13184332 | Jul 2011 | US |
| Child | 13219683 | US | |
| Parent | 12577326 | Oct 2009 | US |
| Child | 13184332 | US |
