Electric toothbrushes often struggle to accurately detect the pressure applied during brushing, leading to gum damage if too much force is used. Existing solutions lack precision due to limited deflection of the brush head, especially in models using resonant components. Additionally, most devices can only detect one force threshold, limiting their effectiveness in guiding proper brushing techniques.
Core Features and Innovations
The invention introduces a personal care appliance with a force detection device integrated into an electric toothbrush. It features:
1. Rotating Assembly and Force-Bearing Element: The brush head rotates relative to the handle when force is applied.
2. Force Detection Device: Comprising an inductor and a magnet, the device detects force through magnetic flux changes caused by the magnet moving relative to the inductor.
3. Magnetic Saturation Technology: The magnet’s proximity to the inductor alters the magnetic saturation state, allowing precise force measurement.
4. Elastic Reset Mechanism: The system includes an elastic element that returns the assembly to its initial position when pressure is released.
Inventive Step and Novelty
Unlike existing toothbrushes that use force detection based on single-threshold deflection; this device leverages magnetic saturation to detect subtle changes in force. This unique approach significantly enhances accuracy and responsiveness, providing real-time feedback to users about their brushing pressure.
Tangible Benefits
1. Enhanced Accuracy: Detects even slight changes in pressure, reducing gum damage.
2. User Feedback: Provides LED or audio alerts when pressure is too low, optimal, or too high.
3. Versatile Design: Can adapt to various personal care appliances beyond toothbrushes, such as facial cleansing or massage devices.
Broader Impact
By significantly improving brushing accuracy and user guidance, this innovation promotes better oral hygiene, reducing dental issues related to improper brushing. Its applicability to various personal care devices also broadens its potential market, offering manufacturers a robust, multi-functional solution.