KR-20260064364-A - Toothbrush Tells Time for Proper Brushing

Abstract

The present invention aims to help maintain clean and hygienic teeth by allowing the user to check the time while brushing with a toothbrush, thereby using a timer on the toothbrush to brush for the minimum amount of time.

Inventors

• 이혁

Assignees

• 이혁

Dates

Publication Date

20260507

Application Date

20241031

Claims (1)

1. A microcontroller capable of controlling timer functions and alarms; Battery for power supply; Buzzer for alarm signal; It includes an LED light (7) and an LED screen (9) that intuitively display the timer time, The above LED light and the above LED screen are characterized by being formed with a waterproof design using silicone rubber sealing for waterproofing; Toothbrush (100).

Description

Toothbrush Tells Time for Proper Brushing The present invention relates to a toothbrush, and more specifically, to a toothbrush comprising a timer and an alarm LED to assist in more proper brushing. A toothbrush is a tool for maintaining clean teeth. A timer and alarm are devices that allow you to know the exact time. The Korean Dental Association states that brushing for at least three minutes is sufficient for maintaining clean teeth and gums. However, many people these days brush their teeth for insufficient time. This device was invented to help address this issue. FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a toothbrush (100) according to the present invention. FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a toothbrush (100) according to the present invention. As shown, the toothbrush (100) according to the present invention may include an LED light (7), an operation and stop button (8), a timer display LED (9), and a sound output part (10). For reference, the LED light (7), the operation and stop button (8), the timer display (9), and the sound output part (10) according to the present invention can be applied equally to all types of electronic devices that display and inform the time required, such as alarm clocks, stopwatches, and clocks. The LED light (7) includes an operation and stop button (8) and a timer indicator LED (9). Here, the timer indicator LED (9), which indicates the consumption of a set time, includes any symbol system that allows the user to know the time on the clock face, and can be displayed using Roman numerals, Arabic numerals, dots, lines, etc. However, numbers can be mainly used. LED (7) is a semiconductor device that emits light when current flows through it. When an LED is applied to a toothbrush, it helps the user visually check the time or receive notifications during brushing time. An LED connected to a timer can change color or blink with vibration as time passes. The timer indicator LED (9) displays the time in numerical form using a segment display (7-segment display). By adding this feature to the toothbrush, the user can check the remaining brushing time in real time. The segment display used here is widely used for displaying numbers, operates at low power, and can be easily applied in a small space. The display screen is positioned at the top or center of the toothbrush handle so that the user can check the timer. It is important to minimize the size by considering the size and design of the toothbrush. The technology used for the LED light (7) and timer indicator LED (9) can be applied to regular electric toothbrushes because rechargeable electric toothbrushes do not consume much power. It can also help children develop proper brushing habits by letting them know the passage of time and providing visual feedback. Additionally, it can be applied to children's toothbrushes as it can stimulate interest through color changes that children like. The sound output section (10) uses a buzzer. A buzzer is a device that generates sound by receiving an electrical signal and causing a diaphragm to vibrate. Piezoelectric buzzers are commonly used in small electronic devices such as toothbrushes. Piezoelectric buzzers convert electrical signals into sound, allowing them to produce sound with low power consumption, making them suitable for small devices like toothbrushes. In particular, piezoelectric buzzers are small and lightweight, saving space. They also consume little power, making them ideal for battery-powered devices like toothbrushes. Furthermore, they can produce short, sharp sounds at high frequencies, making them effective for intuitive notification functions. Additionally, the micro speaker included in the sound output section (10) helps to output various sounds despite its small size. For example, it can play specific alarm sounds or melodies, and voice guidance functions can also be implemented. The sound output section is positioned at the bottom of the toothbrush handle to ensure the sound is transmitted effectively. Since toothbrushes are frequently exposed to water, the buzzer and micro speaker are particularly vulnerable to water, so waterproofing is essential. The start and stop button (8) is the most common type of mechanical button, in which the internal contacts touch when the physical switch is pressed, thereby connecting or disconnecting the electrical circuit. This method is very simple and highly reliable, and provides clear tactile feedback upon pressing. The mechanical button is durable and can operate reliably in various environments. However, physical wear may occur, so it may need to be replaced after prolonged use. Waterproofing technology is essential for the LED light (7), timer indicator LED (9), sound output section (10), battery for power supply, and toothbrush to function normally. Silicone Rubber Sealing: A seal is formed using silicone rubber between the outer case of the device and the internal electronic components. This seal prevents water from penetrating inside and