Abstract: A light emitting electric toothbrush and method therefore is disclosed which is intended for use by children, is comprised of a robust high-strength, plastic construction, and employs both light and vibration to assist in the development of suitable dental hygiene skills. In its most fundamental embodiment, the light emitting electric toothbrush comprises a construction including a handle having a bottom end and a top end and a toothbrush shaft mounted to the top end of the handle. The brush shaft is comprised of a plastic resin including a fluorescent colored light refractive additive for optimizing light transmission through the brush shaft. A high intensity light source is mounted within the top end of the handle for generating light and a domed-shaped optical lens is positioned over the high intensity light source for directing the generated light into the brush shaft.

Abstract: A light pipe for transmitting LED-emitted light from a printed circuit board through an opening in a panel. The light pipe has a first light-transmitting member with a first end for emitting light, a second end connected to a connecting portion for attaching the light pipe to the printed circuit board, and an outer surface. A groove in the outer surface and clip members are used in various combinations to removably fasten the light pipe to the panel. The groove and clip members permit easy insertion and removal of the light pipe. Alternative embodiments include a plurality of light-transmitting members aligned in various configurations.

Abstract: A hand held communication aid for the dumb includes a casing, containing a keyboard, which is easily held in one hand and the keyboard positioned to be operated by the other hand of the user or "speaker". The end of the casing has a visual light emitting diode type alpha-numeric display unit facing the reader who would be standing opposite the user. Provision is also made for connecting this unit into a telephone system.