REUSABLE TRAVEL TOOTHBRUSH

Abstract

A travel toothbrush features a unique channel configuration designed to optimize the flow of high-viscosity toothpaste from a cartridge to the bristles of a brush tip. The channel includes an upstream section with a large cross-sectional area, a neck section with a reduced cross-sectional area, and a downstream section that expands back to a larger cross-sectional area. This geometry increases pressure in the neck section, enabling efficient dispensing of toothpaste, even at high viscosities, without requiring specialized formulations. The plunger, advanced by either a screw mechanism or manual pressure, ensures consistent toothpaste flow through the channel. The toothbrush's compatibility with standard commercial toothpaste and its ability to deliver controlled dispensing make it user-friendly and ideal for travel. The channel's adaptable cross-sectional shapes—round, circular, or oval—further enhance flow performance while maintaining ease of manufacturing and hygiene. This innovative design combines portability, efficiency, and versatility for everyday oral care.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not Applicable.

STATEMENT RE: FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH/DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable.

BACKGROUND

The various aspects and embodiments described herein relate to a travel toothbrush.

BRIEF SUMMARY

The travel toothbrush provides a compact and portable oral care solution with a unique channel design in the brush tip that optimizes the flow of toothpaste So that even toothpaste that has a hive viscosity can be used. The channel features sections with varying cross-sectional areas, creating increased pressure in a narrowed section to ensure smooth and consistent dispensing. Users can refill the cartridge with their preferred toothpaste or replace it with a prefilled cartridge for added convenience. A screw-actuated plunger delivers a high force to advance the high viscosity toothpaste through the channel and onto the bristles. The brush tip is also replaceable, allowing for extended use and improved hygiene. This versatile design offers ease of use, compatibility with standard off the shelf currently available toothpaste, and reliable performance, making it ideal for travel or even daily oral care.

More particularly, a travel toothbrush includes a cartridge configured to store toothpaste, and a plunger disposed within the cartridge configured to advance within the cartridge to push the toothpaste. The toothbrush further includes a brush tip attached to the cartridge. The brush tip may have a channel in fluid communication with the cartridge. The channel includes an upstream section, a neck section, a downstream section, and an exit opening. The upstream section is in fluid communication with the cartridge and the neck section. The neck section is in fluid communication with the upstream section and the downstream section. The downstream section is in fluid communication with the neck section and the exit opening. The upstream section and the downstream section each have a larger cross-sectional area than the neck section to assist in pushing the toothpaste from the cartridge to the exit opening of the channel as the plunger is advanced in the cartridge.

In another aspect, the neck section of the channel has a cross-sectional area that is about 10% to 75% smaller than the cross-sectional area of either the upstream section or the downstream section.

In another aspect, the channel has a cross-sectional shape selected from the group consisting of round, circular, or oval.

In another aspect, the plunger is configured to advance within the cartridge by a screw mechanism.

In another aspect, the plunger is configured to advance within the cartridge by manual pressure applied by a user's finger.

In another aspect, the method includes the steps of traversing the plunger further into the cartridge to push toothpaste from the cartridge into the channel of the brush tip, guiding the toothpaste through the neck section of the channel, and dispensing the toothpaste through the downstream section and out of the exit opening for application to the bristles of the brush tip.

In another aspect, the method includes the step of guiding the toothpaste through the neck section of the channel, where the neck section has a cross-sectional area that is about 10% to 75% smaller than the cross-sectional area of either the upstream section or the downstream section.

In another aspect, the method includes the step of selecting the cross-sectional shape of the channel from the group consisting of round, circular, or oval.

In another aspect, the method includes the step of actuating the plunger by rotating a screw mechanism to advance the plunger within the cartridge to push the toothpaste out of the exit opening of the brush tip.

In another aspect, the method includes the step of actuating the plunger by manually pressing the plunger into the cartridge with a finger.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features and advantages of the various embodiments disclosed herein will be better understood with respect to the following description and drawings, in which like numbers refer to like parts throughout, and in which:

FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of the travel toothbrush;

FIG. 1A is a cross sectional view of an alternative connection between a brush tip and cartridge from that shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 2 is a cross sectional view of the travel toothbrush shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a brush tip shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a side view of the brush tip showing a channel;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a plunger shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an endcap shown in FIG. 1; and

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a control know shown in FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The travel toothbrush 8, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, provides a compact and versatile oral care device designed for convenient dispensing of toothpaste 56 directly onto bristles 60. A key feature of the toothbrush 8 is its unique channel 48 in the brush tip 12, which includes an upstream section 50 with a large cross-sectional area, a neck section 54 with a reduced cross-sectional area, and a downstream section 52 that expands back to a larger cross-sectional area. This configuration, illustrated in FIG. 3, optimizes the flow of toothpaste 56, even if the toothpaste has a high-viscosity. This configuration increasing pressure in the neck section 54 to facilitate smooth dispensing through the exit opening 58. The toothbrush 8 includes a cartridge 10 that can be either refilled with the user's favorite toothpaste or replaced with a prefilled cartridge, ensuring flexibility and ease of use. The screw-type plunger 16, actuated by a control knob 22 and screw 20, as shown in the figures, provides precise and sufficient force to push toothpaste 56 through the channel 48 and out of the exit opening. Additionally, the toothbrush 8 allows for replacement of worn-out brush tips 12, enhancing its durability and hygiene. This design offers portability, compatibility with standard commercial toothpaste, and a user-friendly mechanism for consistent dispensing, making it an great solution for travel and everyday oral care.

The travel toothbrush 8 can be configured as either a daily-use toothbrush or a travel-sized toothbrush. For travel purposes, the cartridge 10 is designed to comply with airline regulations by limiting the amount of toothpaste 56 it can hold to no more than the allowable number of ounces for carry-on luggage. This feature enhances the portability and convenience of the toothbrush 8 for frequent travelers.

More particularly, referring now to FIG. 1, the travel toothbrush 8 is designed to allow the use of commercially available toothpaste, even if it has a high-viscosity. This capability is achieved through the unique geometry of the channel 48 in the brush tip 12, which optimizes the flow of high-viscosity toothpaste 56. Specifically, the channel 48 comprises an upstream section 50, a neck section 54, and a downstream section 52. The upstream section 50 and downstream section 52 have larger cross-sectional areas compared to the neck section 54, which has a reduced cross-sectional area. This reduction causes an increase in pressure as the toothpaste 56 is guided through the neck section 54, assisting in its flow through the channel 48 and out of the exit opening 58.

The screw-type plunger 16 is actuated by a control knob 22 and screw 20. These components provide substantial mechanical force to advance the toothpaste 56 through the cartridge 10 and into the channel 48. The rotational motion of the control knob 22 is transmitted to the screw 20, which engages with the internal thread 38 of the plunger 16, thereby pushing the plunger 16 linearly through the cartridge 10. This screw mechanism enables controlled and forceful advancement of the toothpaste 56, which is particularly beneficial for pushing high-viscosity toothpaste. The increased pressure generated by the narrowing neck section 54 of the channel 48, combined with the force applied by the screw mechanism, ensures smooth and efficient dispensing of toothpaste 56 onto the bristles 60 of the brush tip 12.

As a result, the travel toothbrush 8 eliminates the need for proprietary or low-viscosity toothpaste formulations, allowing users to utilize their preferred commercial toothpaste. The combination of the uniquely designed channel 48 and the screw-type plunger 16 ensures reliable and efficient operation, even with toothpaste of high viscosity.

The travel toothbrush can be used with a variety of high-viscosity toothpastes, including Colgate Total, Colgate Optic White, Crest Pro-Health, Crest 3D White, Sensodyne Pronamel, Sensodyne Rapid Relief, Arm & Hammer Advance White, Tom's of Maine Anticavity Toothpaste, and Parodontax Gingivitis Toothpaste. The unique channel design and screw-type plunger ensure smooth and consistent dispensing of these popular formulations. The travel toothbrush 8 comprises a compact and portable oral care device configured for dispensing toothpaste and cleaning teeth. Referring to FIG. 1, the travel toothbrush 8 includes a cartridge 10 that serves as a reservoir for storing toothpaste 56. The cartridge 10 has an internal cavity capable of holding commercial toothpaste formulations of varying viscosities (e.g., Crest toothpaste). The cartridge 10 may be cylindrical and includes external threads 26, which interface with the brush tip 12. Additionally, a groove 28 and lock depression 30 are provided on the cartridge 10 to assist with alignment and attachment of the end cap to the cartridge. The cartridge 10 may be formed from plastic, metal, or composite materials and can be refillable or replaceable, providing flexibility for use.

Disposed within the cartridge 10 is a plunger 16 configured to advance through the cartridge 10 to push the toothpaste 56. As shown in FIG. 5, the plunger 16 includes an internal thread 38 and guide 36. The thread 38 engages with a screw 20 to enable controlled advancement. The guide 36 of the plunger 16 engages with groove 28 of the cartridge. The plunger 16 is preferably disk-shaped and fits tightly within the inner walls of the cartridge 10 to prevent leakage of toothpaste 56. Actuation of the plunger 16 is achieved using a screw mechanism, shown in FIG. 1, where the external thread 32 of the screw 20 interfaces with the internal thread 38 of the plunger 16. The screw 20 includes a hex end portion 34 that connects to nex recess 46 of a control knob 22, shown in FIG. 7. By rotating the control knob 22, the screw 20 advances the plunger 16 linearly within the cartridge 10, applying sufficient mechanical force to push high-viscosity toothpaste 56. The plunger 16 does not rotate within the cartridge because the guide 36 of the plunger 16 is disposed within groove 28 of the cartridge 10. Alternatively, the plunger 16 may be manually advanced by finger pressure or actuated using other mechanisms such as springs or ratchets.

Attached to the cartridge 10 is a brush tip 12, which provides both the outlet for the toothpaste 56 and the bristles 60 for cleaning teeth. As shown in FIG. 3, the brush tip 12 includes internal threads 24 that engage with the external threads 26 of the cartridge 10, securing the components together. The brush tip 12 further comprises an internal channel 48, as shown in FIG. 3, which routes toothpaste 56 from the cartridge 10 to an exit opening 58. The channel 48 is in fluid communication with the cartridge 10 and comprises three sections: an upstream section 50, a neck section 54, and a downstream section 52. The upstream section 50 is the initial portion of the channel 48 that connects directly to the cartridge 10 and has a relatively large cross-sectional area to facilitate the entry of toothpaste 56. This upstream section 50 transitions into the neck section 54, which has a reduced cross-sectional area compared to both the upstream section 50 and downstream section 52. The narrowing of the channel 48 in the neck section 54 increases pressure on the toothpaste 56 as it passes through, facilitating smooth and consistent flow. This design is particularly effective for high-viscosity toothpaste, as the increased pressure helps overcome flow resistance.

From the neck section 54, the channel 48 expands back to a larger cross-sectional area in the downstream section 52. The downstream section 52 directs the toothpaste 56 toward the exit opening 58, which provides an outlet for dispensing toothpaste onto the bristles 60. The exit opening 58 is positioned at the distal end of the brush tip 12, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, ensuring that toothpaste 56 is delivered directly to the bristles 60. The channel 48 may have a variety of shapes, including round, oval, or circular, to accommodate different toothpaste viscosities and improve flow performance.

The upstream section 50, neck section 54, and downstream section 52 are fluidly formed in a sequential manner to form a continuous pathway for toothpaste 56. Specifically, the upstream section 50 is in fluid communication with the cartridge 10, the neck section 54 is in fluid communication with the upstream section 50, the downstream section 52 is in fluid communication with the neck section 54, and the exit opening 58 is in fluid communication with the downstream section 52. This arrangement allows for smooth and controlled flow of toothpaste 56 as the plunger 16 advances within the cartridge 10. The combination of the channel's unique geometry and the screw-actuated plunger 16 ensures that toothpaste 56 can be efficiently dispensed, even when using commercial toothpaste formulations with high viscosity.

In operation, the user rotates the control knob 22, which engages the screw 20 and causes the plunger 16 to advance linearly within the cartridge 10 toward the brush tip. As the plunger 16 moves forward, toothpaste 56 is pushed from the cartridge 10 into the upstream section 50 of the channel 48. The toothpaste 56 is then guided through the narrower neck section 54, where pressure increases to facilitate movement. From the neck section 54, the toothpaste 56 flows into the downstream section 52 and exits through the exit opening 58, where it is applied to the bristles 60 of the brush tip 12 for brushing.

This design allows users to utilize their preferred commercial toothpaste, even if it has a high viscosity. The screw-type plunger 16 also provides sufficient mechanical force to push toothpaste 56 through the channel 48, and the narrowing neck section 54 of the channel 48 optimizes flow performance by increasing pressure. The unique channel geometry and screw-actuated mechanism provide an effective solution for dispensing toothpaste while ensuring compatibility with high-viscosity formulations.

The channel 48 of the brush tip 12 comprises three distinct sections: an upstream section 50, a neck section 54, and a downstream section 52, which work together to facilitate the flow of toothpaste 56 from the cartridge 10 to the exit opening 58. The neck section 54, positioned between the upstream section 50 and the downstream section 52, has a cross-sectional area that is substantially reduced relative to the cross-sectional areas of the upstream section 50 and downstream section 52. Specifically, the cross-sectional area of the neck section 54 is about 10% to 75% smaller than the cross-sectional area of either the upstream section 50 or the downstream section 52. This narrowing of the neck section 54 creates a constriction within the channel 48 that increases pressure on the toothpaste 56 as it passes through, thereby improving the flow of toothpaste even toothpaste with a high-viscosity.

The upstream section 50 of the channel 48 has a larger cross-sectional area and connects directly to the cartridge 10. This larger cross-sectional area allows toothpaste 56 to enter the channel 48 with minimal resistance. As toothpaste 56 is pushed by the plunger 16 through the upstream section 50, it encounters the neck section 54, where the reduced cross-sectional area causes an increase in pressure. The degree of narrowing in the neck section 54 can vary, with reductions ranging from about 10% to 75%, depending on the desired flow characteristics and the viscosity of the toothpaste being used. This range of reduction provides flexibility in optimizing the channel 48 to ensure efficient flow for different formulations of toothpaste 56, including those with substantial viscosity.

Following the neck section 54, the channel 48 expands back to a larger cross-sectional area in the downstream section 52. The downstream section 52 facilitates the smooth exit of toothpaste 56 by reducing flow resistance and directing the toothpaste 56 toward the exit opening 58. The transition from the neck section 54 to the downstream section 52 ensures that the pressure built up in the neck section 54 is effectively utilized to advance the toothpaste 56 through the downstream section 52 and out of the exit opening 58. The exit opening 58 is positioned at the end of the brush tip 12, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, and dispenses toothpaste 56 directly onto the bristles 60 of the brush tip 12.

The narrowing of the neck section 54 relative to the upstream section 50 and downstream section 52 is critical for optimizing the flow dynamics within the channel 48. By reducing the cross-sectional area of the neck section 54, the channel 48 increases the pressure exerted on the toothpaste 56 as it passes through the constriction. This pressure increase is particularly advantageous for high-viscosity toothpaste formulations, as it helps overcome flow resistance and ensures that the toothpaste 56 moves smoothly through the channel 48 without clogging or requiring excessive force.

The upstream section 50, neck section 54, and downstream section 52 of the channel 48 may have various cross-sectional shapes, including round, oval, or other geometries. The degree of reduction in the cross-sectional area of the neck section 54 can be adjusted within the range of 10% to 75% to suit specific design requirements. For example, a 10% reduction may be used for toothpaste with lower viscosity, while a 75% reduction may be used for particularly thick or high-viscosity formulations. This design flexibility ensures that the travel toothbrush 8 is compatible with a wide range of commercial toothpaste products, allowing users to dispense their preferred toothpaste.

The functional relationship between the upstream section 50, neck section 54, and downstream section 52, as well as the specific reduction in the cross-sectional area of the neck section 54, enables the toothbrush 8 to deliver consistent and efficient toothpaste flow. This design is particularly effective when used in combination with the screw-actuated plunger 16, which provides sufficient force to advance the toothpaste 56 out of the cartridge and through the channel 48. The combination of the mechanical force provided by the plunger 16 and the pressure increase caused by the narrowing neck section 54 ensures reliable toothpaste dispensing.

The channel 48 of the brush tip 12, as shown in FIG. 3, has a cross-sectional shape that may be round, circular, or oval, ensuring efficient toothpaste 56 flow from the cartridge 10 to the exit opening 58. A round or circular cross-section minimizes friction and distributes pressure uniformly across the channel 48, which is particularly beneficial for high-viscosity toothpaste. This geometry reduces flow resistance and ensures consistent dispensing as toothpaste 56 passes through the upstream section 50, neck section 54, and downstream section 52.

The selected cross-sectional shape-round, circular, or oval-can be maintained consistently throughout the upstream section 50, neck section 54, and downstream section 52, or it may gradually transition between these shapes. These geometries are also advantageous for manufacturing, as they are easily produced with molding techniques, ensuring precision and structural stability. The smooth internal surfaces of these shapes further promote hygiene by minimizing areas where toothpaste residue could accumulate.

The plunger 16, shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, is configured to advance within the cartridge 10 using a screw mechanism. This mechanism provides precise control and sufficient force to push toothpaste 56 through the channel 48 of the brush tip 12, even for high-viscosity toothpaste formulations. The screw mechanism comprises a screw 20 with an external thread 32 that engages the internal thread 38 of the plunger 16. Rotation of the screw 20 causes the plunger 16 to move linearly within the cartridge 10, displacing the toothpaste 56 toward the upstream section 50 of the channel 48.

The screw 20 includes a hex end portion 34 (see FIGS. 1 and 2) that interfaces with a control knob 22, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 7. The control knob 22 features a hex recess 46 that engages the hex end portion 34 of the screw 20. When the user rotates the control knob 22, the rotational motion is transferred to the screw 20, advancing the plunger 16 within the cartridge 10. The plunger 16 does not rotate because guide 36 of the plunger 16 is received within groove 28 of the cartridge 10. This mechanism allows for fine control over the amount of toothpaste 56 dispensed, ensuring consistent and predictable flow through the channel 48. The screw mechanism also generates sufficient force to overcome the resistance caused by the narrowing of the neck section 54 in the channel 48, further facilitating the dispensing of toothpaste 56.

The screw 20 defines a central rotational axis that is coaxially aligned with the central axis of the cartridge 10. This alignment ensures that the screw 20 rotates smoothly within the cartridge 10. The screw 20 is rotatable in either direction, enabling both clockwise rotation to traverse the plunger 16 forward to dispense toothpaste 56 and counterclockwise rotation to retract the plunger 16, creating additional space in the cartridge for refilling. At its distal end, the screw 20 includes a hex end portion 34 that interfaces with the hex recess 46 of the control knob 22 for reliable torque transfer.

The screw mechanism is designed to be durable and easy to operate, with components such as the screw 20 and the internal thread 38 of the plunger 16 manufactured from robust materials like plastic or metal. The threading of the screw 20 and the plunger 16 is selected to provide smooth operation and precise linear movement, while the interface between the hex recess 46 and the hex end portion 34 ensures reliable torque transmission.

The groove 28 of the cartridge 10 extends linearly along the interior surface of the cartridge and receives the guide 36 of the plunger 16. This arrangement prevents the plunger 16 from rotating within the cartridge 10, ensuring precise linear motion during actuation. The cartridge 10 may include one or more grooves 28, and the number of grooves 28 corresponds to the number of guides 36 on the plunger 16 for consistent alignment and stability during operation.

The plunger 16, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, may alternatively be configured to advance within the cartridge 10 through manual pressure applied by the user's finger. This configuration provides a simple and intuitive method for dispensing toothpaste 56 without the need for complex mechanisms or additional components. The plunger 16 is positioned within the cartridge 10 and is sized to fit snugly against the internal walls of the cartridge 10 to create a seal, ensuring that toothpaste 56 is effectively pushed toward the upstream section 50 of the channel 48 as the plunger 16 is advanced.

In this embodiment, the user applies direct manual pressure to the back of the plunger 16 to move it forward within the cartridge 10. The rear surface of the plunger 16 may include a textured area, an ergonomic grip, or a slightly recessed portion to facilitate comfortable and secure finger placement. As the user presses the plunger 16, the linear motion displaces the toothpaste 56, guiding it through the upstream section 50, neck section 54, and downstream section 52 of the channel 48 before it is dispensed through the exit opening 58 onto the bristles 60 of the brush tip 12.

The bearing 40 of the end cap 18 facilitates smooth rotation of the screw 20 when the control knob 22 is turned. The guide 42 of the end cap 18 matches the groove 28 of the cartridge 10, ensuring proper alignment of components during assembly. Additionally, the lip 44 of the end cap 18 abuts the edge of the cartridge 10 and prevents the end cap from being inserted into the cartridge, securing the entire assembly.

In another aspect, a method of dispensing toothpaste begins by advancing the plunger 16 further into the cartridge 10, as shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 5. The advancement of the plunger 16 pushes toothpaste 56 from the reservoir within the cartridge 10 into the upstream section 50 of the channel 48. The plunger 16 can be actuated in one of two ways: by rotating a screw mechanism or by applying direct manual pressure, depending on the toothbrush configuration. In embodiments utilizing a screw mechanism, the user rotates the control knob 22, which engages the screw 20, causing the plunger 16 to move forward linearly within the cartridge 10. In manual embodiments, the user presses directly on the back of the plunger 16 to achieve the same effect.

As toothpaste 56 flows through the channel 48, it enters the neck section 54, which is narrower than both the upstream section 50 and the downstream section 52. The reduced cross-sectional area of the neck section 54, shown in FIG. 3, causes an increase in pressure on the toothpaste 56 at the neck section 54. This pressure facilitates the flow of toothpaste 56 through the channel 48, overcoming the resistance typically associated with high-viscosity formulations. The narrowing in the neck section 54 is designed to reduce the cross-sectional area by about 10% to 75% relative to the upstream section 50 and downstream section 52, optimizing flow performance while maintaining compatibility with a wide range of toothpaste viscosities.

After passing through the neck section 54, the toothpaste 56 enters the downstream section 52, which has a larger cross-sectional area that reduces resistance and ensures smooth flow toward the exit opening 58. The toothpaste 56 is then dispensed from the exit opening 58 directly onto the bristles 60 of the brush tip 12 for application during brushing. The smooth transition between the sections of the channel 48 ensures consistent flow without clogging or irregularities.

The method of actuating the plunger 16 may vary based on the toothbrush design. In embodiments with a screw mechanism, the user rotates the control knob 22, shown in FIGS. 1 and 7, which engages the screw 20 to advance the plunger 16 linearly. The control knob 22 provides precise control over the amount of toothpaste 56 dispensed and generates sufficient force to move toothpaste 56 through the narrow neck section 54 of the channel 48. In an alternative manual configuration, the user applies direct pressure to the rear of the plunger 16 to push it forward within the cartridge 10. This approach eliminates reliance on additional components while maintaining effective toothpaste dispensing.

The combination of the channel geometry and the actuation mechanisms ensures that the travel toothbrush 8 is compatible with commercial toothpaste products, regardless of viscosity, and can dispense toothpaste efficiently and consistently. These features make the toothbrush 8 versatile, user-friendly, and suitable for various brushing needs during travel or everyday use.

Popular commercial toothpastes compatible with the travel toothbrush 8 include high-viscosity formulations such as Colgate Total, Crest 3D White, and Sensodyne Pronamel. These toothpastes typically have viscosities ranging from approximately 150,000 to 300,000 centipoise. The unique geometry of the channel 48, particularly the narrowing at the neck section 54, effectively manages the flow of these high-viscosity formulations without clogging or excessive force requirements.

The travel toothbrush 8 is designed to allow users to fill the cartridge 10 with their preferred toothpaste, regardless of its viscosity, thanks to the unique configuration of the channel 48 in the brush tip 12 and the screw-actuated plunger 16. The process of filling the cartridge 10 is straightforward and user-friendly, ensuring compatibility with standard commercial toothpaste formulations.

To begin, the user removes the end cap 18, shown in FIGS. 1 and 6, by detaching it from the cartridge 10. The end cap 18 includes a lip 44 and a guide 42 that secure it in place and align the internal components. Once the end cap 18 is removed, the user can access the plunger 16 and the screw 20. The screw 20, which includes a hex end portion 34, is connected to the control knob 22, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 7. The user unscrews the control knob 22 to disengage the screw 20 from the internal thread 38 of the plunger 16.

After removing the screw 20 and control knob 22, the user slides the plunger 16 out of the cartridge 10. The plunger 16, shown in FIG. 5, is designed with a guide 36 and internal thread 38 for smooth movement and proper sealing within the cartridge 10. With the plunger 16 removed, the cartridge 10 is now ready to be filled.

To fill the cartridge 10, the user inserts their preferred toothpaste directly into the open cavity of the cartridge 10. The cartridge 10 is designed to hold enough toothpaste 56 for multiple uses, and its cylindrical shape ensures an even and efficient filling process. The wide opening allows users to easily squeeze their toothpaste tube and transfer the toothpaste 56 into the cartridge 10 without spillage.

Once the cartridge 10 is filled, the user reinserts the plunger 16 into the cartridge 10, ensuring that it slides smoothly into place. The screw 20 is then threaded back into the internal thread 38 of the plunger 16, and the control knob 22 is reattached by aligning the hex end portion 34 of the screw 20 with the hex recess 46 of the control knob 22. The user tightens the control knob 22 to secure the screw 20 and plunger 16 within the cartridge 10. Finally, the end cap 18 is reattached to the cartridge 10 by aligning the guide 42 and securing the lip 44 in place.

This filling process ensures that the cartridge 10 is properly sealed and ready for use. The unique shape of the channel 48, with its upstream section 50, neck section 54, and downstream section 52, in combination with the screw-type plunger 16, ensures that the toothpaste 56 flows smoothly and efficiently during use. This feature allows users to utilize their favorite commercial toothpaste, regardless of its viscosity, and ensures consistent dispensing through the brush tip 12.

In another aspect, the cartridge 10 can be refilled by directly attaching it to a user's toothpaste tube, providing an efficient and mess-free refilling method. In this configuration, as shown in FIG. 1A, the cartridge 10 includes internal threads 26a at its open end instead of external threads 26 (see FIG. 1). These internal threads 26a are sized and configured to threadably engage with external threads on the user's toothpaste tube which may be commercially available on store shelves across America. To begin the refilling process, the user removes the brush tip 12 by unthreading external threads 24a (see FIG. 1A) of the brush tip 12 from the internal threads 26a (see FIG. 1A) of the cartridge 10.

The user then threads the internal threads 26a of the cartridge 10 onto the external threads of the toothpaste tube, ensuring a secure and airtight connection. Once the toothpaste tube is attached, the user twists the control knob 22 backwards to retract the plunger 16 within the cartridge 10. As the plunger 16 moves backward, a vacuum is created inside the cartridge 10, drawing toothpaste 56 out of the tube and into the cartridge 10. The user continues retracting the plunger 16 until the cartridge 10 is fully filled or filled to the desired level.

After the cartridge 10 is filled, the user detaches the toothpaste tube by unthreading it from the internal threads 26a of the cartridge 10. The user then reattaches the brush tip 12 by threading the external threads 24a of the brush tip 12 onto the internal threads 26a of the cartridge 10. This method allows the cartridge 10 to be refilled quickly and efficiently with the user's favorite toothpaste 56 and does not create a mess.

In another aspect, the travel toothbrush 8 is designed to offer enhanced convenience by allowing users to replace the cartridge 10 entirely with a new prefilled cartridge. This option eliminates the need for refilling the cartridge manually and provides a hygienic, mess-free alternative. To replace the cartridge 10, the user detaches the brush tip 12 by unscrewing it from the external thread 26 of the cartridge 10, as shown in FIG. 2. Once the brush tip 12 is removed, the user can discard the empty cartridge 10 and attach a new prefilled cartridge by aligning the external thread 26 of the new cartridge with the internal thread 24 of the brush tip 12. The replacement cartridge 10 can be prefilled with any compatible toothpaste, ensuring a seamless transition for continued use.

Additionally, the travel toothbrush 8 is designed for durability and sustainability by enabling the replacement of worn-out bristles 60. The bristles 60 are part of the brush tip 12, which can be detached from the cartridge 10 as described above. The user can replace the entire brush tip 12 with a new one, ensuring that the toothbrush remains effective for cleaning teeth. Replacement brush tips 12 are easily attachable by threading the internal thread 24 of the brush tip onto the external thread 26 of the cartridge 10. This modular design not only extends the lifespan of the toothbrush 8 but also enhances user convenience by allowing for customization and maintenance.

The above description is given by way of example, and not limitation. Given the above disclosure, one skilled in the art could devise variations that are within the scope and spirit of the invention disclosed herein. Further, the various features of the embodiments disclosed herein can be used alone, or in varying combinations with each other and are not intended to be limited to the specific combination described herein. Thus, the scope of the claims is not to be limited by the illustrated embodiments.

Claims

1. A travel toothbrush comprising:

a cartridge configured to store toothpaste;

a plunger disposed within the cartridge and configured to advance within the cartridge to push the toothpaste;

a brush tip attached to the cartridge, the brush tip comprising: a channel in fluid communication with the cartridge and having an exit opening, upstream section, a neck section, and a downstream section, wherein exit opening is in fluid communication with the downstream section, the downstream section is in fluid communication with the neck section, the neck section is in fluid communication with the upstream section and the upstream section is in fluid communication with the cartridge, and the entire upstream section including the exit opening and the entire downstream section each have a larger transverse cross-sectional area compared to the neck section for assisting in pushing the toothpaste from the cartridge to the exit opening of the channel of the brush tip as the plunger is advanced through the cartridge and the toothpaste is pushed by the plunger.

2. The travel toothbrush of claim 1, wherein the neck section of the channel has a cross-sectional area that is about 10% to 75% smaller than the cross-sectional area of either the upstream section or the downstream section of the channel.

3. The travel toothbrush of claim 1, wherein the channel has a cross-sectional shape selected from the group consisting of round, circular, and oval.

4. The travel toothbrush of claim 1, wherein the plunger is configured to advance within the cartridge by a screw mechanism.

5. The travel toothbrush of claim 1, wherein the plunger is configured to advance within the cartridge by manual pressure applied by a finger of a user.

6. A method of dispensing toothpaste from a travel toothbrush, the travel toothbrush comprising a cartridge storing toothpaste, a plunger configured to push toothpaste out of the cartridge, and a brush tip having a channel with an exit opening, an upstream section, a neck section, and a downstream section, the method comprising:

traversing the plunger further into the cartridge to push toothpaste from the cartridge into the channel of the brush tip; guiding the toothpaste through the neck section of the channel, wherein the neck section has a reduced cross-sectional area compared to the upstream section and downstream section, causing an increase in pressure to facilitate the flow of the toothpaste; and dispensing the toothpaste through the downstream section and out of the exit opening for application to bristles of the brush tip.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the neck section of the channel has a cross-sectional area that is about 10% to 75% smaller than the cross-sectional area of either the upstream section or the downstream section.

8. The method of claim 6, further comprising:

selecting the channel's cross-sectional shape from the group consisting of round, circular, and oval.

9. The method of claim 6, wherein actuating the plunger comprises rotating a screw mechanism to advance the plunger within the cartridge.

10. The method of claim 6, wherein actuating the plunger comprises manually pressing the plunger into the cartridge with a finger.