Patent application title:

DISPOSABLE MICROFIBER MAT FOR MAINTAINING CLEANLINESS AND HYGIENE OF AN ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSH CHARGING STATION

Publication number:

US20250375029A1

Publication date:
Application number:

18/738,746

Filed date:

2024-06-10

Smart Summary: A disposable microfiber mat helps keep electric toothbrush charging stations clean and hygienic. It fits snugly around the base of the charging station and absorbs water, toothpaste, and other liquids after brushing. Users simply place the mat on the charging station, put the toothbrush on it after use, and replace the mat after a certain number of uses. The mat may also have an anti-microbial treatment and a simple design. This solution is efficient and eco-friendly for maintaining cleanliness around toothbrush chargers. 🚀 TL;DR

Abstract:

A method and system for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene of an electric toothbrush charging station using a disposable microfiber mat. The mat, composed of a water-absorbent material, is configured to fit snugly around the base of the charging station and absorb water, toothpaste residue, or other liquids from the electric toothbrush after use. The method comprises providing the microfiber mat, placing it on the charging station, positioning the toothbrush on the mat post-use, and replacing the mat after a predetermined number of uses. The system includes the charging station and the disposable microfiber mat, which may feature an anti-microbial treatment and a minimalist design. The invention provides an efficient, eco-friendly solution for maintaining hygiene around electric toothbrush charging stations.

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Classification:

A46B17/02 »  CPC main

Accessories for brushes Devices for holding brushes in use

A46B17/06 »  CPC further

Accessories for brushes Devices for cleaning brushes after use

A46B2200/1066 »  CPC further

Brushes characterized by their functions, uses or applications; For human or animal care Toothbrush for cleaning the teeth or dentures

Description

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to the field of oral hygiene and, more specifically, to a method and system for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene of an electric toothbrush charging station using a disposable microfiber mat.

Proper oral hygiene is essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Electric toothbrushes have become increasingly popular due to their effectiveness in removing plaque and promoting good oral hygiene habits. However, the charging stations for these electric toothbrushes can often become a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and mildew due to the accumulation of water, toothpaste residue, and other liquids from the toothbrush after use.

Conventional methods for maintaining the cleanliness of electric toothbrush charging stations include wiping them down with a cloth or cleaning solution, but these methods can be time-consuming and may not effectively remove all the moisture and residue. Some users may place a paper towel or cloth underneath the charging station to absorb any drips, but these materials are not optimized for absorbency and may not fit securely around the base of the charging station.

Prior art solutions have been proposed to address the issue of maintaining hygiene for toothbrushes themselves. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,139,142 discloses a disposable cover for the bristle portion of a toothbrush, composed of two pieces of sheet material sealed together along their edges. The cover is designed to fit over the bristle portion of the toothbrush and be held in place by friction, absorbing water from the bristles to maintain them in a nearly aseptic condition between uses.

However, there remains a need for a convenient and effective solution for maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of electric toothbrush charging stations. The present invention addresses this need by providing a disposable microfiber mat that fits snugly around the base of the charging station, absorbing any water, toothpaste residue, or other liquids from the electric toothbrush after use. The mat is composed of a highly absorbent microfiber material that is optimized for maximum water absorption and quick drying.

By incorporating a disposable, water-absorbent microfiber mat into the electric toothbrush charging station cleaning system, the present invention offers a simple and efficient way to promote oral hygiene and maintain a clean, mold-free environment in the bathroom. This innovative solution enhances the functionality of electric toothbrush charging stations and provides users with a more hygienic and aesthetically pleasing oral care experience.

SUMMARY

The present invention provides a novel method and system for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene of an electric toothbrush charging station using a disposable microfiber mat. The microfiber mat is configured to fit snugly around the base of the charging station and is composed of a water-absorbent material that effectively absorbs any water, toothpaste residue, or other liquids from the electric toothbrush after use. Mention

In one aspect, the invention is directed to a method for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene of an electric toothbrush charging station. The method involves providing a disposable microfiber mat, placing the mat on top of the charging station such that it surrounds the base, positioning the electric toothbrush on the mat after use, and replacing the mat with a new one after a predetermined number of uses. The microfiber mat is washable, reusable, and biodegradable, making it an eco-friendly solution for maintaining a hygienic environment around the charging station.

In another aspect, the invention is directed to an electric toothbrush charging station cleaning system. The system comprises an electric toothbrush charging station with a base and an upper portion for receiving the toothbrush, and a disposable microfiber mat. The mat is sized to fit snugly around the base of the charging station and is designed to absorb liquids from the toothbrush after use. The mat is replaced after a predetermined number of uses to ensure optimal hygiene. The system may further include a pack of multiple disposable microfiber mats for extended use and convenience.

The disposable microfiber mat of the present invention is composed of a highly absorbent material, such as a blend of polyester and polyamide fibers, which is optimized for maximum water absorption and quick drying. The mat may also include an anti-microbial treatment to inhibit the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew, further enhancing the hygienic properties of the system.

Additionally, the mat features a central hole with an elastic to further facilitate a snug fit with the charging base and a pair of radially positioned slits on the outer circumference of the hole to enable varied compatibility with a wide range of charging stations.

The microfiber mat is designed to have a minimalist appearance that complements the aesthetics of the electric toothbrush charging station and the surrounding bathroom. The mat may be available in various colors or designs to suit individual preferences and styles.

In summary, the present invention provides a simple, efficient, and eco-friendly solution for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene around electric toothbrush charging stations. By incorporating a disposable, water-absorbent microfiber mat into the cleaning system, the invention promotes better oral hygiene habits and enhances the overall user experience.

Additional features and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by the practice of the invention. These and other features of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The various exemplary embodiments of the present invention. which will become more apparent as the description proceeds, are described in the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a disposable microfiber mat.

FIG. 2 depicts an aerial view of the disposable microfiber mat.

FIG. 3 shows a lateral view of the disposable microfiber mat.

FIG. 4 illustrates the disposable microfiber mat being placed on an electric toothbrush charging station.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof and show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be used and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description, therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims.

The following description is provided as an enabling teaching of the present systems, and/or methods in its best, currently known aspect. To this end, those skilled in the relevant art will recognize and appreciate that many changes can be made to the various aspects of the present systems described herein, while still obtaining the beneficial results of the present disclosure. It will also be apparent that some of the desired benefits of the present disclosure can be obtained by selecting some of the features of the present disclosure without utilizing other features.

Accordingly, those who work in the art will recognize that many modifications and adaptations to the present disclosure are possible and can even be desirable in certain circumstances and are a part of the present disclosure. Thus, the following description is provided as illustrative of the principles of the present disclosure and not in limitation thereof.

The terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar references used in the context of describing a particular embodiment of the present invention (especially in the context of certain claims) are construed to cover both the singular and the plural. The recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein. each individual value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein.

All systems described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (for example, “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the application and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the application otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the application. Thus, for example, reference to “an element” can include two or more such elements unless the context indicates otherwise.

As used herein, the terms “optional” or “optionally” mean that the subsequently described event or circumstance can or cannot occur, and that the description includes instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.

The word or as used herein means any one member of a particular list and also includes any combination of members of that list. Further, one should note that conditional language, such as, among others, “can,” “could,” “might.” or “may.” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain aspects include, while other aspects do not include, certain features, elements and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements and/or steps are in any way required for one or more particular aspects or that one or more particular aspects necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without user input or prompting, whether these features, elements and/or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular aspect.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a disposable microfiber mat 100 for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene of an electric toothbrush charging station. The microfiber mat 100 is composed of a water-absorbent material, such as a blend of polyester and polyamide fibers in a weight ratio optimized for maximum water absorbency and quick drying.

The microfibre mat 100 features a hole 104 which enables the male portion of a toothbrush charging station (not shown) to protrude through the microfibre matt 100. Additionally, the microfibre mat 100 features an elastic band 102 and slits 103. The elastic band 102 is fitted and attached to the inner circumference of the hole 104. The elastic band facilitates a snug fit between the microfiber mat 100 and the male piece of the toothbrush charging station (not shown). The slits 103 enable compatibility with charging stations that have a male charging connection port with a diameter greater than the diameter of the hole.

FIG. 2 depicts an aerial view of the disposable microfiber mat 100. The mat 100 has a minimalist solid color design to blend in with the aesthetics of the electric toothbrush charging station and surrounding bathroom decor. The microfiber mat 100 may comprise an anti-microbial treatment to inhibit the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew.

FIG. 3 shows a side view of the disposable microfiber mat 100. The mat 100 is sized to be placed on top of the electric toothbrush charging station such that the mat surrounds the base of the charging station to maintain a hygienic and clean surface. The microfiber mat 100 is washable and reusable for a predetermined number of cleaning cycles before being disposed.

FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of the disposable microfiber mat 100 being placed on an electric toothbrush charging station 200. The charging station 200 has a base 210 configured to rest on a surface and an upper portion 220 configured to receive an electric toothbrush 300. The microfiber mat 100 includes a hole 110 in the middle, which permits an extended male portion 230 of the charging station 200 to penetrate through the mat 100, allowing it to make contact with a female portion 310 of the connector on the bottom of the electric toothbrush 300. This configuration allows the toothbrush 300 to charge while the microfiber mat 100 collects and prevents grime build-up on the base 210 of the charging station 200.

The disposable microfiber mat 100 is provided in a pack containing multiple mats for extended use and convenience. The pack may include at least 10 disposable microfiber mats. In some embodiments the microfiber mat 100 is biodegradable and eco-friendly, making it suitable for use in various settings, including homes, travel, and guest bathrooms.

The water-absorbent material of the microfiber mat 100 is capable of absorbing water, toothpaste residue, and other liquids from the electric toothbrush 300 placed on the mat after use. The mat 100 may include a visual indicator such as a variation in the color of the matt based on factors comprising PH, water saturation level, and fluoride level to show when the predetermined number of uses has been reached and the mat should be replaced to maintain optimal hygiene. The predetermined number of uses is determined based on a recommended replacement schedule for maintaining optimal hygiene.

In use, the disposable microfiber mat 100 is placed on top of the electric toothbrush charging station 200 such that the mat surrounds the base 210 of the charging station. After each use, the electric toothbrush 300 is positioned on the microfiber mat 100, allowing the water-absorbent material to absorb any water, toothpaste residue, or other liquid from the toothbrush. The microfiber mat 100 is washed after each use to maintain its absorbency and cleanliness. After a predetermined number of uses, the disposable microfiber mat 100 is replaced with a new mat to maintain a hygienic and clean surface on the electric toothbrush charging station 200.

The embodiments described herein are given for the purpose of facilitating the understanding of the present invention and are not intended to limit the interpretation of the present invention. The respective elements and their arrangements, materials, conditions, shapes, sizes, or the like of the embodiment are not limited to the illustrated examples but may be appropriately changed. Further, the constituents described in the embodiment may be partially replaced or combined together.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A method for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene of an electric toothbrush charging station, the method comprising:

providing a disposable microfiber mat configured to fit snugly around a base of the electric toothbrush charging station, wherein the microfiber mat is composed of a water-absorbent material and features a hole which enables a male portion of the toothbrush charging station to protrude through the microfiber mat, an elastic band fitted and attached to an inner circumference of the hole to facilitate a snug fit between the microfiber mat and the male portion, and slits that enable compatibility with charging stations that have a male charging connection port with a diameter greater than a diameter of the hole;

placing the microfiber mat on top of the electric toothbrush charging station such that the mat surrounds the base of the charging station;

positioning an electric toothbrush on the microfiber mat after use, wherein the water-absorbent material of the microfiber mat absorbs any water, toothpaste residue, or other liquid from the electric toothbrush; and

replacing the disposable microfiber mat with a new microfiber mat after a predetermined number of uses to maintain a hygienic and clean surface on the electric toothbrush charging station.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the disposable microfiber mat is washable and reusable for a predetermined number of uses before being replaced.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the disposable microfiber mat is biodegradable and eco-friendly.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the disposable microfiber mat has a minimalist design that enhances the aesthetic appeal of the electric toothbrush charging station.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein the disposable microfiber mat is sized to fit snugly around the base of most standard electric toothbrush charging stations.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the predetermined number of uses is determined based on a recommended replacement schedule for maintaining optimal hygiene.

7. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of washing the disposable microfiber mat after each use to maintain its absorbency and cleanliness.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein the disposable microfiber mat is suitable for use in various settings, including homes, travel, and guest bathrooms.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein the disposable microfiber mat is provided in a pack containing multiple mats for extended use and convenience.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein the disposable microfiber mat is dentist-recommended for its superior absorbency and ability to maintain a hygienic environment around the electric toothbrush charging station.

11. The method of claim 1, wherein the disposable microfiber mat comprises an anti-microbial treatment to inhibit growth of bacteria, mold and mildew.

12. The method of claim 1, wherein the elastic band is fitted and attached to an inner circumference of the hole to facilitate a snug fit between the microfiber mat and the male portion of the toothbrush charging station protruding through the hole.

13. The method of claim 1, wherein the microfiber mat further comprises a plurality of slits extending radially outward from the hole, the slits enabling compatibility of the microfiber mat with charging stations that have a male charging connection port with a diameter greater than the diameter of the hole.

14. An electric toothbrush charging station cleaning system comprising:

an electric toothbrush charging station having a base configured to rest on a surface and an upper portion configured to receive an electric toothbrush; and

a disposable microfiber mat composed of a water-absorbent material, the microfiber mat configured to:

fit snugly around the base of the electric toothbrush charging station, absorb water, toothpaste residue, or other liquid from an electric toothbrush placed on the microfiber mat after use,

be replaced after a predetermined number of uses, and

feature a hole which enables a male portion of the toothbrush charging station to protrude through the microfiber mat, an elastic band fitted and attached to an inner circumference of the hole to facilitate a snug fit between the microfiber mat and the male portion, and slits that enable compatibility with charging stations that have a male charging connection port with a diameter greater than a diameter of the hole,

wherein the microfiber mat is sized to be placed on top of the electric toothbrush charging station such that the mat surrounds the base of the charging station to maintain a hygienic and clean surface on the electric toothbrush charging station.

15. The electric toothbrush charging station cleaning system of claim 14, wherein the microfiber mat is washable and reusable for a predetermined number of cleaning cycles before being disposed.

16. The electric toothbrush charging station cleaning system of claim 14, wherein the microfiber mat comprises an anti-microbial treatment to inhibit growth of bacteria, mold and mildew.

17. The electric toothbrush charging station cleaning system of claim 14, wherein the microfiber mat includes a visual indicator to show when the predetermined number of uses has been reached and the mat should be replaced to maintain optimal hygiene.

18. The electric toothbrush charging station cleaning system of claim 14, wherein the microfiber mat has a minimalist solid color design.

19. The electric toothbrush charging station cleaning system of claim 14, wherein the water-absorbent material of the microfiber mat comprises a blend of polyester and polyamide fibers in a weight ratio optimized for maximum water absorbency and quick drying.

20. The electric toothbrush charging station cleaning system of claim 14, further comprising a plurality of disposable microfiber mats provided in a pack for convenient replacement of the mat after the predetermined number of uses.

21-26. (canceled)

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