A solar-powered toothbrush without the need of toothpaste.

Detailed Description:
Soladey-J3x is a toothbrush that uses a chemical reaction in your mouth to clean your teeth.

Known drawbacks of design:
-

Website:
http://www.soladey.com/

Designed in:
2010

Status of realization:
In production

Challenge(s):
energy, health, science, technology

Form
Soladey looks like an ordinary toothbrush, but closer examination reveals a titanium (metal) ionic conducting rod, which runs through the replaceable bristle head and into the handle. This rod is the secret to Soladey. It's made of a patented solar conducting material that allows light, by photoelectric activity, to be converted into a natural energy source which kills the harmful bacteria in your mouth.

Impact
Soladey is effective in order to reduce smokers' tobacco stains, and there are many testimonials claiming the removal of difficult stains in a matter of weeks with consistent use of the Soladey ionic brush under a good light source.

Context
This one here is not the first model for Komiyama. The dentist’s first model dates back in 1995, which according to the Journal of Clinical Periodontology’s description contained a titanium dioxide rod in the neck of the brush. As light fell on the wet rod, electrons were released that reacted with acid in the mouth, breaking down plaque. The newer one is said to be an improvement over the previous model and has been tested on cultures of two types of bacteria that are major culprits in periodontal disease.

Other relevant information
The Soladey-J3X won the researches the first spot out of 170 entries at the FDI Annual World Dental Conference.

Is the design protected by patent or ip registration?
Patent

How has the development of the design been financed hereunto?
Company development costs

Is there a plan for future investments?
Yes

Is there in-house competencies to secure market roll out of the design, with regards to investment, distribution, sales, etc.?
Yes

Designed by:
Dr. Komiyama

Title/Role:
Inventor

Professional status of designer:
Professor

Nationality:
Japan

City/Country of residence:
Tennoji-ku, Osaka-shi

Name of company:
Shiken

Designed by:
Dr. Gerry Uswak

Title/Role:
Co-developer

Professional status of designer:
Professor

Nationality:
Japan

City/Country of residence:
Tennoji-ku, Osaka-shi

Name of company:
University of Saskatchewan


Manufactured/Produced/Commisioned by:
Shiken
http://www.kk-shiken.co.jp/e/index.html

Additional credits:
University of Saskatchewan