Reduced form factor oral irrigator

Abstract

The oral irrigator has a removable reservoir defining a reservoir cavity, a base unit housing a motor and a pump, and a handle for directing a fluid flow from the pump, the handle being removably connected to the base unit and fluidly coupled to the pump via a hose. The handle has a housing defining a slot formed in an outer wall of the housing. The slot is defined by two opposing walls spaced apart from each other and a transverse wall at the inner terminal ends of the opposing walls. The outer wall of the housing opens into the slot at the sides of the two opposing walls and at the base end of the opposing wall opposite the transverse wall.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with application number 201780019437.1 (PCT application number PCT / US2017 / 014985), application date January 25, 2017, and invention name “Oral irrigator with reduced form factor”.

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 286,925, filed on January 25, 2016, entitled “ORAL IRRIGATION DEVICE WITH REDUCED FORM FACTOR,” and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 16,926, filed on November 3, 2016, entitled “ORAL IRRIGATION DEVICE WITH REDUCED FORM FACTOR,” each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0004] This application is related to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 286,792 (Attorney Docket No. P258358.US.01), filed on January 25, 2016, and entitled “Swivel Assembly for Oral Irrigator Handle,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0005] The present disclosure relates generally to health and personal hygiene devices, and more particularly to oral irrigators. Background Art

[0006] Oral irrigators are typically used to clean a user's teeth and gums by discharging a stream of pressurized fluid into the user's mouth. The fluid impacts the teeth and gums to remove debris. Countertop oral irrigator units include a large reservoir that is connected to a base unit that houses a pump and other internal components. These units are typically too large to be easily portable, so many users do not carry countertop units when traveling. Handheld oral irrigator units are smaller than most countertop units and may include a handle that houses internal components (such as a pump, motor, etc.) and a reservoir that is integrated with or connected to the handle. Although handheld irrigator units are typically smaller than countertop units and easier to carry, because the reservoir is connected to the handle, the reservoir is typically smaller than the countertop unit reservoir, and therefore may not provide as much fluid for rinsing as the user desires.

[0007] The information included in this background section of the specification, including any references cited herein and any description or discussion thereof, is included for technical reference purposes only and should not be considered as subject matter defining the scope of the invention as defined in the claims. Summary of the invention

[0008] In one embodiment, the oral irrigator may include a removable reservoir defining a reservoir cavity; a base unit housing a motor and a pump; and a handle for directing a fluid flow from the pump, the handle being removably connected to the base unit and fluidically coupled to the pump via a hose. The handle may further include a housing defining a groove formed in an outer wall of the housing. The groove may be defined by two opposing walls spaced apart from each other and a transverse wall at the inner terminal end of the opposing walls, such that the outer wall of the housing opens to the groove at the sides of the two opposing walls and at the base end of the opposing walls opposite to the transverse wall. In a first configuration, the reservoir is coupled to the top surface of the base unit, and the reservoir cavity is fluidically coupled to the pump. In a second configuration, the base unit is fluidly separated from the reservoir cavity, and the base unit is positioned within the reservoir cavity.

[0009] In another embodiment, the handle of the oral irrigator for directing a concentrated fluid flow has a housing that defines a groove formed in the outer wall of the housing. The groove can be defined by two opposing walls spaced apart from each other and a transverse wall at the inner terminal end of the opposing wall, so that the outer wall of the housing is open to the groove at the sides of the two opposing walls and at the base end of the opposing wall opposite to the transverse wall. In some embodiments, the opposing walls are parallel to each other. In other embodiments, the two opposing walls are planar. In some embodiments, the opposing walls are both planar and parallel to each other. In another embodiment, the handle can extend from a first end to a second end in a generally elongated shape along the longitudinal axis, and the opposing walls defining the groove extend at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0010] In another embodiment, the oral irrigator may include a removable reservoir defining a reservoir cavity, a base unit accommodating a motor and a pump, and a power assembly selectively connected to the motor. In a first configuration, the reservoir is coupled to a top surface of the base unit, the reservoir cavity is fluidly coupled to the pump, and the power assembly is electrically connected to the motor. In a second configuration, the base unit is fluidly separated from the reservoir cavity, the base unit is positioned within the reservoir cavity, the power assembly is electrically disconnected from the motor, and the power assembly is received within a cavity defined in the base unit. In another embodiment, the base unit may include a base magnetic material. The power assembly may similarly include a retaining magnetic material. When the oral irrigator is in the second configuration, the base magnetic material and the retaining magnetic material may be aligned relative to each other and attracted to each other to thereby secure the power assembly within the base unit.

[0011] In another embodiment, the oral irrigator may include a base unit, a removable reservoir, and a belt drive assembly. The base unit may house a motor and a pump. The removable reservoir may define a reservoir cavity configured to mechanically couple to a top surface of the base unit and fluidly couple the reservoir cavity to the pump. The belt drive assembly may connect the motor to the pump. The belt drive assembly may further include: a drive pulley connected to an output shaft of the motor; a driven pulley spaced apart from the drive pulley and mechanically connected to a piston driving the pump; and a continuous belt connecting the drive pulley to the driven pulley. In another embodiment, the tensioning structure may apply tension to the belt. In yet another embodiment, the tensioning structure may include an idler pulley and a tensioning member. The idler pulley may be positioned between the drive pulley and the driven pulley and may be pivotally mounted relative to the drive pulley and the driven pulley, and may be positioned to contact the belt. The tensioning member is connected to the idler pulley and is configured to pull the idler pulley around the pivot to maintain contact force with the belt. In another embodiment, the base unit may include a chassis to which each of the motor, driven pulley, and idler pulley are attached. The bracket may be pivotally attached to the chassis. The idler pulley may be rotatably attached to the bracket. The tensioning member may be connected to the bracket at a first end and to the chassis at a second end. In a further embodiment, the tensioning member is a torsion spring, the bracket is L-shaped, the idler pulley is attached to a first terminal end of the L-shaped bracket, and the first end of the torsion spring is attached to a second terminal end of the L-shaped bracket. The central axis of the torsion spring may be aligned with the pivot point of the L-shaped bracket.

[0012] In another embodiment, the oral irrigator can include a base unit and a removable reservoir. The base unit can be surrounded by a housing that covers a motor and a drive system and a pump, the motor and drive system being positioned in a first dry compartment formed in the base unit housing, and the pump being positioned in a second wet compartment formed in the base unit housing. The removable reservoir can define a reservoir cavity that is configured to be mechanically coupled to the top surface of the base unit and fluidically couple the reservoir cavity to the pump. The piston can be connected to the drive system at a first end and to the pump at a second end. A diaphragm seal can be positioned between the dry compartment and the wet compartment, through which the piston passes. The diaphragm seal can further include a frame, two elastic crimp seals, and an elastic bellows. The frame can be made of a rigid material, define a central hole, and have a dry surface oriented toward the dry compartment and a wet surface oriented toward the wet compartment. The first elastic crimp seal can be formed at least partially along at least a portion of the peripheral edge of the dry surface and adjacent to at least a portion of the peripheral edge of the dry surface. The second resilient crimp seal may be formed at least partially along and adjacent to at least a portion of a peripheral edge of the wetted surface. The resilient bellows may seal against and extend through the central aperture. The bellows may further define a central opening configured to receive and seal around a shaft portion of the piston.

[0013] In another embodiment, the oral irrigator may include a base unit, a removable reservoir, a handle, a first poppet valve, and a second poppet valve. The base unit may house a motor and a pump. The removable reservoir may define a reservoir cavity configured to be mechanically coupled to the top surface of the base unit and fluidically coupled to the reservoir cavity to the pump. The handle may be removably connected to the base unit and fluidically coupled to the pump through a hose to guide the fluid flow from the pump. The first poppet valve may be positioned in a removable connector that is attached to the hose at a first end and releasably attached to a port in the base unit that is in fluid communication with the pump at a second end. The first poppet valve may be configured to open in response to a fluid under pressure received from the pump to allow the fluid to flow through the hose to the handle. The first poppet valve may also be configured to close in the absence of a fluid under pressure received from the pump. The second poppet valve may be positioned in the port and configured to open in response to a connection with the connector and configured to close when the connector is removed from the port. In other embodiments, the reversing valve may be positioned in the base unit, in fluid communication with the pump at a first end, and in fluid communication with the reservoir at a second end. The reversing valve may be configured to block a main fluid flow passage to the reservoir when the pump provides a positive pressure stroke, and to open the main fluid flow passage to the reservoir when the pump provides a negative pressure stroke. A third poppet valve may be housed in a valve cavity defined within the reversing valve. The third poppet valve may be configured to block fluid from flowing through the valve cavity from the reservoir, and to open and allow fluid to flow through the valve cavity toward the reservoir when the fluid pressure at the first end of the reversing valve exceeds a threshold pressure.

[0014] This summary is provided to introduce selected concepts in a simplified form, which will be further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. A more extensive presentation of the features, details, utilities, and advantages of the invention as defined in the claims is provided in the following written description of various embodiments of the invention and shown in the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] Figure 1A is a front isometric view of an oral irrigator.

[0016] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A Side elevation view of an oral irrigator.

[0017] Figure 1C yes Figure 1A Rear elevation view of an oral irrigator.

[0018] Figure 1D yes Figure 1ABottom view of an oral irrigator.

[0019] Figure 2 is a front elevation view of a reservoir for an oral irrigator.

[0020] Figure 3A is a front isometric view of a base for an oral irrigator.

[0021] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A Top view of the base.

[0022] Figure 3C yes Figure 3A Front isometric view of the base.

[0023] Figure 3D yes Figure 3A Top view of the base.

[0024] Figure 4 yes Figure 3A Exploded view of the base.

[0025] Figure 5 is a top view of the lower housing for the base.

[0026] Fig. 6A is a front elevation view of the operating components of the oral irrigator disposed in a base.

[0027] Figure 6B yes Fig. 6A A top view of the operating components of FIG. 1 is provided, showing the layout of the operating components in the base.

[0028] Figure 6C is along Figure 1C A cross-sectional view of the oral irrigator taken along line 6C-6C in FIG.

[0029] Fig.6D yes Fig. 6A A side elevation view of the operating components of the device.

[0030] Fig. 7A is a front isometric view of a drive assembly for an oral irrigator.

[0031] Figure 7B is an exploded view of the drive assembly.

[0032] Fig. 8A is a first side elevation view of a driven pulley for a drive assembly.

[0033] Figure 8B is a side isometric view of a driven pulley for a drive assembly.

[0034] Fig. 9A is a top view of the connecting rod used to drive the assembly.

[0035] Fig. 9B is a side elevation view of the connecting rod.

[0036] Fig.10 yes Figure 6C A magnified view of a cross-sectional view of .

[0037] Fig.11A is a front isometric view of a pump housing for a pump assembly.

[0038] Fig. 11B yes Fig.11A Rear isometric view of the pump housing.

[0039] Fig. 12A is a front isometric view of the regulator housing for the pressure assembly.

[0040] Fig. 12B is along Fig. 12A A cross-sectional view of the regulator housing taken along line 12B-12B.

[0041] Fig.13 is an exploded view of the pressure regulator valve.

[0042] Fig.14 is an exploded view of the connected components.

[0043] Fig.15A yes Figure 1A Rear isometric view of an oral irrigator of FIG. 1 with the power assembly in a use orientation.

[0044] Fig. 15B yes Fig.15A Front isometric view of an oral irrigator.

[0045] Fig.16 Is in storage or folded position Figure 1A Front isometric view of an oral irrigator.

[0046] Fig.17 is a rear isometric view of an alternative embodiment of an oral irrigator.

[0047] Fig.18 is along Fig.17 A cross-sectional view of the oral irrigator taken along line 18-18.

[0048] Fig.19A yes Fig.17 An exploded top isometric view of the power button assembly of an oral irrigator.

[0049] Fig.19B yes Fig.17 An exploded bottom isometric view of a power button assembly of an oral irrigator.

[0050] Fig. 20yes Fig.17 A front isometric view of a connecting rod of an oral irrigator.

[0051] Fig.21 yes Fig.17 A front isometric view of the driven pulley of an oral irrigator.

[0052] Fig.22A is an isometric view of an alternative embodiment of a drive assembly.

[0053] Fig. 22B yes Fig.22A Front elevation view of the drive assembly.

[0054] Fig.23A is a front isometric view of an alternative embodiment of a hose latch assembly.

[0055] Fig. 23B yes Fig.23A Rear isometric view of the hose latch assembly.

[0056] Fig.24 is an isometric view of an alternative embodiment of a pop-up button.

[0057] Fig.25 1 is a right side elevational view of the handle of the oral irrigator of FIG. 1 .

[0058] Fig.26 yes Fig.17 Right side isometric view of the diaphragm seal of an oral irrigator.

[0059] Fig. 27 yes Fig.26 Left side isometric view of the diaphragm seal.

[0060] Fig.28 yes Fig.17 An isometric view of the actuator of an oral irrigator having a rack and pinion.

[0061] Fig.29 is an isometric view of the gear assembly attached to the pump assembly, which is Fig.28 The rack and pinion are engaged.

[0062] Fig.30 yes Fig.28 The actuator and Fig.29 A front isometric view of a cross section of a gear assembly engagement. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0063] Examples of the present disclosure include an oral irrigator having a reduced form factor compared to a conventional countertop oral irrigator. The oral irrigator includes a base, a removable reservoir, a power assembly, a drive assembly, a handle, and a pump assembly. In one embodiment, the reservoir and the power assembly are each capable of being reconfigured from a storage position or a folded position to a use position or an extended position. For example, the reservoir can transition from being placed on the top surface of the base in the use position to a storage position, in which the reservoir is disconnected from the base unit and the base unit is inserted into the reservoir cavity for storage. Similarly, the power assembly is stored in a compartment in the base, but is removed from the base and connected to a power source (such as a power outlet) when used. The handle can also be selectively connected and disconnected from the base and the reservoir to allow the handle to be removed and stored when needed. The countertop irrigator uses a conventional outlet (100-240V outlet) and is therefore more powerful and potentially more ideal for the user than a handheld unit, which typically uses a 2.4V battery pack. In addition, the countertop irrigator is ready for use as long as an outlet is available. In contrast, a handheld flusher must be charged before it can be used. For travel, a user may forget to charge the unit before departure, and the unit may be inoperable when the user arrives at their destination.

[0064] The oral irrigator may also include a drive assembly having reduced noise compared to conventional oral irrigators. The drive assembly includes a pinion pulley driven by a motor, a driven pulley indirectly driven by the pinion pulley, and a belt connected to the pinion pulley and the driven pulley to transfer motion from the pinion pulley to the driven pulley. The belt rests on the outer surfaces of the two pulleys and reduces noise generated by the drive assembly because the pulleys do not physically mesh with each other like gears to transfer motion therebetween. The drive assembly may also include a tensioning assembly to ensure that the belt drive tension is maintained at an appropriate level based on the load on the motor.

[0065] The driven pulley is connected to a connecting rod that drives a piston to pump fluid between the reservoir and the handle. In one embodiment, the connecting rod includes a bend or elbow extension. The bend allows the sealing structure to be placed around the connecting rod and seal against the connecting rod.

[0066] The oral irrigator includes a number of different valves for preventing fluid leakage in the storage and use configurations. For example, the base and handle each include connectors for sealing the inlet and outlet when the handle and base are disconnected from each other. These connectors prevent the hose connected to the handle and the hole in the base for receiving the hose from leaking fluid when the oral irrigator is not in use.

[0067] Overview of oral irrigators

[0068] The oral irrigator of the present disclosure will now be discussed in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figures 1A-1D Various views of an oral irrigator are shown. Figures 1A-1D , the oral irrigator 100 includes a base 102, a reservoir 104, a handle 106 connected to a tip 108, and a hose 110 that fluidly connects the handle 106 to the base 102. The oral irrigator 100 also includes a power assembly 134 that is removably connected to the base 102 and is configured to be electrically connected to the base 102 to provide power to various components within the oral irrigator 100. The reservoir 104, handle 106, and hose 110 are removably connected to the base 102, allowing the oral irrigator 100 to be folded into a storage configuration and inserted into a travel carrying bag or other container for storage or transportation.

[0069] The base 102 houses the motor, pump assembly, pressure assembly, and various connectors to fluidly connect the handle 106 to the reservoir 104 and to draw fluid from the reservoir 104 and expel fluid from an outlet of the tip 108. Each of the various components of the oral irrigator 100 will be discussed in detail below.

[0070] Storage

[0071] The reservoir 104 stores fluid (such as water, mouthwash, etc.) for use with the oral irrigator 100 . Figure 2 1 is a front elevation view of the reservoir 104. The reservoir 104 is generally rectangular in shape and includes a front wall 152, a rear wall 154, a bottom wall 140, and two side walls 144, 144. The top end of the reservoir 104 is open, and each of the front wall, the rear wall, and the side walls includes a top edge 128, 129, 148, 150 at the top end of the reservoir 104. In one embodiment, the top edges 128, 129 of the front wall 152 and the rear wall 154 change height along their length and bend upward toward the center of the reservoir 104. In other words, the front wall 152 and the rear wall 154 have an increased height toward the center compared to the edges. In this way, the top end of the reservoir 104 is bent upward or curved upward in the middle and is bent downward or curved downward toward each of the side walls 144, 146.

[0072] Each of the walls is interconnected to define a reservoir compartment 124 for containing fluid. In some embodiments, the edges interconnecting the front wall 152, the rear wall 154, the bottom wall 140, and the side walls 144, 146 are curved to define a gentle angle, rather than a right angle that would define a sharp edge. This curve is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also allows the reservoir 104 and the oral irrigator 100 to slide in and out of the package or container because the edges will not snag on the material and will also distribute the impact force more evenly on the reservoir 104.

[0073] The reservoir compartment 124 is sized and shaped to not only hold a desired amount of fluid, but also to correspond to the shape and size of the base unit 102. In particular, the reservoir compartment 124 is shaped so that the base unit 102 can easily fit within the reservoir compartment 124. The reservoir port 142 extends downwardly from the bottom wall 140 and is fluidly connected to the reservoir compartment 124 via an aperture defined through the bottom wall 140.

[0074] Base

[0075] The base 102 supports the reservoir 104 and encloses the pumping and operating components of the oral irrigator 100 . Figure 3A-3D Various views of the base 102 are shown with the storage and power components hidden. Figure 3D and Figure 3B The difference is that a portion of the hose connector 112 is shown. Figure 4 is an exploded view of the base. Figure 5 1 is a top view of the lower housing of the base 102. Figure 3A-Figure 4 , the base 102 includes a lower housing 178, an upper housing 180, a faceplate 182, and a trim ring 126, each of which are interconnected together.

[0076] The decorative ring 126 is a ring of accent material and includes a button ring 186 connected thereto. In many embodiments, the decorative ring 126 is a different material than the other components of the base unit to provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance. The decorative ring 126 helps to secure the various base components together and may include ribs, flanges, and other fastening elements to press fit or otherwise connect to other components.

[0077] refer to Figure 4 , the panel 182 defines the top surface 120 of the base 102 and helps to enclose the internal compartment of the base 102. The panel 182 may include cutouts (such as, upper housing holes 188 and button holes 190) for exposing selected components of the oral irrigator 100, but may be constructed differently as desired. In some embodiments, the panel 182 may be a transparent material (such as, clear plastic) and include a paint or coating on its inner surface. Because the applied color is below the top outer surface, the outer surface of the transparent panel 182 has a high gloss appearance. In addition, because the applied color is below the outer surface, the applied color will be less exposed to environmental wear and tear, and therefore last longer and is less prone to chipping.

[0078] The upper housing 180 forms a sealing surface to substantially enclose the interior compartment of the lower housing 178. The upper housing 180 may also define a support surface for the reservoir 104 when the reservoir 104 is placed on top of the base 102. For example, the upper housing 180 may include an engagement surface 122 having a concave shape that curves downward toward the center and rises upward toward the sidewalls of the upper housing 180. The lip 196 may surround the perimeter of the engagement surface 122 and assist in aligning the reservoir 104 relative to the engagement surface 122, as well as preventing fluid from leaving the engagement surface 122 (such as fluid leaking from the reservoir 104 or leaking down the sides of the reservoir).

[0079] The upper housing 180 may also include a port wall 194 and a sealing wall 192 extending downwardly from the bottom surface. The sealing wall 192 may be a substantially planar member positioned toward the front middle end of the upper housing 180. The port wall 194 may be a generally cylindrically shaped wall positioned near the rear end of the upper housing 180 and configured to receive elements for connecting the reservoir 104 to the base 102, such as a valve and a connector.

[0080] refer to Figure 3A-3D and Figure 5 , the lower housing 178 of the base unit 102 includes a front wall 164, a rear wall 170, two side walls 166, 168 and a bottom wall 202. The combination of the walls 164, 166, 168, 170, 202 defines a base cavity 196 in which the pump assembly, pressure assembly, drive assembly and other components are received, and thus it can be changed as needed to accommodate those components. In one embodiment, the lower housing 178 includes a power module cavity 174 defined in the rear wall 170 (see Figure 3C ). The power module cavity 174 is configured to receive the power assembly 134, which can be removed from the lower housing 178, as discussed below. In these embodiments, the lower housing 178 can include alignment and securing features, such as alignment ribs 176, that extend along the length of the wall defining the power module cavity 174. The alignment ribs 176 are configured to engage corresponding grooves on the power assembly 134.

[0081] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5, the lower housing 178 may also include a groove 198 defined on the upper surface of the bottom wall 202. The corrugated sealing wall 200 extends upward from the bottom wall 202 and is configured to correspond to the shape of the reservoir valve connector and the pressure actuator. The sealing wall 200 and the groove 198 are sealing components that help define dry compartments 204, 208 and wet compartments 206. The dry compartments 204, 208 are sealed from the external environment and components fluidly connected to the reservoir 104 to reduce damage to the components stored therein.

[0082] refer to Figure 3A and Figure 4 , the lower housing 178 also includes a hose hole 160, a button hole 162, a sliding recess 184 and a power connector hole 210 for connecting components to the base unit 102. Both the hose hole 160 and the button hole 162 are defined through the front wall 164 and extend into the wet compartment 206. Similarly, the sliding recess 184 defines a recessed track on the side wall 166 and includes an opening 212 (see Figure 3A ), for connecting the actuator to components stored within the lower housing 178. A power connector aperture 210 is defined through the rear wall 170 and extends into the dry compartment 204.

[0083] In addition, refer to Figure 5 In some embodiments, the lower housing 178 includes a pocket 476 defined in the rear wall 170 in the power module cavity 174. The pocket 476 is defined in the interior compartment of the lower housing 178 and is configured to receive a magnet 474. As will be discussed in more detail below, the magnet 474 is configured to interact with the power assembly to secure the power assembly in place.

[0084] Operating parts

[0085] The operating components of the oral irrigator 100 will now be discussed in greater detail. Fig. 6A and Figure 6B Various views of the main operating components of the oral irrigator are shown with various housings removed to better illustrate the internal components. Fig. 6A and Figure 6B As shown in , the oral irrigator 100 may include a drive assembly 216, a pump assembly 214, a pressure assembly 228, and a connection assembly 230, each of which will be discussed in turn below. Each of the components may be interconnected and received in a corresponding compartment within the lower housing 178.

[0086] Mechanical power transmission components

[0087] Drive assembly 216 converts rotational motion from the motor into translational mechanical motion that drives pump assembly 214 . Fig. 7A A front isometric view of drive assembly 216 is shown. Figure 7B 2 shows an exploded view of the drive assembly 216. The drive assembly 216 includes: a motor 218, a pinion pulley 240, a driven pulley 250, a belt 238, a ball bearing race 252, a belt retaining flange 231, 248, a gear pin 232, and a connecting rod 236, the ball bearing race 252 having an inner ring and an outer ring surrounding a ball bearing ring 244. The motor 218 includes a drive shaft 242, and as shown in FIG. Figure 6B As shown in FIG. 2 , it is electrically connected to the male power connector socket 136 , thereby forming a power inlet to the base 102 via a wire 254 .

[0088] The motor 218 can be substantially any type of device that converts electricity into motion. In one embodiment, the motor 218 includes a signal conditioner, such as a rheostat.

[0089] The pinion pulley 240 is received about or otherwise secured to the drive shaft 242 such that the pinion pulley 240 rotates with the drive shaft 242. The pinion pulley 240 may optionally include a plurality of teeth 256 or gripping elements for enhancing frictional engagement with the belt 238. However, depending on the configuration of the belt 238, the pinion may not include teeth or may include other engagement features.

[0090] Fig. 8A and Figure 8B Various views of a driven pulley 250 are shown. The driven pulley 250 is driven by the pinion pulley 240 via the belt 238. The driven pulley 250 may be a relatively cylindrically shaped disk having a first surface or side 258 and a second surface or side 266. In one embodiment, the driven pulley 250 includes a plurality of teeth 270 or other engagement elements extending radially outward from the second surface 266 and oriented to face outward away from the center of the pulley 250. A pin hole 268 is defined through the driven pulley 250 and extends between the first surface 258 and the second surface 266.

[0091] refer to Figure 8B , the driven pulley 250 also includes an engagement protrusion 260 extending outwardly from the first surface 258. The engagement protrusion 260 can be formed as a cylindrical protrusion and can include one or more ribs 264 extending longitudinally on its outer surface. In many embodiments, the engagement protrusion 260 is offset from the central axis of the driven pulley 250. The bearing race 252 (see Figure 7B) can be positioned around the engagement boss 260 and held in place by the ribs 264. For example, the pin hole 268 is generally aligned with the central axis of the driven pulley 250, and the engagement boss 260 is offset relative thereto to form an eccentric post. When the engagement boss 260 extends away from the first surface 258, in some embodiments, the pin structure 262 can be arranged within the engagement boss 260 to increase the length of the pin hole 268 so that the pin hole 268 extends through the height of the engagement boss 260. In some embodiments, the pin structure 262 can be longer than the height of the engagement boss 260.

[0092] Continue to refer Figure 8B , the driven pulley 250 may also include a lip 257 or edge that defines the perimeter of the first surface 258. The lip 257 may extend outwardly and upwardly from the first surface 258 such that the first surface 258 is partially recessed below the edge 257.

[0093] Reference again Figure 7B , flanges 230, 248 are used to secure belt 238 to pulleys 240, 250, and thus can be configured to mate with and connect to the respective pulleys. In some examples, flanges 230, 248 can be secured to pulleys 240, 250 using various attachment methods (such as, ultrasonic welding, adhesives, riveting, etc.). In some examples, flanges 230, 248 can be integrated into each of pulleys 240, 250.

[0094] Belt 238 transfers rotation from pinion pulley 240 to driven pulley 250. Belt 238 may include a plurality of teeth for engaging pinion pulley 240 and driven pulley 250. In one embodiment, belt 238 is an MXL type timing belt having a pitch of 0.08" and a width of 3 / 16". However, many other types of belts may be used, such as additional timing belts with other timing profiles (such as XL and L), or HTD types with pitches such as 3mm, 5mm, or 8mm, GT types with pitches such as 2mm, 3mm, 5mm, 8mm, chevron style timing belts; round belts; flat belts; elastic belts; and V-belts.

[0095] Fig. 9A is a top view of the connecting rod 236. Fig. 9B 236 is a side elevation view of the connecting rod. Fig. 9A and Fig. 9BAs shown in FIG. 1 , the connecting rod 236 includes a connecting end 272 defining a cylindrical ring having a plurality of protrusions 285 extending inwardly from an inner surface. The connecting end 272 is shaped and sized to be received around the bearing race 252 and thereby around the engagement boss 260 of the driven pulley 250. The protrusions 285 secure the connecting end 272 to the outer surface of the bearing race 252 (see FIG. 1 ). Figure 7B ), thereby allowing the engagement boss 260 to rotate within the cylindrical ring of the connecting end 272. An arm 274 extends from the connecting end 272. The arm 274 is generally straight, but includes an angled bend 276 or elbow in its mid-portion. The angled bend 276 helps to allow the drive assembly 216 to fit within the lower housing and maintain the reduced form factor of the oral irrigator 100. In addition, the bend allows the connecting rod 236 to pass through the seal between the wet compartment and the dry compartment and be centered thereon. The arm 274 transitions from the angled bend 276 to a terminal end 278 having a ball 280.

[0096] like Fig.10 As shown in , the drive assembly 216 also includes a diaphragm seal 480 having a sealing top surface 484 and a rod hole through its center. The seal top surface 484 extends radially outward from the rod hole and then extends downward at a certain angle to define a flexible skirt 486. The skirt 486 can be conical or frustoconical in shape and defines a bellows. The skirt 486 is flexible and is configured to elastically deform and return to its original shape. The crease at the bottom of the skirt 486 changes as the seal deforms. The curled flange 482 extends radially outward from the top of the crease. The flange 482 includes a flat top surface and a convexly curved bottom surface.

[0097] Pump components

[0098] refer to Fig.10 , Fig.10 yes Figure 6C , the pump assembly 214 includes a piston 283 and a pump body 284 driven by the drive assembly 216. The piston 283 is generally cylindrical and has an annular flange 318 and an internal seat 320 on its top surface. An annular valley is defined between the annular flange 318 and the internal seat 320. The curved inner surface 321 on the interior of the piston is configured to receive the ball 280 of the connecting rod 236 to form a spherical joint.

[0099] Fig.11A and Fig. 11BA front isometric view and a rear isometric view of the pump body 284 are shown. The pump body 284 includes a pump wall 288, which defines a pump chamber 322 therein. A fixed bracket 294 is connected to a side surface of the pump wall 288 and is configured to receive a fastening element. In addition, a spring wall or column 292 extends from the same side surface as the fixed bracket 294 for receiving a component of an ejection button, discussed in more detail below. A hose interface 296 is connected to a first end of the pump wall 288 and includes a plate 310 having a first side and a second side, the first side and the second side having corresponding connection features for connecting the pump body 284 to the internal valve and the external valve.

[0100] In particular, refer to Fig.11A , a valve housing 300 for engaging with the hose connector 112 extends from a first side of the plate 310. The valve housing 300 may be shaped as a cylindrical wall and includes a ledge 302 extending concentrically from the plate 310 within the valve housing 300. The ledge 302 may be shorter than the valve housing 300 and terminate before the outer edge of the valve housing 300. A rear wall 304 of the valve housing 300 includes a pin recess 306 and a pump outlet 308, and the rear wall 304 may form a portion of the first side of the plate 310. The pump outlet 308 is fluidly connected to the pump chamber 322.

[0101] refer to Fig. 11B The rear side of the plate 310 includes a tube 312 for engaging with the pressure assembly 228 and a corresponding valve. The tube 312 may include one or more prongs 314 extending from its inner surface to engage with a corresponding valve element. A pump inlet 316 is defined as a hole through the tube 312 and is fluidly connected to the tube 312 and the interior of the pump chamber 322.

[0102] Pressure components

[0103] Reference again Fig. 6A and Figure 6C The pressure assembly 228 will now be discussed in more detail. The pressure assembly 228 allows a user to selectively adjust the pressure output by the oral irrigator 100. In one embodiment, the pressure assembly 228 includes a regulator housing 326, a dual valve assembly 328, and a pressure valve 344.

[0104] Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B An isometric view and a cross-sectional view of the regulator housing 326 are shown, respectively. Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B , the regulator housing 326 defines a body for receiving the pressure valve 344 and the dual valve assembly 328. In addition, the regulator housing 326 defines a fluid flow path from the reservoir 104 to the pump assembly 214, and therefore, in some embodiments, may also form a portion of the pump housing.

[0105] The regulator housing 326 includes a body 354 that may have a generally cylindrical shape defining a main passage 362 therethrough. An inlet 356 is fluidly connected to the main passage 362 and extends from a first end of the body 354. A regulator outlet 364 is defined on the opposite end of the main passage 362. A valve compartment 350 is defined on one side of the body 354 and includes a cavity for receiving a pressure valve 344, two fixed features 352a, 352b connected to both sides of the compartment 350, a valve inlet 358, and a valve outlet 360. The valve inlet 358 is fluidly connected to the main passage 362, and the valve outlet 360 is fluidly connected to the housing inlet 356. In other words, fluid flows through the valve compartment 350 in the opposite direction of its flow in the main passage 362 to siphon fluid flowing toward the pump assembly 214 in a sense and direct it back to the reservoir 104. The regulator housing 326 may include a plurality of securing features, such as brackets 366 , 368 , configured to receive fasteners to secure the housing within the base 102 .

[0106] Fig.13 An exploded view of the pressure valve 344, the biasing element 348, and the seal 340 is shown. Figure 6C and Fig.13 The pressure valve 344 is used to change one or more characteristics of the flow path between the inlet and outlet ports 360, 358 in the regulator housing 326. Figure 6C , Fig.6D and Fig.13 , the pressure valve 344 includes a gear face 370 and a sealing face 374, the gear face 370 being used to engage with and connect to the gear 334. The sealing face 374 varies in thickness and includes a flow channel 376 defined therein. The flow channel 376 varies in size and shape and extends in a generally curved manner around a central region of the sealing face 374.

[0107] The seal 340 is biased against the sealing face 374 of the pressure valve 344 and includes a flow hole 378 defined therethrough. The flow hole 378 is generally in fluid communication with the flow passage 376 of the sealing face 374 and the main passage 362, but the position at which the flow hole 378 engages the flow passage 376 changes based on the position of the pressure valve 344, as discussed in more detail below.

[0108] refer to Figure 6C and Fig.6D, the pressure assembly 228 includes a gear 334, a corresponding rack 380, and an actuator 114. The rack 380 includes a plurality of teeth 382 that mesh with teeth 384 on the gear 334. The actuator 114 is coupled to the rack 380 for transverse movement relative to the rack bracket 336. For example, the rack bracket 336 may include one or more longitudinal grooves, and the rack 380 may include a post that is received in the groove to secure the rack 380 to the bracket 336. The groove allows the rack 380 to slide transversely relative to the bracket 336. The actuator 114 is connected to the rack 380 and is configured to move the rack 380 in a transverse direction to actuate the gear 334, as discussed in more detail below.

[0109] refer to Fig.10 , the dual valve assembly 328 will now be discussed in more detail. The dual valve assembly 328 acts as both a regulator valve to regulate the fluid entering the reservoir and the fluid leaving the reservoir into the pump chamber 322, and helps prevent damage to the pump in the event of a blockage at the tip (such as actuation of a pause button on the handle 106), so that the dual valve acts as a check valve. To achieve the primary valve function of the dual valve assembly 328, the dual valve assembly 328 includes a valve housing 388, which may be a substantially cylindrical hollow member and is configured to slide within the main channel 362. The valve housing 388 terminates at a terminal end 394 having a hole defined through its front surface. The second end of the valve housing 388 includes a sealing cap 398, which includes a flow channel 400 defined to pass therethrough. The flow channel 400 communicates with the reservoir connector 330.

[0110] To achieve the secondary or check valve function, the dual valve assembly 328 includes a spring-actuated valve within a valve housing 388. In particular, a support post 396 is connected to a sealing cap 398, the support post 396 having a flow passage defined therethrough, and a biasing element 392 is received within the valve housing 388 and aligned with the support post 396. A plunger 390 is connected to the biasing element 392 and is configured to move therewith. The plunger 390 may include a tapered shape (such as a cone or a frustum of a cone) and have a terminal end diameter that is the same diameter as the diameter of the hole in the terminal end 394 of the valve housing 388. The force of the biasing element 392 is selected to be overcome by a fluid back pressure exceeding a predetermined amount, such as a pressure that is increased due to a blockage of the jet tip 108.

[0111] Handle connection assembly

[0112] The connection assembly 230 will now be discussed in greater detail. Fig.14 An exploded view of the connection assembly 230 is shown. Figure 6C and Fig.14, the connection assembly 230 includes an outlet fitting 402, a spring bearing 406, a biasing element 408, a poppet valve 410, a poppet valve bonnet 412, a top cap 416, and sealing members 404, 414. The outlet fitting 402 engages with the pump body 284 and includes a central boss 418 having a cavity 420 defined therethrough. The outlet fitting 402 may include one or more fixing flanges 422a, 422b for receiving fasteners to secure to a pump body, a portion of a housing, or the like.

[0113] The bearing 406 includes a support post 424 extending from the rear surface (see Figure 6C and Fig.10 ) and a receiving post 426 extending from the front surface. The posts 424, 426 are respectively configured to be positioned within a receiving recess in the pump body 284 and receive the biasing member 408.

[0114] like Fig.14 As shown in , the poppet valve 410 is a generally cylindrical body having a tapered end with a closed tip 428. One or more fluid apertures 430 may be defined by the sidewall of the body. The end cap 412 is configured to be seated on the closed tip 428 of the poppet valve 410 and may be configured to correspond to the shape and size of the closed tip 428 so that the end cap 412 may be press-fit onto the closed tip 428 end of the poppet valve 410.

[0115] Top cap 416 forms an end component of connection assembly 230 and is connected to outlet fitting 402, with various components of connection assembly 230 positioned between top cap 416 and outlet fitting 402. The sealing component may be an O-ring, such as sealing element 404, or a sealing cup, such as sealing member 414, and may be positioned around selected components of connection assembly 230 or as desired to create a fluid-tight connection.

[0116] The latch assembly 432 selectively connects and disconnects the hose connector 112 from the base 102 and will now be discussed in greater detail. Fig. 6A , Figure 6C and Fig.10, the latch assembly 432 includes an eject button 118, a biasing element 444, and a latch 434. The eject button 118 is configured to actuate the latch 434 and includes an outer surface actuated by a user, a central cavity 446 for receiving the biasing element 444, and a tapered internal actuation tip 442. The actuation tip 442 is shaped as a truncated cone or blunt-ended cone, the diameter of which increases slowly from the innermost surface to the outer surface. As will be discussed in more detail, the actuation tip 442 is configured to move the latch 434 from the engaged position to the released position. The latch 434 includes two latch arms 436a, 436b, which are connected together at one end by a leaf spring 440. Each of the latch arms 436a, 436b is a generally elongated member and includes a stop 438a, 438b extending inwardly from the first side wall toward the opposing arm.

[0117] The hose connector 112 is used to fluidly connect the handle 106 to the base 102 and will now be discussed in greater detail. Figure 3D and Fig.10 , the hose connector 112 includes a connector body 452, and a cap 450 is connected to the connector body 452. The connector body 452 defines an inner cavity 456 for accommodating a spring-actuated valve and a lower body 462 partially inserted into the base 102, as discussed in more detail below. The inner cavity 456 of the connector body 452 is fluidically connected to a fork cavity 466, which is defined by a fork 464 extending downward from the bottom end of the connector. The fork 464 is located in the central area of ​​the lower body 462 and includes one or more fluid holes 468, which are defined as cutouts in the bottom end of the fork 464 for fully connecting the fork cavity 466 to the pump assembly 214. The bottom end of the lower body 462 includes an outer flange 470 extending circumferentially around the lower body 462. The outer flange 470 selectively engages the latch 434 to fix the hose connector 112 to the base 102.

[0118] refer to Figure 3D and Fig.10 , the hose connector 112 includes a leakage valve in the form of a poppet valve 460 and a biasing element 458. The biasing element 458 is fixed to a post extending from the bottom surface of the cover 450 and biases the poppet valve 460 toward the inlet of the fork cavity 466. The poppet valve 460 is selected to have a larger diameter than the inlet of the cavity 466 so that when actuated, the poppet valve 460 seals the inlet and prevents fluid (such as water stuck in the hose 110 after using the flusher) from leaking out when the hose connector 112 is removed from the base. However, the biasing element 458 is selected so that its force can be easily overcome by the fluid pressure discharged by the pump assembly 214.

[0119] Assembly of the oral irrigator

[0120] The assembly of the oral irrigator 100 will now be discussed. It should be noted that the following discussion is not intended to convey a specific order of assembly, but is merely intended to describe the connection of the various components to one another. Thus, the following discussion is intended to be illustrative only. Figure 5 , Figure 6B , Figure 6C , Fig. 7A and Figure 7B , the drive assembly 216 is connected together and fixed to the lower housing 178 of the base 102. The chassis 220 and the motor 218 are connected together and fixed in the dry compartment 208 of the lower housing 178.

[0121] The pinion pulley 240 is positioned on the drive shaft 242 of the motor 218, and the belt 238 slides on the outer surface of the pinion pulley 240, wherein the belt teeth mesh with the teeth 256 on the outer surface of the pinion pulley 240. The flange 231 is then connected to the outer periphery of the pinion pulley 240 to secure the belt on the outer surface of the pinion pulley 240. The ball bearing race 252 is received around the outer surface of the engagement boss 260 of the driven pulley 250, and the connecting end 272 of the connecting rod 236 or crank is received around the outer surface of the ball bearing race 252. The belt 238 is positioned on the outer surface of the driven pulley 250, and the flange 248 is connected to the pulley 250 to secure the belt 238 on the pulley. The belt 238 can alternatively be connected to the pulleys 240, 250 after the pulleys are connected to their drive components or corresponding shafts.

[0122] The gear pin 232 is then received through the hole in the pin structure 262 of the driven pulley 250 and connected to the corresponding groove in the base frame 220. Then, the fixed bracket 222 (see Fig. 7A ) are connected to the chassis 220 via a plurality of fasteners that are connected to raised portions extending from the chassis 220, such as raised portions 220a, 220b, 220c. Figure 6C and Fig.10 , the connecting rod 236 is inserted into the hole defined through the first sealing plate 488, and the top surface 484 of the diaphragm seal 480 is positioned between the two sealing flanges 282a, 282b of the connecting rod 236. The crimped flange 482 of the seal is clamped in place, and the second sealing plate 490 is positioned over the edge of the diaphragm seal 480 and engages the outer surface of the first sealing plate 488. The first and second sealing plates 488, 490 are then clamped together with fasteners, with the edge of the diaphragm seal clamped therebetween and the connecting rod extending between the holes in the two plates 488, 490. In this configuration, the connecting rod 236 and the seal 480 create a fluid seal between the dry compartment 208 and the wet compartment 206 in the lower housing 178 of the base 102.

[0123] The pump assembly 214 is connected and coupled to the drive assembly 216. Figure 6C and Fig.10 , the piston 283 is connected to the ball 280 of the connecting rod 236. The pump body 284 is fixed to the lower housing 178 of the base unit via a fastener connected to a fixing bracket 294.

[0124] refer to Fig.10 , Fig.11A and Fig.14 , the connection assembly 230 is assembled and connected to the pump body 284. In particular, the support post 424 of the bearing 406 is received in the pin recess 306 in the rear wall 304 of the valve housing 300 in the pump body 284. Then, the biasing element 408 is positioned around the post 426 of the bearing 406. The poppet valve 410 is received around the biasing element 408, wherein the cap 412 is connected to the end portion of the poppet valve 410 having the closed tip 428. The outlet fitting 402 is positioned above the valve assembly so that the poppet valve 410 is positioned within the boss 418. The O-ring 404 is received between the fitting 402 and the pump body 284, and in one embodiment, the O-ring 404 is held in place by the retaining flanges 422a, 422b, which are connected to the retaining posts 298a, 298b of the pump body 284 by fasteners. The sealing member 414 may be a cup-shaped piece that is positioned within a top cap 416 , which is then press-fit or otherwise secured to the top end of the boss 418 .

[0125] refer to Fig.10 and Fig.11A , the eject button 118 and the biasing element 444 are connected to the pump body 284. In particular, the biasing element 444 is housed in the spring wall or post 292, and the latch 434 is connected around the biasing element 444, with the arm extending around the connecting assembly 230. Then, the eject button 118 is connected to the biasing element 444, and the latch 434 is positioned between the eject button 118 and the pump body 284. The biasing element 444 is received within the central cavity 446 of the eject button 118, with the actuation tip 442 oriented toward the pump body 284.

[0126] The pressure assembly 228 is assembled and the dual valve or check valve assembly 328 is received in the main passage 362 of the regulator housing 326. The end portion of the dual valve assembly 328 is positioned in the tube 312 of the pump body 284 and abuts against the fork 314. The inlet 356 of the regulator housing is connected to the reservoir connector 330, and then the regulator housing 326 is fixed to the lower housing 178 via the fixing brackets 366, 368 and two fasteners. The reservoir connector 330 and the regulator housing 326 are positioned in the wet compartment 206 of the lower housing 178. The regulator housing 326 and the pump body 284 are connected together via fasteners, which fix the fixing posts 298c, 298c of the pump body 284 and the fixing brackets 367 of the regulator housing 326 together.

[0127] refer to Figure 6C , Fig. 12A , Fig. 12B and Fig.13 , the pressure valve 344 is connected to the regulator housing 326. For example, the biasing element 348 is received within the inlet 358 of the valve compartment 350 in the regulator housing 326, and the seal 340 is received around the biasing element 348. The O-ring 342 is positioned in the groove 372 in the valve 344, and the valve 344 is positioned in the valve compartment 350, wherein the sealing surface 374 is positioned to face the rear wall of the valve compartment 350.

[0128] refer to Figure 6C and Fig.6D , the actuation assembly is then connected to the pressure valve 344. In particular, the rack bracket 336 is positioned aligned against the regulator housing 326 so that the fastening posts 352a, 352b are aligned with corresponding features on the rack bracket 336. The rack bracket 336 is secured to the regulator housing 326 via fasteners. The gear 334 is connected to the valve 344 by fasteners (such as screws), and the rack 380 is press-fit into the longitudinal slot in the rack bracket 336. The actuator 114 is then connected to the rack 380, and the selected tooth 382 is positioned to engage the selected tooth 384 of the gear 334.

[0129] Power button

[0130] refer to Figure 6B and Fig.6D The power button 116 is fixed on the bracket 431 and electrically connected to the motor 218 through the circuit board 131, and the circuit board 131 electrically connects the motor 218 to the power source, which is connected to the power port formed by the male power connector socket 136 and the power component 134.

[0131] refer to Figure 6B and Fig.6DIn the assembled position, the drive assembly 216, pump assembly 214, connection assembly 230, and pressure assembly 228 are arranged in a U-shape when viewed from a top view. In this manner, the central area of ​​the base 102 can be hollow to allow the power assembly 134 to be inserted in the storage configuration, or to define a battery compartment for receiving batteries (or other accessory storage). In one embodiment, the motor 218 is arranged substantially perpendicular to the pump body 284 and substantially parallel to the regulator housing 326. In addition, the pump body 284 is arranged perpendicular to the reservoir connector 330 and the reservoir outlet. These types of arrangements allow the oral irrigator 100 to have reduced dimensions in both width and height.

[0132] refer to Figure 4 , once the internal components are connected together and received in the lower housing 178, the upper housing 180 is secured to the lower housing 178. The sealing wall 192 of the lower housing helps to seal the wet compartment 206 in the lower housing 178 relative to the dry compartment 208. The port wall 194 of the upper housing 180 is positioned around a portion of the reservoir connector 330 to help prevent fluid from leaking from the reservoir connector into the secondary dry compartment 204. The upper housing 180 is secured in a variety of different ways, such as, press fit, sonic welding, adhesives, fasteners or the like. The panel 182 is secured to the top of the upper housing 180, and the decorative ring 126 is positioned below the panel 182 to surround the periphery of the panel 182. The panel 182 and the upper housing 180 secure the position of the decorative ring 126.

[0133] Detachable power components

[0134] refer to Figure 1C and Figure 3C In the storage position, the power assembly 134 is inserted into the power module cavity 174 of the lower housing 178. The alignment ribs 176 align with the corresponding grooves on the power assembly 134 to guide the power assembly 134 into the power module cavity 174. In addition, the magnets 474 (see Figure 5 ) attract corresponding magnets in the power component 134 to secure the power component 134 in place, with the front wall of the power component abutting the rear wall of the power module cavity 174.

[0135] refer to Fig.16 In the storage configuration 500, the base 102 with the power assembly 134 secured in the power module cavity 174 is inserted into the reservoir 104. Fig.16, the base 102 is sized to fit completely within the reservoir 104, and the top edges 128, 129 of the reservoir 104 can partially extend beyond the front wall 164 of the base 102. The eject button 118 and the top cap 416 of the connection assembly 230 do not extend beyond the edge of the reservoir 104, and therefore the eject button 118 and the top cap 416 of the connection assembly 230 will not get caught on fabric or other elements when the oral irrigator 100 is received in a carrying case. In the storage configuration 500, the oral irrigator 100 is configured to be easily inserted into a case or compartment, and the reservoir 104 serves as a hard container for protecting the internal components of the base 102, and also enhances the ability of the oral irrigator 100 to easily slide into a fabric or other similar type of case.

[0136] How to operate an oral irrigator

[0137] The operation of the oral irrigator 100 will now be discussed in greater detail. Fig.15A and Fig. 15B The rear isometric view and the front isometric view of the oral irrigator 100 in the use configuration 510 are shown, respectively. To use the irrigator, the base 102 is removed from the reservoir 104 and the reservoir 104 is connected to the top of the base 102. The reservoir 104 is located inside and on the top of the engagement surface 122. The engagement surface 122 can be contoured to match the shape of the reservoir 104, and the lip 196 surrounding the engagement surface 122 helps prevent fluid from the reservoir 104 from leaking out of the base 102. The reservoir port 142 (see Figure 2 ) is received within a reservoir aperture 156 defined in the base 102. The reservoir port 142 is positioned around a reservoir connector 330 and a reservoir valve 158 that actuates a valve to allow flow from the reservoir to the pressure assembly 228.

[0138] The power assembly 134 is removed from the power module cavity 174 in the base 102, and the fork 514 is unfolded from the housing. The power cord 512 can then be connected to the male power connector receptacle 136 of the power port in the base 102 and the power assembly 134. When the power assembly 134 is connected to a power source (such as a wall outlet), electricity can flow from the power assembly 134 to the circuit board 131 in the base 102 to provide power to the oral irrigator 100. In some embodiments, the power assembly 134 can include one or more conversion components that convert the power source from alternating current to direct current, but the type of conversion (if any) depends on the type of motor and components that may be positioned within the base 102.

[0139] The handle 106 is then fluidly connected to the base 102. The hose connector 112 is connected to the connection assembly 230. Fig.10 , insert the lower body 462 of the hose connector 112 so that the fork 464 is inserted into the top cap 416 of the connection assembly 230. The fork 464 compresses the cap 412 of the poppet valve 410, which in turn compresses the biasing element 408. As the cap 412 moves downwardly as the biasing element 408 is compressed, the cap 412 disengages from the top end of the outlet fitting 402, thereby allowing fluid to flow from the outlet fitting 402 to the fluid hole 468 in the fork 464. In addition, the hose connector 112 causes the arms 436a, 436b (see Fig. 6A ) biased, the arms 436a, 436b are bent to open due to the spring 440 to engage the outer surface of the lower body 462 of the hose connector 112. The stop devices 438a, 438b are positioned around the lower body 462 to secure the hose connector 112 in place. To release the hose connector 112, the user presses the eject button 118 (which compresses the biasing element 444) and moves the eject button 118 so that the tapered actuation tip 442 moves toward the latch 434, thereby moving the arms 436a, 436b away from each other and moving the stop devices 438a, 438b away from each other. When this occurs, the biasing element 408 of the connection assembly 230 applies a force to the poppet valve 410 and the poppet valve cap 412, which pushes the fork 464 outward away from the fitting 402. This acts to help force the hose connector 112 out of engagement with the connection assembly 230. The user is then able to remove the hose connector 112.

[0140] When the hose connector 112 is removed from the connection assembly 230 , the biasing element 458 seals the poppet valve 460 in the hose connector 112 to prevent fluid from leaking from the hose connector 112 through the inlet of the fork 464 .

[0141] With the handle 106 fluidly connected to the base 102, the user turns on the oral irrigator 100 by pressing the power button 116. The motor 218 is then electrically connected to the power source and turned on. Figure 6C, when the motor 218 is operated, the drive shaft 242 rotates, thereby rotating the pinion pulley 240. When the pinion pulley 240 rotates, the belt 238 moves, thereby rotating the driven pulley 250 about the gear pin 232. The rotation of the driven pulley 250 causes the connecting rod 236 to move correspondingly, sliding through its engagement with the bearing race 252. This causes the connecting rod 236 to move in a substantially lateral motion, while the driven pulley 250 moves in a rotational motion. The belt drive for the drive assembly 216 allows the size of the base unit 102 to be reduced because a separate gear housing that is typically used to prevent grease from possibly mixing into the fluid and / or interfering with the operation of other components is not required. In addition, the belt drive reduces noise because the teeth of the pulleys do not directly mesh with each other, thereby eliminating the need to mount the drive assembly above the floor of the lower housing 178, which may be typically mounted above the floor of the lower housing in conventional oral irrigators to reduce vibration.

[0142] As the connecting rod 236 moves laterally relative to the sealing plates 488, 490, the diaphragm seal 480 moves with it. Because the diaphragm seal 480 only changes in length (as the bellows expands and contracts), the seal 480 does not exert a pulling force on the connecting rod 236, thereby improving the efficiency of the drive assembly 216 while maintaining the seal between the dry and wet compartments 206, 208.

[0143] Continue to refer Figure 6C , as the connecting rod 236 moves, the piston 283 moves laterally within the pump chamber 290 in the pump body 284. In the downward stroke, the piston 283 moves toward the sealing plates 488, 490, thereby increasing the available volume within the pump chamber 290, creating a vacuum pull. This vacuum causes fluid from the reservoir 104 to flow through the reservoir valve, into the reservoir connector 330 and into the regulator housing 326. The force generated by the movement of the piston 283 also pulls the dual valve assembly 328 toward the pump housing 234, thereby disengaging the dual valve assembly 328 from the inlet 356 of the regulator housing 326. This allows fluid from the reservoir connector 330 to flow into the main passage 362, flow around the dual valve assembly 328, and flow into the pump chamber 290.

[0144] In the upward stroke, the piston 283 moves toward the valve housing 300 of the pump body 284. This forces the fluid in the pump chamber 290 to leave the pump chamber 290 and enter the outlet 308 in the pump body 284. The fluid then flows into the outlet fitting 402, flows around the poppet valve 410 and flows into the fluid hole 468 in the fork cavity 466 of the fork 464 of the hose connector 112. The fluid force overcomes the biasing force applied by the biasing element 458 in the hose connector 112 and disengages the poppet valve from the hole connecting the fork cavity 466 to the inner cavity 456 of the housing, and the fluid then flows into the hose 110, and flows into the handle 106 and out of the tip 108.

[0145] To adjust the pressure during operation, the user moves the actuator 114. Figure 6C and Fig.6D , the lateral movement of the actuator 114 causes the rack 380 to slide relative to the rack support 336, thereby causing the gear 334 to rotate. When the gear 334 rotates, Figure 6C and Fig.13 , the pressure valve rotates so that the inlet 358 of the valve compartment 350 in the regulator housing 326 is opened, allowing fluid to bypass without entering the pump body 284. The fluid flows through the inlet 358, flows through the valve compartment 350 within the flow channel 376 in the pressure valve 344, flows to the valve outlet 360 and returns to the reservoir 104. The amount of fluid allowed to flow through the bypass channel defined by the sealing surface 374 varies based on the position of the sealing surface 374 relative to the valve inlet 358, so that further rotation of the gear 334 in a particular direction will align a wider or shorter portion of the channel 376 with the inlet 358, thereby reducing or increasing the pressure output by the pump to the tip 108, respectively.

[0146] handle

[0147] refer to Figure 1B and Fig.25, the handle 106 may include a handle housing 520 having a front housing half 520a and a rear handle housing 520b. An angled hanging slot 522 may be formed in the rear handle housing 520b, the hanging slot 522 extending generally between each lateral side of the rear handle housing 520b and also extending in depth toward the tip 108. The hanging slot 522 may be defined by two opposing walls 525a, 525b spaced apart from each other, and a transverse wall 523 at the inner terminal end of the opposing walls 525a, 525b, so that the outer wall of the rear handle housing 520b opens to the hanging slot 522 at the sides of the two opposing walls 525a, 525b and at the base end of the opposing walls 525a, 525b opposite to the transverse wall 525. In some embodiments, the opposing walls may be parallel to each other, planar, or both. The hanging groove 522 can be centered along the length of the handle housing 520, or otherwise positioned to be centered on the center of mass of the handle 106, so as to help balance the handle 106 when the handle is suspended from a support using the hanging groove 522. The width of the hanging groove 522 can be consistent with the thickness of the wall of the reservoir 104 at the top edge 128, 129. The top edge 128, 129 of the reservoir 104 can therefore fit into the hanging groove until the top edge 128, 129 abuts the position at the support surface 523. Thus, the hanging groove 522 allows the handle 106 to be suspended from the top edge 128, 129 of the reservoir 104. With this hanging groove 522, typical handle support elements (such as C-clip, hanging basket or the like) can be eliminated, reducing the number of parts of the oral irrigator 100, thereby reducing costs. The angle of the slot 522 is selected to intersect the longitudinal axis of the handle 106 so that the handle 106 does not hang parallel to the reservoir 104, making it easier for a user to grip around the handle 106 in the space between the reservoir 104 and the housing 520. However, in other embodiments, the slot may be substantially perpendicular relative to the length of the housing 520 to allow the handle 106 to hang more parallel to the reservoir wall.

[0148] The handle 106 may also include elements such as a pause button, a tip ejection portion, a swivel portion, or the like. Examples of these types of components and handles that can be used with the oral irrigator 100 are described in related U.S. Patent Application No. __, filed on January 25, 2017, entitled "Swivel Assembly for Oral Irrigator Handle" (which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 286,792, filed on January 25, 2016), which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0149] Alternative Embodiments

[0150] It is also contemplated that alternative embodiments of the oral irrigator 1700 are substantially similar to those of FIGS. Fig.16 and incorporates the components and operations described above. Alternative embodiments and components thereof are Figure 17-Figure 21 In this alternative embodiment, the size and arrangement of the components mounted within the lower base unit have been altered to achieve the same Fig.16 The benefits provided in the embodiments of the present invention are different. Such benefits may include a power assembly with a non-adjustable fork, a circuit board that is centrally located within the unit to produce a generally balanced assembly, a stronger connection between the power connector and the power connector receptacle, and a linear mechanical power transmission assembly.

[0151] refer to Fig.17 In general, the locations of components within the base 1702 have been reconfigured to, at least in part, create additional space for the power assembly and its prongs. Additional differences are discussed further below.

[0152] Power Components

[0153] Similar to Fig.15A and Fig. 15B The embodiments shown in FIG. Fig.17 , the power assembly 1734 is configured to fit within the power module cavity 1774 of the base 1702. The layout of the components within the base 1702 has been rearranged, thereby creating additional space for the power assembly 1734 and enabling the power assembly 1734 to no longer require the fork 1714, which is adjustable and folded when stored within the power module cavity 1774. The size of the power assembly 1734 has also been reduced, thereby creating more space in the body of the base 1702. The alternative construction of the various components within the base 1702 and the reduced size of the power assembly 1734 create a fork space 1775, which is used to slide the non-foldable or non-adjustable extended fork 1714 of the power assembly 1734 into. Reference Fig.17 and Fig.18 , the extended fork 1714 can fit within the additional space 1775 of the power module cavity 1774, so that the power assembly 1734 no longer requires a foldable or adjustable fork in order to fit within the power module cavity 1774, and thus the extended fork 1714 is not unfolded, folded, or adjusted relative to the power assembly 1734. The power assembly 1734 fits within the power module cavity 1774 in the base 1702.

[0154] Circuit board location

[0155] like Fig.18The alternative embodiment of the oral irrigator base 1702 shown in FIG. 17A removes the circuit board 131 from the Figure 6C Reposition the position shown in the reference Fig.18 , the optimized configuration of components mounted within the base 1702 also allows the circuit board 1831 to be centrally located relative to the entire base 1702, between the drive assembly 1814 and the power module cavity 1774. The circuit board 1831 electrically connects the motor 1818 to a power source that is coupled to the power connector socket 1836 and the power assembly 1734. Fig.16 Compared to the circuit board 131 of the embodiment, the central positioning of the circuit board 1831 allows the connection of the motor 1818, the power button 1916 (in Fig.19A and Fig.19B ) and simplified positioning of the wire 1854 of the power connector socket 1836, FIG. 1- Fig.16 The circuit board 131 of the embodiment is located in the dry compartment 204 (in Figure 6C ), and the wires 254 connecting the various power components are above the power module cavity 174 (in Figures 6A-6D ) travels in the space between the lower shell 178 and the upper shell 180. Fig.18 The simplified positioning of the wire 1854 in the embodiment of FIG. 1- Fig.16 In an embodiment of the present invention, fewer wires 1854 need to be used and potentially less wire routing throughout the base 1702 is required, thereby potentially reducing the assembly cost of the oral irrigator and producing an overall more robust design. This placement of the circuit board 1831 in this position is close to the center of the oral irrigator base 1702 to help protect the circuit board 1831 from static discharge that may affect the outer wall of the primary closure.

[0156] Power button structure

[0157] An alternative embodiment of the structure surrounding the power button 1916 is Fig.19A and Fig.19B. The power button 1916 may include a flexible PCB 1999 having a dome switch and an adhesive backing. The flexible PCB 1999 is mounted between the button 1916 and the bracket 1931, and the adhesive side of the flexible PCB 1999 may be positioned adjacent to the bracket 1931. The flexible PCB 1999 may help provide a tactile sensation to the user when the button 1916 is pressed, which may help enhance the user experience. The silicone seal may be adhesively coupled to the button 1916. When assembled, the button 1916 is sandwiched between the bracket 1931 and the upper housing 194, wherein the outer edge of the silicone seal is compressed between the bracket 1931 and the housing 194. The seal further protects the internal components connected to the power button 1916 from being exposed to liquids that may inadvertently contact the power button 1916.

[0158] Power connector connection

[0159] Alternative embodiments of male power connector receptacles 136 for use with base 102 within power connector aperture 210 are also provided. Fig.18 , and similar to Figure 3C In the original embodiment shown in , the power connector hole 1810 is defined through the rear wall 1870 and extends into the dry compartment 1804 of the base 1702. The male power connector socket 1836 is installed in the power connector hole 1810 and has two pins 1898. After installation, the male power connector socket 1836 is then connected to the base 1702 by means of: welding; applying epoxy or other waterproof adhesive between the parts; using press fit or other similar techniques. In the example where the male power connector socket 1836 is welded to the base 1702, a waterproof membrane is created. The male power connector socket 1836 can be manufactured using insert molding technology, which can produce a male power connector socket 1836 with good wear resistance and tensile strength. In addition, the male power connector socket 1836 can be welded to the power module cavity 1774, thereby increasing the strength and durability of the connection of the power connector socket 1836 to the power module cavity 1774 and the base 1702. Additionally, welding and insert molding techniques may produce a watertight connection that would otherwise require additional seals which would otherwise require additional cost and assembly time. Additionally, these features may be desirable because the male power connector receptacle 1836 will be repeatedly exposed to wear through repeated engagement and disengagement with the female power connector plug 1799 of the oral irrigator's power assembly 1734. Fig.17 and Fig.18 , female power connector plug 1799 is attached to power line 1712 connected to the inverter and mechanically and electrically couples with male power connector receptacle 1836 to provide an electrical connection to allow power to pass through assembly 1734 to oral irrigator 1700 .

[0160] Vibration Suppression

[0161] Fig.18 The embodiment shown in the figure can also feature an alternative connection between the motor 1818 and the base 1702. The motor 1818 can be connected to the base 1702 by a bracket 1897. In order to suppress the vibration transmitted between the motor 1818 and the base 1702, an O-ring 1896 can be installed between the motor and the bracket 1897. In addition to suppressing vibration, the O-ring 1896 can also help change the environmental resonant frequency of the bracket away from the environmental resonant frequency of the oral irrigator 1700 during operation to further reduce the potential vibration transmitted between the motor 1818 and the base 1702, and reduce the possibility of the system operating at its natural frequency or multiples of the natural frequency during use. Although not shown, it is also conceivable that the pump assembly 214 can be modified with additional vibration mitigation components. This can help reduce vibration and change any resonant frequency that may exist between the pump assembly 214 and the connection of the pump assembly 214 to the base 1702.

[0162] Piston and wet / dry compartment seals

[0163] exist Fig.26 and Fig. 27 In more detail, Fig.18 Another embodiment of a diaphragm seal 4800 for use in the design of a flusher base in FIG. The diaphragm seal 4800 can be manufactured using an overmolding type design, wherein a hard plastic frame 4802 defines a central hole 4804 through which a bellows 4806 extends. Additionally, U-shaped channels 4808a, 4808b can be formed directly opposite each other in opposite sides of the frame 4802, namely, a dry surface 4810a (facing the motor and electrical compartment) and a wet surface 4810b (facing the compartment with the pump and valve components). A plurality of through holes (not visible) can be formed spaced apart from each other along the length of the U-shaped channels 4808a, 4808 to extend between the U-shaped channels 4808a, 4808. A pair of U-shaped crimp seals 4812a, 4812b can be positioned within the U-shaped channels 4808a, 4808 and extend above the surface of each of the dry surface 4810a and the wet surface 4810b, respectively. In addition, a plurality of through holes 4814 spaced apart can be formed in the plastic frame 4802 around the central hole 4804 and the bellows 4806.

[0164] In these examples, bellows 4806 and crimp seals 4812a, 4812b can be manufactured by overmolding flexible rubber (such as NBR or HNBR or other nitrile) on hard plastic frame 4802. During the molding process, the injected rubber can flow through the through holes in channels 4808a, 4808 to form crimp seals 4812a, 4812b. The rubber can further coat the frame on the dry surface 4810a of the frame 4802 to connect the bellows 4806 to the crimp seal 4812a. The rubber can further fill the through hole 4814 to form a plurality of plugs 4816, which provide additional structural support to keep the bellows 4806 in place when the bellows 4806 rolls back and forth under the action of the connecting rod 2036. The crimp seals 4812a , 4812b may extend over each of the faces 4810a , 4810b to extend a distance between the upper surfaces of each that is slightly greater than the width of the C-channel in the C-channel bracket 1801 .

[0165] Fig.18 Embodiments of the present invention may also feature alternative structures for securing the diaphragm seal 4800 within the base 1702. The partition wall 1800 may feature a C-shaped channel bracket 1801 that holds the diaphragm seal 4800, which is similar to the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6C In contrast, in the embodiment Figure 6C In an embodiment, the first sealing plate 488 and the second sealing plate 490 are clamped together with fasteners, and the edge of the diaphragm seal 480 is clamped therebetween. The overmolded diaphragm seal 4800 can be installed into the base by pressing the crimp seals 4812a, 4812b into the C-shaped channel of the C-shaped channel bracket 1801 to seal the groove formed between the components. The center ring 4818 of the bellows 4806 will clamp and seal against the connecting rod, thereby maintaining a watertight seal. The use of an integrated C-shaped channel bracket 1801 can help simplify the installation of the diaphragm seal 4800. The use of overmolding technology can reduce or eliminate the need for fasteners to secure a rubber diaphragm (such as, Figure 6C The rubber diaphragm shown in FIG. 1 is clamped between two plastic components. This can reduce the number of component parts, thereby reducing manufacturing and assembly costs.

[0166] Fig.18The embodiment of the present invention can also feature an alternative structure for connecting the wall 200 of the base 102 to the upper housing 180. The partition wall 1800 forms a portion of the dry compartment 1804, which extends from the male power connector socket 1836 to the mounting area of ​​the pump assembly 1814 and the motor 1818. The diaphragm seal 480 forms an additional sealing and separation structure between the wet compartment and the dry compartment. The partition wall 1800 can be shaped differently from the wall 200 of the previous embodiment, which forms a compartment completely separated from the motor and pump in the previous embodiment. The peripheral wall of the base 1702 and the partition wall 1800 can be fixed to the upper housing (not shown) with epoxy glue for mechanical connection and waterproofing to ensure the sealing and separation of the dry compartment from the wet compartment. The use of such waterproof glue can provide significant waterproofing benefits compared to simply sonic welding the housing components. In addition, the vibration mitigation components described above may hinder the ability to produce a strong sonic weld of the housing components, making waterproof adhesives a more attractive connection option.

[0167] Mechanical power transmission components

[0168] Another embodiment of the mechanical power transmission assembly is Fig.22A and Fig. 22B Similar to Fig. 7A and Figure 7B The chassis 2200 supports a driven pulley 2250 that is mechanically coupled to a pinion pulley 2240 via a belt 2238. A fixed bracket 2222 can help properly position the pulleys 2240, 2250 and connect the motor 1818 and the belt drive system to the chassis 2200 via bosses 2220a, 2220b, and 2220c. Figure 22A-22B In the embodiment, it is possible to eliminate Fig.18 The bracket 1897 is a bracket 2222, because the fixed bracket 2222 is used as the main motor bracket to fix the motor 1818 in the main unit. This allows the motor 1818 to "float" to a large extent so that vibration resonance and noise can be reduced. To further reduce vibration resonance and noise, a foam strip can be wrapped around the motor 1818.

[0169] The tensioning assembly 2200 may be used to increase the belt tension of the installed belt 2238 around the pulleys 2240, 2250. The tensioning assembly 2200 may feature a tensioning assembly bracket 2202 that couples the tensioning assembly 2200 to the chassis 2220 and is positioned adjacent to the belt 2238. The tensioning assembly 2200 may have an idler pulley 2201 and a tensioning member 2203. The idler pulley 2201 may be positioned such that it is an inside idler pulley and it contacts the inside of the belt 2238, or the idler pulley 2201 may be positioned such that it is a rear or outside idler pulley, where the idler pulley 2201 contacts the outside or rear of the belt 2238. Fig. 22B The idler pulley 2201 is shown as a rear idler pulley. In some examples, the idler pulley 2201 can be made of a bearing with a pin acting as an axle and can be connected to the tensioning assembly bracket 2202. When coupled with the tensioning member 2203, the idler pulley 2201 exerts a force on the rear side of the belt 2238 when the tensioning member 2203 is forced to expand from its normal resting spring state. This force changes when the belt 2238 is rotated by the pinion pulley 2240. When the pinion pulley 2240 is not rotating, the force is small. When the pinion pulley 2240 begins to rotate, the force increases because the tension in the belt 2238 increases to transfer the rotational power from the pinion pulley 2240 to the driven pulley 2250. The use of a spring (such as the tensioning member 2203) allows the system to adjust to correspond to the belt tension generated by the rotational speed and the load transmitted through the belt 2238.

[0170] Most belt drive assemblies require a tensioning assembly or a method of adjusting the center distance between the driver and driven pulleys so that the proper belt installation tension can be achieved. Having the ability to adjust the center distance between the pulleys requires that the position of at least one pulley is adjustable. This adjustability requirement may increase manufacturing costs because it may be necessary to use tighter manufacturing tolerances to manufacture the components and may require a larger footprint. In contrast to when the belt drive is stationary, the belt tension changes when the belt drive is operating, and it may change as the load on the motor changes. The ability to use a spring-loaded tensioning assembly can be beneficial in helping to ensure that the belt drive is tensioned to the optimal tension given various load conditions (especially in a closed housing where the pulley system cannot be accessed to adjust the tension). A belt drive that uses a fixed center distance without a tensioning assembly may result in the belt drive being improperly tensioned, which may result in excessive noise, poor performance, increased bearing loads on the bearings (which are used with the pulleys and associated driver and driven components), and shortened belt life.

[0171] In some cases, proper use of the tensioning assembly 2200 can help improve the acoustic properties of a mechanical power transmission assembly. A properly tensioned belt drive will likely be quieter than an improperly tensioned belt drive. The tensioning assembly 2200 increases the wrap angle of the belt 2238 around the pinion pulley 2240, which can improve the overall efficiency of the system because more of the belt engages the pinion pulley 2240 to then transfer power to the driven pulley 2250. In addition, the increase in wrap angle can also increase the overall tension of the belt 2238 when positioned on the pulleys 2240, 2250. The increase in tension can help the belt properly seat against the pulleys, thereby achieving more efficient power transmission. In addition, the properly tensioned and thus seated belt 2238 can reduce the overall noise of the belt drive because the belt may not slip (if it is a V-belt or round belt), or the belt teeth will not jump or loosen on the pulley teeth (if a synchronous belt is used). This arrangement can also help improve the overall life of the belt, as slippage and loosening can cause unnecessary damage to the belt and lead to premature failure.

[0172] The tensioning assembly 2200 can also help reduce the overall manufacturing cost of the oral irrigator assembly because the dimensional tolerances on the pulleys 2240, 2250 can be increased because the tensioning assembly 2200 can adjust for any changes in the center distance based on the dimensional changes of the pulleys 2240, 2250. In addition, the tolerance associated with the center distance between the pulleys 2240, 2250 can be slightly relaxed because the tensioning assembly 2200 can cope with small changes in the distance associated with manufacturing tolerances. The tensioning assembly can also be used to cope with dimensional tolerances associated with the overall belt length and tooth pitch. The problem of potential belt stretching during the life of the belt drive is also alleviated because a spring-loaded tensioning assembly (such as the tensioning assembly 2200) can be able to cope with increases in belt length due to stretching.

[0173] exist Fig. 20 An alternative connecting rod 2036 is shown in FIG. The connecting rod 2036 includes a connecting end 2072 defining a cylindrical ring having a plurality of protrusions 2085 extending inwardly from the inner surface of the connecting end 2072. The connecting end 2072 is shaped and sized to surround the bearing race 252 (see FIG. Figure 7B ) is received and thereby surrounds the engagement protrusion 2160 (see Fig.21 ) is received, the engagement boss 2160 rotates within the cylindrical ring of the connecting end 2072. An arm 2074 extends from the connecting end 2071. The arm 2074 transitions to a terminal end 2078 having a ball 2080. The arm 2074 of the connecting rod 2036 can be straight, rather than featuring an angled bend 276 in its mid-portion as in the first embodiment of the connecting rod 236. As with Fig. 9A and Fig. 9BIn contrast, the alternative spacing of the internal components within the base 1702 allows the connecting rod 2036 to be straight, Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B The connecting rod 2036 of the embodiment of the present invention requires an angled bend 276 in order to be able to maintain the reduced form factor of the oral irrigator. The straight arm 2074 of the connecting rod 2036 still allows the connecting rod 2036 to pass through the center of the septum seal 4818 between the wet compartment and the dry compartment. The septum seal 4818 is positioned between the two sealing flanges 2082b and 2082a. With the connecting rod 2036 straight, the overall form factor of the base 1702 is not increased so that the desired user experience of a reduced form factor oral irrigator is still maintained.

[0174] Alternative embodiments may also be used as follows Fig.21 The driven pulley 2150 shown in FIG. is characterized. Figure 8A-8B The driven pulley 2150 of the embodiment of the present invention can be relatively cylindrical, with a plurality of teeth 2170 or clamping elements for enhancing frictional engagement with the belt 238. The driven pulley 2150 includes an engagement protrusion 2160 extending from the first surface 2158. The engagement protrusion 2160 can be formed as a cylindrical protrusion, and many include one or more ribs 2064 extending longitudinally on its outer surface. The bearing race 252 can be placed around the engagement protrusion 2160 and held in place by the ribs 2064. The pin hole 2168 can be aligned with the center of the axis of the driven pulley 2150, and the engagement protrusion 2160 can be offset relative to it to form an eccentric column. The engagement protrusion 2160 extends away from the first surface 2158, and in some embodiments, a pin structure 262 can be arranged in the engagement protrusion 2160 to increase the length of the pin hole 2168, and the pin structure 262 extends through the height of the protrusion 2160. In some embodiments, the pin structure 2162 can be longer than the height of the boss 2160 .

[0175] like Fig.21 The driven pulley 2150 in the embodiment shown in the figure can be a single molded pulley having teeth 2170 and integrated staggered flanges 2199 formed on opposite sides of the ends of the teeth 2170. In one embodiment, the staggered flanges 2199 can be formed so that the flange structure only exists beside some of the teeth 2170 around the driven pulley 2150. In some embodiments, the staggered flanges 2199 on each side of the driven pulley 2150 are aligned with each other. In some embodiments, the staggered flanges 2199 on each side of the driven pulley 2150 can be offset from each other, such as Fig.21. The staggered flanges 2199 can be used to help initially determine the alignment of the drive assembly 216 during installation, and also help prevent the belt 238 from falling off the drive assembly 216 when the belt 238 rotates due to belt tracking forces, thereby preventing a potential failure mode of the oral irrigator 1700. The molded driven pulley 2150 with staggered flanges 2199 can improve the oral irrigator 1700 by eliminating the need for a separate flange. Eliminating a separate flange (as in Figure 7B The overall production cost of the driven pulley 2150 (shown with the flange 248 and the original driven pulley 250) can be reduced by eliminating components that have certain individual component costs and production time attributed to assembling the original driven pulley 250 with the flange 248.

[0176] Pressure control slider

[0177] exist Fig.18 In the embodiment of the present invention, the rack 3800 and the actuator 1140 can be manufactured as a single component and can be integrated to slide relative to the base 1702 and the pump assembly 214, as shown in Figure 28-Figure 30 3360 is shown in more detail in FIG. As in the previous embodiment, the teeth 3802 of the rack 3800 engage with the teeth 3840 of the gear 3340 connected to the pump assembly 214. In this embodiment, the gear bracket 3360 is mounted to the pump assembly 214 and the gear 3340 is mounted on the gear 3340 via a shaft extending through the gear bracket 3360 to the pump assembly 214. The teeth 3840 of the gear 3340 need not extend completely around the circumference of the gear 3340, but only extend along the bottom arc because the travel distance of the rack 3800 does not require engagement with additional teeth of the gear 3340 or causing additional rotation of the gear 3340. The gear bracket 3360 can be formed as a vertical wall 3363 having a planar surface, and a horizontal shelf 3362 extending perpendicularly from the planar surface at the top edge of the vertical wall 3363. The shelf 3362 can be formed with a step 3364. A first linear protrusion 3366 may be formed on the vertical surface of step 3364, and beam 3365 may extend outward from the vertical surface above first linear protrusion 3366. A second linear protrusion 3368 may be formed along the bottom edge of vertical wall 3363 parallel to first linear protrusion 3366. The absence of teeth on the top edge of gear 3340 allows additional space for an extension of rack 3362.

[0178] As mentioned above, the rack 3800 and the actuator 1140 can be formed as a single component. The actuator 1140 can extend vertically from the planar guide wall 3810. The teeth 3802 of the rack 3800 can be positioned adjacent to the bottom edge of the inner surface of the guide wall 3810, and the teeth 3802 extend upwardly for engagement with the teeth of the gear 3340, such as Fig.30A kick plate 3804 may extend from the bottom edge of the bed from which the teeth 3802 extend. The kick plate 3804 may be oriented parallel to the guide wall 3810 and offset from the plane of the inner surface by a portion of the width of the teeth 3802.

[0179] When the actuator 1140 is assembled in the base 1702 and the teeth 3802 of the rack 3800 are meshed with the teeth 3840 of the gear 3340, the bottom edge 3806 of the scraper 3804 is seated on the planar recess 1704 in the base 1702, and when the actuator 1140 moves laterally back and forth, the bottom edge 3806 travels along the planar recess 1704. Similarly, the top edge of the guide wall 3810 is seated against the underside of the beam 3365 of the step 3364. In this configuration, the possible vertical movement of the rack 3800 is limited. In addition, the inner surface of the guide wall 3810 is seated against the first linear protrusion 3366 on the step 3364. Similarly, the inner surface of the scraper 3804 is seated against the second linear protrusion at the bottom of the gear bracket 3360. Thus, as the actuator 1140 moves forward and backward, the rack 3800 slides along the first linear protrusion 3366 and the second linear protrusion 3368. This embodiment can be more robust when fewer components are assembled together and move relative to each other.

[0180] Hose latch assembly

[0181] The replacement hose latch assembly 2300 is Fig.23A and Fig. 23B Instead of Figure 6C and Fig.10 The hose latch assembly 2300 utilizes a left slider 2304 and a right slider 2306 that adjustably surround a hose connector 2310 to fluidly connect the hose connector 2310 to the reservoir 104. The left slider 2304 has a post 2312 extending from a side of the left slider 2304, and the biasing element 2316 can be positioned around the post 2312. The left slider 2304 can also have a window 2324, which is a through hole from the front surface to the rear surface. The window 2324 can be generally rectangular in shape. The left slider 2304 can also have a hose connector bracket 2330, which can be configured to engage with a portion of the hose connector 2310. In some examples, the hose connector bracket 2330 of the left slider 2304 can be hemispherical, having a concave shape that curves away from the hose connector 2310.

[0182] The right slider 2306 can be similar in shape to the left slider 2304, with a post 2314 extending from a side of the right slider 2304 and a biasing element 2318 positioned around the post 2314. The right slider 2306 can also have a window 2325, which is a through hole from the front surface to the rear surface of the right slider 2306. The window 2325 can be generally rectangular in shape. The right slider 2306 can also have a hose connector bracket 2332. In some examples, the hose connector bracket 2332 of the right slider 2306 is similarly shaped and symmetrically positioned relative to the hose connection bracket 2330 of the left slider 2304.

[0183] The pop-up bracket 2308 may have a front surface 2340 and a rear surface 2342 opposite the front surface 2340. Fig. 23B As shown in FIG. 2 , the pop-up bracket 2308 has an upper window 2326 that is vertically positioned above the lower window 2328. The windows 2326, 2328 may be through holes in a rectangular shape extending from the front surface 2340 to the rear surface 2342.

[0184] like Fig.24 , the eject button 2302 can feature a front surface 2410 opposite a rear surface 2412, with a left engagement post 2402 and a right engagement post 2404 extending from the rear surface 2412. In some examples, the left engagement post 2402 can be vertically positioned above the right engagement post 2404. A user engagement protrusion 2414 can extend from the front surface 2410. In some examples, the user engagement protrusion 2414 can be cylindrical in shape with a user engagement surface 2416 on the end opposite the front surface 2410. The user engagement surface 2416 can be concave and curved away from the front surface 4210.

[0185] The left engagement post 2402 can be rectangular in shape, with the end of the post 2402 opposite the rear surface 2412 being an inclined engagement surface. The right engagement post 2404 can be shaped similarly to the left engagement post 2402, but with an inclined engagement surface 2408 that is angled opposite the inclined engagement surface 2406 of the left engagement post 2402.

[0186] When the hose latch assembly 2300 is assembled, the left slider 2304 and the right slider 2306 are positioned adjacent to each other, wherein the hose connector bracket 2332 of the right slider 2306 is adjacent to and contacts the hose connector bracket 2330 of the left slider 2304, thereby forming an outer flange 470 having a smaller diameter than the hose connector 2310 (see Fig.10). The left engagement post 2402 of the eject button 2302 extends through the left slider window 2324 of the left slider 2304. The right engagement post 2404 of the eject button of the eject button 2303 extends through the right slider window 2325 of the eject button. The rear surface 2412 of the eject button 2412 can be adjacent to and contact the biasing element 2320, which is adjacent to the eject bracket 2308. The eject bracket 2303 can be positioned adjacent to the left slider 2304 and on the opposite side of the eject button 2302. The left engagement post 2404 of the eject button 2302 can be aligned with the upper window 2326 of the eject bracket 2308. The right engagement post 2404 of the eject button 2302 can be aligned with the lower window 2328 of the eject bracket 2308.

[0187] When the hose latch assembly 2300 is used, a user may engage the user engagement surface 2416 of the eject button 2303 to release or install the hose connector 2310. The user may contact the user engagement surface 2416 of the eject button 2308 to compress the biasing element 2320 positioned between the eject button 2302 and the front surface 2340 of the eject bracket 2308. The compression of the biasing element 2320 allows the eject button 2302 to move toward the eject bracket 2308. This movement causes the inclined engagement surface 2406 of the left engagement post 2402 of the eject button 2302 to contact the edge of the left slider window 2324 of the left slider 2304, forcing the left slider 2304 to compress the biasing element 2316. When the button 2302 is further compressed, the left slider 2304 further compresses the biasing element 2316, and the left slider 2304 moves to the left relative to the eject button 2308. This causes the hose connector bracket 2330 to also move to the left and away from the hose connector 2310. The left engagement post 2404 of the eject button 2302 may then extend into the upper window 2326 of the eject bracket 2308 .

[0188] As the left slider 2304 is forced to move to the left, the movement of the eject button 2302 causes a similar movement of the right slider 2306 in the opposite direction to the right. When the eject button 2302 is pressed toward the eject bracket 2308, the inclined engagement surface 2408 of the right engagement post 2404 contacts the edge of the right slider window 2325 of the right slider 2306. This contact forces the right slider 2306 to compress the biasing element 2318, and the right slider 2306 moves away from the left slider 2304. When the eject button 2302 is further pressed, the right engagement post 2404 continues to contact the right slider window 2325 and forces the right slider 2306 away from the left slider 2304. When the right slider 2304 moves to the right, the hose connector bracket 2332 of the right slider moves away from the hose connector 2310. Finally, the spacing between the hose connector bracket 2330 of the left slider 2304 and the hose connector bracket 2332 of the right slider 2306 is large enough so that the flange 470 of the hose connector 2310 can be released or installed from the hose latch assembly 2300.

[0189] When the user is not engaging the eject button 2302, the hose latch assembly 2300 is biased such that the left and right slides 2304, 2306 are biased to contact each other. This allows the installed hose connector 2310 to remain fluidly connected to the reservoir 104 without the user engaging the eject button 2302. Additionally, the use of a semi-circular shape for the hose connector brackets 2330, 2332 blocks the user's view of the interior of the oral irrigator assembly when the hose is not connected, thereby potentially enhancing the aesthetic aspect of the unit.

[0190] in conclusion

[0191] The foregoing description has broad application. For example, while the examples disclosed herein may focus on portable, reduced form factor flushers, it should be understood that the concepts disclosed herein may also be applied to other flushing devices, such as large countertop units or handheld units. Therefore, the discussion of any examples is intended to be merely exemplary and is not intended to imply that the scope of the present disclosure, including the claims, is limited to these examples.

[0192] All directional references (e.g., proximal, distal, upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, transverse, longitudinal, front, rear, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, radial, axial, clockwise, and counterclockwise) are used only for identification purposes to help the reader understand the present invention without creating limitations, particularly with respect to the position, orientation, or use of the present invention. Connection references (e.g., attachment, connection, connection, and connection) should be interpreted broadly and may include intermediate members between element sets and relative movement between elements, unless otherwise indicated. Thus, connection references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected and are in a fixed relationship to each other. The exemplary drawings are only for illustrative purposes, and the sizes, positions, orders, and relative sizes reflected in the drawings attached hereto may change.

[0193] The above description, examples and data provide a complete description of the structure and use of exemplary embodiments of the invention as defined in the claims. Although various embodiments of the claimed invention have been described above with a certain degree of particularity or with reference to one or more separate embodiments, a person skilled in the art can make a variety of changes to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the claimed invention. Other embodiments are therefore conceivable. It is intended that all that is contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings should be interpreted as illustrating only specific embodiments and not restrictive. Changes may be made to the details or structure without departing from the basic elements of the invention as defined in the following claims.

Claims

1. An oral irrigator, comprising: a base unit housing the motor and pump; a removable reservoir defining a reservoir chamber fluidly coupled to the pump; a handle for directing fluid flow from the pump, wherein the handle is removably connected to the base unit, and wherein the handle is fluidly coupled to the pump via a hose; a connector attached at a first end to the hose and releasably attached at a second end to a port in the base unit in fluid communication with the pump, a first valve positioned in the connector, wherein the first valve is configured to open in response to fluid under pressure received from the pump to allow fluid to flow through the hose to the handle, and is configured to close in the absence of fluid under pressure received from the pump; and a second valve positioned in the port and configured to open in response to connection with the connector and configured to close when the connector is removed from the port; wherein, when the second valve is opened, fluid flows around the second valve and into the connector; Wherein, the second valve has a closed tip.

2. The oral irrigator of claim 1, further comprising a third valve positioned in the base unit and in fluid communication with the pump at a first end and in fluid communication with the reservoir at a second end, wherein The third valve is configured to block a main fluid flow passage to the reservoir when the pump provides a positive pressure stroke, and is configured to open the main fluid flow passage to the reservoir when the pump provides a negative pressure stroke.

3. The oral irrigator according to claim 2, further comprising a fourth valve, the fourth valve being accommodated in a valve cavity defined in the third valve, wherein: The fourth valve is configured to block fluid flow from the reservoir through the valve cavity and is configured to open and allow fluid to flow through the valve cavity toward the reservoir when fluid pressure at the first end of the third valve exceeds a threshold pressure.

4. The oral irrigator according to claim 1, wherein: The connector is configured to rotate relative to the port when connected to the port.

5. The oral irrigator according to claim 1, wherein: The connector includes a connector body and a cap connected to the connector body.

6. The oral irrigator according to claim 5, wherein: The connector body defines an interior cavity that accommodates the first valve.

7. The oral irrigator according to claim 6, wherein: The first valve includes a poppet valve and a biasing element configured to bias the poppet valve toward a sealing position in which the poppet valve prevents fluid from leaking out of the connector when the connector is removed from the base unit.

8. The oral irrigator according to claim 5, wherein: The connector also includes a fork extending away from a bottom end of the connector body.

9. The oral irrigator according to claim 8, wherein: The tine defines a tine cavity and one or more fluid apertures defined in a bottom end of the tine and in fluid communication with the tine cavity.

10. The oral irrigator according to claim 8, wherein: The connector also includes a lower body, wherein the fork is positioned within a central region of the lower body, and wherein a bottom end of the lower body includes an outer flange extending circumferentially around the lower body, the outer flange selectively engaging a latch to secure the connector to the base unit.

11. The oral irrigator according to claim 1, wherein: The base unit also includes an outlet fitting that engages the pump and includes a central boss having a cavity defined therethrough.

12. The oral irrigator according to claim 11, wherein: The outlet fitting includes one or more securing flanges for receiving fasteners.

13. The oral irrigator of claim 11, wherein: The base unit also includes a top cap that is connected to the outlet fitting.

14. The oral irrigator of claim 11, wherein: The second valve is received in the cavity of the outlet fitting.

15. The oral irrigator of claim 14, wherein: The second valve includes a poppet valve and a biasing element configured to bias the poppet valve toward a sealing position in which the poppet valve prevents fluid from leaking out of the pump when the connector is removed from the base unit.

16. The oral irrigator of claim 1, wherein: The base unit also includes a latch assembly that selectively connects and disconnects the connector from the base unit.

17. The oral irrigator of claim 16, wherein: The latch assembly includes a latch movable between a first position in which the latch engages the connector and a second position in which the latch releases the connector.

18. The oral irrigator of claim 17, wherein: The latch includes a leaf spring and two latch arms connected together at one end by the leaf spring.

19. The oral irrigator of claim 17, wherein: The latch assembly also includes an eject button configured to actuate the latch.

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