Nozzle structure and oral irrigator

Abstract

The invention discloses a nozzle structure and an oral irrigator, the oral irrigator comprises the nozzle structure, and the nozzle structure is composed of a nozzle main body and a rotatable water outlet switching assembly. A water inlet channel and a water outlet are arranged in the nozzle body. The water outlet switching assembly comprises a water outlet piece and a water distribution piece, the water outlet piece is provided with a communicating hole (a first water way) and a peripheral annular cavity (a second water way), and the water distribution piece is correspondingly provided with main water spraying holes and surrounding auxiliary water spraying holes. The rotating assembly reaches a first position and communicates with the first water path to realize concentrated main injection; and when rotating to the second position, the second waterway is communicated to realize multi-hole auxiliary spraying. The invention aims to improve the independent distribution of water flow in a main spraying mode and an auxiliary spraying mode, so that the spraying performance is improved, and water mixing among the modes is thoroughly avoided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of oral irrigator technology, and particularly to a nozzle structure and an oral irrigator. Background Technology

[0002] Existing rotary multi-mode nozzles typically switch water flow paths by rotating the nozzle head, but their switching structures often employ simple through-hole alignment or a single groove design, making it difficult to simultaneously achieve reliable confluence and independent diversion of two water paths. In the main spray mode, the two inlet water paths often suffer from insufficient pressure due to the lack of an effective confluence chamber; in the secondary spray mode, uneven spraying is easily caused by cross-contamination of the flow channels. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The main objective of this invention is to propose a nozzle structure that improves the merging or independent distribution of water flow between the main spray mode and the auxiliary spray mode, thereby enhancing spray performance and completely preventing water cross-contamination between modes.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a nozzle structure comprising:

[0005] The nozzle body has an internal water inlet channel, one end of which is the water inlet end and the other end is the water outlet end, and the water outlet end is provided with at least one water outlet. A water outlet switching assembly is rotatably connected to the nozzle body. The water outlet switching assembly includes a water outlet component and a water distribution component disposed on the water outlet component. The water outlet component is disposed at the water outlet and has an annular cavity and a connecting hole. The annular cavity is arranged around the periphery of the connecting hole. The connecting hole is configured as a first water flow path, and the annular cavity is configured as a second water flow path. The water distribution component has a main water spray hole and multiple auxiliary water spray holes, and the multiple auxiliary water spray holes are arranged around the main water spray hole. The water outlet switching component is rotatable about an axis relative to the nozzle body, so that the water outlet switching component has a first position and a second position; In the first position, the water outlet, the first water flow path, and the main water jet hole are connected in sequence to form a main jet mode; In the second position, the water outlet, the second water flow path, and the multiple auxiliary water jet holes are connected in sequence to form an auxiliary jet mode.

[0006] In one embodiment, the water outlet component has an inlet surface and an outlet surface disposed opposite to each other, with the inlet surface facing the outlet. A groove is recessed on the inlet surface, and the groove communicates with the connecting hole to form a first water flow path. An annular cavity is recessed on the outlet surface, and the inlet end of the annular cavity extends to the inlet surface to communicate with the outlet to form a second water flow path. A water divider is disposed on the outlet surface, covering the annular cavity and the outlet end of the connecting hole.

[0007] In one embodiment, the annular cavity is further provided with a first through hole and a second through hole. The first through hole and the second through hole are arranged opposite to the rotation axis of the water outlet switching component. The groove is arranged on the rotation axis and is located between the first through hole and the second through hole in the circumferential direction. The bottom surface of the annular cavity is constructed as an inclined surface, which has the maximum depth on the side close to the rotation axis and gradually increases in depth radially outward toward the first through hole and the second through hole.

[0008] In one embodiment, the groove extends radially and its extension direction intersects the central axis of the main water jet hole.

[0009] In one embodiment, the nozzle structure further includes a flow guiding component, the flow guiding component including at least a third through hole and a fourth through hole spaced apart, the flow guiding component being installed at the water outlet, and both the third through hole and the fourth through hole communicating with the water outlet; In the first position, the water outlet, the third through hole, the fourth through hole, the first water flow path, and the main spray hole are connected in sequence to form a main spray mode; In the second position, the water outlet, the third through hole, the fourth through hole, the second water flow path, and the multiple auxiliary water spray holes are connected in sequence to form an auxiliary spray mode.

[0010] In one embodiment, the flow guiding assembly includes a flow guiding element and an elastic seal, the elastic seal being disposed on the side of the flow guiding element facing the water outlet switching assembly; The flow guide is provided with a fifth through hole and a sixth through hole, and the elastic sealing member is provided with a seventh through hole and an eighth through hole, wherein the fifth through hole and the seventh through hole are coaxially connected to form the third through hole, and the sixth through hole and the eighth through hole are coaxially connected to form the fourth through hole; The first outlet, the fifth through hole, and the seventh through hole are connected in sequence to form a first flow guiding channel, and the first outlet, the sixth through hole, and the eighth through hole are connected in sequence to form a second flow guiding channel.

[0011] In one embodiment, the nozzle structure further includes an elastic component, which includes a first elastic element and a second elastic element; the elastic sealing element has a first receiving groove and a second receiving groove recessed on the side facing the nozzle body; wherein, the first receiving groove is connected to the first flow guiding channel, the second receiving groove is connected to the second flow guiding channel, the first elastic element is received in the first receiving groove and its two ends abut against the inner wall of the first receiving groove and the inner wall of the flow guiding element, and the second elastic element is received in the second receiving groove and its two ends abut against the inner wall of the first receiving groove and the inner wall of the flow guiding element, respectively.

[0012] In one embodiment, the nozzle body includes a rod and an end cap, the water inlet channel is formed inside the rod, and the end cap is rotatably connected to the water outlet switching assembly; The inner wall of the end cap is provided with a first snap-fit ​​part and a second snap-fit ​​part. The outer peripheral surface of the water outlet switching component is provided with a first snap-fit ​​plane and a second snap-fit ​​plane that are opposite to the first snap-fit ​​plane. The first snap-fit ​​part and the first snap-fit ​​plane form a circumferential snap-fit ​​engagement, and the second snap-fit ​​part and the second snap-fit ​​plane form a circumferential snap-fit ​​engagement, so that the end cap and the water outlet switching component are relatively fixed in the circumferential direction, and the water outlet switching component can be driven to rotate when the end cap rotates.

[0013] In one embodiment, the outer wall of the rod is provided with a stop portion, and the inner wall of the end cap is provided with a limiting portion, the limiting portion having a first limiting surface and a second limiting surface arranged circumferentially at intervals; In the first position, the first limiting surface and the stop portion abut together; in the second position, the second limiting surface and the stop portion abut together.

[0014] The present invention also proposes a water flosser, the water flosser including the above-mentioned nozzle structure, the nozzle structure including a nozzle body, an inlet channel formed inside, one end of the inlet channel being an inlet end and the other end being an outlet end, the outlet end being provided with at least one outlet. A water outlet switching assembly is rotatably connected to the nozzle body. The water outlet switching assembly includes a water outlet component and a water distribution component disposed on the water outlet component. The water outlet component is disposed at the water outlet and has an annular cavity and a connecting hole. The annular cavity is arranged around the periphery of the connecting hole. The connecting hole is configured as a first water flow path, and the annular cavity is configured as a second water flow path. The water distribution component has a main water spray hole and multiple auxiliary water spray holes, and the multiple auxiliary water spray holes are arranged around the main water spray hole. The water outlet switching component is rotatable about an axis relative to the nozzle body, so that the water outlet switching component has a first position and a second position; In the first position, the water outlet, the first water flow path, and the main water jet hole are connected in sequence to form a main jet mode; In the second position, the water outlet, the second water flow path, and the multiple auxiliary water jet holes are connected in sequence to form an auxiliary jet mode.

[0015] The technical solution of this invention is a nozzle structure, which consists of two main parts: a nozzle body and a movable water outlet switching component. The nozzle body is responsible for basic water flow delivery, and its interior has a water inlet channel extending from the inlet end to the outlet end, with at least one outlet reserved at the outlet end as a water flow outlet. The water outlet switching component is installed at the outlet and has the function of rotating around an axis. Structurally, this component is further subdivided into a water outlet component and a water distribution component. The water outlet component is designed with a dual-flow channel layout, that is, the connecting hole at the center position serves as the first water flow path, and the annular cavity surrounding it serves as the second water flow path. The water distribution component is correspondingly provided with a central main spray hole and multiple auxiliary spray holes distributed around it. The working principle of this solution relies on the flow path alignment change caused by the rotation: when the user rotates the water outlet switching component to the first position, the water outlet of the nozzle body aligns and connects with the connecting hole (first water flow path) of the water outlet component and the main spray hole of the water distribution component. At this time, the water flow is concentrated through the central path, forming a strong and concentrated main jet mode. When rotated to the second position, the water outlet aligns and connects with the outer annular cavity (second water flow path) and multiple auxiliary spray holes. At this point, the water flow is dispersed and guided to multiple surrounding small holes, forming a wide-coverage, gentle, and delicate auxiliary spray pattern. In other words, the water outlet switching component dynamically determines whether the water flow enters the main spray hole or the auxiliary spray hole group based on the rotation position, achieving uniform and symmetrical dispersed spraying. Therefore, this controllable switching mechanism based on dual-inlet paths not only avoids the problems of insufficient flow or large pressure loss in traditional single-inlet structures under multiple modes, but also fundamentally prevents water path crosstalk between different spray modes, significantly improving functional reliability and the distinguishability of spray performance. Attached Figure Description

[0016] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0017] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of the nozzle structure provided by the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the nozzle structure provided by the present invention; Figure 3 for Figure 2 A magnified view of a portion of the image; Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the water outlet component provided by the present invention; Figure 5 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of the water outlet component provided by the present invention; Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the sealing element provided by the present invention; Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a structure of an embodiment of the base provided by the present invention; Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the end cap provided by the present invention; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the end cap provided by the present invention.

[0018] 10. Nozzle body; 11. Water inlet channel; 111. Water inlet end; 112. Water outlet end; 113. Water outlet; 12. Rod body; 13. End cap; 131. First locking part; 132. Second locking part; 14. Stop part; 15. Limiting part; 151. First limiting surface; 152. Second limiting surface; 20. Water outlet switching assembly; 201. First locking plane; 202. Second locking plane; 21. Water outlet component; 211. Annular cavity; 212. Connecting hole; 213. Water inlet surface; 214. Outlet... 215. Water inlet surface; 216. First through hole; 217. Second through hole; 22. Water distribution component; 221. Main water jet hole; 222. Secondary water jet hole; 30. Flow guiding component; 31. Third through hole; 32. Fourth through hole; 33. Flow guiding component; 331. Fifth through hole; 332. Sixth through hole; 34. Elastic sealing component; 341. Seventh through hole; 342. Eighth through hole; 343. First receiving groove; 344. Second receiving groove; 40. Elastic component; 41. First elastic element; 42. Second elastic element.

[0019] The realization of the objective, functional features and advantages of the present invention will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0020] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0021] It should be noted that if the embodiments of the present invention involve directional indicators (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indicators are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of the components in a specific posture. If the specific posture changes, the directional indicators will also change accordingly.

[0022] Furthermore, if the embodiments of this invention involve descriptions such as "first" or "second," these descriptions are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the use of "and / or" or "and / or" throughout the text includes three parallel solutions. For example, "A and / or B" includes solution A, solution B, or a solution where both A and B are satisfied simultaneously. Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by this invention.

[0023] This invention proposes a nozzle structure and a dental flosser.

[0024] Reference Figures 1-9 In an embodiment of the present invention, a nozzle structure includes: The nozzle body 10 has an internal water inlet channel 11. One end of the water inlet channel 11 is a water inlet end 111, and the other end is a water outlet end 112. The water outlet end 112 is provided with at least one water outlet 113. The water outlet switching assembly 20 is rotatably connected to the nozzle body 10. The water outlet switching assembly 20 includes a water outlet component 21 and a water distribution component 22 disposed on the water outlet component 21. The water outlet component 21 is disposed at the water outlet 113. The water outlet component 21 has an annular cavity 211 and a connecting hole 212. The annular cavity 211 is disposed around the periphery of the connecting hole 212. The connecting hole 212 is configured as a first water flow path, and the annular cavity 211 is configured as a second water flow path. The water distribution component 22 has a main water spray hole 221 and multiple auxiliary water spray holes 222. The multiple auxiliary water spray holes 222 are disposed around the main water spray hole 221. The water outlet switching assembly 20 is rotatable about an axis relative to the nozzle body 10, so that the water outlet switching assembly 20 has a first position and a second position; In the first position, the water outlet 113, the first water flow path, and the main water jet hole 221 are connected in sequence to form the main jet mode. In the second position, the water outlet 113, the second water flow path, and multiple auxiliary water jet holes 222 are connected in sequence to form an auxiliary jet mode.

[0025] This design is a nozzle structure with multi-orifice switching functionality. It achieves switching between different spray modes by changing the water flow path through a rotating component, specifically including a main spray mode and a secondary spray mode. The structure mainly comprises two parts: the nozzle body 10 and the water outlet switching component 20. The nozzle body 10 has an inlet channel 11, with one end being the inlet end 111 for connecting to a water source; the other end is the outlet end 112, with an outlet 113 at the outlet end 112. The water outlet switching component 20 is rotatably connected to the nozzle body 10 and consists of an outlet component 21 and a water distribution component 22. The outlet component 21 features a double-layer flow channel design: the outer annular cavity 211 serves as the second water flow path, and the central connecting hole 212 serves as the first water flow path. The water distribution component 22 has a main spray hole 221 and multiple secondary spray holes 222 arranged around it. The working principle of this scheme relies on the rotational movement of the water outlet switching component 20 relative to the nozzle body 10, which allows it to switch between a first position and a second position, thereby changing the water flow path. When the water outlet switching component 20 rotates to the first position, the water outlet 113 is connected in sequence to the connecting hole 212 (first water flow path) of the water outlet component 21 and the main spray hole 221 of the water distribution component 22. The water flow is concentrated and sprayed out through the main spray hole 221, forming the main spray mode, which is usually used to generate a strong single stream of water. When the water outlet switching component 20 rotates to the second position, the water outlet 113 of the nozzle body 10 is aligned and connected in sequence to the annular cavity 211 (second water flow path) of the water outlet component 21 and the multiple auxiliary spray holes 222 of the water distribution component 22. The water flow is dispersed to the surrounding auxiliary spray holes 222 and sprayed out, forming the auxiliary spray mode. This application utilizes the layout of the inner hole of the outer ring on the water outlet component 21 to spatially isolate but functionally integrate the first water flow path (connecting hole 212) and the second water flow path (annular cavity 211). When the user rotates the water outlet switching component 20, using the principle of mechanical alignment, either the main water flow passes through the connecting hole 212 and converges into a single main spray hole 221, utilizing the convergence effect in fluid mechanics to increase the flow velocity and impact force, forming a main spray mode suitable for targeted cleaning; or the water flow is diverted through the annular cavity 211 and dispersed to multiple surrounding secondary spray holes 222, utilizing the diversion effect to reduce single-point pressure and expand the coverage area, forming a secondary spray mode suitable for gentle cleaning or large-area wetting. This design not only avoids increased costs, bulky size, and increased failure rate caused by adding additional valves or motors, but also ensures sealing reliability and operational feel under fluctuating water pressure environments through a purely mechanical rotating structure, achieving structural compactness, functional versatility, manufacturing economy, and user convenience.

[0026] Reference Figures 1-9In this embodiment of the invention, the water outlet component 21 has an inlet surface 213 and an outlet surface 214 disposed opposite to each other, with the inlet surface 213 facing the outlet 113; wherein, a groove 215 is recessed on the inlet surface 213, and the groove 215 communicates with the connecting hole 212 to form a first water flow path, an annular cavity 211 is recessed on the outlet surface 214, and the inlet end of the annular cavity 211 extends to the inlet surface 213 to communicate with the outlet 113 to form a second water flow path; the water divider 22 is disposed on the outlet surface 214, covering the outlet end of the annular cavity 211 and the connecting hole 212.

[0027] Specifically, the solution defines the water outlet component 21 as a disc-shaped or block-shaped structure with a clear orientation. The side facing the water outlet 113 of the nozzle body 10 is the water inlet surface 213, and the opposite side is the water outlet surface 214. A groove 215 is recessed in the water inlet surface 213, and the bottom or direct extension of the groove 215 is connected to the connecting hole 212 that penetrates the water outlet component 21, thereby jointly constructing a first water flow path for the secondary jet mode. Meanwhile, on the other side of the water outlet 21, namely the outlet surface 214, a recessed annular cavity 211 is formed around the center. This annular cavity 211 is not closed; its inlet end extends to the inlet surface 213 to directly receive the water flow from the outlet 113 of the nozzle body 10, thereby constructing the flow channel foundation for the secondary jet mode. The water divider 22, as a covering layer, is tightly installed on the outlet surface 214, covering both the internal annular cavity 211 and the outlet end of the connecting hole 212. The main jet hole 221 on the water divider 22 faces the outlet of the annular cavity 211, while multiple secondary jet holes 222 face the flow path of the connecting hole 212 (or its associated groove 215 outlet). This design utilizes the differentiated groove structure on both sides of the water outlet 21 to construct two completely independent water flow paths. The first water flow path (main jet path) is formed by directly recessing a groove 215 on the inlet surface 213. This groove 215 is directly connected to the connecting hole 212, so that the water flows in a straight line along the central axis from the moment it enters the outlet part 21. This design shortens the main jet path and helps to maintain the concentration and impact force of the water flow. The second water flow path (secondary jet path) is formed by recessing the annular cavity 211 on the opposite outlet surface 214. The inlet end of the annular cavity 211 is extended through the inlet surface 213, so that the water flow can be directly intercepted from the outlet 113 of the nozzle body 10, forming a meandering path that enters from the edge, surrounds inside or on the surface of the outlet part 21, and finally flows to the secondary jet hole 222. Furthermore, the water distribution component 22, serving as the final water outlet panel, is fixedly placed over the outlet surface 214 of the water outlet component 21, simultaneously sealing the outlet of the connecting hole 212 and the outlet of the surrounding annular cavity 211, with corresponding main spray holes 221 and secondary spray holes 222. This design utilizes the space on both sides of a single component (water outlet component 21), employing different groove shapes and through-flow methods to physically isolate two water flow paths without adding additional complex valves or seals. This ensures that when the water outlet switching component 20 rotates and aligns, the water flow can only enter a preset single channel (either flowing through the first water flow path or the second water flow path), effectively preventing cross-contamination and simplifying the assembly process. It is understandable that the shape design of the groove 215 is highly flexible; its core principle is that it must smoothly connect with the connecting hole 212 and guide the water flow efficiently. Therefore, it can have various geometric shapes to adapt to different fluid dynamics requirements or manufacturing processes.Including but not limited to cylindrical grooves; or conical (or funnel-shaped) grooves, i.e., the diameter of the inlet end is larger and gradually narrows as it approaches the connecting hole 212; or spiral grooves or irregular grooves with guide ribs.

[0028] Reference Figures 1-9 In this embodiment of the invention, the annular cavity 211 is further provided with a first through hole 216 and a second through hole 217. The first through hole 216 and the second through hole 217 are arranged opposite to the rotation axis of the water outlet switching component 20, and the groove 215 is arranged on the rotation axis and is located between the first through hole 216 and the second through hole 217 in the circumferential direction. The bottom surface of the annular cavity 211 is constructed as an inclined surface, which has the maximum depth on the side close to the rotation axis and gradually increases in depth in the radial outward direction toward the first through hole 216 and the second through hole 217.

[0029] Specifically, this design adds a first through hole 216 and a second through hole 217 to the bottom surface of the annular cavity 211 originally used for the secondary jet mode. These two through holes are not randomly distributed, but are arranged relative to the rotation axis of the water outlet switching component 20. The core purpose of this layout is to maintain the dynamic balance of the water outlet switching component 20 under the impact of high-speed water flow, and to prevent rotation jamming or wear caused by uneven force on one side. It may also serve as an auxiliary drainage or pressure balancing channel. At the same time, the groove 215 used for the main jet mode is placed at the exact center of the rotation axis and is located exactly between the two symmetrical through holes in the circumferential direction. This structural arrangement utilizes the solid material area around the annular cavity 211 to open the through holes, which avoids the through holes from damaging the sealing of the central main water channel and maximizes the structural integrity of the parts. Furthermore, this design features a non-planar inclined surface on the bottom of the annular cavity 211 (actually a conical or inclined transition structure). The depth is shallowest (potentially close to zero, forming a water-blocking ridge) on the side closest to the rotation axis (i.e., near the central main water channel), and then gradually increases in depth radially outward toward the two through holes. This slope design, which deepens gradually from the inside out, guides the water flow entering from the edge to spread more smoothly to the surroundings and flow into the secondary jet holes 222, reducing eddies and dead water zones and improving the uniformity of water output in the secondary jet mode. On the other hand, the shallower depth near the center actually forms a natural physical barrier, effectively preventing accidental leakage of the central high-pressure water flow to the outer annular cavity in the main jet mode. In the secondary jet mode, the increased water depth provides sufficient volume to buffer and distribute the water flow. Thus, without adding additional seals, structural optimization achieves more thorough isolation and more efficient water flow guidance between the two modes.

[0030] Reference Figures 1-9In this embodiment of the invention, the groove 215 extends in the radial direction and its extension direction intersects with the central axis of the main water jet hole 211.

[0031] Specifically, after the water flows from the outlet 113 of the nozzle body 10 into the water outlet 21, it first flows in a transverse (radial) groove 215. Then, at the intersection of the groove 215 and the axis of the main spray hole 221, the water flow direction changes from radial flow to axial flow, and finally passes through the connecting hole 212 and is sprayed out from the main spray hole 221. This radial inlet and axial outlet cross-flow channel design greatly optimizes the connection layout between the inlet surface 213 and the internal connecting hole 212, allowing the inlet to be set in a radial position away from the central axis, thus leaving more space in the central area for arranging other structures, or allowing the outlet 113 of the nozzle body 10 to be designed more flexibly, without being strictly limited to the exact center; secondly, the intersection structure of the radially extending groove 215 and the axial main spray hole 221 actually constitutes a buffer area. When the water flows in at high speed from the radial direction and impacts the axial channel, it helps to break up the laminar boundary layer in the water flow, promotes the mixing and rectification of the water flow, and thus obtains a fuller, more uniform and stable water column when sprayed, effectively avoiding the violent turbulence or noise caused by abrupt changes in the flow channel.

[0032] Reference Figures 1-9 In this embodiment of the invention, the nozzle structure further includes a flow guiding component 30. The flow guiding component 30 includes at least a third through hole 31 and a fourth through hole 32 that are spaced apart. The flow guiding component 30 is installed at the water outlet 113, and both the third through hole 31 and the fourth through hole 32 are connected to the water outlet 113. In the first position, the outlet 113, the third through hole 31, the fourth through hole 32, the first water flow path 211, and the main spray hole 221 are connected in sequence to form the main spray mode. In the second position, the outlet 113, the third through hole 31, the fourth through hole 32, the second water flow path, and multiple auxiliary water jet holes 222 are connected in sequence to form an auxiliary jet mode.

[0033] The flow guiding component 30 is fixedly installed at the outlet 113 of the nozzle body 10, serving as the first barrier after the water flow leaves the nozzle body 10. It has at least two spaced through holes (a third through hole 31 and a fourth through hole 32) machined inside, both of which are directly connected to the outlet 113 of the nozzle body 10, forming a buffer chamber for diversion or convergence. When the water outlet switching component 20 rotates to the first position to activate the main jet mode, the water flow path is constructed as a continuous straight line or a specific curved channel. Water flows out from the outlet 113 of the nozzle body 10, passes sequentially through the third through hole 31 and the fourth through hole 32 of the flow guiding component 30, then aligns and enters the first water flow path on the water outlet component 21, and finally is forcefully ejected through the main jet hole 221. At this time, the flow guiding component 30 serves to extend the flow channel, stabilize the water pressure, and ensure center alignment. When the water outlet switching component 20 rotates to the second position to activate the secondary spray mode, although the water flow still has to pass through the third through hole 31 and the fourth through hole 32 of the flow guide component 30, the subsequent flow direction changes. The water flow no longer enters the first water flow path, but is guided to the second water flow path, and then distributed to multiple secondary spray holes 222 to form a shower or mist effect. This design cleverly uses the flow guide component 30 as a fixed bridge to isolate the water outlet 113 of the nozzle body 10 from the rotatable water outlet component 21. This not only simplifies the difficulty of rotational sealing (only sealing is required between the flow guide component 30 and the water outlet component 21), but also increases the flow area or provides a pressure balance function through the design of the double through holes (the third through hole 31 and the fourth through hole 32), preventing the water hammer effect caused by the interruption of the flow channel at the moment of mode switching. This ensures a smooth transition, no leakage, and stable and consistent water output during the water flow switching process between the main and secondary spray modes.

[0034] Reference Figures 1-9 In this embodiment of the invention, the flow guiding component 30 includes a flow guiding member 33 and an elastic sealing member 34, wherein the elastic sealing member 34 is disposed on the side of the flow guiding member 33 facing the water outlet switching component 20; The flow guide 33 is provided with a fifth through hole 331 and a sixth through hole 332, and the elastic seal 34 is provided with a seventh through hole 341 and an eighth through hole 342. The fifth through hole 331 and the seventh through hole 341 are coaxially connected to form a third through hole 31, and the sixth through hole 332 and the eighth through hole 342 are coaxially connected to form a fourth through hole 32. The first outlet 113, the fifth through hole 331 and the seventh through hole 341 are connected in sequence to form the first flow channel, and the first outlet 113, the sixth through hole 332 and the eighth through hole 342 are connected in sequence to form the second flow channel.

[0035] The flow guiding assembly 30 is no longer a single unit, but consists of two parts: a flow guiding element 33 responsible for support and shaping, and an elastic sealing element 34 responsible for sealing. The elastic sealing element 34 is installed on the side of the flow guiding element 33 facing the water outlet switching assembly 20, directly serving as the friction sealing surface in contact with the water outlet switching assembly 20. The third through hole 31 is actually formed by coaxially aligning and connecting the fifth through hole 331 on the flow guiding element 33 and the seventh through hole 341 on the elastic sealing element 34, while the fourth through hole 32 is formed by coaxially aligning and connecting the sixth through hole 332 on the flow guiding element 33 and the eighth through hole 342 on the elastic sealing element 34. This design creates two independent and parallel flow channels (the first and second flow channels). After the water flows out of the outlet 113 of the nozzle body 10, it must pass through the through holes of the rigid part (the fifth through hole 331 or the sixth through hole 332) and the through holes of the flexible part (the seventh through hole 341 or the eighth through hole 342) in sequence to reach the water outlet switching assembly 20. Utilizing the material properties of the elastic seal 34, it can generate moderate elastic deformation when in contact with the rotating water outlet switching assembly 20, thereby tightly fitting the minor unevenness on the surface of the water outlet switching assembly 20 and forming a reliable dynamic sealing ring, effectively preventing internal leakage or cross-contamination of high-pressure water flow during mode switching gaps. Secondly, the through hole is divided into two sections, allowing the rigid flow guide 33 to focus on bearing water pressure and maintaining orifice accuracy, while the elastic seal 34 focuses on providing sealing force and adapting to wear. The clear division of labor ensures both the straightness of the flow channel and the flow area, and significantly improves the service life and sealing reliability of the flow guide assembly 30. Finally, this coaxial connection structure ensures that the water flow has completed rectification and pressure stabilization before entering the outlet switching component 20, so that no matter whether switching to the main jet or the auxiliary jet mode, the water flow can be better introduced into the corresponding internal water path through these two preset dedicated channels, achieving high precision and high stability of fluid control.

[0036] In this design, the elastic seal 34 is made of an elastic material with high resilience, good compression deformation capacity, and wear resistance. When pressed into the outlet switching assembly 20, it can undergo moderate deformation under pre-tightening force, tightly covering the contour of the inlet surface 213. Even during rotation, it can maintain contact with the contact surface in real time due to the material's flexibility and restoring force, filling microscopic uneven areas and forming a continuous and complete dynamic sealing interface. In addition, the use of elastic material can effectively absorb vibration and impact during rotation, reduce friction noise, and reduce wear caused by hard contact, thus extending the seal life. More importantly, this flexible seal provides sufficient sealing performance without applying excessive resistance to rotation. Compared to a rigid pressing structure, the elastic seal 34 can generate a soft support effect after being compressed, making the user feel light and smooth when switching modes, significantly improving the operating experience.

[0037] Reference Figures 1-9 In this embodiment of the invention, the nozzle structure further includes an elastic component 40, which includes a first elastic element 41 and a second elastic element 42; the elastic sealing element 34 is recessed on the side facing the nozzle body 10 to form a first receiving groove 343 and a second receiving groove 344; wherein, the first receiving groove 343 is connected to the first flow guiding channel, the second receiving groove 344 is connected to the second flow guiding channel, the first elastic element 41 is housed in the first receiving groove 343, and its two ends respectively abut against the inner wall of the first receiving groove 343 and the inner wall of the flow guiding element 33, and the second elastic element 42 is housed in the second receiving groove 344, and its two ends respectively abut against the inner wall of the first receiving groove 343 and the inner wall of the flow guiding element 33.

[0038] Two independent recessed structures are designed on the side of the elastic seal 34 facing the nozzle body 10 (i.e., the side facing away from the rotating water outlet switching assembly 20), respectively defined as the first receiving groove 343 and the second receiving groove 344. These two grooves correspond to and connect the first flow guide channel and the second flow guide channel in spatial position, forming two independent elastic loading chambers. The first elastic element 41 (such as a compression spring or elastic rubber column) is placed in the first receiving groove 343, and the second elastic element 42 is placed in the second receiving groove 344. Both elastic elements are installed with their ends abutting against each other. One end is tightly pressed against the inner wall of the receiving groove (i.e., the back of the elastic seal 34), and the other end is firmly abutted against the inner wall (or the corresponding stepped surface) of the rigid flow guide 33. The continuous axial thrust generated by the elastic element will firmly press the elastic seal 34 against the guide element 33, ensuring that the contact surfaces of the two remain in zero-gap fit under any operating condition, preventing water from bypassing and leaking from the joint surface between the guide element and the seal. Secondly, since the two guide channels each have independent elastic elements and receiving grooves, the two water paths achieve complete physical isolation and independent pressure compensation. Even if the water pressure in one path suddenly increases, its corresponding elastic element can deform independently to absorb the impact without affecting the sealing state of the other path, greatly improving the system's anti-interference capability. When the elastic seal 34 experiences slight wear or deformation due to long-term use, the internal elastic element will automatically extend to compensate, always maintaining a constant preload, thereby significantly extending the nozzle's service life and ensuring long-term sealing reliability.

[0039] Reference Figures 1-9 In this embodiment of the invention, the nozzle body 10 includes a rod 12 and an end cap 13. A water inlet channel 11 is formed inside the rod 12, and the end cap 13 is rotatably connected to the water outlet switching assembly 20. The inner wall of the end cap 13 is provided with a first snap-fit ​​part 131 and a second snap-fit ​​part 132. The outer peripheral surface of the water outlet switching component 20 is provided with a first snap-fit ​​plane 201 and a second snap-fit ​​plane 202 opposite to the first snap-fit ​​plane 201. The first snap-fit ​​part 131 and the first snap-fit ​​plane 201 form a circumferential snap-fit ​​engagement, and the second snap-fit ​​part 132 and the second snap-fit ​​plane 202 form a circumferential snap-fit ​​engagement, so that the end cap 13 and the water outlet switching component 20 are fixed relative to each other in the circumferential direction, and the water outlet switching component 20 can be driven to rotate when the end cap 13 rotates.

[0040] The nozzle body 10 is designed to consist of two parts: an axially extending rod 12 and a detachable or fixedly connected end cap 13. A complete water inlet channel 11 is clearly formed inside the rod 12, while the end cap 13 directly serves as the rotational support and connection base for the water outlet switching assembly 20. This ensures efficient water flow while simplifying the assembly structure, improving rotational stability, and enhancing overall sealing performance. Specifically, the rod 12, as the main part of the nozzle, is typically cylindrical or ergonomically shaped for gripping. An axially extending water inlet channel 11 is formed inside, with one end connecting to an external water source (such as a water pipe, pump, or faucet) and the other end leading to the nozzle tip. The outlet end 112 (i.e., the outlet end of the water inlet channel 11) is located in the front end region of the rod 12, where the end cap 13 is installed. The end cap 13 not only seals the front opening of the rod 12, maintaining the integrity of the water inlet channel 11, but its outer surface or internal structure is also designed as a rotating interface that directly mates with the water outlet switching assembly 20. This can be achieved through a shaft hole fit, snap-fit ​​structure, or bearing connection, allowing the water outlet switching assembly 20 to rotate smoothly around the central axis of the nozzle with the end cap 13 as the fulcrum. The rod 12 can focus on fluid transport and structural strength, facilitating the use of high-strength engineering plastics or metal materials for integral molding. The end cap 13, on the other hand, can be locally optimized for rotating connection requirements, such as by adding mating surfaces, limiting bosses, or sealing grooves, improving rotational accuracy and durability. Furthermore, concentrating the rotating connection function on the end cap 13 avoids the technological difficulties associated with directly machining complex rotating structures on the rod 12, and also facilitates later maintenance or replacement of worn parts. Moreover, since the end cap 13 is located at the end of the water flow path, its connection interface with the water outlet switching assembly 20 can be closer to the actual water outlet area, shortening the internal flow channel length and reducing pressure loss. In addition, the direct rotatable connection between the end cap 13 and the water outlet switching assembly 20 allows the torque applied by the user during operation to be transmitted to the switching mechanism more effectively, resulting in a more direct rotatable feel and clearer positioning, which helps to achieve mode switching (such as a clear sense of pause in the main spray / sub-spray position).

[0041] Furthermore, by providing a first locking portion 131 and a second locking portion 132 on the inner wall of the end cap 13, and providing a first locking plane 201 and a second locking plane 202 opposite to each other on the outer circumferential surface of the water outlet switching assembly 20, two sets of symmetrical circumferential limiting and driving engagement structures are formed. This ensures that when the end cap 13 is manually rotated by the user, it can reliably and synchronously drive the water outlet switching assembly 20 to rotate together, thereby realizing the switching of the spray mode, while avoiding slippage, misalignment, or loosening between the two. Specifically, the end cap 13, as a transition component connecting the connecting rod 12 and the water outlet switching assembly 20, has two circumferentially spaced protrusions or grooves on its inner wall, namely the first locking portion 131 and the second locking portion 132. On the outer circumferential surface of the water outlet switching assembly 20, two flat areas opposite to each other (usually 180° symmetrical), namely the first locking plane 201 and the second locking plane 202, are correspondingly machined. After the water outlet switching assembly 20 is installed inside the end cap 13, the first snap-fit ​​portion 131 fits tightly against the first snap-fit ​​surface 201, and the second snap-fit ​​portion 132 also engages synchronously with the second snap-fit ​​surface 202, forming two sets of rigid contact circumferential anti-rotation structures. This double-point symmetrical snap-fit ​​design not only provides sufficient torque transmission capacity, allowing the user to drive the water outlet switching assembly 20 to rotate synchronously without delay or slippage when rotating the end cap 13, but also effectively prevents off-center loading, tilting, or localized wear caused by single-point force. This snap-fit ​​only restricts circumferential relative movement, not axial position (which is usually provided by other structures such as steps, seals, or elastic elements). Therefore, while ensuring transmission reliability, it still allows the water outlet switching assembly 20 to maintain appropriate axial floating or pre-tightening, which is beneficial for maintaining a good fit with the elastic seal 34. In addition, the use of a flat surface and snap-fit ​​joint has advantages over traditional spline, toothed or threaded connections, such as simple structure, easy processing, quick assembly and less prone to dirt accumulation. It is especially suitable for nozzle products that require frequent cleaning or are used in humid environments.

[0042] Reference Figures 1-9 In this embodiment of the invention, the outer wall of the rod 12 is provided with a stop portion 14, and the inner wall of the end cap 13 is provided with a limiting portion 15. The limiting portion 15 has a first limiting surface 151 and a second limiting surface 152 arranged circumferentially. In the first position, the first limiting surface 151 and the stop portion 14 abut against each other; in the second position, the second limiting surface 152 abuts against the stop portion 14.

[0043] By setting a fixed stop 14 on the outer wall of the rod 12 and setting two circumferentially spaced limiting surfaces, the first limiting surface 151 and the second limiting surface 152, on the inner wall of the end cap 13, when the user rotates the end cap 13 (and thus drives the water outlet switching component 20), the physical contact between the stop 14 and the different limiting surfaces clearly defines and stably maintains the water outlet switching component 20 in the two working states of the main jet mode (first position) and the auxiliary jet mode (second position), thus avoiding problems such as position ambiguity, excessive rotation or mode drift during the switching process.

[0044] Specifically, the stop portion 14 is typically a protrusion, step, or radially extending rib structure on the outer circumferential surface of the rod body 12, and its position is fixed. The limiting portion 15 is formed on the inner wall of the end cap 13 as part of an annular structure. It has two planar or grooved side surfaces spaced at a certain angle along the circumferential direction (typically corresponding to the rotation angles required for the main / sub-mode, such as 90°, 180°, etc.), namely the first limiting surface 151 and the second limiting surface 152. When the user rotates the end cap 13 to the angle corresponding to the main spray mode, the stop portion 14 contacts and abuts against the first limiting surface 151, preventing the end cap 13 from continuing to rotate in that direction. At this time, the internal flow channel of the water outlet switching assembly 20 aligns with the main spray path, and the system enters the first position. Conversely, when rotating in the opposite direction or continuing to the sub-spray mode, the stop portion 14 abuts against the second limiting surface 152, achieving the positioning of the second position. This mechanical combination of a stop and two limits not only provides clear tactile and audible feedback (such as a "click"), allowing users to intuitively perceive the switch being in place, but also ensures that the nozzle accurately reproduces the same flow channel alignment state after each operation, guaranteeing consistent spray performance. Furthermore, this limiting structure effectively prevents users from accidentally rotating the water outlet switching component 20 to an undesigned area (such as an invalid position between the main and auxiliary modes), avoiding water flow interference, abnormal pressure, or seal failure. Simultaneously, since the stop 14, the first limiting surface 151, and the second limiting surface 152 are all rigid structures, they are not easily worn or deformed during long-term use, offering higher reliability and durability compared to methods relying on elastic locking points or magnetic positioning.

[0045] The present invention also proposes a water flosser, which includes the nozzle structure described above, the specific structure of which is as described in the above embodiments. Since the nozzle structure employs all the technical solutions of all the above embodiments, it possesses at least all the beneficial effects brought about by the technical solutions of the above embodiments, and will not be elaborated further here.

[0046] The above description is merely an exemplary embodiment of the present invention and does not limit the patent scope of the present invention. Any equivalent structural transformations made using the contents of the present invention specification and drawings under the technical concept of the present invention, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A nozzle structure, characterized in that, include: The nozzle body has an internal water inlet channel, one end of which is the water inlet end and the other end is the water outlet end, and the water outlet end is provided with at least one water outlet. A water outlet switching assembly is rotatably connected to the nozzle body. The water outlet switching assembly includes a water outlet component and a water distribution component disposed on the water outlet component. The water outlet component is disposed at the water outlet and has an annular cavity and a connecting hole. The annular cavity is arranged around the periphery of the connecting hole. The connecting hole is configured as a first water flow path, and the annular cavity is configured as a second water flow path. The water distribution component has a main water spray hole and multiple auxiliary water spray holes, and the multiple auxiliary water spray holes are arranged around the main water spray hole. The water outlet switching component is rotatable about an axis relative to the nozzle body, so that the water outlet switching component has a first position and a second position; In the first position, the water outlet, the first water flow path, and the main water jet hole are connected in sequence to form a main jet mode; In the second position, the water outlet, the second water flow path, and the multiple auxiliary water jet holes are connected in sequence to form an auxiliary jet mode.

2. The nozzle structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water outlet component has an inlet surface and an outlet surface arranged opposite to each other, with the inlet surface facing the outlet. A groove is recessed on the inlet surface, and the groove communicates with the connecting hole to form a first water flow path. An annular cavity is recessed on the outlet surface, and the inlet end of the annular cavity extends to the inlet surface to communicate with the outlet to form a second water flow path. A water divider is disposed on the outlet surface, covering the annular cavity and the outlet end of the connecting hole.

3. The nozzle structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, The annular cavity is further provided with a first through hole and a second through hole. The first through hole and the second through hole are arranged opposite to the rotation axis of the water outlet switching component. The groove is arranged on the rotation axis and is located between the first through hole and the second through hole in the circumferential direction. The bottom surface of the annular cavity is constructed as an inclined surface, which has the maximum depth on the side close to the rotation axis and gradually increases in depth in the radial outward direction toward the first through hole and the second through hole.

4. The nozzle structure according to claim 3, characterized in that, The groove extends radially and its extension direction intersects the central axis of the main water jet hole.

5. The nozzle structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The nozzle structure further includes a flow guiding component, which includes at least a third through hole and a fourth through hole spaced apart. The flow guiding component is installed at the water outlet, and both the third through hole and the fourth through hole are connected to the water outlet. In the first position, the water outlet, the third through hole, the fourth through hole, the first water flow path, and the main spray hole are connected in sequence to form a main spray mode; In the second position, the water outlet, the third through hole, the fourth through hole, the second water flow path, and the multiple auxiliary water spray holes are connected in sequence to form an auxiliary spray mode.

6. The nozzle structure according to claim 5, characterized in that, The flow guiding assembly includes a flow guiding element and an elastic sealing element, wherein the elastic sealing element is disposed on the side of the flow guiding element facing the water outlet switching assembly; The flow guide is provided with a fifth through hole and a sixth through hole, and the elastic sealing member is provided with a seventh through hole and an eighth through hole, wherein the fifth through hole and the seventh through hole are coaxially connected to form the third through hole, and the sixth through hole and the eighth through hole are coaxially connected to form the fourth through hole; The first outlet, the fifth through hole, and the seventh through hole are connected in sequence to form a first flow guiding channel, and the first outlet, the sixth through hole, and the eighth through hole are connected in sequence to form a second flow guiding channel.

7. The nozzle structure according to claim 6, characterized in that, The nozzle structure further includes an elastic component, which comprises a first elastic element and a second elastic element; the elastic sealing element has a first receiving groove and a second receiving groove recessed on the side facing the nozzle body; wherein, the first receiving groove is connected to the first flow guiding channel, the second receiving groove is connected to the second flow guiding channel, the first elastic element is housed in the first receiving groove and its two ends abut against the inner wall of the first receiving groove and the inner wall of the flow guiding element respectively, the second elastic element is housed in the second receiving groove and its two ends abut against the inner wall of the first receiving groove and the inner wall of the flow guiding element respectively.

8. The nozzle structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The nozzle body includes a rod and an end cap. The water inlet channel is formed inside the rod, and the end cap is rotatably connected to the water outlet switching assembly. The inner wall of the end cap is provided with a first snap-fit ​​part and a second snap-fit ​​part. The outer peripheral surface of the water outlet switching component is provided with a first snap-fit ​​plane and a second snap-fit ​​plane that are opposite to the first snap-fit ​​plane. The first snap-fit ​​part and the first snap-fit ​​plane form a circumferential snap-fit ​​engagement, and the second snap-fit ​​part and the second snap-fit ​​plane form a circumferential snap-fit ​​engagement, so that the end cap and the water outlet switching component are relatively fixed in the circumferential direction, and the water outlet switching component can be driven to rotate when the end cap rotates.

9. The nozzle structure according to claim 8, characterized in that, The outer wall of the rod is provided with a stop portion, and the inner wall of the end cap is provided with a limiting portion. The limiting portion has a first limiting surface and a second limiting surface arranged at intervals along the circumference. In the first position, the first limiting surface and the stop portion abut together; in the second position, the second limiting surface and the stop portion abut together.

10. A dental flosser, characterized in that, Includes the nozzle structure described in any one of claims 1-9.

Images