Rotary assembly for an oral irrigator

Abstract

In one example, an oral irrigator includes a rotation assembly comprising: an actuator; a first rotation element in rotational contact with the actuator; a second rotation element in rotational contact with the first rotation element; and an output rotation element in rotational contact with the second rotation element, wherein movement of the actuator in a first direction causes output movement of the output rotation element in a second direction, the second direction being the same direction as the first direction.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications This application claims priority to Provisional Application No. 63 / 619,979, filed January 11, 2024, entitled “Rotation Assembly for Oral Irrigator,” which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to health and personal hygiene devices, and more particularly to oral irrigators. Background Technology

[0003] Oral irrigators are typically used to clean a user's teeth and gums by discharging a pressurized flow of fluid into the user's oral cavity. The fluid impacts the teeth and gums to remove debris. Typically, oral irrigators include a fluid supply source (such as a reservoir) that is fluidly connected to the end of the irrigator (usually via a handle) via a pump. To direct the fluid in the desired direction and to hold the handle in a comfortable position, the user typically rotates the handle or the end relative to the handle. However, in conventional units where the end is fixed relative to the handle, it can be difficult for the user to comfortably and accurately position the end of the oral irrigator for the desired cleaning. Even in units where the end is movable relative to the handle, it can be difficult to hold the oral irrigator with one hand while rotating the end with the other, again leading to user discomfort and inefficient cleaning. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In one embodiment, a rotating assembly for an oral irrigator includes: an actuator; a first rotating element in rotational contact with the actuator; a second rotating element in rotational contact with the first rotating element; and an output rotating element in rotational contact with the second rotating element, wherein movement of the actuator in a first direction causes output movement of the output rotating element in a second direction, the second direction being the same as the first direction.

[0005] In another embodiment, an oral irrigator is disclosed, comprising: a handle; an end attached to the handle; and a rotating assembly attached to the end and the handle, wherein the rotating assembly amplifies the input motion provided to rotate the end relative to the handle.

[0006] Alternatively, in some embodiments, the rotating component includes a gear system.

[0007] Optionally, in some embodiments, the gear system includes a plurality of gears arranged in a planetary gear transmission.

[0008] Optionally, in some embodiments, the rotating component includes: an actuator configured to receive input motion from a user; and the sun gear of the planetary gear transmission is integrally formed with the actuator.

[0009] Optionally, in some embodiments, the input motion is a user-provided input rotational motion, and the rotation component generates an output rotational motion greater than the input rotational motion.

[0010] Optionally, in some embodiments, the output rotational motion is at least twice the input rotational motion.

[0011] Optionally, in some embodiments, the input motion includes an input rotational motion provided by the user, and the rotation component generates an output rotational motion in the same rotational direction as the input rotational motion.

[0012] Optionally, in some embodiments, the output rotational motion causes the end to rotate in order to guide the fluid flow from the outlet of the end.

[0013] Optionally, in some embodiments, the rotating component further includes a damping medium configured to at least partially resist at least one of the input rotational motion or the output rotational motion.

[0014] In one embodiment, a rotating assembly for an oral irrigator includes: an actuator; a first rotating element in rotational contact with the actuator; a second rotating element in rotational contact with the first rotating element; and an output rotating element in rotational contact with the second rotating element, wherein movement of the actuator in a first direction causes output movement of the output rotating element in the first direction.

[0015] Optionally, in some embodiments, the rotating component amplifies the movement of the actuator to rotate the end of the oral irrigator relative to the handle of the oral irrigator.

[0016] Optionally, in some embodiments, the output motion includes an angular motion greater than the motion of the actuator.

[0017] Optionally, in some embodiments, the output motion is at least twice the motion of the actuator.

[0018] Optionally, in some embodiments, the first rotating element, the second rotating element, and the output rotating element include corresponding first gear, second gear, and output gear.

[0019] Optionally, in some embodiments, the first gear, the second gear, and the output gear include a planetary gear transmission.

[0020] Optionally, in some embodiments, the actuator is configured to receive input motion from a user; the motion of the actuator is based on the input motion; and the actuator further includes a sun gear of a planetary gear transmission that meshes with at least one of a first gear or a second gear.

[0021] Optionally, in some embodiments, the rotating component further includes a damping medium configured to at least partially resist at least one of the motion or output motion of the actuator.

[0022] In one embodiment, a rotating assembly for use in an oral irrigator includes: an actuator configured to receive input motion from a user; a gear system operatively connected to the actuator and adapted to amplify the input motion; and a base configured to receive an end of the oral irrigator, wherein the amplified motion is transmitted from the actuator to the end of the oral irrigator via the gear system to rotate the end relative to the body of the oral irrigator.

[0023] Optionally, in some embodiments, the amplified motion is in the same rotational direction as the input motion.

[0024] Optionally, in some embodiments, the amplified motion is at least twice the input motion.

[0025] In one embodiment, a method of assembling a rotating assembly for an oral irrigator includes: assembling a plurality of rotating elements with a base, wherein the base is coupled to the oral irrigator; coupling a retainer to the rotating elements and the base; assembling a seal with a hub to form a hub assembly; coupling the hub assembly to the base; applying a damping medium to the rotating assembly; coupling an actuator to the base; and coupling an end to the rotating assembly. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Figure 1 This is a rear perspective view of an oral irrigator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A front perspective view of an oral irrigator.

[0028] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Side elevation view of an oral irrigator.

[0029] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 Detailed view of the rotating components of the oral irrigator.

[0030] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A partially exploded view of the rotating component.

[0031] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 A detailed exploded view of the rotating component.

[0032] Figure 7 yes Figure 4 A detailed perspective view of a portion of the rotating component.

[0033] Figure 8 It is along Figure 3 The line 7-7 was cut Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the rotating component.

[0034] Figure 9 It is assembly Figure 1 A flowchart illustrating an example of a method for using an oral irrigator.

[0035] Figure 10 yes Figure 1 A perspective view illustrating the use of an oral irrigator. Detailed Implementation

[0036] This disclosure generally relates to a rotating assembly for an oral irrigator. This rotating assembly allows a user to typically rotate the tip of the oral irrigator to a desired position using a single hand movement, enabling more efficient cleaning, better comfort, etc. The rotating assembly includes an actuator that allows the user to rotate the tip 360 degrees (or a smaller angular range) relative to the irrigator, such that when the user moves the actuator in various directions, the tip moves in the corresponding direction. In some examples, the actuator is a rotary actuator configured to be moved by the user's thumb, other fingers, or a portion of his or her hand, for example, by rotation relative to the body of the irrigator. In other words, the rotating assembly allows the user to guide the tip of the irrigator in a desired direction without moving the irrigator body itself.

[0037] Additionally, the rotating component is configured to include a gear assembly to amplify the movement input by the user, allowing the user to easily reposition the end with the same hand that is holding the handle. Conventionally, the user may need to put the unit down and use multiple fingers to reposition the end because, if a large angular displacement is desired, the fingers may not easily rotate the end to move fully while holding the handle in one hand. This type of conventional movement can be cumbersome and disruptive to the cleaning process. This disclosure allows the user to easily reposition the end without significantly interrupting the cleaning process and while holding the unit with one hand (e.g., in the cleaning position), allowing for more accurate positioning.

[0038] refer to Figures 1 to 3In one example, the oral irrigator 100 has a body 102 and a refillable reservoir 104 for storing fluid. The body 102 and reservoir 104 are ergonomically shaped, having an elongated upper portion 108 and a relatively enlarged lower portion 110. The body 102 is configured such that a user 101 can comfortably grip the oral irrigator 100 around the upper portion 108, while the enlarged lower portion 110 allows fluid to be stored within the reservoir 104 and also provides a stable platform when the oral irrigator 100 is placed on a supporting surface such as a table or countertop, allowing the oral irrigator 100 to remain upright or vertically oriented. See, for example, Figure 10 The oral irrigator 100 further includes a tip 112 that extends from the body 102 through an orifice formed in a planar surface 138 of the actuator 116. The tip 112 has an outlet 114 through which pressurized fluid is passed during operation by the user 101.

[0039] The body 102 may be rotatably coupled to a rotating assembly 106, which may include an actuator 116. The actuator 116 may be rotatably coupled to a distal end 112 such that rotational movement of the actuator 116 relative to the body 102 causes rotation of the distal end 112. For example, when using the oral irrigator 100, the actuator 116 may be adapted to be rotated by a user 101's finger (such as the thumb) with one hand. Rotation of the actuator 116 causes rotation of the distal end 112, such as rotation about axis 118 in direction 120 (e.g., rotation in direction 120). Figure 1 (As shown in the diagram). Rotation of the end 112 allows the outlet 114 to be selectively positioned by the user 101, such that the direction of the fluid flow exiting the outlet 114 can be changed during use and customized according to the user 101's preferences. It should be noted that in some instances, the actuator 116 or the rotating assembly can rotate the end in the same direction as the applied force, and in other instances, the actuator 116 or the rotating assembly can rotate the end to different (e.g., opposite) positions.

[0040] A cap 124 may be associated with the reservoir 104 and configured to expose the opening of the reservoir 104 so that the user 101 can fill the reservoir 104 with fluid. When the reservoir 104 is filled to the desired level, the cap 124 may be closed to seal the opening and prevent fluid from spilling from the reservoir 104 during use when the oral irrigator 100 is positioned in various different orientations. In one embodiment, the cap 124 may be coupled to the reservoir 104 or the body 102 (e.g., via a hinge or tether structure) to hold the cap 124 with the oral irrigator 100 with the opening exposed for filling with liquid.

[0041] like Figure 2As seen, a pair of contact members 130 may be positioned on the body 102 for contacting and electrically connecting to a charging device (e.g., a charging tray or charging base, not shown) to charge a battery located within the body 102 of the oral irrigator 100. The contact members 130 may be positioned along an upwardly extending surface of the body 102. For example, the contact members 130 may be located on an angled surface of the body 102 that tapers inward toward the bottom wall of the body 102. The contact members 130 may be substantially flush with the outer surface of the body 102.

[0042] The pusher 140 may be located within an aperture formed in the body 102 and may be used to actuate the latching mechanism to release the end 112 from the rest of the oral irrigator 100.

[0043] The oral irrigator 100 may include one or more user input devices 122, which may be actuated by the user 101 to turn the oral irrigator 100 on or off, change the pressure, flow rate, or pulse pattern of the fluid flow, or change some other operating parameters of the oral irrigator 100. The user input device 122 may be electrically and operatively coupled to a controller, which may include a printed circuit board and integrated circuit devices. For example, the controller may control the speed of the motor based on user actuation of the user input device 122, and thus control the output of the pump.

[0044] Figure 4 and Figure 5 These are detailed and exploded views of the rotating assembly 106. The rotating assembly 106 includes a base 152, a seal 150, a retainer 148, a first rotating element 142, a second rotating element 144, a hub 146, and an actuator 116. The rotating assembly 106 is adapted to releasably receive an end 112.

[0045] The end 112 may have a flange 134 that is relatively wider than the shaft 136 of the end 112. The end 112 may include an elastomeric member 132 disposed between the flange 134 and the shaft 136. The elastomeric member 132 may provide flexure or retraction during use, for example, to reduce or limit the force applied to the user's mouth, teeth, or gums, or to allow for a more desired alignment for use. The end 112 may include a bottom portion 154 of the end body that extends below the flange 134 and is generally narrower than the flange 134. The bottom portion 154 of the end body selectively engages fluidly with a conduit that transports fluid from a reservoir 104 to an outlet 114 of the end 112 via pump operation. When the end 112 is assembled with the body 102, the bottom portion 154 of the end body may extend through an orifice 128 to engage with a retaining mechanism operated by a pusher 140. Therefore, the end 112 can be replaceable to achieve different flow characteristics, or to make it possible to replace worn or dirty end 112.

[0046] Actuator 116 or collar enables user 101 to rotate end 112 relative to body 102. In this example, actuator 116 includes a disc-shaped cap having a plane 138. Actuator 116 includes one or more protrusions 126 extending below plane 141 and circumferentially surrounding actuator 116. Protrusions 126 may enhance friction and / or grip between user 101's fingers and actuator, making it easier to manipulate actuator 116. Actuator 116 may include an aperture 128 through which a portion of end 112 is adapted. Reference Figure 8 The actuator 116 may include a rotating element 156, such as a ring gear 198, on its inner surface. For example, the ring gear 198 may be formed by teeth 200 disposed on the inner side of the actuator body opposite the protrusion 126. The ring gear may mesh with one or more other rotating elements 156 to transmit rotational motion and / or torque to the rotating assembly 106. The rotating element 156 may be a gear having involute or cycloidal teeth. Any of the rotating elements or the ring gear may mesh with each other to transmit desired angular motion, speed, and / or torque through the rotating assembly 106.

[0047] The rotating assembly 106 includes one or more rotating elements 156 that rotatably couple the actuator 116 to the end effector 112, enabling control of the end effector 112 by the user 101. The rotating element 156 may be a gear (as in the illustrated example), or it may be a pulley, wheel, disc, etc., or other elements for transmitting torque and optionally changing the speed between various components of the rotating assembly 106. The rotating elements 156 may be rotatably coupled via gear teeth, as in the illustrated example. In other embodiments, the rotating elements 156 may be coupled via belts, bundles, or through contact with smooth surfaces (e.g., by friction rather than gear teeth).

[0048] In the example shown, the rotating element 156 includes a ring gear 198 disposed inside the actuator 116 (e.g., see...). Figure 8 The components include a first rotating element 142, a second rotating element 144, and an output rotating element 158. See details below. Figure 6 The hub 146 includes a body 184 through which an aperture 180 is formed. The body 184 includes a flange 182 portion near its upper end. The end of the body 184 opposite to the flange 182 includes a clamping member 172. An output rotating element 158 ​​is longitudinally disposed between the clamping member 172 and the flange 182. In the illustrated example, the output rotating element 158 ​​is a gear.

[0049] The retainer 148 supports the rotating element 156 and secures it within the rotating assembly 106. For example... Figure 6 As shown, the retainer 148 includes a body 168 through which an aperture 178 is formed. The body 168 includes a recessed or sunken portion 170 and a raised portion 166. The aperture 178 is adapted to receive a clamping member 172 of the hub 146. For example, the clamping member 172 may include one or more tabs that resiliently flex and then lock in place when the hub 146 is assembled with the retainer 148 to prevent disassembly of the hub from the retainer 148. The recessed portion 170 engages the retainer 148 to a base 152. The raised portion 166 receives a first rotating element 142 and a second rotating element 144 below it and provides a rotation axis 174 and an axis 176 via suitable apertures, the first rotating element 142 and the second rotating element 144 rotating about the rotation axis 174 and the axis 176, respectively. For example, see... Figure 6 In some embodiments, the retainer 148 may be omitted, and the rotating element 156 may be directly attached to the base 152 of the oral irrigator 100. For example, the rotating element 156 may be snapped or engaged to the base 152, or attached to the base 152 by bolts, screws, rivets, posts, etc.

[0050] The rotating assembly 106 includes a seal 150 that reduces or prevents fluid leakage from the base 152 and retains the fluid within the bottom portion 154 of the end body to allow the fluid to eventually be delivered to the outlet 114 of the end 112.

[0051] The base 152 is coupled to the upper portion 108 of the body 102 and forms a base for the rotating assembly 106. The elements of the rotating assembly 106 are ultimately attached to the body 102 via the base 152. The base 152 includes an aperture 160 through which a portion of the end 112 (e.g., the bottom portion 154 of the end body discussed herein) is adapted to pass during assembly.

[0052] Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the rotating assembly 106 is shown, with the actuator 116 concealed. In this example, the rotating elements 156 form a planetary gear transmission, wherein the various rotating elements 156 rotate in contact with each other via their respective gear teeth. Ring gear 198 ( Figure 7 (As shown above) is a "sun" gear formed on the inner surface of actuator 116. In some embodiments, the sun gear is integrally formed with actuator 116 (e.g., molded, machined, cast, etc.). In some embodiments, the sun gear is a separate piece attached to actuator 116, such as by adhesive, fastener, press fit, or interference fit. The first rotating element 142 and the second rotating element 144 are planetary gears. In other examples, such as when rotating element 156 is a toothless disc, the surfaces of the various rotating elements 156 may come into rotational contact with each other via friction. In still other examples, rotating elements 156 may be in rotational contact indirectly, such as via belts, chains, bundles, etc. Any combination of types of rotating elements 156 may be used as desired.

[0053] refer to Figure 9 An example of a method 900 for assembling a rotating component 106 to a base 152 is shown. Although the exemplary method 900 depicts a particular sequence of operations, this sequence may be changed without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, some of the depicted operations may be performed in parallel or in a different order that does not materially affect the functionality of method 900. In other examples, different components of an exemplary apparatus or system implementing method 900 may perform their functions substantially simultaneously or in a specific order. The rotating component 106 may be assembled in other orders or by other operations.

[0054] According to some examples, method 900 includes assembling a rotating element to a base at operation 902. The base 152 may be coupled to the rest of the oral irrigator 100, such as by one or more fasteners, adhesives, clips, etc. A first rotating element 142 and a second rotating element 144 may be attached to the base 152 or retainer 148, such as by a suitable shaft or pin, to form axes 174 and 176, the first rotating element 142 and the second rotating element 144 rotating about axes 174 and 176, respectively.

[0055] According to some examples, method 900 includes assembling the retainer 148 or retainer 148 / rotating element assembly to the base 152 at operation 904. For example, in the case where the first rotating element 142 and the second rotating element 144 are assembled to the base 152, the retainer 148 may be fitted onto the first rotating element 142 and the second rotating element 144 and attached to the base. In an example where the first rotating element 142 and the second rotating element 144 are assembled to the retainer 148, the assembly of the first rotating element 142, the second rotating element 144, and the retainer 148 is assembled to the base 152. For example, the base 152 may have one or more pillars rising from its surface, the one or more pillars being adapted to be received in apertures formed in the retainer 148. The retainer 148, the first rotating element 142, and the second rotating element 144 subassemblies may again be attached to the base 152 by fasteners, adhesives, clips, etc.

[0056] According to some examples, method 900 includes assembling hub 146 with seal 150 at operation 906. Seal 150 may be fitted onto clip 172 and teeth 186 of hub 146, and secured in a suitable groove or other structure formed in hub 146.

[0057] According to some examples, method 900 includes assembling a hub assembly with a base 152 at operation 908. A hub 146 may be received into an orifice 178 of a retainer 148. The hub 146 / seal 150 assembly is further inserted into an orifice 160 until a clamping member 172 engages with one or more features beneath the base 152. For example, the clamping member 172 is engaged to retain the hub 146 to the base 152. In some embodiments, the clamping member 172 of the hub 146 may secure the retainer 148 to the base 152, such as by engaging a corresponding structure within the base 152. Thus, the hub 146 may be snapped into or latched into a structure beneath the base 152.

[0058] According to some examples, method 900 includes adding a damping medium 188 to the rotating assembly 106 at operation 910. The rotating assembly 106 may be encapsulated or filled with the damping medium 188, such as grease or other fluid. The damping medium 188 may provide some resistance to the rotational movement (such as input or output movement) of the rotating element 156 in order to improve the adjustment accuracy of the rotating assembly 106. For example, the damping medium 188 may reduce overshoot in reaching a desired position and / or hold the rotating assembly 106 in the desired position. The damping medium 188 may also give the user 101 a more robust feel to the rotating assembly 106, thereby enhancing the user 101's experience. In many examples, the damping medium 188 may be a food-safe grease.

[0059] According to some examples, method 900 includes assembling actuator 116 to base 152 at operation 912. Actuator 116 may be mounted on hub 146, retainer 148, first rotating element 142, and second rotating element 144. Actuator 116 may snap-fit ​​or clip-fit ​​to the rest of oral irrigator 100, or may be attached by one or more fasteners (such as screws, pins, bolts) and / or adhesives. When first rotating element 142 and second rotating element 144 are mounted to retainer 148, teeth 162 and teeth 164 should mesh with each other. Similarly, teeth 164 of second rotating element 144 and teeth 186 of hub 146 should mesh with each other. When actuator 116 is mounted on hub 146, first rotating element 142, and second rotating element 144, teeth 162 of first rotating element 142 should mesh with teeth 200 of ring gear 198 of actuator 116.

[0060] According to some examples, the method includes inserting an end cap 112 at operation 914. The bottom portion 154 of the end body of the end cap 112 can be inserted into an aperture 128 in the actuator 116, an aperture 178 in the retainer 148, and an aperture 160 in the base 152, and the bottom portion of the end body can be releasably locked into place with the hub 146 by a pusher 140. Therefore, the end cap 112 can rotate in unison with the hub 146.

[0061] exist Figure 7 In the image, the first rotating element 142 and the second rotating element 144 are engaged below the upper portion 108 of the holder 148 (the raised portion 166 of the holder 148 is cut off). The holder 148 forms the rotation axes 174 and 176 of the first rotating element 142 and the second rotating element 144, respectively. The hub 146 is received through an aperture 178 formed in the holder 148.

[0062] refer to Figure 10User 101 can apply rotation to actuator 116, such as by gripping protrusion 126 or by pressing their thumb against actuator 116. For example... Figure 7 As shown, if a rotational motion with an input direction 190 is applied to actuator 116 (e.g., clockwise when viewed from the top of oral irrigator 100), gear meshing between the teeth 200 of ring gear 198 and the teeth 162 of first rotating element 142 causes first rotating element 142 to rotate about axis 174 in a first intermediate direction 192, which is in the same direction as the input direction 190 (e.g., clockwise). Meshing between the teeth 162 of first rotating element 142 and the teeth 164 of second rotating element 144 causes second rotating element 144 to rotate about axis 176 in a second intermediate direction 194, which is opposite to the directions of first intermediate direction 192 and input direction 190 (e.g., counterclockwise). The meshing between the teeth 164 of the second rotating element 144 and the teeth 186 of the hub 146 causes the hub 146 to rotate about axis 118 in an output direction 196, which is opposite to the direction of the second intermediate direction 194 and the same as the input direction 190 (e.g., clockwise). Therefore, the rotating assembly 106 amplifies the input motion of the user 101 and transmits the amplified motion from the actuator 116 to the end cap 112 via a gear system, causing the end cap 112 to rotate relative to the body 102 of the oral irrigator.

[0063] Since the end 112 is releasably secured to the hub 146, movement of the hub 146 in the output direction 196 causes the end to move in the same direction 120 as the hub 146 (e.g., clockwise). Similarly, if the input direction 190 is counterclockwise, the rotation direction of the rotating element 156 of the rotating assembly 106 described above in this paragraph will be reversed. For example, counterclockwise movement of the actuator 116 produces counterclockwise rotation of the end 112. Thus, input by the user 101 in the input direction 190 produces an output direction 196 in the same direction, making the use of the rotating assembly 106 intuitive for the user 101. As can be understood, the gear relationship allows the user 101 to apply a reduced movement compared to what would otherwise be required to further rotate the end relative to the body. This allows the user 101 to easily rotate the end, for example, via a single finger, while holding the handle in his or her hand.

[0064] The number and relative size of the rotating elements 156 and / or gear teeth can be selected to achieve a specific rotational ratio and / or torque value between the actuator 116 and the end effector 112. In many examples, the ratio is selected to amplify the input of the user 101 such that the output motion is an angular motion greater than the input motion. For example, a size ratio could cause one rotation of the actuator 116 to cause three rotations of the end effector 112. In other words, the ratio is 1:3. In another example, the rotational angle swept by the actuator 116 can be a first value, and the rotational angle swept by the output rotating element 158 ​​can be a second value greater than the first value. For example, the angle swept by the actuator 116 can be 120°, and the angle swept by the output rotating element 158 ​​can be 360°. In many examples, the user 101 can hold their thumb on the actuator 116 and rotate it 45° in either direction to achieve a full rotation of the end effector 112. In other examples, other ratios may also be used, such as 1:1, 1:2, 1:4, 1:5, 1:6, 2:3, 2:5, 2:7, 2:9, 4:3, 4:5, 4:7, 4:9, 4:11, 4:13, 4:15, 2:1, 3:1, 4:1, 5:1, etc. These ratios are suitable for full and / or partial rotation and are suitable in either direction. The selectable ratios allow user 101 to have a wide degree of control over the movement and position of end effector 112 with relatively small input from actuator 116, thereby enhancing user 101's comfort and efficiently positioning the end effector's outlet and thus efficiently positioning the fluid flow for efficient cleaning of the oral cavity.

[0065] In a preferred embodiment, the first rotating element 142 and the second rotating element 144 have an outer diameter of approximately 0.375 inches (9.53 mm). In a preferred embodiment, the output rotating element 158 ​​has an outer diameter of approximately 0.454 inches (11.5 mm). Other embodiments are conceivable, wherein the outer diameter of one or more of the first rotating element 142, the second rotating element 144, and / or the output rotating element 158 ​​differs from its corresponding diameter in the preferred embodiment by approximately + / - 10%. For example, the outer diameter of the first rotating element 142 and / or the second rotating element may range from approximately 0.338 inches (8.57 mm) to approximately 0.413 inches (10.5 mm) (inclusive). The outer diameter of the output rotating element 158 ​​may range from approximately 0.409 inches (10.4 mm) to approximately 0.5 inches (12.7 mm) (inclusive). For example, either the first rotating element 142 or the second rotating element 144, or both of them, may have any of the following outer diameters: 0.338 inches, 0.345 inches, 0.353 inches, 0.36 inches, 0.367 inches, 0.375 inches, 0.383 inches, 0.39 inches, 0.397 inches, 0.405 inches, or 0.413 inches (8.57 mm, 8.76 mm, 8.95 mm, 9.14 mm, 9.335 mm, 9.53 mm, 9.72 mm, 9.91 mm, 10.1 mm, 10.3 mm, or 10.5 mm) or a diameter between these values. For example, the output rotating element 158 ​​may have any of the following outer diameters: 0.409 inches, 0.418 inches, 0.427 inches, 0.436 inches, 0.445 inches, 0.454 inches, 0.463 inches, 0.472 inches, 0.482 inches, 0.491 inches, 0.5 inches (10.4 mm, 10.6 mm, 10.8 mm, 11.1 mm, 11.3 mm, 11.5 mm, 11.8 mm, 12.0 mm, 12.2 mm, 12.5 mm, or 12.7 mm) or a diameter between these values. In other embodiments, the outer diameter of one or more of the first rotating element 142, the second rotating element 144, and / or the output rotating element 158 ​​may differ from their respective diameters in the preferred embodiment by + / - 10% to 15%.

[0066] Other arrangements of the rotating element 156 can be used to achieve other desired effects. For example, the rotating assembly 106 may have additional sets of planetary gears for self-centering, multiple sets of gears for balancing the load on the hub 146 and / or actuator 116, etc. In other embodiments, the first rotating element 142 or the second rotating element 144 may be omitted, wherein the rotating element 156 is rearranged to remain engaged, thereby producing an output direction 196 opposite to the input direction 190. As another example, a rack and pinion arrangement may be used, for example, wherein a portion of the rack is defined on the inner surface of the actuator, and the pinion is configured to be coupled to the end.

[0067] The rotating component 106 disclosed herein can be used to control other aspects or features of the oral irrigator 100. For example, the rotating component 106 may be adapted to control the pressure or pulse intensity, frequency, etc., of the fluid delivered by the oral irrigator 100.

[0068] The rotating component 106 disclosed herein can be applied to other oral care or general healthcare applications besides oral irrigators. For example, the rotating component 106 can be applied to powered or non-powered toothbrushes to enable the user 101 to achieve better oral care compared to a toothbrush without the rotating component 106.

[0069] In some embodiments, the rotating assembly 106 may be motor-driven. For example, the cap (actuator 116) may be stationary, and a button, proximity sensor, or other device suitable for receiving input from user 101 may activate the motor, which causes one or more rotating elements of the rotating assembly 106 to rotate, thereby causing the end 112 or other device attached to the rotating assembly 106 to rotate.

[0070] Example In one example, an oral irrigator includes: a handle; an end attached to the handle; and a rotating assembly attached to the end and the handle, wherein the rotating assembly amplifies the input motion provided to rotate the end relative to the handle.

[0071] Alternatively, in some examples, the rotating component includes a gear system.

[0072] Alternatively, in some examples, the gear system includes multiple gears arranged in a planetary gear transmission.

[0073] Optionally, in some examples, the rotating component includes: an actuator configured to receive input motion from a user; and the sun gear of the planetary gear transmission is integrally formed with the actuator.

[0074] Optionally, in some examples, the input motion is a user-provided rotational motion, and the rotation component generates an output rotational motion that is greater than the input rotational motion.

[0075] Optionally, in some examples, the output rotational motion is at least twice the input rotational motion.

[0076] Optionally, in some examples, the input motion includes a user-provided rotational motion, and the rotation component generates an output rotational motion in the same rotational direction as the input rotational motion.

[0077] Optionally, in some examples, the output rotational motion causes the end to rotate in order to direct fluid flow from the outlet of the end.

[0078] Optionally, in some examples, the rotating component further includes a damping medium configured to at least partially resist at least one of the input rotational motion or the output rotational motion.

[0079] In one example, an oral irrigator includes: an actuator; a first rotating element in rotational contact with the actuator; a second rotating element in rotational contact with the first rotating element; and an output rotating element in rotational contact with the second rotating element, wherein movement of the actuator in a first direction causes output movement of the output rotating element in the first direction.

[0080] Optionally, in some examples, the rotating component amplifies the motion of the actuator to rotate the end of the oral irrigator relative to the handle of the oral irrigator.

[0081] Optionally, in some examples, the output motion includes angular motion that is greater than the motion of the actuator.

[0082] Optionally, in some examples, the output motion is at least twice the motion of the actuator.

[0083] Optionally, in some examples, the first rotating element, the second rotating element, and the output rotating element include corresponding first gear, second gear, and output gear.

[0084] Alternatively, in some examples, the first gear, the second gear, and the output gear include planetary gear transmissions.

[0085] Optionally, in some examples, the actuator is configured to receive input motion from a user; the motion of the actuator is based on the input motion; and the actuator further includes a sun gear of a planetary gear transmission that meshes with at least one of a first gear or a second gear.

[0086] Optionally, in some examples, the rotating component further includes a damping medium configured to at least partially resist at least one of the motion or output motion of the actuator.

[0087] In one example, a rotating component for use in an oral irrigator includes: an actuator configured to receive input motion from a user; a gear system operatively connected to the actuator and adapted to amplify the input motion; and a base configured to receive the end of the oral irrigator, wherein the amplified motion is transmitted from the actuator to the end of the oral irrigator via the gear system to rotate the end relative to the body of the oral irrigator.

[0088] Optionally, in some examples, the amplified motion is in the same rotational direction as the input motion.

[0089] Optionally, in some examples, the amplified motion is at least twice the input motion.

[0090] In one example, a method of assembling a rotating assembly for an oral irrigator includes: assembling a plurality of rotating elements with a base, wherein the base is coupled to the oral irrigator; coupling a retainer to the rotating elements and the base; assembling a seal with a hub to form a hub assembly; coupling the hub assembly to the base; applying a damping medium to the rotating assembly; coupling an actuator to the base; and coupling an end to the rotating assembly.

[0091] All directional references (e.g., up, down, upward, downward, left, right, left-right, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, and counterclockwise) are used for identification purposes only to aid the reader in understanding embodiments of the invention and do not constitute a limitation, particularly a limitation on the location, orientation, or purpose of the invention, unless specifically stated in the claims. Connecting references (e.g., attachment, connection, link, linkage, etc.) are to be interpreted broadly and may include intermediate members between connected elements and relative movement between elements. Thus, connecting references do not necessarily imply that two elements are directly connected and in a fixed relationship with each other.

Claims

1. An oral irrigator, comprising: handle; The end of which is connected to the handle; as well as A rotating component, which is coupled to the end and the handle, wherein the rotating component amplifies the input motion provided to rotate the end relative to the handle.

2. The oral irrigator of claim 1, wherein the rotating component comprises a gear system.

3. The oral irrigator according to claim 2, wherein the gear system comprises a plurality of gears arranged in a planetary gear transmission.

4. The oral irrigator according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the rotating assembly comprises: An actuator configured to receive the input motion from a user; and The sun gear of the planetary gear transmission is integrally formed with the actuator.

5. The oral irrigator according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the input motion is an input rotational motion provided by a user, and the rotating component generates an output rotational motion greater than the input rotational motion.

6. The oral irrigator of claim 5, wherein the output rotational motion is at least twice the input rotational motion.

7. The oral irrigator according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the input motion includes an input rotational motion provided by the user, and the rotational component generates an output rotational motion in the same rotational direction as the input rotational motion.

8. The oral irrigator of claim 7, wherein the output rotational motion causes the end to rotate to direct a fluid flow from the outlet of the end.

9. The oral irrigator of claim 7, wherein the rotating component further comprises a damping medium configured to at least partially resist at least one of the input rotational motion or the output rotational motion.

10. A rotating assembly for an oral irrigator, comprising: Actuator; A first rotating element is in rotational contact with the actuator; The second rotating element is in rotational contact with the first rotating element; as well as An output rotating element is provided, which is in rotational contact with the second rotating element, wherein the movement of the actuator in the first direction causes the output rotating element to output a movement in the first direction.

11. The rotating assembly of claim 10, wherein the rotating assembly amplifies the movement of the actuator to rotate the end of the oral irrigator relative to the handle of the oral irrigator.

12. The rotating assembly according to any one of claims 10 to 11, wherein the output motion includes an angular motion greater than the motion of the actuator.

13. The rotating assembly of claim 12, wherein the output motion is at least twice the motion of the actuator.

14. The rotating assembly according to any one of claims 10 to 11, wherein the first rotating element, the second rotating element and the output rotating element comprise a corresponding first gear, a second gear and an output gear.

15. The rotating assembly of claim 14, wherein the first gear, the second gear, and the output gear comprise a planetary gear transmission.

16. The rotating assembly according to claim 15, wherein: The actuator is configured to receive motion input from a user; The motion of the actuator is based on the input motion; and The actuator further includes a sun gear of the planetary gear transmission, the sun gear being in meshing contact with at least one of the first gear or the second gear.

17. The rotating assembly according to any one of claims 10 to 11, further comprising a damping medium configured to at least partially resist at least one of the motion of the actuator or the output motion.

18. A rotating assembly for use in an oral irrigator, the assembly comprising: An actuator configured to receive motion input from a user; A gear system operatively connected to the actuator and adapted to amplify the input motion; as well as The base is configured to receive the end of the oral irrigator, wherein the amplified motion is transmitted from the actuator to the end of the oral irrigator via the gear system to cause the end to rotate relative to the body of the oral irrigator.

19. The rotating assembly of claim 18, wherein the amplified motion is in the same rotational direction as the input motion.

20. The rotating assembly according to any one of claims 18 to 19, wherein the amplified motion is at least twice the input motion.

21. A method of assembling a rotating assembly for an oral irrigator, comprising: Multiple rotating elements are assembled together with a base, wherein the base is connected to the oral irrigator; Connect the retainer to the rotating element and the base; The seals are assembled with the hub to form a hub assembly; Connect the hub assembly to the base; Apply a damping medium to the rotating assembly; Connect the actuator to the base; as well as Connect the end to the rotating assembly.

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