A device for storing and accessing iodophor swabs

Abstract

This utility model relates to the field of medical supplies technology, specifically a device for storing and retrieving iodine swabs. It includes a cylindrical body with a central tube concentrically arranged within it. A bottom cover and a top cover are installed at both ends of the cylindrical body. A sealing component for sealing the upper end of the central tube is installed at the center of the upper surface of the top cover. Two support plates have spiral tracks machined through them on their opposite surfaces. A drive component is installed at the end of the central tube near the top cover to drive the swab rod along the spiral track and into the central tube through the inlet. An ejector component, cooperating with the drive component, is installed between the top and bottom covers to eject one swab rod from the central tube. This utility model has the following advantages: each swab is in an independent track position, preventing contact with adjacent swabs during retrieval and eliminating the need for manual sorting of excess swabs. Especially in emergency scenarios such as hospital emergency rooms and outdoor first aid, it reduces ineffective operations and saves emergency time.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of medical supplies technology, specifically a device for storing and retrieving iodine swabs. Background Technology

[0002] In medical care, home first aid, and outdoor emergency scenarios, iodine swabs serve as convenient disinfection tools, and the suitability of their storage containers directly impacts retrieval efficiency, hygiene, safety, and disinfection effectiveness. Currently, the mainstream iodine swab storage containers on the market are mainly divided into two categories: plastic bags and ordinary swab boxes. Although both are simple in structure and low in cost, they reveal many shortcomings in adaptability in actual use, making it difficult to meet the needs of high efficiency, hygiene, and airtightness in diverse scenarios.

[0003] Plastic bag packaging is the most basic form of storage for iodine swabs. The entire package consists of a single, sealed plastic bag containing a fixed number of iodine swabs (e.g., single or multiple swabs). Its core design logic is to use the airtightness of the plastic bag to isolate external air and contaminants, ensuring the swabs are sterile and the iodine does not evaporate before use. To use, the packaging is opened by tearing open the easy-tear opening on the edge of the plastic bag to remove the swabs. However, this structure lacks a secondary sealing design; once the packaging is opened, the bag is completely open, and the remaining swabs cannot be returned to a sealed environment and are exposed to the air. Ordinary swab boxes are mostly container-shaped structures made of plastic or paper, commonly designed as open-top (completely open at the top) or simple flip-top (with a flip-up lid). Its storage principle is to provide centralized storage space through the box, and place multiple iodine swabs neatly inside the box. They can be taken directly from the open end or after opening the cover. The flip-top design attempts to maintain the airtightness of the box through the covering effect when the cover is closed, but there is no precise sealing structure between the cover and the box. It is difficult to form an effective airtight space by simply fastening or gravity.

[0004] Plastic bag packaging is limited by its "one-time tear-open" usage method. If the package contains multiple cotton swabs, each swab must be taken out individually after tearing, and any remaining swabs must be stored in a separate temporary container, failing to achieve "ready-to-use, on-demand" functionality. If each swab is individually packaged, while this avoids exposing any remaining swabs, in emergencies, multiple packages must be torn open continuously, making the process cumbersome and wasting valuable first-aid time. The open or flip-top design of ordinary cotton swab boxes easily leads to "collision" problems: when taking out a target swab, adjacent swabs are easily pulled out of the box, requiring manual return of the excess swabs. This not only increases the number of steps but may also cause swabs to fall and contaminate the box in a panic. Flip-top designs also require the additional action of "flipping open the lid," which is particularly inconvenient when using one hand (such as when the other hand is holding the patient's wound), further reducing efficiency.

[0005] Once the plastic bag packaging is torn open, the remaining cotton swabs are completely exposed to the air. Droplets and dust from hospital wards and emergency rooms, or contaminants from home and outdoor settings, can easily adhere directly to the cotton swab tip or the area soaked in iodine, causing contamination. If these contaminated cotton swabs are subsequently used to touch wounds, it may cause local infection and even cross-infection between patients in medical settings. The unnecessary contact between fingers and cotton swabs is a prominent issue in the use of ordinary cotton swab boxes: with an open design, fingers must be inserted into the box when pulling out a swab, easily touching unused swabs nearby; while a flip-top design reduces some dust entry, the logic remains the same, and fingers may still accidentally touch other cotton swab tips. These touched swabs may carry bacteria from the hands, potentially introducing contaminants into wounds during subsequent use, violating aseptic techniques and posing a health threat to patients with weakened immune systems (such as the elderly, children, and post-operative patients). Utility Model Content

[0006] In view of the shortcomings of the existing technology, the purpose of this utility model is to provide a device for storing and retrieving iodine swabs, so as to solve the problems mentioned in the background art.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model is implemented through the following technical solution: A device for storing and retrieving iodine swabs includes a cylindrical body, a central tube arranged concentrically within the cylindrical body, a spiral inlet on the outer surface of the central tube, a bottom cover and a top cover respectively installed at both ends of the cylindrical body, a sealing component for sealing the upper end of the central tube installed on the upper surface of the top cover, two sets of support discs sleeved on the central tube, spiral tracks penetrating the support discs on the opposite surfaces of the two support discs, the spiral tracks cooperating with the inlet, a cotton swab rod inserted between the two spiral tracks, both ends of the cotton swab rod wrapped with cotton heads, the cotton heads at both ends of the cotton swab rod contacting the opposite back surfaces of the two support discs respectively, a driving component for driving the cotton swab rod to move along the spiral track on the central tube, and an ejection component cooperating with the driving component for ejecting one cotton swab rod from the central tube between the top cover and the bottom cover. The spiral tracks of the two support plates form a through-type locking mechanism. The cotton swabs are vertically inserted, with the cotton tips fitting against the support plates. Each cotton swab, formed by the cotton swabs and the cotton tips, is positioned in its dedicated track slot, solving the problem of ordinary cotton swab boxes where pulling out one swab leads to multiple swabs. The process of taking out swabs does not involve touching adjacent swabs, eliminating the need for manual sorting. In emergency situations (such as emergency rooms and outdoor first aid), this reduces ineffective operations and saves emergency time. The spiral tracks precisely match the spiral inlet of the central tube. When the drive component pushes the cotton swabs along the tracks, they can naturally enter the central tube through the inlet, preventing the swabs from getting stuck or shifting, thus laying a stable foundation for subsequent ejection and retrieval. The bottom and top covers at both ends of the tube form an outer sealed space, preventing external dust and droplets from contacting the cotton swabs, cutting off the contamination path at the source, and meeting the sterile requirements of medical scenarios.

[0008] Preferably, the driving assembly includes a spiral spring. A spiral spring is fitted onto one end of the central tube near the top cover. The inner end of the spiral spring is connected to the central tube. A collar is provided on the lower side of the spiral spring, which is fitted onto the central tube and rotatably connected to it. A rotating arm is mounted on the outer surface of the collar. A locking mechanism for limiting the single unfolding range of the spiral spring is mounted on the end of the rotating arm away from the collar. A linkage plate is mounted on the outer end of the spiral spring. The end of the linkage plate away from the spiral spring is slidably connected to the rotating arm. A actuating mechanism for actuating the cotton swab rod is mounted on the rotating arm. The spiral spring provides a continuous and stable driving force. The rotatable connection between the collar and the central tube ensures flexible rotation of the rotating arm. The slidable connection between the linkage plate and the rotating arm compensates for radial displacement during the unfolding of the spiral spring, preventing component pulling and jamming, and ensuring smooth driving.

[0009] Preferably, the actuating mechanism includes a rectangular rod. A rectangular rod is provided on the lower side of the rotating arm, with both ends of the rectangular rod connected and fixed to both ends of the rotating arm. A vertical plate is provided on the lower side of the rotating arm, with a rectangular hole at the upper end of the vertical plate. The rectangular rod is inserted into the rectangular hole. A actuating rod is installed at the lower end of the vertical plate to force the cotton swab stick to move along a spiral track. Both ends of the actuating rod extend into two spiral tracks. The rectangular rod provides sliding guidance for the vertical plate, ensuring that the actuating rod remains horizontal when moving along the spiral track, preventing the cotton swab from being pushed off course due to vertical plate offset. The actuating rod extending to two sets of spiral tracks allows for simultaneous application of force to both ends of the cotton swab stick, ensuring smooth movement of the cotton swab stick.

[0010] Preferably, a retainer is installed at the center of the side of the actuating lever facing away from the vertical plate. The retainer has a "C"-shaped cross-section, with its open end facing away from the actuating lever. The retainer engages with a cotton swab stick on the inner or outer side of the spiral track. The "C"-shaped retainer can tightly engage with the outer cotton swab stick, fixing the relative position of the actuating lever and the cotton swab stick and preventing slippage during pushing. The open end of the retainer facing away from the actuating lever reduces obstruction when the cotton swab enters the track, ensuring that each push accurately moves the cotton swab stick along the spiral track, achieving orderly delivery of one swab forward and one swab backward.

[0011] Preferably, a threaded head is installed at the end of the linkage plate away from the spiral spring, and an elongated oval opening is provided on one side of the rotating arm along the length of the rotating arm. In the initial state, the threaded head is inserted into the elongated oval opening near the collar. A nut is threadedly connected to the end of the threaded head away from the linkage plate, and there is a gap between the nut and the rotating arm. The sliding fit between the threaded head and the elongated oval opening further optimizes the displacement compensation effect and ensures that the driving and rotational actions do not interfere with each other.

[0012] Preferably, the linkage plate has a "Z"-shaped structure, with a recessed groove forming a strip at the location where the spiral spring is installed, and the outer end of the spiral spring is installed in the groove. The groove design of the "Z"-shaped linkage plate can firmly fix the outer end of the spiral spring and prevent the spiral spring from detaching from the linkage plate.

[0013] Preferably, both the upper and lower sides of the collar are provided with limiting rings, which slide in contact with the collar and are sleeved on and fixedly connected to the central tube. The limiting rings on the upper and lower sides of the collar restrict axial displacement of the collar, retaining only circumferential rotational freedom. This prevents misalignment of the actuating rod due to collar offset during rotation of the rotating arm, ensuring accurate positioning of the cotton swab pusher.

[0014] Preferably, the locking mechanism includes a vertical cylinder. The vertical cylinder is installed at the end of the rotating arm away from the collar. A second compression spring is vertically arranged in the lower part of the vertical cylinder. A column is provided above the second compression spring, and the lower end of the column is inserted into the vertical cylinder. A guide structure is installed between the vertical cylinder and the column. A locking block is installed at the upper end of the column. Multiple locking slots that mate with the locking blocks are equidistantly spaced in a ring on the lower surface of the top cover. The locking blocks are inserted into the locking slots. When the locking block engages in the locking slot, it locks the rotating arm. After unlocking, the spiral spring drives the rotating arm to rotate, pushing one cotton swab. The locking block automatically resets and engages in the next locking slot, achieving single-swab quantitative feeding and preventing multiple cotton swabs from clogging the central tube.

[0015] Preferably, the upper end of the vertical cylinder has two vertically arranged guide grooves, and the lower outer surface of the column is equipped with two guide parts, which are respectively inserted into the two guide grooves. The cooperation between the guide grooves and the guide parts restricts the column to move only vertically, preventing the locking block from misaligning with the locking groove due to column rotation, ensuring accurate locking and unlocking of the locking mechanism, and further improving the stability of quantitative feeding.

[0016] Preferably, the ejection assembly includes a pressure plate, which is located on the upper side of the top cover. A guide hole is formed in the area of ​​the top cover covered by the pressure plate, and a linkage rod is inserted into the guide hole. The upper end of the linkage rod is connected and fixed to the pressure plate. A first compression spring is provided between the guide hole and the pressure plate, and the first compression spring is sleeved on the linkage rod. An air compression mechanism is provided at the lower end of the linkage rod. Pressing the pressure plate drives the piston to compress the air inside the cylinder, pushing the rubber column in the central tube through the connecting pipe to eject the cotton swab, eliminating the need for manual removal. The first compression spring enables the pressure plate to automatically reset, simplifying the operation process and adapting to one-handed operation scenarios.

[0017] Preferably, the air compression mechanism includes a piston, with the piston mounted at the lower end of the linkage rod. A cylinder is mounted on the upper surface of the bottom cover, and a cylinder cap is mounted at the upper end of the cylinder. A through hole is formed on the upper surface of the cylinder cap. The piston is slidably mounted inside the cylinder. The lower end of the linkage rod passes through the through hole. A rubber column for lifting the cotton swab rod inside the central tube is slidably mounted at the lower part of the central tube. A connecting tube is mounted at the lower end of the central tube, with the end of the connecting tube away from the central tube mounted at the lower end of the cylinder. The connecting tube communicates with the internal space of the cylinder. A linkage structure is installed between the linkage rod and the column. The sliding fit between the piston and the cylinder, and the sliding fit between the rubber column and the central tube, ensures stable air pressure transmission and smooth ejection of the rubber column.

[0018] Preferably, the linkage structure includes a pressure plate, with the pressure plate mounted on the outer surface of the linkage rod near the top cover. A ring is provided on the lower side of the pressure plate, and the ring is disposed inside the cylinder and arranged concentrically with the cylinder. An ear plate is installed at the middle of the outer surface of the column rod, with the end of the ear plate away from the column rod mounted on the inner wall of the ring. The linkage structure can simultaneously unlock the locking mechanism when the pressure plate is pressed, realizing an integrated action of drive unlocking, cotton swab feeding, and pneumatic ejection, requiring only one hand to press throughout the entire process.

[0019] Preferably, the linkage rod has a "Z"-shaped structure, and the guide hole and through hole are staggered. The "Z"-shaped linkage rod and the staggered guide hole and through hole can prevent the pressure plate from rotating around the linkage rod, ensuring that the pressure plate is always precisely aligned with the ring. When the pressure plate is pressed, it can stably squeeze the ring to unlock the locking mechanism and avoid linkage failure.

[0020] Preferably, a support rod is installed on the lower surface of the rubber column, the diameter of which is smaller than the diameter of the rubber column, and the end of the connecting pipe away from the central pipe extends into the cylinder. The support rod on the lower side of the rubber column can prevent the rubber column from blocking the connecting pipe, ensuring that the air pressure can always be smoothly transmitted to the central pipe; the connecting pipe extending into the cylinder can limit the piston's downward movement distance, ensuring that the cylinder and the central pipe are always connected, and ensuring reliable ejection action.

[0021] Preferably, the inner diameter of the cylinder is larger than the inner diameter of the central tube, and the piston's movement distance within the cylinder is one-third of the rubber column's movement distance within the central tube. With the cylinder's inner diameter larger than the central tube's inner diameter, and the piston's movement distance being in a 1:3 ratio with the rubber column's movement distance, the extension range of the rubber column can be amplified. A small downward movement of the pressure plate is sufficient to push the rubber column to fully extend the cotton swab, reducing the pressing stroke and improving operational convenience.

[0022] Preferably, a blocking rod is provided on one side of the guide hole, the blocking rod being within the coverage area of ​​the pressure plate, and the lower end of the blocking rod being connected and fixed to the top cover. This prevents the pressure plate from pressing down excessively, which could damage the first compression spring.

[0023] Preferably, the sealing assembly includes a support sleeve, which is installed at the center of the upper surface of the top cover. The support sleeve is concentrically arranged with the central tube. Rubber sheets, circular in structure, are glued to the lower and upper parts of the support sleeve, and a cross-shaped slit is machined at the center of the upper surface of the rubber sheet to allow the cotton swab to pass through. When not in use, the cross-shaped slit closes naturally, preventing air from entering the central tube, reducing iodine evaporation, and extending the shelf life of the cotton swab. When the cotton swab is pushed out, the cross-shaped slit opens under pressure and immediately springs back to close after the swab passes through, minimizing airflow within the central tube. This ensures a tight seal against contamination without affecting the use of the cotton swab, solving the problem of lost sealing after traditional devices are torn open.

[0024] Preferably, the surface of the cylinder is machined with an arc-shaped opening, and a transparent plate is installed inside the arc-shaped opening. The transparent plate has an arc-shaped structure. The design of the transparent plate at the arc-shaped opening of the cylinder allows for non-contact observation, enabling direct viewing of the remaining number of cotton swabs and their storage status without opening the device.

[0025] The beneficial effects of this utility model are:

[0026] (1) The opposing surfaces of the two sets of support plates are processed with through spiral tracks. The cotton swabs formed by the cotton swab rod and the cotton head are inserted between the two sets of spiral tracks, and the two cotton heads are respectively attached to the back of the two support plates. This structure of "independent single-swab positioning and orderly spiral arrangement" completely solves the drawback of ordinary cotton swab boxes that "take out one and bring out multiple swabs". Each cotton swab is in an independent track position, and will not touch adjacent cotton swabs during use. There is no need to manually sort out excess cotton swabs. Especially in emergency scenarios such as hospital emergency rooms and outdoor first aid, it can reduce ineffective operations and save emergency time.

[0027] (2) Pressing the pressure plate on the top cover causes the linkage rod to drive the piston to move downward inside the cylinder. The air inside the cylinder is forced into the central tube through the connecting pipe, pushing the rubber column upward. At the same time, the linkage structure drives the column rod to move downward, the locking block disengages from the locking groove of the top cover, and the spiral spring releases its elastic potential energy. Through the linkage plate, it drives the rotating arm to rotate around the collar, and the actuating rod pushes the cotton swab rod along the spiral track, so that it enters the central tube through the spiral feed port. Finally, the rubber column pushes the cotton swab rod out of the central tube, completing the retrieval. The whole process can achieve "automatic feeding and precise ejection" with just one hand. There is no need to tear the packaging, flip the cover, or reach into the box to take it out. The retrieval efficiency in emergency scenarios is far superior to traditional devices.

[0028] (3) When the spiral spring drives the rotating arm to rotate, the locking block automatically engages with the next locking slot under the action of the second compression spring, forcing the rotating arm to stop rotating, ensuring that only one cotton swab rod is pushed into the central tube each time. This single-use quantitative feeding design avoids multiple cotton swabs entering the central tube at the same time and causing blockage, ensuring a stable and orderly dispensing process.

[0029] (4) The bottom and top covers at both ends of the tube form an outer protective layer, while the spiral track of the central tube and the support plate forms an inner storage layer, preventing external dust, droplets, and contaminants from contacting the swabs. Compared to the exposed plastic bags, the open opening of ordinary swab boxes, and the simple flip-top design, this device cuts off the contamination path at the source, ensuring that unused swabs are always in a sterile environment, meeting the sterile operation requirements of medical scenarios. During use, the operator does not need to touch the swab body. After pressing the pressure plate, the swab rod automatically emerges from the cross seam of the sealing component. It can be used simply by pinching the exposed part of the swab rod, completely avoiding the problem of accidentally touching other swabs with fingers inserted into the box. This contactless retrieval mode eliminates the risk of hand bacteria being transferred to unused swabs, especially for the elderly, children, postoperative patients, and other people with low immunity, significantly reducing the probability of wound infection and ensuring safe use. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Other features, objects, and advantages of this invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings:

[0031] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a device for storing and retrieving iodine swabs according to the present invention;

[0032] Figure 2 This is an assembly diagram of the support plate, bottom cover, top cover and central tube in a device for storing and retrieving iodine swabs according to the present invention.

[0033] Figure 3 This is an assembly diagram of the support plate, bottom cover, and central tube in a device for storing and retrieving iodine swabs according to the present invention.

[0034] Figure 4 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the central tube in a device for storing and retrieving iodine swabs according to the present invention.

[0035] Figure 5 This is an assembly diagram of the linkage rod, pressure plate, rubber column, central tube and bottom cover in a device for storing and retrieving iodine swabs according to the present invention.

[0036] Figure 6 This is an assembly diagram of the support plate, bottom cover, linkage rod and central tube in a device for storing and retrieving iodine swabs according to the present invention.

[0037] Figure 7 for Figure 6 Enlarged view of point A in the middle;

[0038] Figure 8 This is an exploded structural diagram of the column rod, vertical cylinder, second compression spring, rotating arm, and collar in a device for storing and retrieving iodine swabs according to the present invention.

[0039] Figure 9 This is an assembly diagram of the column rod, locking block, and top cover in a device for storing and retrieving iodine swabs according to the present invention.

[0040] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional assembly diagram of the rubber sheet, support sleeve, and top cover in a device for storing and retrieving iodine swabs according to the present invention.

[0041] The labels in the attached diagram are as follows: 100, cylinder; 101, bottom cover; 102, transparent plate; 103, top cover; 1031, snap-fit ​​groove; 1032, guide hole; 104, central tube; 1041, feed inlet; 105, support plate; 1051, spiral track; 106, cotton swab rod; 1061, cotton head; 200, pressure plate; 201, first compression spring; 202, blocking rod; 203, linkage rod; 2031, cylinder cover; 2032, cylinder; 2033, connecting pipe; 2034, piston; 2035, support rod; 2036, rubber column; 204, pressure plate; 300, Support sleeve; 301, Rubber sheet; 302, Cross-shaped seam; 400, Spiral spring; 401, Linkage plate; 4011, Threaded head; 4012, Nut; 402, Vertical cylinder; 4021, Column rod; 40211, Ring; 40212, Ear plate; 40213, Guide part; 4022, Snap-fit ​​block; 4023, Guide groove; 4024, Second compression spring; 403, Rotating arm; 4031, Vertical plate; 4032, Sleeve; 4033, Oblong opening; 4034, Rectangular rod; 4035, Actuating rod; 404, Collar; 4041, Limiting ring. Detailed Implementation

[0042] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments, but this should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0043] A device for storing and retrieving iodine swabs includes a cylindrical body 100, a central tube 104 arranged concentrically within the cylindrical body 100, an inlet 1041 on the outer surface of the central tube 104, a bottom cover 101 and a top cover 103 respectively installed at both ends of the cylindrical body 100, a sealing assembly installed on the upper surface of the top cover 103, and two sets of support discs 105 sleeved on the central tube 104. Each of the two support discs 105 has a spiral track 10 through it machined on its opposite surface. 51. The spiral track 1051 is matched with the feed inlet 1041. A cotton swab rod 106 is inserted between the two spiral tracks 1051. Both ends of the cotton swab rod 106 are wrapped with cotton heads 1061. The cotton heads 1061 at both ends of the cotton swab rod 106 are in contact with the opposite sides of the two support plates 105 respectively. The central tube 104 is provided with a drive assembly for driving the cotton swab rod 106 to move along the spiral track 1051. An ejection assembly is installed between the top cover 103 and the bottom cover 101 and the drive assembly.

[0044] The drive assembly includes a spiral spring 400. The spiral spring 400 is sleeved on one end of the center tube 104 near the top cover 103. The inner end of the spiral spring 400 is connected to the center tube 104. A collar 404 is provided on the lower side of the spiral spring 400. The collar 404 is sleeved on the center tube 104 and rotatably connected to the center tube 104. A rotating arm 403 is installed on the outer surface of the collar 404. A snap-fit ​​mechanism is installed on the end of the rotating arm 403 away from the collar 404. A linkage plate 401 is installed on the outer end of the spiral spring 400. The end of the linkage plate 401 away from the spiral spring 400 is slidably connected to the rotating arm 403. A toggle mechanism is installed on the rotating arm 403.

[0045] The actuating mechanism includes a rectangular rod 4034. A rectangular rod 4034 is located on the lower side of a rotating arm 403. Both ends of the rectangular rod 4034 are connected and fixed to both ends of the rotating arm 403. A vertical plate 4031 is located on the lower side of the rotating arm 403. A rectangular hole is opened at the upper end of the vertical plate 4031, and the rectangular rod 4034 is inserted into the rectangular hole. An actuating rod 4035 is installed at the lower end of the vertical plate 4031, with both ends extending into two spiral tracks 1051. A retainer 4032 is installed at the center of the side of the actuating rod 4035 facing away from the vertical plate 4031. The retainer 4032 has a "C"-shaped cross-section, with its open end facing away from the actuating rod 4035. The retainer 4032 is engaged with a cotton swab rod 106 on the inner or outer side of the spiral track 1051. A threaded head 4011 is installed at the end of the linkage plate 401 away from the spiral spring 400. An elongated oval opening 4033, arranged along the length of the rotating arm 403, is opened on one side of the linkage plate 401. In the initial state, the threaded head 4011 is inserted into the elongated oval opening 4033 near the collar 404. A nut 4012 is threadedly connected to the end of the threaded head 401 away from the linkage plate 401, and there is a gap between the nut 4012 and the rotating arm 403. The linkage plate 401 has a "Z"-shaped structure. A groove is recessed at the location where the spiral spring 400 is installed, and the outer end of the spiral spring 400 is installed in the groove. Limiting rings 4041 are provided on both the upper and lower sides of the collar 404. The limiting rings 4041 slide in contact with the collar 404 and are sleeved on the central tube 104 and fixedly connected to it.

[0046] The locking mechanism includes a vertical cylinder 402. The vertical cylinder 402 is mounted on the end of the rotating arm 403 away from the collar 404. A vertically arranged second compression spring 4024 is located in the lower part of the vertical cylinder 402. A column rod 4021 is located on the upper side of the second compression spring 4024. The lower end of the column rod 4021 is inserted into the vertical cylinder 402. A guide structure is installed between the vertical cylinder 402 and the column rod 4021. A locking block 4022 is mounted on the upper end of the column rod 4021. Multiple locking grooves 1031, which mate with the locking blocks 4022, are equidistantly formed on the lower surface of the top cover 103. The locking blocks 4022 are inserted into the locking grooves 1031. Two vertically arranged guide grooves 4023 are opened at the upper end of the vertical cylinder 402. Two guide parts 40213 are mounted on the outer surface of the lower end of the column rod 4021, and the two guide parts 40213 are respectively inserted into the two guide grooves 4023. The ejection assembly includes a pressure plate 200. The pressure plate 200 is provided on the upper side of the top cover 103. A guide hole 1032 is provided in the area of ​​the top cover 103 covered by the pressure plate 200. A linkage rod 203 is inserted into the guide hole 1032. The upper end of the linkage rod 203 is connected and fixed to the pressure plate 200. A first compression spring 201 is provided between the guide hole 1032 and the pressure plate 200. The first compression spring 201 is sleeved on the linkage rod 203. A compressed air mechanism is provided at the lower end of the linkage rod 203.

[0047] Please see Figures 1-10 A device for storing and retrieving iodine swabs includes a cylindrical body 100 with an arc-shaped opening on its surface. A transparent plate 102 is installed inside the arc-shaped opening. The transparent plate 102 has an arc-shaped structure and precisely fits the arc-shaped opening of the cylindrical body 100 to form a complete visual monitoring surface. Medical personnel or users can directly observe the remaining number of swab rods 106 in the spiral track 1051 through the transparent plate 102. When the swab rods 106 are sufficiently stored, the densely arranged swab rods 106 and cotton heads 1061 in the spiral track 1051 can be clearly seen. As the number of uses increases, the number of empty positions in the spiral track 1051 gradually increases, and the remaining quantity can be quickly determined through the transparent plate 102 to see if it meets the needs of subsequent use. This contactless observation mode changes the traditional management logic: ordinary swab boxes require opening the lid to check the remaining quantity, and plastic bags require tearing open to know the internal situation. Frequent opening of the lid or tearing of the bag will damage the sealed environment, allowing external contaminants to enter. The transparent panel 102 allows for knowing the remaining amount without opening the cover, significantly reducing the frequency of device opening and lowering the risk of contamination from the source. This ensures that unused swabs remain in a closed, sterile environment, which is suitable for scenarios with stringent sterility requirements, such as hospital emergency rooms and operating rooms.

[0048] The cylinder 100 has a central tube 104 arranged concentrically with the cylinder 100. A spiral feed port 1041 is opened at the middle of the outer surface of the central tube 104. The two ends of the cylinder 100 are respectively equipped with a bottom cover 101 and a top cover 103. The top cover 103 is fitted onto the central tube 104. A support sleeve 300 is installed at the middle of the upper surface of the top cover 103. The support sleeve 300 is arranged concentrically with the central tube 104. Rubber sheets 301 are glued to the lower and upper parts of the support sleeve 300. The rubber sheet 301 has a circular structure. A cross slit 302 for the cotton swab stick 106 to pass through is processed at the middle of the upper surface of the rubber sheet 301. The bottom cover 101 and the top cover 103 at both ends of the cylinder 100 form an outer layer of protection. The central tube 104 and the spiral track 1051 of the support plate 105 form an inner layer of storage, preventing external dust, droplets and contaminants from contacting the cotton swab. Compared to the exposed plastic bags, the open design of ordinary cotton swab boxes, and the simple flip-top lid, this device cuts off the contamination path at the source, ensuring that unused cotton swabs remain in a sterile environment, meeting the aseptic operation requirements of medical settings. During use, the operator does not need to touch the cotton swab handle 106. After pressing the pressure plate 200, the cotton swab handle 106 automatically emerges from the cross-shaped seam 302. Simply pinch the exposed part of the cotton swab handle 106 for use, completely avoiding the problem of accidentally touching other cotton swabs with fingers inside the box. This contactless dispensing method eliminates the risk of transferring bacteria from hands to unused cotton swabs, significantly reducing the probability of wound infection, especially for the elderly, children, postoperative patients, and other groups with lower immunity, ensuring safe use.

[0049] Two sets of support discs 105 are fitted on the central tube 104. The opposing surfaces of the two support discs 105 are machined with spiral tracks 1051 that penetrate the support discs 105. The spiral tracks 1051 are matched with the feed inlet 1041. A cotton swab rod 106 is inserted between the two spiral tracks 1051. Both ends of the cotton swab rod 106 are wrapped with cotton heads 1061. The cotton heads 1061 at both ends of the cotton swab rod 106 are in contact with the opposing sides of the two support discs 105. The two sets of support discs 105 are arranged vertically and their opposing surfaces are machined with perfectly fitting through spiral tracks 1051. The curvature and spacing of the spiral tracks 1051 are precisely designed to fit the overall size of the cotton swab rod 106. When the cotton swab stick 106 is inserted, it horizontally engages with the corresponding slots of the two sets of spiral tracks 1051. The cotton tips 1061 at both ends are tightly attached to the opposite sides of the two support plates 105, forming a stable storage state with the stick in the track and the tips against the plate surface. This structure independently confines each cotton swab stick 106 within its dedicated spiral track 1051 slot, and the spiral tracks 1051 separate adjacent cotton swab sticks, creating a physical distance between them. This completely breaks the traditional storage logic of stacking multiple cotton swabs without fixed positions, eliminating the drawback of pulling out multiple swabs when taking out one.

[0050] In practical use, thanks to the independent locking design for each swab, when an operator retrieves the target swab 106, adjacent swab 106 remain within their respective spiral tracks 1051 locking positions. This prevents positional shifts or swabs from being pulled out during the retrieval process, eliminating the need for frequent manual adjustments of fallen or misaligned swabs as with ordinary swab boxes, significantly reducing unnecessary steps. Especially in emergency scenarios such as hospital emergency rooms requiring rapid wound treatment, or in outdoor first aid where time is limited and the environment is complex, this organized storage design saves valuable time for emergency care. Medical staff or rescuers can focus on wound treatment without being distracted by swab organization, meeting the efficient and immediate needs of emergency situations. It also avoids secondary waste caused by contaminated swabs falling during panic, ensuring the smooth flow of the emergency procedure.

[0051] In addition, the orderly arrangement of the spiral track 1051 can improve the space utilization of the device. The spiral structure can accommodate more cotton swabs 106 in the limited space of the cylinder 100, and each cotton swab 106 is arranged along a fixed trajectory, with a neat and uniform storage status. It is easy to intuitively observe the remaining quantity through the transparent plate 102, further improving the convenience of management and use, and perfectly adapting to the batch storage and efficient retrieval needs in multiple scenarios such as medical, home, and outdoor.

[0052] A spiral spring 400 is fitted at one end of the central tube 104 near the top cover 103. The inner end of the spiral spring 400 maintains a constant relative position with the central tube 104. A collar 404 is provided on the lower side of the spiral spring 400. The collar 404 is fitted on the central tube 104 and rotatably connected to the central tube 104. Limiting rings 4041 are provided on both the upper and lower sides of the collar 404. The limiting rings 4041 slide in contact with the collar 404. The limiting rings 4041 are fitted on the central tube 104 and fixedly connected to the central tube 104. The two limiting rings 4041 cooperate with each other to limit the relative position of the central tube 104 and the collar 404 without affecting the rotation of the collar 404 around the central tube 104.

[0053] A rotating arm 403 is mounted on the outer surface of a collar 404. A vertical cylinder 402 is mounted on the end of the rotating arm 403 away from the collar 404. A vertically arranged second compression spring 4024 is provided in the lower part of the vertical cylinder 402. A column rod 4021 is provided on the upper side of the second compression spring 4024. The lower end of the column rod 4021 is inserted into the vertical cylinder 402. Two vertically arranged guide grooves 4023 are opened at the upper end of the vertical cylinder 402. Two guide parts 40213 are mounted on the outer surface of the lower end of the column rod 4021, and the two guide parts 40213 are respectively inserted into the two guide grooves 4023. A snap-fit ​​block 4022 is installed at the upper end of the column rod 4021. The lower surface of the top cover 103 is provided with multiple snap-fit ​​grooves 1031 that cooperate with the snap-fit ​​block 4022 in an annular shape. The snap-fit ​​block 4022 is inserted into the snap-fit ​​groove 1031. When the spiral spring 400 releases its elastic potential energy, it drives the rotating arm 403 to rotate around the collar 404 through the linkage plate 401. At this time, the second compression spring 4024 in the vertical cylinder 402 always applies an upward elastic force to the column rod 4021, pushing the snap-fit ​​block 4022 at the top of the column rod 4021 to stick tightly to the lower surface of the top cover 103. As the rotating arm 403 rotates, the locking block 4022 disengages from the current locking slot 1031 and slides on the lower surface of the top cover 103. When the rotating arm 403 drives the actuating rod 4035 to push a cotton swab rod 106 along the spiral track 1051 to the feed inlet 1041 and make it fully enter the central tube 104, the locking block 4022 just slides to the top of the next locking slot 1031. The second compression spring 4024 instantly pushes the locking block 4022 into the locking slot 1031, forming a rigid limit, forcing the rotating arm 403 to stop rotating, and the release of the elastic potential energy of the spiral spring 400 terminates.

[0054] This spring-driven, snap-fit ​​limiting linkage design precisely limits the rotation amplitude of the spiral spring 400 to the range of pushing a single cotton swab rod 106, ensuring that only one cotton swab rod 106 can be driven into the central tube 104 in each driving process, achieving single-swab quantitative feeding. Compared with traditional devices that lack quantitative control and are prone to simultaneously feeding multiple cotton swab rods 106, this design structurally eliminates the risk of multiple cotton swab rods 106 clogging the central tube 104 or the feed inlet 1041. It avoids interruptions in retrieval due to congestion, eliminates the need to disassemble and clean the pipeline, and ensures that a single cotton swab rod 106 is accurately retrieved each time, making the entire retrieval process stable and orderly. It is especially suitable for scenarios with extremely high requirements for process continuity, such as hospital emergency rooms and outdoor first aid, ensuring that emergency operations are not delayed due to malfunctions in critical moments.

[0055] A linkage plate 401 is installed on the outer end of the spiral spring 400. The end of the linkage plate 401 away from the spiral spring 400 is slidably connected to the rotating arm 403. The linkage plate 401 has a "Z"-shaped structure. A threaded head 4011 is installed on the end of the linkage plate 401 away from the spiral spring 400. One side of the rotating arm 403 has an elongated oval opening 4033 arranged along the length of the rotating arm 403. In the initial state, the threaded head 4011 is inserted into the elongated oval opening 4033 on the side near the collar 404. A nut 4012 is threadedly connected to the end of the threaded head 4011 away from the linkage plate 401. There is a gap between the nut 4012 and the rotating arm 403. A rectangular rod 4034 is provided on the lower side of the rotating arm 403. The two ends of the rod are respectively connected and fixed to the two ends of the rotating arm 403. The rotating arm 403 has a vertical plate 4031 on the lower side. A rectangular hole is opened at the upper end of the vertical plate 4031. A rectangular rod 4034 is inserted into the rectangular hole. A toggle rod 4035 for forcing the cotton swab rod 106 to move along the spiral track 1051 is installed at the lower end of the vertical plate 4031. The two ends of the toggle rod 4035 extend into the two spiral tracks 1051 respectively. A retainer 4032 is installed at the middle position of the side of the toggle rod 4035 away from the vertical plate 4031. The cross-section of the retainer 4032 is "C" shaped. The open end of the retainer 4032 faces the side away from the toggle rod 4035. The retainer 4032 is engaged with a cotton swab rod 106 on the inner and outer sides of the spiral track 1051. The "C"-shaped retainer 4032 on the side of the actuating lever 4035 away from the vertical plate 4031 can be tightly locked onto a cotton swab rod 106 on the outer side of the spiral track 1051. This snap-fit ​​connection can fix the relative position of the actuating lever 4035 and the target cotton swab rod 106, preventing relative sliding between the actuating lever 4035 and the cotton swab rod 106 when the actuating lever 4035 moves along the spiral track 1051. When the actuating lever 4035 moves along the spiral track 1051, the cotton swab rod 106 fixed by the retainer 4032 will generate a uniform squeezing force on the adjacent cotton swab rods 106 under the action of the thrust. Since each cotton swab rod 106 is in an independent locking position in the spiral track 1051, the squeezing force will be transmitted along the direction of the spiral track 1051, pushing the subsequent cotton swab rods 106 to move one by one towards the feed port 1041, forming an orderly conveying state of one pushing forward and one following backward. This design avoids the problem of misalignment of the cotton swab rod 106 caused by the thrust deviation of the traditional pushing structure: the precise positioning of the sleeve 4032 allows the thrust of the lever 4035 to be fully applied to the target cotton swab rod 106. Adjacent cotton swab rods 106 move only along a fixed trajectory under the constraint of the spiral track 1051, without lateral deviation or separation from the spiral track 1051. Ultimately, this ensures that each cotton swab rod 106 can move accurately and smoothly to the feed inlet 1041, preparing it for subsequent entry into the central tube 104 and adapting to the continuous and orderly conveying requirements of batch cotton swab rods 106.

[0056] The linkage plate 401 and the rotating arm 403 form a flexible sliding connection through a threaded head 4011, an oblong opening 4033, and a nut 4012. The threaded head 4011 at one end of the linkage plate 401 passes through the oblong opening 4033 of the rotating arm 403. The nut 4012 is threadedly engaged with the threaded head 4011 and maintains a gap with the rotating arm 403, which both restricts the linkage plate 401 from disengaging from the rotating arm 403 and does not affect the sliding of the threaded head 4011 along the oblong opening 4033. When the spiral spring 400 gradually unfolds, its outer end will move away from the central tube 104 during the unfolding process, causing the distance between the linkage plate 401 and the central tube 104 to increase synchronously. At this time, the threaded head 4011 will slide away from the central tube 104 along the oblong opening 4033, providing sufficient space for the displacement of the linkage plate 401, so that the unfolding action of the spiral spring 400 and the rotation action of the rotating arm 403 do not interfere with each other. This sliding adaptation structure solves the problem of rigid connection jamming: if the linkage plate 401 and the rotating arm 403 are fixedly connected, the radial displacement of the spiral spring 400 when it unfolds will force the rotating arm 403 to shift, causing the components to pull on each other and hindering the movement; however, this design automatically compensates for the displacement difference caused by the unfolding of the spiral spring 400 by sliding the threaded head 4011 in the elongated opening 4033, ensuring that the spiral spring 400 can smoothly release its elastic potential energy, and the rotating arm 403 can also rotate stably around the collar 404, ultimately realizing the coordinated movement of each component, ensuring that the entire driving process is smooth and jam-free, and improving the reliability and service life of the device.

[0057] A pressure plate 200 is provided on the upper side of the top cover 103. A guide hole 1032 is provided in the area of ​​the top cover 103 covered by the pressure plate 200. A linkage rod 203 is inserted into the guide hole 1032. The upper end of the linkage rod 203 is connected and fixed to the pressure plate 200. A first compression spring 201 is provided between the guide hole 1032 and the pressure plate 200. The first compression spring 201 is sleeved on the linkage rod 203. A piston 2034 is installed at the lower end of the linkage rod 203. A cylinder 2032 is installed on the upper surface of the bottom cover 101. A cylinder cover 2031 is installed at the upper end of the cylinder 2032. A through hole is provided on the upper surface of the cylinder cover 2031. The piston 2034 is slidably installed in the cylinder 2032. The lower end of the linkage rod 203 passes through the through hole. A rubber column for lifting the cotton swab rod 106 inside the central tube 104 is slidably installed in the lower part of the central tube 104. 2036. A connecting pipe 2033 is installed at the lower end of the central tube 104. The end of the connecting pipe 2033 away from the central tube 104 is installed at the lower end of the cylinder 2032 and communicates with the internal space of the cylinder 2032. When it is necessary to take the cotton swab rod 106, the user only needs to press the pressure plate 200 on the top cover 103 with one hand. This action will simultaneously trigger two sets of core linkage mechanisms: On the one hand, the pressure plate 200 drives the linkage rod 203 to move down along the guide hole 1032. The piston 2034 at the lower end of the linkage rod 203 slides down in the cylinder 2032, squeezing the air in the cylinder 2032. The compressed air is quickly transported to the lower part of the central tube 104 through the connecting pipe 2033 to form a stable air pressure, which pushes the rubber column 2036 in the central tube 104 to move upward, preparing for the subsequent ejection of the cotton swab rod 106. On the other hand, the pressure plate 204 in the middle of the linkage rod 203 presses down the ring 40211 synchronously, and drives the column rod 4021 to move down along the guide groove 4023 in the vertical cylinder 402 through the ear plate 40212. The locking block 4022 at the upper end of the column rod 4021 then disengages from the locking groove 1031 on the lower surface of the top cover 103, releasing the rotation restriction on the rotating arm 403. At this time, the spiral spring 400 releases the pre-stored elastic potential energy, and its outer end drives the rotating arm 403 to rotate stably around the collar 404 through the linkage plate 401. The actuating rod 4035 on the lower side of the rotating arm 403 moves along the spiral track 1051, accurately pushing the outer cotton swab rod 106, so that it smoothly enters the central tube 104 along the spiral feed port 1041. Finally, the rubber column 2036 pushes out the cotton swab rod 106 in the central tube 104, completing the retrieval. The entire process can be achieved with just one hand pressing to achieve "automatic feeding and precise ejection", without the need to tear the packaging, flip the lid or reach into the box to pull it out. In emergency situations, the retrieval efficiency is far superior to traditional devices.

[0058] A pressure plate 204 is installed on the outer surface of the linkage rod 203 near the top cover 103. A ring 40211 is provided on the lower side of the pressure plate 204. The ring 40211 is set inside the cylinder 100 and is arranged concentrically with the cylinder 100. An ear plate 40212 is installed at the middle position of the outer surface of the column rod 4021. The end of the ear plate 40212 away from the column rod 4021 is installed on the inner wall of the ring 40211. The linkage rod 203 has a "Z" shaped structure. The guide hole 1032 is staggered with the through hole. The linkage rod 203 adopts a "Z" shaped structure to prevent the pressure plate 204 from rotating around the linkage rod 203, so that the relative position of the pressure plate 204 and the cylinder 100 remains unchanged. When the user presses the pressure plate 200 on the top cover 103, the linkage rod 203 moves downwards synchronously. The pressure plate 204 on its outer surface moves towards the ring 40211, generating a squeezing effect. The ring 40211, under pressure, drives the rod 4021 connected to it via the ear plate 40212 to move downwards synchronously. The lower end of the rod 4021 slides along the guide groove 4023 inside the vertical cylinder 402, squeezing the second compression spring 4024 at the bottom of the vertical cylinder 402, thus compressing the spring. Simultaneously, the locking block 4022 at the upper end of the rod 4021 moves downwards with the rod 4021, gradually disengaging from the locking groove 1031 on the lower surface of the top cover 103, releasing the rotational lock on the rotating arm 403. At this time, the constraint of the spiral spring 400 is released, allowing for smooth release of elastic potential energy, driving the rotating arm 403 to rotate and push the cotton swab rod 106, providing power support for the retrieval action. After the user releases the pressure plate 200, the rebound force of the first compression spring 201 pushes the pressure plate 200 and the linkage rod 203 back to their original positions. The pressure plate 204 then moves upward, no longer applying pressure to the ring 40211. At this time, the second compression spring 4024 inside the vertical cylinder 402 releases its pre-stored rebound force, pushing the column rod 4021 upward along the guide groove 4023 to reset. The locking block 4022 at the upper end of the column rod 4021 moves upward synchronously, finally precisely locking into the corresponding locking groove 1031 on the lower surface of the top cover 103, thus re-locking the position of the rotating arm 403.

[0059] A support rod 2035 is installed on the lower surface of the rubber column 2036. The diameter of the support rod 2035 is smaller than the diameter of the rubber column 2036. The end of the connecting pipe 2033 away from the central pipe 104 extends into the cylinder 2032. The inner diameter of the cylinder 2032 is larger than the inner diameter of the central pipe 104. The piston 2034 moves one-third of the distance the rubber column 2036 moves within the central pipe 104. A blocking rod 202 is provided on one side of the guide hole 1032. The blocking rod 202 is within the coverage area of ​​the pressure plate 200, and its lower end is connected and fixed to the top cover 103. Under the restriction of the support rod 2035, the rubber column 2036 is prevented from blocking the connection between the connecting pipe 2033 and the central pipe 104. At the same time, the end of the connecting pipe 2033 inside the cylinder 2032 restricts the downward movement distance of the piston 2034, ensuring that the lower space inside the cylinder 2032 and the central pipe 104 are always in communication. After the pressure plate 200 moves down a certain distance, the movement of the piston 2034 amplifies the movement of the rubber column 2036, allowing the pressure plate 200 to move down a short distance and push out the cotton swab rod 106 inside the central tube 104. The blocking rod 202 limits the lowest distance between the pressure plate 200 and the top cover 103, protecting the first compression spring 201 and preventing it from being excessively compressed and damaged.

[0060] The working principle of this utility model is as follows:

[0061] Initial state: The cotton swab rod 106 is engaged in the spiral track 1051, and the cotton tips 1061 at both ends are respectively attached to the back of the support plate 105, forming an orderly spiral arrangement; the outer cotton swab rod 106 is precisely fixed by the "C"-shaped sleeve 4032 on the actuating rod 4035 to ensure that the position does not shift when pushed. The spiral spring 400 is in a pre-compressed energy storage state, with its inner end fixed to the central tube 104 and its outer end slidably connected to the elongated oval opening 4033 of the rotating arm 403 through the "Z"-shaped linkage plate 401; the locking mechanism at the end of the rotating arm 403 away from the collar 404 is in a locked state, and the second compression spring 4024 in the vertical cylinder 402 pushes the column rod 4021 upward, so that the locking block 4022 at the upper end of the column rod 4021 is engaged in the locking groove 1031 on the lower surface of the top cover 103, restricting the rotation of the rotating arm 403 and preventing the spiral spring 400 from releasing its potential energy prematurely. The upper and lower rubber sheets 301 inside the sealing component support sleeve 300 in the middle of the top cover 103 are naturally closed through the cross seam 302, preventing air from entering the central tube 104; the arc-shaped transparent plate 102 on the surface of the cylinder 100 allows for direct observation of the remaining amount and status of the cotton swabs in the spiral track 1051, ensuring that the cotton swab rod 106 inside the device is in a sterile, non-volatile closed environment.

[0062] Use Trigger: When a cotton swab needs to be used, the user presses the pressure plate 200 on the top cover 103 with one hand. This action simultaneously triggers two sets of linkage mechanisms: "drive component unlocking" and "ejection component charging".

[0063] Ejector assembly: After the pressure plate 200 is subjected to force, it drives the linkage rod 203 to move downward along the guide hole 1032 of the top cover 103. Simultaneously, the piston 2034 at the lower end of the linkage rod 203 slides downward inside the cylinder 2032. The air inside the cylinder 2032 is compressed, and the resulting high-pressure airflow is quickly transported to the lower part of the central tube 104 through the connecting pipe 2033. The high-pressure airflow acts on the rubber column 2036 and the lower support rod 2035 inside the central tube 104 to prevent the connecting pipe 2033 from being blocked. It pushes the rubber column 2036 to move upward along the inner wall of the central tube 104 until it approaches the feed port 1041 in the middle of the central tube 104, preparing for the subsequent reception and ejection of the cotton swab rod 106. At the same time, the blocking rod 202 on one side of the guide hole 1032 limits the maximum downward movement distance of the pressure plate 200 to prevent the first compression spring 201 from being damaged due to excessive compression.

[0064] Unlocking of the drive component: During the downward movement of the linkage rod 203, the pressure plate 204 on its outer surface simultaneously presses the ring 40211 downward. The ring 40211 drives the column rod 4021 to move downward along the guide groove 4023 inside the vertical cylinder 402 through the ear plate 40212. The lower end of the column rod 4021 presses the second compression spring 4024 inside the vertical cylinder 402, causing the locking block 4022 at the upper end of the column rod 4021 to disengage from the locking groove 1031 of the top cover 103, releasing the rotational lock on the rotating arm 403. At this time, the energy storage constraint of the spiral spring 400 is released, providing the power to drive the rotating arm 403 to rotate.

[0065] Automatic feeding: After the latching mechanism unlocks, the spiral spring 400 releases its pre-stored elastic potential energy, pushing the cotton swab along the spiral track 1051 into the central tube 104. The spiral spring 400 gradually unfolds, and its outer end pulls the rotating arm 403 to rotate stably around the collar 404 via the linkage plate 401. Since the linkage plate 401 and the rotating arm 403 are slidably connected by the threaded head 4011 and the oblong opening 4033, the distance between the linkage plate 401 and the central tube 104 increases when the spiral spring 400 unfolds. The threaded head 4011 slides away from the central tube 104 along the oblong opening 4033, automatically compensating for the displacement difference and avoiding interference between the components. When the rotating arm 403 rotates, the vertical plate 4031 on its lower side drives the actuating rod 4035 to move along the spiral track 1051. The retainer 4032 on the actuating lever 4035 firmly holds the outer cotton swab rod 106, pushing it to move along the spiral track 1051 towards the central tube 104. Simultaneously, the pushed cotton swab rod 106 exerts a uniform squeezing force on adjacent cotton swab rods 106, ensuring that subsequent cotton swab rods 106 follow along the spiral track 1051 one by one, preventing jamming. Finally, the outer cotton swab rod 106 precisely enters the central tube 104 through the spiral feed port 1041 on the outer surface of the central tube 104, completing the automatic feeding process.

[0066] Swab ejection: After the cotton swab enters the central tube 104, the rubber column 2036 inside the central tube 104 continues to move upward under the continuous push of the high-pressure airflow and contacts the lower end of the cotton swab rod 106. Since the inner diameter of the cylinder 2032 is larger than the inner diameter of the central tube 104, the movement distance of the piston 2034 can be amplified by air pressure and converted into a larger movement distance of the rubber column 2036, ensuring that the rubber column 2036 can generate sufficient thrust to push the cotton swab rod 106 inside the central tube 104 upward. The upper end of the cotton swab rod 106 squeezes the rubber sheet 301 of the sealing component at the cross-shaped seam 302, forcing the cross-shaped seam 302 to open. Finally, the cotton swab rod 106 is ejected from the cross-shaped seam 302 and exits the device. The user only needs to pinch the exposed cotton swab rod 106 to take it out, without having to touch other unused cotton swabs throughout the process, thus avoiding contamination.

[0067] Reset and Standby: After the user takes a cotton swab, they release the pressure plate 200. Once the pressure plate 200 loses its downward pressure, the first compression spring 201 releases its rebound force, pushing the pressure plate 200 and linkage rod 203 upwards to reset. The piston 2034 moves upwards with the linkage rod 203, restoring normal pressure inside the cylinder 2032. The rubber column 2036 falls back to the lower part of the central tube 104, awaiting the next ejection. When the linkage rod 203 resets, the pressure plate 204 no longer presses against the ring 40211. The second compression spring 4024 inside the vertical cylinder 402 releases its rebound force, pushing the column rod 4021 upwards to reset. The locking block 4022 at the upper end of the column rod 4021 re-locks into the next locking slot 1031 under the top cover 103, locking the position of the rotating arm 403 and restricting the spiral spring 400 from continuing to unfold, ensuring that only a single cotton swab can be pushed before the next use. After the cotton swab rod 106 is removed, the cross slit 302 of the rubber sheet 301 automatically closes under its own elasticity, re-isolating air from entering the central tube 104, maintaining a sterile environment and iodine concentration in the device, thus completing one usage cycle, ready for the next use.

Claims

1. A device for storing and accessing an iodophor swab, characterized in that: The device includes a cylindrical body (100), inside which is a central tube (104) arranged concentrically with the cylindrical body (100). An inlet (1041) is provided on the outer surface of the central tube (104). A bottom cover (101) and a top cover (103) are respectively installed at both ends of the cylindrical body (100). A sealing assembly is installed on the upper surface of the top cover (103). Two sets of support discs (105) are fitted onto the central tube (104). Each of the two support discs (105) has a spiral track (1051) that penetrates the support disc (105) on its opposite surface. The track (1051) is matched with the feed inlet (1041). A cotton swab rod (106) is inserted between the two spiral tracks (1051). Both ends of the cotton swab rod (106) are wrapped with cotton heads (1061). The cotton heads (1061) at both ends of the cotton swab rod (106) are in contact with the opposite sides of the two support plates (105). The central tube (104) is provided with a drive assembly that drives the cotton swab rod (106) to move along the spiral track (1051). An ejection assembly is installed between the top cover (103) and the bottom cover (101) and the drive assembly.

2. A device for storing and dispensing an iodophor swab as defined in claim 1, wherein: The drive assembly includes a spiral spring (400). The spiral spring (400) is sleeved on one end of the central tube (104) near the top cover (103). The inner end of the spiral spring (400) is connected to the central tube (104). A collar (404) is provided on the lower side of the spiral spring (400). The collar (404) is sleeved on the central tube (104) and rotatably connected to the central tube (104). A rotating arm (403) is installed on the outer surface of the collar (404). A snap-fit ​​mechanism is installed on one end of the rotating arm (403) away from the collar (404). A linkage plate (401) is installed on the outer end of the spiral spring (400). The end of the linkage plate (401) away from the spiral spring (400) is slidably connected to the rotating arm (403). A toggle mechanism is installed on the rotating arm (403).

3. A device for storing and dispensing an iodophor swab as defined in claim 2, wherein: The actuating mechanism includes a rectangular rod (4034). The rectangular rod (4034) is provided on the lower side of the rotating arm (403). The two ends of the rectangular rod (4034) are respectively connected and fixed to the two ends of the rotating arm (403). The lower side of the rotating arm (403) is provided with a vertical plate (4031). A rectangular hole is opened at the upper end of the vertical plate (4031). The rectangular rod (4034) is inserted into the rectangular hole. An actuating rod (4035) is installed at the lower end of the vertical plate (4031). The two ends of the actuating rod (4035) extend into two spiral tracks (1051).

4. A device for storing and dispensing an iodophor swab as defined in claim 3, wherein: A sleeve (4032) is installed at the center of the side of the actuating lever (4035) facing away from the vertical plate (4031). The sleeve (4032) has a "C" shaped cross-section, and the open end of the sleeve (4032) faces away from the actuating lever (4035). The sleeve (4032) is engaged with a cotton swab rod (106) on the inner and outer sides of the spiral track (1051).

5. A device for storing and dispensing an iodophor swab as defined in claim 2, wherein: A threaded head (4011) is installed at the end of the linkage plate (401) away from the spiral spring (400). An elongated oval opening (4033) is provided on one side of the rotating arm (403) along the length direction of the rotating arm (403). In the initial state, the threaded head (4011) is inserted into the elongated oval opening (4033) on the side near the collar (404). A nut (4012) is threaded to the end of the threaded head (4011) away from the linkage plate (401). There is a gap between the nut (4012) and the rotating arm (403).

6. A device for storing and dispensing an iodophor swab as defined in claim 5, wherein: The linkage plate (401) has a "Z" shaped structure. The linkage plate (401) has a recessed groove at the position where the spiral spring (400) is installed. The outer end of the spiral spring (400) is installed in the groove.

7. A device for storing and dispensing an iodophor swab as defined in claim 2, wherein: The upper and lower sides of the collar (404) are provided with limiting rings (4041), the limiting rings (4041) slide in contact with the collar (404), and the limiting rings (4041) are sleeved on the central tube (104) and connected and fixed to the central tube (104).

8. The device for storing and retrieving iodine swabs according to claim 2, characterized in that: The snap-fit ​​mechanism includes a vertical cylinder (402). The vertical cylinder (402) is installed at one end of the rotating arm (403) away from the collar (404). A vertically arranged second compression spring (4024) is provided at the lower part of the vertical cylinder (402). A column rod (4021) is provided on the upper side of the second compression spring (4024). The lower end of the column rod (4021) is inserted into the vertical cylinder (402). A guide structure is installed between the vertical cylinder (402) and the column rod (4021). A snap-fit ​​block (4022) is installed at the upper end of the column rod (4021). A plurality of snap-fit ​​grooves (1031) that cooperate with the snap-fit ​​blocks (4022) are opened in a ring at equal intervals on the lower surface of the top cover (103). The snap-fit ​​blocks (4022) are inserted into the snap-fit ​​grooves (1031).

9. A device for storing and retrieving iodine swabs according to claim 8, characterized in that: The upper end of the vertical cylinder (402) has two vertically arranged guide grooves (4023), and the lower end of the column rod (4021) has two guide parts (40213) installed on its outer surface. The two guide parts (40213) are respectively inserted into the two guide grooves (4023).

10. A device for storing and retrieving iodine swabs according to claim 9, characterized in that: The ejection assembly includes a pressure plate (200). The pressure plate (200) is provided on the upper side of the top cover (103). A guide hole (1032) is provided in the area of ​​the top cover (103) covered by the pressure plate (200). A linkage rod (203) is inserted in the guide hole (1032). The upper end of the linkage rod (203) is connected and fixed to the pressure plate (200). A first compression spring (201) is provided between the guide hole (1032) and the pressure plate (200). The first compression spring (201) is sleeved on the linkage rod (203). A compressed air mechanism is provided at the lower end of the linkage rod (203).

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