Oral care device

Abstract

Oral care device (1) with an elongated housing (2) having two opposing end regions (3a, 3b), wherein at one end area a liquid container (4) for receiving and dispensing an oral care liquid (5) is arranged, a mechanical tooth cleaning element (6) is arranged at the other end area, the liquid container (4) comprises a reservoir (7) for the oral care liquid (5) held in the housing (2) and an activatable application mechanism (8) for applying the oral care liquid (5) and the mechanical tooth cleaning element (6) is arranged to be movable in such a way that, for transport in a transport position, it is received at least partially inside the housing (2) and, in a cleaning position for tooth cleaning, it protrudes at least partially from the housing (2).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of portable oral care devices, in particular compact solutions that enable mechanical or chemical cleaning of teeth outside the home environment. Such products are aimed at users who wish to maintain conscientious oral hygiene while on the go, at work, traveling, or in situations without immediate access to water or sanitary facilities. While the market offers classic travel toothbrushes, small mouthwash bottles, or disposable cleaning aids, these solutions have several limitations.

[0002] Travel toothbrushes typically require running water for rinsing, making them inconvenient in many everyday situations. Dry cleaning products like disposable pads or fingertips only allow for superficial cleaning. Mouthwash bottles offer only a chemical action and do not replace the mechanical removal of plaque. Furthermore, many of these products either take up a relatively large amount of space or are designed as disposable items, making them costly and unsustainable in the long run.

[0003] Another problem lies in hygienic transport. Cleaning elements such as brush heads or textile surfaces are sensitive to contact with environmental dirt and therefore need to be protected. At the same time, they should not come into contact with other items in bags or pouches after use. Liquid components are also often not sufficiently leak-proof and can leak, especially in compact designs. Carrying various individual products separately also increases the organizational effort and reduces the willingness to actually perform oral hygiene while traveling.

[0004] Ultimately, there is a need for solutions that can be flexibly adapted to different user requirements. Some people prefer mechanical cleaning, while others require a liquid application in addition. Still others want interchangeable or specialized attachments to be able to use different cleaning methods depending on the situation. Devices that only have a fixed mechanical head or only allow one type of application only partially meet these requirements.

[0005] Based on this, the object of the invention is to provide a portable oral care device that can enable both mechanical and chemical tooth cleaning on the go and has a compact, hygienic and versatile design.

[0006] This problem is solved by the subject matter of claim 1. Preferred embodiments are found in the dependent claims.

[0007] According to the invention, an oral care device with an elongated housing is provided, which has two opposing end regions, wherein at one end area a liquid container for receiving and dispensing an oral care liquid is arranged, at the other end area a mechanical tooth cleaning element is arranged, The liquid container includes a reservoir for the oral care liquid held in the housing and an activatable application mechanism for applying the oral care liquid and The mechanical tooth cleaning element is movable in the longitudinal direction of the housing in such a way that, for transport purposes, it is at least partially contained within the housing in a transport position and, in a cleaning position for tooth cleaning, it protrudes at least partially from the housing.

[0008] The oral care device comprises an elongated housing with two opposing end sections, each housing different functional modules. One end section contains a fluid reservoir within the housing, which holds an oral care fluid. This reservoir, together with an application mechanism (e.g., manually activated), allows for a controlled dispensing of the fluid. The reservoir can be designed to ensure a dense containment of the oral care fluid, which can then be dispensed as a spray or a fine jet as needed. This allows for comprehensive coverage of the teeth and oral cavity, thereby supporting chemical cleaning or remineralization.The device dispenses the product without the need for a water connection, making it usable independently of external infrastructure and enabling oral care in situations where a regular toothbrush is not available.

[0009] At the opposite end, a mechanical tooth cleaning element is arranged, which can be moved, for example, longitudinally relative to the housing or pivoted out of it. For transport, this cleaning element can be moved into a transport position in which it is at least partially enclosed within the housing. This ensures that the cleaning element is protected from contamination during transport and does not unintentionally come into contact with other objects. For use, the cleaning element can be extended from the housing and moved into a cleaning position in which it is at least partially accessible and can be used for mechanical tooth cleaning. This movable design allows for a compact overall form, making the device suitable for mobile use.

[0010] A defined movement of the cleaning element can be achieved, which can be performed with one hand and without significant force. Depending on the design, the cleaning element can be held in a specific position after being extended, ensuring stable handling during teeth cleaning. Furthermore, the cleaning element can be interchangeable within the housing, allowing the use of different cleaning heads with varying materials or geometries. This allows the user to adapt the device to specific cleaning habits or to easily replace consumable parts.

[0011] The interplay between the liquid module and the mechanical cleaning element enables complete portable oral care, as both chemical and mechanical cleaning processes can be combined. The ability to unite both functions in a single compact device allows for effective oral hygiene regardless of location and without additional aids. Furthermore, the integrated transport position of the cleaning element ensures hygienic storage, which can be particularly advantageous in everyday life, during sports, or while traveling.

[0012] The oral care solution preferably contains xylitol, apatite, and / or fluoride. Xylitol is a suitable additional ingredient because it influences the metabolism of certain cariogenic bacteria. These microorganisms cannot convert xylitol into usable energy sources, thus inhibiting their growth. This reduces acid production in plaque, which supports remineralization and makes it more difficult for caries to develop. Additionally, xylitol contributes to a pleasant taste and, with its slightly sweet note, promotes user acceptance without being cariogenic itself. Apatite, especially in the form of hydroxyapatite or nanocrystalline apatite, can fill fine defects in the enamel, smooth the surface structure, and thus support remineralization. These particles adhere to weakened areas and contribute to a more resistant surface. Fluoride is a remineralizing ingredient.It can promote the formation of fluorapatite, which is more stable against acid. Furthermore, fluoride inhibits certain metabolic pathways of cariogenic bacteria. A combination of xylitol, apatite, and / or fluoride is therefore well-suited to both strengthen the tooth surface and improve caries protection.

[0013] In one embodiment, the fluid reservoir is designed to be replaceable or refillable. This allows the device to be used multiple times without requiring a new reservoir and enables the use of different types of oral care fluids. A replaceable reservoir can also allow the use of pre-filled cartridges with different formulations, while a refillable reservoir allows the use of freely selectable fluids. Both variants can help extend the device's service life and minimize material consumption.

[0014] In one embodiment, the mechanical tooth cleaning element is coupled to the housing via a detachable connection, for example, a bayonet fitting. This allows the cleaning element to be removed and replaced with another element as needed, enabling the use of different cleaning geometries. Furthermore, this facilitates the straightforward replacement of consumable parts when they wear out or when hygienic renewal is desired.

[0015] In one embodiment, a cam guide is provided for the controlled movement of the mechanical tooth cleaning element within the housing. A slide connected to the mechanical tooth cleaning element can be manually moved within this guide by the user. Such a cam guide allows for a defined path of movement, ensuring that the extension and retraction of the cleaning element is reproducible and smooth. This can improve usability and ensure that the cleaning element is securely held in the transport position and moved just as safely into the cleaning position.

[0016] In one embodiment, the cam guide comprises a central section extending longitudinally along the housing and two opposing end sections oriented perpendicular to this central section. This geometry allows the slide connected to the mechanical tooth cleaning element to move within the central section and reach a stable position at the respective end section, thereby fixing the cleaning element in either the transport or cleaning position. This ensures secure locking in both operating positions without the need for additional locking elements.

[0017] In one embodiment, a rotary mechanism is provided for the controlled movement of the mechanical tooth cleaning element within the housing. A rotating actuator allows the cleaning element to be moved along a predetermined path, enabling it to be moved from a transport position to the cleaning position and back again. Such a rotary mechanism can facilitate particularly easy one-handed operation and can help ensure that the cleaning element is reliably held in the housing during transport.

[0018] In one embodiment, the rotating mechanism has a section located on the outside of the housing that can be manually rotated by the user. Rotating this outer section allows the mechanical tooth cleaning element to be moved along its intended path of movement. This can enable particularly intuitive operation and ensure that the cleaning element can be moved safely and in a controlled manner between the transport position and the cleaning position.

[0019] In one embodiment, the liquid container is arranged to be slidably along the longitudinal direction of the housing, allowing it to be moved into a transport position where it is at least partially enclosed within the housing. This protects the container from external influences during transport and allows the device to maintain a compact form. For use, the liquid container can be moved into a cleaning position where it is at least partially extended from the housing. This facilitates ergonomic handling during the application of the oral care fluid and ensures that the container remains stable during operation of the application mechanism.

[0020] In one embodiment, the liquid container is equipped with a rotating mechanism that allows the container to be moved longitudinally. By rotating a corresponding external control section, the liquid container can be shifted along the longitudinal axis of the housing, enabling controlled movement from its transport position to the cleaning position. This allows for convenient one-handed operation and ensures that the liquid container is securely guided and held between the two operating positions.

[0021] In one embodiment, the tooth cleaning element incorporates a cleaning pad. This allows the cleaning element to be adapted to different requirements by using various pad types as needed. Furthermore, worn or soiled pads can be easily replaced, which promotes hygienic use of the device and can extend the service life of the mechanical cleaning element. Alternatively or additionally, a foam element, a fiber bundle, a rotating mini-brush, vibrating modules, and / or rubber lamellae are also possible. All of these elements can be replaced.

[0022] In one embodiment, the cleaning pad is detachably attached to the tooth cleaning element using a hook-and-loop fastener, adhesive, or clip. This detachable attachment allows the cleaning pad to be easily removed and replaced with a new one, thus promoting hygienic use. Furthermore, this method enables the use of different pad variants, each capable of providing a specific cleaning effect.

[0023] In one embodiment, the housing is provided with a protective cap at least at one end. Such a protective cap ensures that the respective functional module is protected from contamination or damage during transport. It also prevents residual liquids or contaminants from escaping after use. Furthermore, a protective cap allows the device to be safely stored in bags or containers without coming into contact with other objects.

[0024] In one embodiment, the reservoir is secured against leakage of the oral care fluid by means of a sealant such as an O-ring or a snap-fit ​​connection. Such a seal ensures that the fluid remains reliably in the container, even if the device is subjected to movement or impacts during transport. This can facilitate safe handling and prevent surrounding objects or clothing from coming into contact with the fluid.

[0025] In one embodiment, the application mechanism comprises a pump mechanism that can generate a spray mist or a directed jet of liquid. The spray mist allows for a fine and even distribution of the oral care fluid on the tooth surfaces and in the oral cavity, while a directed jet enables targeted application to specific areas. Both variants can contribute to supporting the chemical action of the oral care fluid and achieving the desired cleaning or care effect.

[0026] In one embodiment, the tooth cleaning element has antibacterial properties. This can be achieved by making the cleaning element from a material or having a coating that inhibits the growth of certain microorganisms. This ensures that the cleaning element remains more hygienic during use and between uses, and reduces the spread of germs. This can be particularly advantageous in mobile applications, as the cleaning element is more frequently exposed to environmental germs in such situations.

[0027] The invention will now be explained in more detail using a preferred embodiment and with reference to the drawings.

[0028] The drawings show Fig. 1 schematically an oral care device according to a first embodiment of the invention in its cleaning position, Fig. 2 schematically the oral care device according to the first embodiment of the invention in its transport position, Fig. 3 schematically an oral care device according to a second embodiment of the invention in its cleaning position and Fig. 4 schematically an oral care device according to a third embodiment of the invention in its cleaning position.

[0029] Out of Fig. Figure 1 shows an oral care device 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention in a cleaning position. The oral care device 1 has an elongated housing 2 with two opposing end regions 3a, 3b. A liquid reservoir 4 for receiving and dispensing an oral care liquid 5 is arranged at the first end region 3a, while a mechanical tooth cleaning element 6 is provided at the opposite end region 3b.

[0030] The liquid container 4 comprises a reservoir 7, held inside the housing 2, which contains the oral care liquid 5, and a manually activated application mechanism 8, which allows the oral care liquid 5 to be dispensed from the reservoir 7 onto the teeth or into the oral cavity in a metered dose. The oral care liquid 5 may contain xylitol, apatite, and / or fluoride. Xylitol can influence the metabolism of certain cariogenic bacteria and inhibit their growth, thus reducing acid production in dental plaque, which promotes remineralization and can make it more difficult for caries to develop. Apatite, especially in the form of hydroxyapatite or nanocrystalline apatite, can fill fine defects in the enamel, smooth the surface structure, and thus support the remineralization of the tooth surfaces.Fluoride can promote the formation of fluorapatite, which is more resistant to acid, and can inhibit the metabolic processes of cariogenic bacteria. An oral care solution containing xylitol, apatite, and / or fluoride can therefore have a restorative effect on the tooth surface and improve caries protection.

[0031] The application mechanism 8 is equipped with a pump mechanism that can generate a spray mist or a directed jet of liquid. A spray mist allows for a fine and even distribution of the oral care fluid 5 on tooth surfaces and in the oral cavity, while a directed jet enables targeted application to specific areas. In this way, the chemical action of the oral care fluid 5 can be enhanced, enabling cleaning, remineralization, or antibacterial effects in the oral cavity without the need for a water connection, making the oral care device 1 particularly suitable for use on the go.The reservoir 7 can be held inside the housing 2 by means of suitable sealing materials, so that an unintentional leakage of the oral care fluid 5 can be prevented and the oral care device 1 can be handled safely even during transport movements.

[0032] The tooth cleaning element 6 is arranged at the end region 3b so as to be displaceable in the longitudinal direction of the housing 2, such that it can be moved into both a cleaning position and a transport position. In the Fig. In the cleaning position shown in Figure 1, the tooth cleaning element 6 protrudes from the housing 2 and is freely accessible for mechanical tooth cleaning. The tooth cleaning element 6 carries an interchangeable cleaning pad 17, which can be made of microfiber or textile, for example, and is detachably attached to the tooth cleaning element 6 by means of a hook-and-loop fastener, adhesive, or clip. This allows the cleaning pad 17 to be adapted to different cleaning requirements by using different pad types as needed, and ensures that worn or contaminated pads can be easily replaced, which supports the hygienic use of the oral care device 1 and can extend the service life of the tooth cleaning element 6.

[0033] The tooth cleaning element 6 has antibacterial properties, achieved by making the tooth cleaning element 6 itself or the cleaning pad 17 from a material or having a coating that inhibits the growth of certain microorganisms. This helps the tooth cleaning element 6 remain more hygienic during use and between uses, reducing the spread of germs, which can be particularly advantageous in mobile applications.

[0034] The tooth cleaning element 6 is coupled to the housing 2 via a detachable connection, in the illustrated embodiment via two bayonet fittings 9a, 9b. In the Fig. In the transport position shown in Figure 2, the tooth cleaning element 6 is completely inside the housing 2 and is coupled to the first bayonet fitting 9a. In this position, the end section 3b is additionally provided with a protective cap 19 that completely encloses the tooth cleaning element 6. The protective cap 19 ensures that the tooth cleaning element 6 and the cleaning pad 17 are protected from contamination and mechanical damage during transport and do not come into contact with items carried in a bag or container.

[0035] In the cleaning position, as it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the tooth cleaning element 6 is extended from the housing 2 and coupled to the second bayonet fitting 9b. This allows the tooth cleaning element 6 to be held in a position suitable for tooth cleaning on the housing 2, thus enabling stable handling during cleaning. The dual function of the bayonet fittings 9a and 9b, which hold the tooth cleaning element 6 in both a defined transport position and a defined cleaning position, helps to ensure that neither additional locking elements are necessary nor do unintentional movements of the tooth cleaning element 6 occur.

[0036] The liquid container 4 is arranged to be slidably within the housing 2 in the longitudinal direction and can be moved between a transport position and a cleaning position. In the transport position, the liquid container 4 is at least partially enclosed within the housing 2, so that the end region 3a has a compact and protected form. In the cleaning position, the liquid container 4 protrudes at least partially from the housing 2, which allows for ergonomic handling when operating the application mechanism 8.

[0037] The fluid reservoir 4 can be moved by a rotary mechanism 16, which in the illustrated example is located at the end 3a. By rotating the rotary mechanism 16, the fluid reservoir 4 can be moved along the longitudinal axis of the housing 2. This allows for convenient one-handed operation and ensures that the fluid reservoir 4 is reliably guided and held between the two operating positions. The fluid reservoir 4 can be designed to be replaceable and / or refillable, allowing the use of different oral care fluids 5 and enabling the oral care device 1 to be used for extended periods without requiring a complete replacement of the device. This can increase sustainability and reduce material consumption.

[0038] Fig. Figure 3 shows an oral care device 1 according to a second embodiment of the invention in a cleaning position, in which the tooth cleaning element 6 is moved in the housing 2 via a cam guide 10. The basic design with the housing 2, the end regions 3a, 3b, the liquid container 4 with reservoir 7 and application mechanism 8, and the tooth cleaning element 6 corresponds to that in conjunction with Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 described embodiment, so reference can be made to the explanations therein. A slide 11 is guided in the cam guide 10, which is connected to the tooth cleaning element 6 and can be moved manually along the cam guide 10 by a user.

[0039] The cam track 10 has a central section 12 extending longitudinally along the housing 2, and two opposing end sections 13a and 13b, which, in the example shown, are essentially perpendicular to the central section 12. The slide 11 can be moved along the central section 12 between the end sections 13a and 13b, thus moving the tooth cleaning element 6 longitudinally along the housing 2. When the slide 11 reaches one of the end sections 13a or 13b, moving it into the respective end section locks the tooth cleaning element 6 in a transport or cleaning position.

[0040] In this way, the cam guide 10 can serve to hold the tooth cleaning element 6 reproducibly in two defined positions without the need for additional detents or locking elements. The geometry of the central section 12 and end sections 13a, 13b enables smooth operation with a limited range of motion, which can contribute to intuitive handling in mobile applications. At the same time, it can be ensured that the tooth cleaning element 6 is completely or largely located within the housing 2 in the transport position and protrudes sufficiently from the housing 2 in the cleaning position to allow effective mechanical cleaning with the cleaning pad 17.

[0041] Fig.Figure 4 shows an oral care device 1 according to a third embodiment of the invention, in which the tooth cleaning element 6 is moved in the housing 2 via a rotary mechanism 14. Here too, the oral care device 1 again has the housing 2 with end regions 3a, 3b, the liquid container 4 with reservoir 7 and application mechanism 8, the tooth cleaning element 6 with cleaning pad 17 and antibacterial properties, and optionally a protective cap 19 at one or both end regions, so that the effects and advantages described above can also apply to this embodiment.

[0042] The rotary mechanism 14 comprises a rotatable section 15 on the outside of the housing 2, which can be manually rotated by a user. The rotation of the section 15 moves the tooth cleaning element 6 along a predetermined path relative to the housing 2, allowing it to be moved from a transport position, in which it is fully or largely enclosed within the housing 2, to a cleaning position, in which it protrudes from the housing 2. The conversion of the rotary movement into a translational movement of the tooth cleaning element 6 can be achieved within the housing 2 by a suitable mechanism, such as a threaded, cam, or eccentric arrangement.

[0043] The rotary mechanism 14 enables particularly easy one-handed operation, whereby the user simply operates the rotating section 15 to move the tooth cleaning element 6 between the functional positions. At the same time, the tooth cleaning element 6 is securely held in the respective end position, preventing any unwanted movement during transport or cleaning.

[0044] In all described embodiments, the interaction of the liquid reservoir 4 with the application mechanism 8 and the mechanical tooth cleaning element 6 with the cleaning pad 17 and the described sliding mechanisms enables complete portable oral care to be performed with the oral care device 1. The combination of the chemical action of the oral care fluid 5 and the mechanical cleaning action of the tooth cleaning element 6 can loosen plaque, reduce bacterial load, and care for tooth surfaces without the need for additional aids such as separate toothbrushes or rinsing cups. The compact arrangement of all functional modules in the housing 2 with the end sections 3a, 3b, and the optional protective caps 19 allows for hygienic and space-saving transport in everyday situations, while traveling, or during sports. Reference symbol list 1 oral care device 2 cases 3a, 3b End areas 4 liquid containers 6 Tooth cleaning element 7 Reservoir 8 Application mechanism 9a, 9b Bayonet fittings 10 Backstage Tour 11 sliders 12 middle section 13a, 13b End sections 14 Rotating mechanism for the tooth cleaning element 15 rotatable sections 16 Rotating mechanism for the liquid container 17 cleaning pads 19 Protective cap

Claims

[1] Oral care device (1) with an elongated housing (2) having two opposing end regions (3a, 3b), wherein at one end area a liquid container (4) for receiving and dispensing an oral care liquid (5) is arranged, a mechanical tooth cleaning element (6) is arranged at the other end area, the liquid container (4) comprises a reservoir (7) for the oral care liquid (5) held in the housing (2) and an activatable application mechanism (8) for applying the oral care liquid (5) and the mechanical tooth cleaning element (6) is arranged to be movable in such a way that, for transport in a transport position, it is received at least partially inside the housing (2) and, in a cleaning position for tooth cleaning, it protrudes at least partially from the housing (2). [2] Oral care device according to claim 1, wherein the liquid container (4) is designed to be replaceable and / or refillable. [3] Oral care device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the mechanical tooth cleaning element (6) is coupled to the housing (2) via a detachable connection, preferably with a bayonet fitting (9). [4] Oral care device according to one of claims 1 or 2, wherein a cam guide (10) is provided for controlled displacement of the mechanical tooth cleaning element (6) in the housing (2), in which a slider (11) connected to the mechanical tooth cleaning element (6) can be manually displaced by a user. [5] Oral care device according to claim 4, wherein the cam guide (10) has a central section (12) extending in the longitudinal direction of the housing (2) and two opposing end sections (13a, 13b) extending perpendicular to the central section (12) in order to be able to fix the mechanical tooth cleaning element (6) in these end sections (13a, 13b) in the transport position or the cleaning position. [6] Oral care device according to one of claims 1 or 2, wherein a rotary mechanism (14) is provided for controlled displacement of the mechanical tooth cleaning element (6) in the housing (2). [7] Oral care device according to claim 6, wherein the rotary mechanism (14) has a section (15) on the outside of the housing (2) that can be rotated manually by a user. [8] Oral care device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the liquid container (4) is arranged to be displaceable in the longitudinal direction of the housing (2) in such a way that it can be received at least partially inside the housing (2) for transport in a transport position and can be extended at least partially out of the housing (2) in a cleaning position for tooth cleaning. [9] Oral care device according to claim 8, wherein the liquid container (4) is provided with a rotary mechanism (16) which provides the function of longitudinal displacement of the liquid container (4). [10] Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the tooth cleaning element (6) carries a cleaning pad (17), a foam element, a fiber bundle, a rotatable mini-brush, vibrating modules and / or rubber lamellae. [11] Device according to claim 10, wherein the cleaning pad (17) is detachably fixed by means of a hook and loop fastener, adhesive or clip connection, in particular a hook and loop fastener (18). [12] Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing (2) is provided with a protective cap (19) at least at one end area. [13] Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the reservoir (7) is secured against leakage of the liquid (5) by means of sealing means such as an O-ring or snap connection. [14] Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the application mechanism (8) comprises a pumping mechanism with which a spray mist or a directed liquid jet can be generated. [15] Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the tooth cleaning element (6) has antibacterial properties.

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