Device to support oral hygiene in animals

Abstract

Device (1) for supporting oral hygiene in animals, in particular dogs or cats, comprising at least a body (2) for receiving food, at least one light source (4) for generating electromagnetic radiation, and a power supply device (6) for supplying the light source (4) with electrical energy, wherein the at least one light source (4) is arranged in or on the body (2) and is designed and configured to emit electromagnetic radiation for germ and / or bacteria reduction into the oral cavity of the animal.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a device for supporting oral hygiene in animals, especially dogs or cats.

[0002] Feeding devices for pets, such as food bowls, water bowls, mats, or trays, are widely used in practice and primarily serve to provide and facilitate the intake of food or liquid for pets. These devices are available in various materials, sizes, and shapes, and aim to make feeding animals easier and more hygienic.

[0003] For targeted support of oral hygiene in animals, there are currently only limited suitable technical solutions available. Conventional methods, such as mechanical toothbrushes or manual cleaning procedures, generally require the animal's active participation, which is often problematic, especially with dogs and cats. Many animals resist having their teeth brushed, making regular and effective cleaning of the oral cavity difficult to ensure.

[0004] Furthermore, known approaches are limited to the mechanical removal of dental plaque or food debris and offer no possibility of specifically reducing germs or bacteria in the oral cavity.

[0005] Further solutions for the targeted reduction of germs or bacteria in the oral cavity of animals are known only to a very limited extent in the prior art. In particular, there is a lack of devices that can be used during normal feeding and provide effective support for oral hygiene.

[0006] The methods currently available focus primarily on mechanical cleaning, without achieving a direct, continuous hygienic effect in the oral cavity. Therefore, there remains a need for improved technical measures to support the oral hygiene of pets.

[0007] Based on this, it is an object of the present invention to provide a device for supporting oral hygiene in animals, in particular in dogs or cats, which avoids these disadvantages and enables simple, effective and passive support of the oral hygiene of animals.

[0008] This problem is solved by a device for supporting oral hygiene in animals, particularly dogs or cats, according to the features of independent claim 1. The dependent claims relate to particularly advantageous embodiments of the invention.

[0009] According to one aspect, the present invention relates to a device for supporting oral hygiene in animals, particularly dogs or cats. The device comprises at least one body for receiving food, at least one light source for generating electromagnetic radiation, and a power supply unit for providing electrical energy to the light source. The at least one light source is arranged in or on the body and is designed and configured to emit electromagnetic radiation into the animal's oral cavity for the purpose of reducing germs and / or bacteria. Thus, the device according to the invention enables targeted support of oral hygiene in animals without requiring the animal's active participation.By positioning the light source in or on a container where food is held, the radiation can directly enter the pet's mouth during normal feeding, effectively reducing germs and bacteria. This significantly increases the effectiveness of oral hygiene compared to conventional mechanical cleaning methods that rely on the animal's cooperation. Integrating the light source into an ordinary food or drink container ensures easy handling and regular daily use by the pet. The pet owner can use the device like a normal bowl without additional effort or special training, thus facilitating the continuous use of the device according to the invention and reliably ensuring its hygienic effect.

[0010] In one advantageous embodiment, the body can be designed as a mat, plate, or food / water bowl. This design allows for a compact and stable construction, which facilitates both the positioning of the light source and the safe intake of food. Furthermore, it enables particularly easy integration into the daily feeding routine. Pets readily accept the device for feeding, thus ensuring regular and passive use of the hygienic function without additional training or active participation from the animal.

[0011] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the body can have a surface that is transparent at least in a region below which the at least one light source is located, such that the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the at least one light source passes through at least this transparent region of the surface into the animal's oral cavity. In this embodiment, the body of the device is thus designed such that its surface is transparent at least in the region where the at least one light source is located, namely below the transparent region. The light source is advantageously located and positioned within the body such that the electromagnetic radiation generated by the light source passes through the transparent region of the surface and exits the body.In this way, the electromagnetic radiation is selectively emitted from the device body towards the animal's oral cavity, without requiring an open or exposed light source. Firstly, this translucent surface design allows for the protected integration of the light source within the device body. The light source can preferably be completely enclosed within the device, thus protecting it from mechanical impacts, contamination, and moisture without impairing the emission of electromagnetic radiation. Secondly, the translucent surface area allows for a defined and low-loss extraction of the electromagnetic radiation from the device body.The radiation is directed through the designated area of ​​the surface, thereby achieving a reproducible emission pattern and improving the technical effectiveness of the light source.

[0012] According to a further advantageous embodiment, at least the entire surface of the body, preferably the entire body, can be made transparent. Thus, the body of the device is advantageously designed such that at least its entire surface is transparent. Preferably, the entire body is made of a transparent material, allowing the light source arranged within the body to emit its electromagnetic radiation across its entire surface. The emission of the electromagnetic radiation is therefore not limited to a locally confined exit area, which simplifies the design of the device and makes the placement of the light source within the body less critical.However, the completely transparent design of the body allows for a more uniform emission of electromagnetic radiation from the body. This leads to a homogeneous distribution of the radiation within the body and reduces shadowing or direction-dependent losses that can occur with locally confined emission openings. It can also be advantageous to incorporate at least one light source in a base and / or in an edge section of the body projecting upwards. In particular, the edge section projects upwards from the base of the body.

[0013] Transparent or translucent plastics are particularly suitable as light-transmitting materials for the body or at least one light-transmitting area of ​​the device. For example, the body can be made entirely or partially, especially in the light-transmitting area, from a plastic material such as polycarbonate (PC), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), or polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0014] Alternatively or additionally, the body or at least a translucent area of ​​the body can consist of a silicone material or an elastomer that has sufficient light transmission for the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the light source.

[0015] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the device may be provided with several light sources, wherein the light sources emit light in the blue, red, and / or violet spectral range and are, in particular, designed as light-emitting diodes (LEDs), OLEDs (organic light-emitting diodes), or electroluminescent (EL) films. More specifically, the light sources may be configured to emit light in the blue spectral range with wavelengths of approximately 400 nm to 470 nm and in the red spectral range with wavelengths of approximately 630 nm to 700 nm. If only one light source is present in an embodiment, this light source is preferably configured to generate red light. Advantageously, the device always includes at least one red light source.In embodiments with multiple light sources, the device may include at least one red light source and at least one other blue light source, enabling the generation of a combination of both wavelengths. Thus, the device always has at least one red light source. This allows for the simultaneous emission of light in the red and blue spectral ranges. It may also be provided that at least one of the light sources is designed to simultaneously generate both wavelengths, i.e., blue and red light. In particular, this light source may be a bicolor LED or multilayer OLED, enabling the simultaneous generation of light in the blue and red ranges.Alternatively or cumulatively, it can also be advantageously provided that at least one of the light sources is designed as a switchable light source that emits electromagnetic radiation in at least two different wavelength ranges depending on a control signal from the control device. A light source capable of generating different wavelengths can be understood, in particular, as a light source that emits electromagnetic radiation in at least two different wavelength ranges depending on an electrical control signal. The light source can therefore be designed such that it is switchable between the different wavelength ranges or, alternatively, can generate them simultaneously. Technically, such a light source can, for example, be designed as a multicolor LED in which several light-emitting structures are integrated into a single component.The individual light-emitting structures are each designed to emit light in a defined wavelength range and can be controlled independently or together, so that color switching or a superposition of several wavelengths is possible.

[0016] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the device may include a control unit, preferably integrated into or attached to the body, which interacts with the at least one light source and / or the power supply unit to control the at least one light source based on control signals from the control unit. Integrating the control unit into or attached to the body of the device results in a compact and self-contained design. The control unit can be positioned close to the light source and the power supply unit, thereby reducing cable lengths and minimizing the number of external connecting elements. This simplifies the device's design, increases its mechanical robustness, and facilitates the integration of the electrical components into the body.A further advantage lies in the targeted control of at least one light source depending on control signals from the control unit. This allows operating parameters of the light source, such as switch-on times, intensity, sequence, or combination of multiple light sources, to be set in a technically controlled and reproducible manner. This enables defined operation of the light source and contributes to stable and consistent operation of the device. A particularly advantageous feature is the fully integrated control unit. This complete integration allows for a closed and compact design of the device. The control unit is protected from external influences, especially moisture, contamination, and mechanical stress. This increases the operational reliability of the electronic components and extends the service life of the device.

[0017] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the control device can control the at least one light source in terms of timing, intensity, and / or a defined sequence, particularly to influence the duration, sequence, and / or radiation characteristics of the emitted radiation. The light source can be controlled in different operating modes. For example, the light source can be operated continuously or dimmed at a reduced intensity compared to its rated power. Alternatively or additionally, the control device can provide for intermittent control, in which the light source is switched on and off according to a predetermined time pattern. In further embodiments, the control device can control the switching between different wavelengths or colors in the case of multiple light sources or a switchable light source.

[0018] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the device may include at least one sensor that registers whether the animal brings the body surface into contact with its tongue or mouth, wherein the control unit operates based on the sensor signal and activates the at least one light source in response to a sensor signal. Advantageously, the body includes the at least one sensor, which may particularly preferably be integrated into the body. For example, the at least one sensor may be integrated into the body surface. Integrating the sensor into the body of the device results in a compact, enclosed design. The at least one sensor is protected from mechanical impacts, moisture, and contamination, which increases the robustness and reliability of the device.Connecting at least one sensor to the control unit enables immediate, sensor-dependent activation of the light source. This allows the radiation emission times and intensity to be precisely adjusted to the presence of the animal, thus increasing the technical efficiency of the device.

[0019] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the at least one sensor can be a pressure sensor, a capacitive sensor, or an optical sensor that registers whether the animal is touching the body surface with its tongue or mouth. Multiple sensors can also be provided on or in the body, spaced apart from one another, i.e., located at different points on or in the body. Furthermore, different sensor types can be provided when multiple sensors are present. In embodiments where the device has multiple sensors, different sensor types can therefore be combined. For example, the device can include at least one pressure sensor and at least one capacitive sensor. Additionally or alternatively, an optical sensor can be provided.The different sensor types can be arranged individually or together in the device to enable flexible and reliable detection of the animal's contact with the surface of its body.

[0020] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the surface of the device can be designed as a three-dimensional structure, preferably comprising waves, depressions, ridges, grooves, and bumps. This three-dimensional surface structure stabilizes the positioning of the ingested food. Grooves, depressions, or bumps prevent the food from shifting uncontrollably and allow for precise guidance on the device's surface. The device can be designed as a licking or feeding mat, enabling the animal to process the food on the surface for an extended period. This allows the light from the light source located within the device to be emitted over a longer time without the immediate removal of the food.Thus, the three-dimensional structure ensures that the food is mechanically fixed and remains in a controlled manner on the surface. This allows for a prolonged, uniform emission of electromagnetic radiation from the light source.

[0021] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the power supply unit for providing electrical energy to the at least one light source may include at least one mains connection, a battery, a rechargeable battery, or a power bank. More specifically, the power supply unit is configured as a mains connection, battery, rechargeable battery, or power bank. The power supply unit may be permanently integrated into the device body or removable to allow for replacement or recharging. The ability to use different energy sources, from mains connections to rechargeable batteries and power banks, allows the device to be operated in various environments without requiring modifications to its basic design.Integrating the power supply unit into the device body allows for a compact and enclosed design. Particularly with integrated batteries or accumulators, cables and connections are kept short, which increases electrical efficiency and improves the device's mechanical robustness.

[0022] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the power supply device can be configured as an inductive or wireless power transmission system. In this case, the electrical energy for supplying the at least one light source is transmitted without a physical cable connection. The power supply device configured as an inductive or wireless power transmission system comprises a transmitter and receiver unit that interact for the wireless transmission of electrical energy. The transmitter unit includes at least one electrical power source and transmitting electronics configured to generate a time-varying electromagnetic field. For this purpose, the transmitter unit can, in particular, include a coil or a comparable electromagnetic transmitting device connected to the power source.The transmitter unit can be stationary or part of an external charging device. The receiver unit is preferably integrated into the body of the device and comprises at least one receiving device configured to receive the electromagnetic field generated by the transmitter unit. For this purpose, the receiver unit can include a receiving coil or a corresponding antenna structure. Furthermore, the receiver unit can include a rectifier and / or control unit that converts the received energy into electrical energy suitable for powering the at least one light source. Advantageously, the transmitter and receiver units are coordinated in such a way that efficient energy transfer over a predetermined distance occurs without the need for a galvanic connection between the transmitter and receiver units.

[0023] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the power supply unit can comprise a combination of mains connection and battery, thus enabling both direct mains operation and battery operation. The power supply unit is designed so that the device can be operated either directly from the mains or via battery operation, with automatic or control-dependent switching between the operating modes being possible. The combination of mains connection and battery provides the device with a redundant power supply. In the event of a mains power interruption, operation can be automatically resumed via the battery without affecting the function of the light source or the control unit. This combined power supply allows the device to be operated both with an external power source and autonomously.This enables an electrical supply for at least one light source that is independent of the availability of a mains connection, while simultaneously allowing continuous operation without battery discharge when a mains connection is available. Battery operation also allows the device to operate independently of the mains without requiring additional electrical connections.

[0024] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the body can be provided with a removable protective cover that fits precisely onto it. This cover offers mechanical protection for the device body, particularly for components integrated into or on the body, such as light sources, sensors, or cables. The precise fit ensures a stable connection between the cover and the body, making the device robust against impacts, mechanical stress, and contamination. Advantageously, the cover is made of a translucent material, especially transparent or translucent plastic, silicone, glass, or a similar material.

[0025] The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments shown in the figures. The figures show: Fig. 1. An advantageous embodiment of a device for supporting oral hygiene in animals is shown only in a sketchy and roughly schematic view in perspective. Fig. 2. A further advantageous embodiment of a device for supporting oral hygiene in animals is shown only in a sketchy and roughly schematic way in perspective view. Fig. 3 A sketched and roughly schematic top view of a design variant of a device to support oral hygiene in animals.

[0026] For identical or similarly functioning elements of the invention, identical reference numerals are used in the figures, where appropriate. Furthermore, for the sake of clarity, only reference numerals necessary for describing the respective figure are shown in the individual figures. The invention is also presented in the figures only as a schematic view to illustrate its operation. In particular, the representations in the figures serve only to explain the fundamental principle of the invention.

[0027] Fig. Figure 1, referenced by numeral 1, shows a device for supporting oral hygiene in animals, particularly dogs or cats. The device 1 comprises a body 2 for receiving food, at least one light source 4 for generating electromagnetic radiation, and a power supply unit 6 for supplying electrical energy to the light source 4.

[0028] In more detail, the body 2 can have a base 2.1 with an upper surface OS and an underside US opposite the upper surface OS. The underside US of the body 2 forms a base, allowing the body 2 to stand on a level surface. As can also be seen in the figures, the body 2 further has an edge section 2.2 extending upwards from the base 2.1. The edge section 2.2 is, for example, ring-shaped, so that the base 2.1 and edge section 2.2 together form a receiving area on the body 2 for the intake of food.

[0029] Advantageously, the base 2.1 and the edge section 2.2 can be formed in one piece, particularly as a single unit. Furthermore, a surface OF is formed or provided on the upper surface OS of the body 2. In the embodiment shown in the figures, light sources 4 are incorporated both in the base 2.1 of the body 2 and in the edge section 2.2 of the body 2, which projects upwards from the base 2.1. The light sources 4 emit light in the blue, red, and / or violet spectral range and can be designed as light-emitting diodes, OLEDs, or electroluminescent films. The surface OF of the body 2 is designed as a three-dimensional structure 12, which has waves, depressions, protrusions, grooves, and bumps.

[0030] Body 2 can be designed as a mat, plate, food or water bowl. The exemplary embodiment of the Fig. Figure 1 shows a body 2 designed as a food or water bowl, while the embodiment of the Fig. 2 represents a body imagined as a mat 2 and the top view of the Fig. 3 a body formed as a plate 2. It should be emphasized that all aspects shown or described in connection with individual figures also apply in the same or similar way to the execution variants of the other figures.

[0031] As can also be seen from the figures, the multiple light sources 4 are arranged here by way of example in the body 2 and are designed and set up to emit electromagnetic radiation for germ and / or bacteria reduction into the mouth of the animal.

[0032] As from Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3, the body 2 has a surface OF on its upper side OS which is translucent in areas 8, in which the light sources 4 are incorporated into the body 2 below the respective translucent area 8, so that the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the respective light source 4 can pass through the corresponding translucent area 8 of the surface OF into the oral cavity of the animal.

[0033] As from the Fig. 1 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, it is also possible that the entire surface OF on the top side OS of body 2 is translucent. In this case, the surface OF on the top side OS of body 2 is formed as a translucent area 8.

[0034] As can be seen from the figures, the device 1 has a control unit SR with a display unit 9, which is housed in the body 4 and interacts with the light sources 4 and the power supply unit SR to control the light sources 4 depending on control signals from the control unit SR. The control unit SR controls the light sources 4 in terms of timing, intensity, and / or a defined sequence, namely to influence the duration, sequence, and / or emission characteristics of the emitted radiation.

[0035] Furthermore, the device 1 has a sensor 10 which registers whether the animal brings the surface OF of the body 2 into contact with its tongue or mouth, wherein the control unit SR operates depending on the sensor and activates the light sources 4 depending on sensor signals. The sensor 10 can be a pressure sensor, a capacitive sensor, or an optical sensor.

[0036] In the version of the Fig. In the first figure, the power supply unit 6 is configured as a mains connection 14 for electrical supply. However, it is also conceivable that the power supply unit 6 includes additional components besides the mains connection 14, such as a battery, a rechargeable battery, or a power bank. It is also possible for the power supply unit 6 to be configured for inductive or wireless power transmission. Advantageously, such an inductive power supply unit 6 also includes a mains connection 14 and a rechargeable battery, so that the rechargeable battery can be charged inductively.

[0037] Finally, the device 1 has a removable protective cover 16 that can be fitted precisely onto the body 2. The protective cover 16 is made of translucent material.

[0038] The invention has been described above using an exemplary embodiment. It is understood that numerous modifications or adaptations are possible without departing from the underlying inventive concept. Reference symbol list 1 Device 2 bodies 2.1 Floor 2.2 Marginal section 4 light sources 6 Power supply unit 8 translucent area 9 Display setup 10 Sensor 12 three-dimensional structures 14 Network connection 16 Protective case SR control unit OF surface OS top US subpage

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