Replacement floss device

Abstract

According to embodiments of this disclosure, a replaceable flossing device is provided. [Solution] The above-mentioned replaceable floss device may include a main body portion that extends in the longitudinal direction and includes a handle portion, and a head portion that forms a storage area spaced apart from the handle portion in the longitudinal direction and includes a storage projection portion and a storage recess portion; a base portion that is replaceably connected to the main body portion and includes a connecting projection portion and a connecting recess portion, an arm portion that extends in a direction different from the direction in which the base portion extends, and a replaceable floss portion that includes floss connected to the arm portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to replaceable floss devices.

Background Art

[0002] Floss is a tool for removing food residues and plaque remaining around teeth, gums, and periodontium to maintain oral hygiene. Floss can contribute to improving periodontal and dental health by assisting in cleaning hard-to-reach interdental areas that are difficult for toothbrushes to reach.

[0003] Disposing of floss after a single use can have a negative impact on the environment. Also, in order for floss to effectively clean around teeth and gums, the tension of the thread needs to be firmly maintained during use.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] One aspect of this disclosure is to provide a replaceable floss device configured to hold the tension of the thread when using floss so as to effectively manage oral hygiene.

[0005] One aspect of this disclosure is to provide a replaceable floss device in which the floss is configured to be replaceable, improving its environmentally friendly characteristics.

[0006] One aspect of this disclosure is to provide a replaceable floss device that allows users to easily replace and attach the floss.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a replaceable flossing device may include a replaceable flossing section comprising: a main body portion extending longitudinally and including a handle portion and a head portion that forms a receiving area spaced longitudinally from the handle portion and includes a receiving projection and a receiving recess; a base portion interchangeably coupled to the main body portion and including a coupling projection and a coupling recess; an arm portion extending in a direction different from the direction in which the base portion extends; and floss coupled to the arm portion. When the replaceable flossing section is coupled to the main body portion, the coupling projection and the receiving recess may abut against each other, and the base portion may be positioned in the receiving area such that the coupling recess and the receiving projection abut against each other. The replaceable flossing section is coupled to the head portion along a coupling direction that separates the floss and the base portion, and the coupling direction and the longitudinal direction may be different from each other. The above-mentioned storage area includes a first storage end that is open to face the handle and a second storage end formed opposite to the first storage end, and may overlap with at least a portion of the handle along the longitudinal direction.

[0008] According to the embodiment, the replaceable flossing device may further include an open area fluidly connected to the housing area and surrounded by at least a portion of the handle and at least a portion of the head. The handle may further include a curved neck portion that forms at least a portion of the open area, is connected to at least a portion of the head, and has a curved outer surface on the side facing the open area.

[0009] According to the embodiment, the head portion may include a connecting head portion, a joining head portion, and a separating head portion that are integrally formed with each other to form a U-shape. The connecting head portion may be connected to one end of the joining head portion, and the separating head portion may be connected to the other end of the joining head portion. The curved neck portion may be connected to the connecting head portion and physically separated from the separating head portion.

[0010] According to the embodiment, the base portion may include a front surface facing the floss and a back surface formed opposite to the front surface. When the replaceable floss portion is coupled to the main body portion, the front surface of the base portion may be in contact with the coupling head portion and the back surface of the base portion may be open, so that the coupling head portion pressures at least a part of the base portion.

[0011] According to the embodiment, the arm portion may include a first arm portion extending from one end of the base portion and a second arm portion extending from the other end of the base portion. The floss may be coupled between the first arm portion and the second arm portion. When the replaceable floss portion is coupled to the main body portion, the first arm portion may be provided in the open region, and the second arm portion may be provided around the second housing end.

[0012] According to the embodiment, the open region formed by the curved neck portion does not necessarily have to be formed at the second housing end.

[0013] According to the embodiment, the floss may have a first tension when the replaceable floss portion is not connected to the main body portion, and a second tension greater than the first tension when the replaceable floss portion is connected to the main body portion. The straight-line distance between the distal ends of the first arm portion and the second arm portion is a first distance when the replaceable floss portion is not connected to the main body portion, and a second distance greater than the first distance when the replaceable floss portion is connected to the main body portion.

[0014] According to the embodiment, the curvature of the base portion is a first curvature when the replaceable floss portion is not connected to the main body portion, and may be a second curvature smaller than the first curvature when the replaceable floss portion is connected to the main body portion.

[0015] According to the embodiment, the replaceable floss portion may further include a fastening portion having a cavity structure that contacts at least a part of the head portion when the replaceable floss portion and the head portion are joined together. The direction in which the fastening portion and the floss are separated may be different from the longitudinal direction. At least a part of the fastening portion may be formed by the base portion, and the other part of the fastening portion may be formed by the arm portion. The fastening portion may include a first fastening portion adjacent to the first arm portion and a second fastening portion adjacent to the second arm portion.

[0016] According to the embodiment, when the replaceable floss portion is not connected to the main body portion, the fastening portion can form a first angle, and when the replaceable floss portion is connected to the main body portion, the fastening portion can form a second angle. The second angle can be larger than the first angle.

[0017] According to the embodiment, the first angle can be 90 degrees or less.

[0018] According to the embodiment, the fastening portion may include an inner surface and may include a fastening portion which is the end of the inner surface adjacent to the inner part of the arm portion. When the replaceable floss portion is not connected to the main body portion, the fastening portion of the first fastening portion and the fastening portion of the second fastening portion are separated by a first separation distance, and when the replaceable floss portion is connected to the main body portion, the fastening portion of the first fastening portion and the fastening portion of the second fastening portion may be separated by a second separation distance. The first separation distance can be smaller than the second separation distance and smaller than the length of the head portion of the connecting head portion.

[0019] According to the embodiment, each of the receiving protrusion and the connecting protrusion may have a curved cross-sectional shape. Each of the receiving recess and the connecting recess may have a cross-sectional shape corresponding to the receiving protrusion and the connecting protrusion.

[0020] According to the embodiment, the base portion can have a greater thickness than the arm portion. [Effects of the Invention]

[0021] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a replaceable dental floss device configured to be able to hold the tension of the thread when using dental floss and effectively manage oral hygiene.

[0022] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a replaceable dental floss device in which the dental floss is configured to be replaceable and the environmental-friendly characteristics are improved.

[0023] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a replaceable dental floss device that allows a user to easily replace and attach the dental floss.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0024] [Figure 1] It is a schematic front perspective view showing a main body portion and a replaceable dental floss portion forming a replaceable dental floss device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a schematic rear perspective view showing a replaceable dental floss device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] It is a schematic side view showing a replaceable dental floss device according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] It is a schematic side view showing a main body portion and a replaceable dental floss portion according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] It is a schematic other side view showing a main body portion according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] It is a schematic perspective view showing a replaceable dental floss portion according to an embodiment. [[ID=�6]] [Figure 7] It is a schematic view showing a structure in which replaceable dental floss portions according to an embodiment are prepared by binding them to each other. [Figure 8] It is a schematic view showing a structure before a replaceable dental floss portion according to an embodiment is coupled to a head portion. [Figure 9] It is a schematic view showing a structure after a replaceable dental floss portion according to an embodiment is coupled to a head portion.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0025] This disclosure can be modified in various ways and may take many forms; therefore, specific embodiments are shown in the drawings and described in detail in the text. However, this should not be understood as limiting this disclosure to any particular form, but rather as including all modifications, equivalents, or substitutions that fall within the concept and technical scope of this disclosure.

[0026] Terms such as "First," "Second," etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another. For example, within the scope of the rights of this disclosure, the first component may be referred to as the second component, and similarly, the second component may be referred to as the first component. A singular expression includes plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0027] In this disclosure, terms such as “includes” or “have” are used to specify the presence of features, figures, stages, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof as described in the specification, and should be understood not to preemptively exclude the presence or possibility of adding one or more other features, figures, stages, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof. Also, when a part such as a layer, film, region, or plate is said to be “on” another part, this includes not only when it is “directly on” the other part, but also when there are other parts in between. Furthermore, in this specification, when a part such as a layer, film, region, or plate is formed on another part, the direction of formation is not limited to the upward direction, but also includes when it is formed on the side or downward. Conversely, when a part such as a layer, film, region, or plate is said to be “below” another part, this includes not only when it is “directly below” the other part, but also when there are other parts in between.

[0028] This disclosure relates to a replaceable flossing device. Hereinafter, a replaceable flossing device will be described according to an embodiment with reference to the attached drawings.

[0029] Refer to Figures 1 to 7 to describe the interchangeable floss device 1 according to an embodiment.

[0030] Figure 1 is a schematic front perspective view showing the main body and replaceable floss part forming the replaceable floss device according to an embodiment. Figure 2 is a schematic rear perspective view showing the replaceable floss device according to an embodiment. Figure 3 is a schematic side view showing the replaceable floss device according to an embodiment. Figure 1 schematically shows the structure before the main body 10 and the replaceable floss part 20 are joined together, while Figures 2 and 3 show the replaceable floss device 1 according to an embodiment, showing the structure in which the main body 10 and the replaceable floss part 20 are joined together.

[0031] Figure 4 is a schematic side view showing the main body and replaceable floss section according to an embodiment. Figure 4 schematically shows the main body 10 viewed from the same direction as Figure 3. Figure 5 is another schematic side view showing the main body according to an embodiment. Figure 5 schematically shows the main body 10 according to an embodiment viewed from the head end.

[0032] Figure 6 is a schematic perspective view showing a replaceable floss section according to an embodiment. Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing a structure in which replaceable floss sections are bonded together according to an embodiment.

[0033] The replaceable floss device 1 is a tool for removing food and plaque remaining around the teeth, periodontal tissue, and gums in order to maintain the user's oral hygiene.

[0034] The replaceable floss device 1 includes a main body 10 and may also include a replaceable floss part 20 that can be removably attached to the main body 10.

[0035] The user connects the replaceable floss section 20 to the main body section 10, then grips a part of the main body section 10 to floss. The replaceable floss section 20 can be detached from the main body section 10, and a new replaceable floss section 20 can be reattached to the main body section 10.

[0036] In this case, at least a portion of the replaceable flossing device 1 can be reused, thus reducing the risk of generating unnecessary waste such as waste plastics and polluting the environment.

[0037] In this specification, a first direction DR1, a second direction DR2, and a third direction DR3 are defined. The first direction DR1 may be the longitudinal direction DR_L in which the main body portion 10 (or handle portion 120) extends. The second direction DR2 may be the thickness direction of the head portion 140. The third direction DR3 may be the direction in which the arm portion 240 extends when the main body portion 10 and the replaceable floss portion 20 are joined together. The third direction DR3 may be the thickness direction of the joining head portion 141. The third direction DR3 may be the direction in which the base portion 220 and the floss 22 are separated.

[0038] In the embodiment, the third direction DR3 may be referred to as the bonding direction DR_C. The bonding direction DR_C can be different from the longitudinal direction DR_L. For example, the bonding direction DR_C may be perpendicular to the longitudinal direction DR_L. However, it goes without saying that the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0039] The main body portion 10 can extend in the longitudinal direction DR_L. According to the embodiment, the main body portion 10 may include a handle portion 120 and a head portion 140 that are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction DR_L. According to the embodiment, the main body portion 10 may further include an open area 160.

[0040] The handle portion 120 may include a part that the user grips when flossing. For example, the handle portion 120 can extend along the longitudinal direction DR_L from a region separated from the head portion 140 along the longitudinal direction DR_L.

[0041] The handle portion 120 may include a first handle end 122a and a second handle end 122b. The first handle end 122a may be a tail portion separated from the head portion 140. The second handle end 122b may be a head portion connected to the head portion 140.

[0042] According to the embodiment, at least a portion of the handle portion 120 may include a recessed portion 124 to make it easier for the user to grip, and may have a width that narrows towards the first handle end portion 122a.

[0043] The handle portion 120 may be made of a material such as plastic. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0044] The handle portion 120 may further include various hole structures. This can improve the aesthetics of the replaceable flossing device 1 and enhance the user's grip and other aspects.

[0045] The handle portion 120 may include a curved neck portion 126 that forms at least a part of the open area 160. The open area 160 may be surrounded by at least a part of the handle portion 120.

[0046] The curved neck portion 126 may be a part formed on at least a portion of the handle portion 120. The curved neck portion 126 may be formed adjacent to the second handle end portion 122b. A portion of the curved neck portion 126 may be connected to the head portion 140.

[0047] The curved neck portion 126 can face the head portion 140. The curved neck portion 126 may be directly adjacent to the open area 160. The curved neck portion 126 may have a curved outer surface facing the open area 160. For example, the curved neck portion 126 may have an outer surface extending in a direction inclined with respect to the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2.

[0048] The curved neck portion 126 can be connected (or joined) to at least a part of the head portion 140. The curved neck portion 126 may be connected (or joined) to the connecting head portion 140a, but may not be connected (or joined) to the separating head portion 140b. The curved neck portion 126 may be physically separated from the separating head portion 140b. That is, the curved neck portion 126 can be connected to a part of the head portion 140, separated from another part, and have an outer surface extending in an inclined direction, thereby forming an open region 160.

[0049] The head portion 140 may include a portion to which the replaceable floss portion 20 is connected. For example, the head portion 140 may include (e.g., form) a receiving area 142 (see Figure 4) to which at least a portion of the replaceable floss portion 20 is provided.

[0050] The head portion 140 can be connected to the second handle end portion 122b of the handle portion 120. In some embodiments, the head portion 140 and the handle portion 120 may be integrally formed. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the head portion 140 and the handle portion 120 may be manufactured separately and then joined together. However, it goes without saying that this disclosure is not limited to specific examples.

[0051] The head portion 140 may be made of a material such as plastic. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0052] The head portion 140 may include a connecting head portion 141, a linking head portion 140a, and a separating head portion 140b.

[0053] The coupling head portion 141, the connecting head portion 140a, and the separation head portion 140b may be formed integrally and generally have a U-shape that is open in the direction to which the replaceable floss portion 20 can be coupled. This allows the coupling head portion 141, the connecting head portion 140a, and the separation head portion 140b to form a receiving area 142.

[0054] For example, each of the coupling head portion 141, connecting head portion 140a, and separation head portion 140b may have a constant width along the third direction DR3 and may extend in the first direction DR1. Furthermore, each of the connecting head portion 140a and separation head portion 140b may be connected to both ends of the coupling head portion 141, or they may be separated from each other in the second direction DR2.

[0055] The connecting head portion 140a can be connected to the handle portion 120 (for example, the curved neck portion 126). The separating head portion 140b can be separated from the handle portion 120 (for example, the curved neck portion 126).

[0056] The coupling head portion 141, the connecting head portion 140a, and the separation head portion 140b can be adjacent to (for example, directly adjacent to) the open region 160.

[0057] The connecting head portion 141 may be the portion that pressurizes at least a part of the base portion 220 and the fastening portion 290 when the replaceable floss portion 20 and the main body portion 10 are connected. Further details regarding this will be described later with reference to Figures 8 and 9.

[0058] According to the embodiment, the head portion 140 may include (for example, form) a housing area 142. The housing area 142 of the head portion 140 may include a first housing end 142a and a second housing end 142b.

[0059] The first storage end 142a may be one end of the storage area 142 facing the handle portion 120. The second storage end 142b may be the other end of the storage area 142 not facing the handle portion 120. The first storage end 142a may be open so as to face the handle portion 120. The second storage end 142b may be formed opposite to the first storage end 142a.

[0060] The accommodating area 142 can be fluidly connected to the open area 160 at the first accommodating end 142a. The accommodating area 142 may also be directly adjacent to the open area 160 at the first accommodating end 142a. The accommodating area 142 may overlap with at least a portion of the handle portion 120 along the longitudinal direction DR_L. That is, according to the embodiment, the accommodating area 142 can overlap with the open area 160 along the longitudinal direction DR_L.

[0061] According to the embodiment, the head portion 140 may include a housing protrusion 146 and a housing recess 148.

[0062] The housing protrusions 146 may be formed on the respective connecting head portion 140a and separation head portion 140b so as to face the housing area 142. The housing protrusions 146 may include a plurality of housing protrusions 146. Some of the plurality of housing protrusions 146 may be formed on the connecting head portion 140a, and other parts of the plurality of housing protrusions 146 may be formed on the separation head portion 140b.

[0063] The housing projection 146 may extend in the third direction DR3, or it may project in a direction parallel to the second direction DR2.

[0064] According to the embodiments, the housing projection 146 may have a curved cross-sectional shape. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto. According to the embodiments, the housing projection 146 may have a semi-cylindrical shape. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0065] The accommodating recess 148 may be recessed in the connecting head portion 140a and the separation head portion 140b so as to be separated from the accommodating area 142. The accommodating recess 148 may include a plurality of accommodating recesses 148. Some of the plurality of accommodating recesses 148 may be formed on the connecting head portion 140a, and other parts of the plurality of accommodating recesses 148 may be formed on the separation head portion 140b.

[0066] The receiving recess 148 may extend in the third direction DR3, or it may be recessed in a direction parallel to the second direction DR2.

[0067] According to the embodiment, the receiving recess 148 may have a shape corresponding to the connecting projection 260. For example, the receiving recess 148 may have a curved cross-sectional shape. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto. According to the embodiment, the receiving recess 148 may be semi-cylindrical. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0068] The receiving protrusions 146 and receiving recesses 148 may be arranged alternately along the first direction DR1 in the connecting head portion 140a. The receiving protrusions 146 and receiving recesses 148 may be arranged alternately along the first direction DR1 in the separating head portion 140b.

[0069] The receiving protrusion 146 and the receiving recess 148 can be superimposed along the second direction DR2. For example, the receiving protrusion 146 on the connecting head portion 140a and the receiving recess 148 on the separation head portion 140b can be superimposed on each other along the second direction DR2 and can form a pair. The receiving protrusion 146 on the separation head portion 140b and the receiving recess 148 on the connecting head portion 140a can be superimposed on each other along the second direction DR2 and can form a pair.

[0070] As a result, the receiving protrusion 146 and receiving recess 148 in the head portion 140 can be adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1 and adjacent to each other in the second direction DR2.

[0071] The housing area 142 can be an area to which at least a portion of the replaceable floss section 20 is attached. For example, when the main body section 10 and the replaceable floss section 20 are joined together, the base section 220 can be provided in the housing area 142.

[0072] The open area 160 may be surrounded by the handle portion 120 and the head portion 140. The open area 160 may be an area that communicates with the storage area 142. The open area 160 may be an area formed by the curved neck portion 126.

[0073] The open region 160 can be the region where the arm portion 240 of the replaceable floss portion 20 is provided when the replaceable floss portion 20 and the main body portion 10 are joined together. According to the embodiment, the formation of the open region 160 allows for the asymmetrical formation of regions where the replaceable floss portion 20 is provided around each of the first receiving end portion 142a and the second receiving end portion 142b.

[0074] According to the embodiment, the area in which the replaceable floss portion 20 is provided is formed asymmetrically and is clearly identifiable visually, so that the user can easily connect the replaceable floss portion 20 to the head portion 140. For example, the curved neck portion 126 that forms the open area 160 can be made such that the first receiving end 142a and the second receiving end 142b have visually different structures in the adjacent areas. That is, according to the embodiment, the open area 160 formed by the curved neck portion 126 does not have to be formed at the second receiving end 142b.

[0075] When the replaceable floss section 20 is coupled with the head section 140 facing the third direction DR3, the first arm section 242 can be provided to the open area 160, and the second arm section 244 can be provided to the area surrounding the second housing end 142b of the housing area 142 (for example, the external area adjacent to the second housing end 142b).

[0076] According to the embodiment, the open area 160 formed by the curved neck portion 126 allows the user to clearly understand and align the connection direction for connecting the replaceable floss portion 20 to the main body portion 10.

[0077] The replaceable floss section 20 can generally have a U-shaped structure. The replaceable floss section 20 may also be provided in a cartridge structure. For example, the replaceable floss section 20 may include multiple replaceable replaceable floss sections 20 so that the replaceable floss device 1 does not become disposable.

[0078] The replaceable floss section 20 can move along the third direction DR3 and connect with the head section 140.

[0079] For example, the arm portion 240 and floss 22 of the replaceable floss portion 20 are arranged to face the head portion 140, and the base portion 220 of the replaceable floss portion 20 can move along the third direction DR3 so that at least a part of the head portion 140 and the base portion 220 can be connected.

[0080] The replaceable floss section 20 includes floss 22. The replaceable floss section 20 may also include a base section 220, an arm section 240, a connecting projection 260, a connecting recess 280, and a fastening section 290.

[0081] The floss 22 may be the part that comes into direct contact with a part of the user's oral cavity when the user is flossing. The floss 22 may have a thread structure that extends in one direction. One end of the floss 22 may be connected to the first arm portion 242, and the other end of the floss 22 may be connected to the second arm portion 244.

[0082] Floss 22 may contain various materials such as synthetic resins. For example, floss 22 may contain nylon or PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene). However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0083] When the main body 10 and the replaceable floss section 20 are connected, the floss 22 may be provided so as to extend in the longitudinal direction DR_L of the main body 10.

[0084] The tension (e.g., tensile strength) of the floss 22 may differ before and after the replaceable floss section 20 and the main body section 10 are joined. For example, if the replaceable floss section 20 is not joined to the head section 140, the floss 22 may have a first tension. If the replaceable floss section 20 is joined to the head section 140, the floss 22 may have a second tension. The second tension may be greater than the first tension.

[0085] As a result, when using the replaceable floss device 1 according to the embodiment, the tension of the floss 22 is kept low in the replaceable floss section 20 which is not connected to the main body 10, further extending the usable period. Also, when using the replaceable floss device 1, the tension of the floss 22 is sufficiently maintained, allowing the user to floss more efficiently in the oral cavity and maintain better oral hygiene. Further details regarding this will be described later with reference to Figures 8 and 9.

[0086] The base portion 220 can form the base of the replaceable floss portion 20. The base portion 220 can generally extend parallel to the floss 22. For example, when the main body portion 10 and the replaceable floss portion 20 are connected to each other, the base portion 220 may be provided to extend in the longitudinal direction DR_L of the main body portion 10.

[0087] According to the embodiment, the base portion 220 may include a front surface facing the floss 22 and a back surface formed opposite to the front surface. When the replaceable floss portion 20 is coupled to the main body portion 10, the front surface of the base portion 220 can be in contact with the coupling head portion 141, and the back surface of the base portion 220 can be open (for example, open to the outside).

[0088] The arm portion 240 can form a region to which the floss 22 is attached. For example, the arm portion 240 may include a first arm portion 242 and a second arm portion 244. The first arm portion 242 and the second arm portion 244 may extend spaced apart along the first direction DR1, and the floss 22 can be connected between the first arm portion 242 and the second arm portion 244.

[0089] The arm portion 240 may be integrated with the base portion 220. For example, the first arm portion 242 may extend integrally from one end of the base portion 220 along the third direction DR3. The second arm portion 244 may extend integrally from the other end of the base portion 220 along the third direction DR3.

[0090] The base portion 220 and the arm portion 240 may be made of a material such as plastic. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0091] The arm portion 240 can be elastically expanded in a direction parallel to the first direction DR1. This allows the tension of the floss 22 to be increased when the arm portion 240 elastically expands and the first arm portion 242 and the second arm portion 244 are further separated.

[0092] The arm portion 240 generally extends in the third direction DR3, but can have a relatively curved shape. For example, the first arm portion 242 and the second arm portion 244 can each have a shape that curves inward so as to face the floss 22.

[0093] According to the embodiment, the base portion 220 may have a first thickness T1 with respect to a second direction DR2. The arm portion 240 may have a second thickness T2 with respect to a second direction DR2. The second thickness T2 may be greater than the first thickness T1. In this case, the replaceable floss portion 20 can be stably coupled to the head portion 140.

[0094] According to the embodiment, the base portion 220 may include a connecting projection 260 and a connecting recess 280.

[0095] The connecting projection 260 may be formed on the first surface S1 and the second surface S2 of the base portion 220, respectively. Here, the first surface S1 and the second surface S2 can be surfaces facing opposite directions in the second direction DR2.

[0096] The connecting projection 260 can extend in the third direction DR3 and can project in a direction parallel to the second direction DR2.

[0097] The connecting projection 260 may include a plurality of connecting projections 260. Some of the plurality of connecting projections 260 are formed on the first surface S1 and can project in a direction parallel to the second direction DR2. Other parts of the plurality of connecting projections 260 are formed on the second surface S2 and can project in a direction parallel to the second direction DR2.

[0098] According to the embodiments, the connecting projection 260 may have a curved cross-sectional shape. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto. According to the embodiments, the connecting projection 260 may also be semi-cylindrical. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0099] The connecting recess 280 may be formed on the first surface S1 and the second surface S2 of the base portion 220, respectively.

[0100] The connecting recess 280 may extend in the third direction DR3 and may be recessed in a direction parallel to the second direction DR2.

[0101] The coupling recess 280 may include a plurality of coupling recesses 280. Some of the plurality of coupling recesses 280 are formed on the first surface S1 and can be recessed in a direction parallel to the second direction DR2. Other parts of the plurality of coupling recesses 280 are formed on the second surface S2 and can be recessed in a direction parallel to the second direction DR2.

[0102] According to the embodiment, the connecting recess 280 may have a shape corresponding to the connecting projection 260. The connecting recess 280 may have a curved cross-sectional shape. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto. According to the embodiment, the connecting recess 280 may be semi-cylindrical. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0103] The connecting protrusions 260 and connecting recesses 280 may be arranged alternately along the first direction DR1 on the first surface S1. The connecting protrusions 260 and connecting recesses 280 may be arranged alternately along the first direction DR1 on the second surface S2.

[0104] The connecting protrusion 260 and the connecting recess 280 can be superimposed along the second direction DR2. For example, the connecting protrusion 260 on the first surface S1 and the connecting recess 280 on the second surface S2 can be superimposed on each other along the second direction DR2 and can form a pair. The connecting protrusion 260 on the second surface S2 and the connecting recess 280 on the first surface S1 can be superimposed on each other along the second direction DR2 and can form a pair.

[0105] As a result, the connecting projection 260 and the connecting recess 280 in the base portion 220 can be adjacent to each other in the first direction DR1 and adjacent to each other in the second direction DR2.

[0106] According to the embodiment, when the replaceable floss portion 20 and the main body portion 10 are joined together, the base portion 220 can be provided (for example, positioned) in the housing area 142, and the protruding and recessed portions can be joined complementaryly to each other.

[0107] For example, when the replaceable floss section 20 and the main body section 10 are joined together, the joining projection 260 and the receiving recess 148 can come into contact with each other, and the joining recess 280 and the receiving projection 146 can come into contact with each other. Such a structure in which protruding and recessed parts come into contact with each other can be formed at multiple positions. This allows the parts where the replaceable floss section 20 and the main body section 10 are joined together to be intuitively understandable, while still enabling a tight connection between the two. In other words, the replaceable floss section 20 and the main body section 10 can be easily joined together without excessively requiring separate fastening means.

[0108] The fastening portion 290 may include a portion that directly contacts a part of the head portion 140 when the head portion 140 and the replaceable floss portion 20 are joined together. The fastening portion 290 may have a recessed shape (for example, a V-shaped recess).

[0109] For example, a portion of the fastening portion 290 may be formed by a portion of the base portion 220, and another portion of the fastening portion 290 may be formed by a portion of the arm portion 240. Since the portion of the base portion 220 and the portion of the arm portion 240 that form the fastening portion 290 extend in different directions, the fastening portion 290 can generally have a V-shaped recessed structure.

[0110] The fastening portion 290 can be formed around the area where the base portion 220 and the arm portion 240 are adjacent to each other. The fastening portion 290 can be formed at the end of the base portion 220 adjacent to the arm portion 240. The fastening portion 290 may also be a cavity.

[0111] For example, the fastening portion 290 may include a first fastening portion 292 and a second fastening portion 294. The first fastening portion 292 may be a recessed portion formed between one end of the base portion 220 and the first arm portion 242. The second fastening portion 294 may be a recessed portion formed between the other end of the base portion 220 and the second arm portion 244.

[0112] According to the embodiment, the direction in which the fastening portion 290 and the floss 22 are separated may be different from the longitudinal direction DR_L. According to the embodiment, the direction in which the fastening portion 290 and the floss 22 are separated may be the same as the bonding direction DR_C.

[0113] According to the embodiment, multiple replaceable floss sections 20 may be provided so that they can be replaced on the main body section 10.

[0114] The interchangeable floss section 20 includes connecting protrusions 260 and connecting recesses 280 formed on the first and second surfaces S1 and S2, respectively, so that different interchangeable floss sections 20 can be joined together and meticulously arranged within a narrow space.

[0115] For example, a connecting projection 260 and a connecting recess 280 formed on the first surface S1 of a replaceable floss section 20 can be connected to a connecting recess 280 and a connecting projection 260 formed on the second surface S2 of another replaceable floss section 20.

[0116] Referring to Figures 8 and 9, the tension changing structure of the floss 22 of the replaceable floss device 1 according to the embodiment will be described. For the sake of convenience, content that may overlap with the above content will be briefly explained or omitted.

[0117] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the replaceable floss section before it is joined to the head section according to the embodiment. Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the replaceable floss section after it has been joined to the head section according to the embodiment. For the sake of explanation, Figures 8 and 9 mainly show the joining head section 141, which is a part of the head section 140 to which the replaceable floss section 20 is joined.

[0118] Referring to Figures 8 and 9, the floss 22 can have a relatively low first tension before the replaceable floss section 20 is coupled to the head section 140.

[0119] For example, if the replaceable floss section 20 is not connected to the head section 140, the first and second arm sections 242 and 244 to which the floss 22 is connected can be separated by a first distance L1. Here, the first distance L1 can be the straight-line distance between the distal ends of the first and second arm sections 242 and 244.

[0120] Before the replaceable floss section 20 is joined to the head section 140, the inner surface of the base section 220 facing the floss 22 may have a first curvature.

[0121] Before the replaceable floss portion 20 is joined to the head portion 140, the inner surface 290a of the fastening portion 290 can extend in a relatively inward direction.

[0122] Before the replaceable floss portion 20 is joined to the head portion 140, the fastening portion 290 can form a first angle AG1. The first angle AG1 can be formed by the inner surfaces 290a of the first and second fastening portions 292 and 294 and the base portion 220, which face the region between the first and second arm portions 242 and 244, before the replaceable floss portion 20 is joined to the head portion 140. According to the embodiment, the first angle AG1 can be 90 degrees or less.

[0123] Before the replaceable floss section 20 is coupled to the head section 140, the first fastening section 292 and the second fastening section 294 may be separated from each other by a first separation distance SD1. For example, before the replaceable floss section 20 is coupled to the head section 140, the fastening portion 290b of the first fastening section 292 and the fastening portion 290b of the second fastening section 294 may be separated from each other by a first separation distance SD1. Here, the fastening portion 290b refers to the inner part of the arm section 240 and the end of the inner surface 290a adjacent to it, and the extension direction of the inner surface 290a and the extension direction of the arm section 240 may be different with respect to the fastening portion 290b. According to the embodiment, the first separation distance SD1 may be smaller than the length L of the head section along the first direction DR1 of the coupled head section 141.

[0124] After the replaceable floss section 20 is connected to the head section 140, the floss 22 can have a second tension that is higher than the first tension.

[0125] For example, when the replaceable floss section 20 is connected to the head section 140, the first and second arm sections 242 and 244 to which the floss 22 is connected can be separated by a second distance L2 that is greater than the first distance L1. Here, the second distance L2 can be the straight-line distance between the distal ends of the first and second arm sections 242 and 244.

[0126] After the replaceable floss section 20 is connected to the head section 140, the inner surface of the base section 220 facing the floss 22 can have a second curvature that is smaller than the first curvature.

[0127] After the replaceable floss portion 20 is connected to the head portion 140, the inner surface 290a of the fastening portion 290 can extend in a direction relatively outward.

[0128] After the replaceable floss section 20 is joined to the head section 140, the fastening section 290 can form a second angle AG2. The second angle AG2 can be formed by the inner surfaces 290a of the first and second fastening sections 292 and 294 and the base section 220, which face the region between the first and second arm sections 242 and 244, after the replaceable floss section 20 is joined to the head section 140. The second angle AG2 can be larger than the first angle AG1.

[0129] After the replaceable floss section 20 is coupled to the head section 140, the first fastening section 292 and the second fastening section 294 can be separated from each other by a second separation distance SD2. After the replaceable floss section 20 is coupled to the head section 140, the fastening portion 290b of the first fastening section 292 and the fastening portion 290b of the second fastening section 294 can be separated from each other by a second separation distance SD2. According to the embodiment, the second separation distance SD2 can be the same as the length L of the head section along the first direction DR1 of the coupled head section 141. According to the embodiment, the second separation distance SD2 can be greater than the first separation distance SD1.

[0130] According to the embodiment, in order for the replaceable floss portion 20 to be coupled to the head portion 140, the replaceable floss portion 20 can move along the third direction DR3 so that the base portion 220 and the fastening portion 290 can approach the coupled head portion 141.

[0131] The connecting protrusion 260 and the connecting recess 280 are coupled complementaryly to the receiving recess 148 and the receiving protrusion 146, and the base portion 220 and the fastening portion 290 can be adjacent to the connecting head portion 141.

[0132] According to the embodiment, when the replaceable floss portion 20 is connected to the head portion 140, the connecting head portion 141 can be fitted to one surface of the base portion 220 and the fastening portion 290.

[0133] According to the embodiment, when the replaceable floss portion 20 is coupled to the head portion 140, the coupling head portion 141 can push both ends of the base portion 220, the first and second fastening portions 292 and 294. For example, if the first and second fastening portions 292 and 294 are formed to be separated by a first separation distance SD1 that is smaller than the length L of the head portion, when the coupling head portion 141 enters, the coupling head portion 141 can push the inner surfaces 290a of the first and second fastening portions 292 and 294 so that the first separation distance SD1 increases. According to the embodiment, by providing the head portion with a length L greater than the first separation distance SD1, the coupling head portion 141 can be configured to push at least a portion of the replaceable floss portion 20.

[0134] The connecting head portion 141 can push the first fastening portion 292 in a direction that separates the first arm portion 242 from the second arm portion 244. The connecting head portion 141 can push the second fastening portion 294 in a direction that separates the second arm portion 244 from the first arm portion 242. For example, the replaceable floss portion 20 may be deformed so that a second angle AG2 greater than the first angle AG1 is formed. For example, the replaceable floss portion 20 may be deformed so that a second separation distance SD2 greater than the first separation distance SD1 is formed.

[0135] As a result, the first and second arm portions 242 and 244 can be further separated in the first direction DR1, and the floss 22 connected to each of the first and second arm portions 242 and 244 can be subjected to a tensile force along the first direction DR1. Therefore, by connecting the replaceable floss portion 20 to the head portion 140, the tension formed on the floss 22 can be increased.

[0136] According to the embodiment, the replaceable floss section 20 and the main body section 10 can be stably and interchangeably connected to each other, and when the replaceable floss section 20 and the main body section 10 are connected, sufficient tension can be ensured in the floss 22. As a result, the user can floss more efficiently using the replaceable floss device 1 according to the embodiment. Furthermore, when the replaceable floss section 20 is not connected to the main body section 10, the floss 22 can be prepared to have relatively low tension, thereby allowing the replaceable floss section 20 to maintain a robust structure for a longer period of time and enable stable use.

[0137] As described above with reference to preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, a person skilled in the art or with ordinary knowledge of the art will understand that the present disclosure can be modified and altered in various ways, as long as it does not deviate from the concept and articulate scope of the present disclosure as set forth in the appended claims.

[0138] Therefore, the technical scope of this disclosure should not be limited to what is described in the detailed description of the specification, but should be defined by the claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0139] 1. Replaceable floss device 10 Main body 120 Handle 122a 1st handle end 122b 2nd handle end 124 Recessed area 126. Curved neck section 140 Head section 140a Connecting head section 140b Separation head section 141 Joining head section 142 Containment Area 142a First containment end 142b Second containment end 146 Retaining protrusion 148 Recessed recess 160 open area 20 Replaceable floss section 22 Floss 220 Base section 240 Arm section 242 First Arm Section 244 Second Arm Section 260 Joint protrusion 280 Joint recess 290 Fastening part 290a Inner surface

Claims

1. A main body portion that extends in the longitudinal direction and includes a handle portion, and a head portion that forms a storage area separated from the handle portion in the longitudinal direction and includes a storage protrusion and a storage recess, The replaceable floss section includes a base portion which is interchangeably connected to the main body and includes a connecting projection and a connecting recess, an arm portion which extends in a direction different from the direction in which the base portion extends, and a floss connected to the arm portion. When the replaceable floss portion is connected to the main body portion, the connecting protrusion and the receiving recess come into contact with each other, and the base portion is positioned in the receiving area such that the connecting recess and the receiving protrusion come into contact with each other. The replaceable floss portion is connected to the head portion along a connection direction in which the floss and the base portion are separated, and the connection direction and the longitudinal direction are different from each other. A replaceable flossing device, wherein the receiving area includes a first receiving end that is open to face the handle and a second receiving end formed opposite to the first receiving end, and overlaps with at least a portion of the handle along the longitudinal direction.

2. The present invention further includes an open region which is fluidly connected to the aforementioned containment region and is surrounded by at least a portion of the handle and at least a portion of the head, The replaceable flossing device according to claim 1, wherein the handle portion forms at least a part of the open area and is connected to at least a part of the head portion, and further comprises a curved neck portion having a curved outer surface on the surface facing the open area.

3. The head portion includes a connecting head portion, a joining head portion, and a separating head portion, which are integrally formed with each other to form a U-shape. The connecting head portion is connected to one end of the coupling head portion, and the separating head portion is connected to the other end of the coupling head portion. The interchangeable flossing device according to claim 2, wherein the curved neck portion is connected to the connecting head portion and physically separated from the separating head portion.

4. The base portion includes a front surface facing the floss and a back surface formed opposite to the front surface. When the replaceable floss portion is connected to the main body portion, the front surface of the base portion is in contact with the connecting head portion and the back surface of the base portion is open, so that the connecting head portion pressurizes at least a part of the base portion, as described in claim 3.

5. The arm portion includes a first arm portion extending from one end of the base portion and a second arm portion extending from the other end of the base portion. The floss is connected between the first arm portion and the second arm portion. The replaceable floss device according to claim 3, wherein when the replaceable floss portion is connected to the main body portion, the first arm portion is provided in the open region and the second arm portion is provided around the second housing end portion.

6. The replaceable flossing device according to claim 5, wherein the open region formed by the curved neck portion is not formed at the second housing end.

7. The floss has a first tension when the replaceable floss portion is not connected to the main body, and a second tension greater than the first tension when the replaceable floss portion is connected to the main body. The replaceable floss device according to claim 5, wherein the straight-line distance between the distal ends of the first arm portion and the second arm portion is a first distance when the replaceable floss portion is not connected to the main body portion, and is a second distance greater than the first distance when the replaceable floss portion is connected to the main body portion.

8. The replaceable floss device according to claim 7, wherein the curvature of the base portion is a first curvature when the replaceable floss portion is not connected to the main body portion, and a second curvature smaller than the first curvature when the replaceable floss portion is connected to the main body portion.

9. The replaceable floss portion further includes a fastening portion that has a cavity structure and contacts at least a part of the head portion when the replaceable floss portion and the head portion are joined together. The direction in which the fastening portion and the floss are separated is different from the longitudinal direction. At least a portion of the fastening portion is formed by the base portion, and the other portion of the fastening portion is formed by the arm portion. The interchangeable flossing device according to claim 5, wherein the fastening portion includes a first fastening portion adjacent to the first arm portion and a second fastening portion adjacent to the second arm portion.

10. When the replaceable floss portion is not connected to the main body portion, the fastening portion forms a first angle, and when the replaceable floss portion is connected to the main body portion, the fastening portion forms a second angle. The replaceable flossing device according to claim 9, wherein the second angle is larger than the first angle.

11. The replaceable flossing device according to claim 10, wherein the first angle is 90 degrees or less.

12. The fastening portion includes an inner surface and a fastening portion which is the end of the inner surface adjacent to the inner part of the arm portion. If the replaceable floss portion is not connected to the main body, the fastening portion of the first fastening portion and the fastening portion of the second fastening portion are separated by a first separation distance, and if the replaceable floss portion is connected to the main body, the fastening portion of the first fastening portion and the fastening portion of the second fastening portion are separated by a second separation distance. The replaceable flossing device according to claim 9, wherein the first separation distance is smaller than the second separation distance and smaller than the length of the head portion of the connecting head portion.

13. Each of the aforementioned housing protrusion and the aforementioned connecting protrusion has a curved cross-sectional shape. The interchangeable flossing device according to claim 1, wherein each of the receiving recess and the connecting recess has a cross-sectional shape corresponding to the receiving protrusion and the connecting protrusion.

14. The replaceable floss device according to claim 1, wherein the base portion has a greater thickness than the arm portion.

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