Oral irrigator bypass flow assembly

Abstract

A bypass flow assembly for an oral irrigator is provided. The oral irrigator may include a handle positionable between a first mode and a second mode, a bypass valve movable between a first position and a second position, and a valve assembly including an inlet valve movable between an open position and a closed position. The first position of the bypass valve may be associated with the first mode of the handle, and the second position of the bypass valve may be associated with the second mode of the handle, with the bypass valve moving from the first position to the second position when the handle is positioned in the second mode and remaining in the second position until the handle is positioned in the first mode. The inlet valve may be movable between an open position and a closed position when the bypass valve is positioned in the first position and the second position.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (Related Applications) This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 055,117, entitled "Bypass Flow Assembly for Oral Irrigator," filed July 22, 2020, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 126,000, entitled "Bypass Flow Assembly for Oral Irrigator," filed December 16, 2020, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] (Technical field) One or more embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to oral irrigation devices, and more particularly to a bypass flow assembly, for example, in an oral irrigator. [Background technology]

[0003] Some oral irrigators include a pause mode in which fluid flow is restricted or inhibited through the handle to pause oral irrigation. The pause mode can restrict or stop fluid flow through the handle, but the oral irrigator (e.g., motor or pump) may continue to operate. To allow continued operation of the oral irrigator while flow through the handle is paused, some oral irrigators can include a bypass assembly that allows fluid to be bled off or bypassed under pressure. Conventional bypass assemblies can increase operating noise and wear on the oral irrigator because the bypass assembly must pressurize the fluid to operate. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Therefore, there is a need in the art for a bypass flow assembly for an oral irrigator that overcomes the above-mentioned deficiencies, as well as other deficiencies known in the industry, or that at least provides an alternative to current technology. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, an oral irrigator is provided. The oral irrigator may include a handle positionable between a first mode and a second mode, a valve assembly including a bypass valve movable between a first position and a second position, and an inlet valve movable between an open position and a closed position. The first position of the bypass valve may be associated with the first mode of the handle, and the second position of the bypass valve may be associated with the second mode of the handle, the bypass valve moving from the first position to the second position when the handle is positioned in the second mode and remaining in the second position until the handle is positioned in the first mode. The inlet valve may be movable between an open position and a closed position when the bypass valve is positioned in the first position or the second position.

[0006] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a pump assembly for an oral irrigator is provided. The pump assembly may include an inlet, an outlet, a bypass flow circuit, and a valve assembly. The valve assembly may include a bypass valve and an inlet valve. The bypass valve may be movable between a first position that directs fluid between the inlet and the outlet and a second position that directs fluid through the bypass flow circuit. The inlet valve may be movable between an open position and a closed position when the bypass valve is positioned in the first position and the second position.

[0007] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a method for controlling fluid flow through an oral irrigator including a handle, a bypass valve movable between a first position and a second position, and an inlet valve movable between an open position and a closed position, the method including the steps of: holding the bypass valve in a first position when the handle is in a first mode of operation, holding the bypass valve in a second position when the handle is in a second mode of operation, and allowing the inlet valve to move between the open position and the closed position when the bypass valve is positioned in the first position and the second position.

[0008] Additional features are set forth in part in the description which follows, and will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the specification and drawings, or may be learned by practice of the disclosed subject matter. A further understanding of the nature and advantages of the present disclosure may be realized by reference to the remaining portions of the specification and the drawings, which form a part of this disclosure.

[0009] Those skilled in the art will understand that each of the various aspects and features of the present disclosure may be advantageously used separately in some instances or in combination with other aspects and features of the present disclosure in other instances. Accordingly, individual aspects may be claimed separately or in combination with other aspects and features. Accordingly, the present disclosure is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the claimed invention or its application or uses. It is to be understood that structural and / or logical changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0010] The present disclosure is described with varying levels of detail, and no limitation on the scope of the claimed subject matter is intended by either the inclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, etc. in this Summary. In certain instances, details that are not necessary for an understanding of the disclosure or that obscure other details may be omitted. Moreover, for the sake of clarity, detailed descriptions of specific features will not be discussed if they would be apparent to those skilled in the art so as not to obscure the description of the disclosure. The claimed subject matter is not necessarily limited to the configurations shown herein, and the scope of the present disclosure is defined solely by the appended claims.

[0011] This description can be more fully understood by reference to the following figures, in which components are not drawn to scale, and which are presented as various embodiments of the oral irrigators described herein and should not be considered as a complete depiction of the range of oral irrigation devices: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 shows an isometric view of an oral irrigator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 1 shows an isometric view of a handheld oral irrigator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] 1 shows a partial cutaway view of an oral irrigator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] 1 shows an exploded view of a pump assembly of an oral irrigator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a pump assembly in a first configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a pump assembly in a second configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a pump assembly in a third configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a pump assembly in a fourth configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 10A-10C show cross-sectional views illustrating additional pump assemblies according to embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] 10 shows a perspective view of an additional pump assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] 11 shows an exploded view of the pump assembly of FIG. 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] 11 shows a cross-sectional view of the pump assembly of FIG. 10 in a first configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] 11 shows a cross-sectional view of the pump assembly of FIG. 10 in a second configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 shows a cross-sectional view of the pump assembly of FIG. 10 in a third configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 11 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the pump assembly of FIG. 10 in a fourth configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] 11 shows a cross-sectional view of the pump assembly of FIG. 10 illustrating an additional valve configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] 1 illustrates a process diagram for controlling fluid flow through an oral irrigator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18]1 shows a perspective view of a pump body according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Embodiments of the present disclosure and their advantages are best understood by referring to the following detailed description, it being understood that like reference numerals may be used to identify like elements shown in one or more of the figures.

[0014] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a bypass flow assembly for an oral irrigator. The oral irrigator includes a handle positionable between a first mode and a second mode. The first mode can be an operating mode that allows fluid to flow through the handle for oral irrigation. The second mode can be a pause mode that restricts fluid flow through the handle.

[0015] The oral irrigator includes a valve assembly. The valve assembly includes a bypass valve that is movable between a first position and a second position depending on the mode of the handle. For example, the bypass valve can be positioned in a first position when the handle is in a first mode that allows fluid to flow through the handle. The bypass valve can be moved to a second position when the handle is switched to a second mode that restricts or inhibits fluid flow through the handle. When the bypass valve is in the second position, fluid can flow through the oral irrigator's bypass flow circuit to limit or alleviate pressure buildup while the oral irrigator continues to operate. The bypass valve can remain in the second position until the handle is positioned in the first mode. When the handle returns to the first mode, the bypass valve can return to the first position and allow pressure buildup within the oral irrigator to pressurize the oral irrigator handle.

[0016] The valve assembly also includes an inlet valve movable between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the inlet valve can allow fluid to be drawn from the fluid reservoir into the valve assembly under a vacuum stroke of the pump or piston. In the closed position, the inlet valve can restrict or inhibit reverse fluid flow into the fluid reservoir under a compression stroke of the pump or piston. The inlet valve can be movable between the open and closed positions when the bypass valve is positioned in the first and second positions. For example, regardless of the position of the bypass valve (and the mode of the handle), the inlet valve can be movable between the open and closed positions with movement of the pump or piston.

[0017] 1 shows an isometric view of an oral irrigator 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The oral irrigator 100 can include a number of configurations operable to pressurize a fluid (e.g., water) and deliver the pressurized fluid to irrigate or spray the fluid into a user's oral cavity. As shown, the oral irrigator 100 can include a base 102, a reservoir 104 for storing the fluid, and a handle 106 configured to irrigate or spray the fluid into the user's oral cavity. The handle 106 can be fluidly connected to the reservoir 104 via a hose 108 extending from at least the handle 106 to the base 102.

[0018] The base 102 can provide support for the reservoir 104 and the handle 106, as well as house many of the drive and power assembly components of the oral irrigator 100. For example, the base 102 can house a pump, one or more controls, and / or a motor, as described below. The base 102 can support one or more of the internal components of the oral irrigator 100, for example, providing a chassis structure to mount the pump, motor, or other internal components of the oral irrigator 100. The base 102 can include or define a housing 114 to cover and conceal the internal components and allow for protection of those components.

[0019] In some embodiments, the base 102 may include a dock 118 or other structure that releasably supports the handle 106. As shown, the dock 118 may be embodied as a boss extending from the housing 114, the boss including a recess 120 defined on a vertical end wall or surface 122 of the dock 118, for example. The recess 120 may be configured to receive a portion of the handle 106. For example, a rear portion of the handle 106 may be received and releasably retained within the recess 120. In such an embodiment, the handle 106 may be magnetically coupled to the dock 118 to releasably retain the handle 106 thereon. Such an embodiment is exemplary, and other configurations are contemplated. For example, the dock 118 may include, among other configurations, a C-clamp structure that defines a cradle against which the handle 106 is supported when the handle 106 rests in or on the dock 118.

[0020] As shown, the base 102 may include one or more features to accommodate excess length of the hose 108. For example, a boss length may allow the hose 108 to wrap around the dock 118 when the handle 106 is coupled to the dock 118. In some embodiments, the base 102 may include a hose cavity 126 to receive and support the hose 108 when the handle 106 is coupled to the dock 118. The hose 108 may have a restoring force that biases the hose 108 to form a spirally coiled shape when the hose 108 is retracted for storage. Depending on the application, the hose cavity 126 may be recessed within the housing 114, flush with the housing 114, or extend outward from the housing 114.

[0021] The base 102 may include other features. For example, the base 102 may include a power button 130 and a pressure control switch 132. As shown, the power button 130 may be positioned on a post 134 extending from the base 102 such that the power button 130 (or the top surface of the post 134) is flush or nearly flush with the top surface of the reservoir 104 for ease of use and identification of the power button 130. Activation of the power button 130 may change or cycle the oral irrigator 100 between power modes (e.g., between on, off, and sleep modes). Activation of the pressure control switch 132 by a user may change the fluid pressure provided by the oral irrigator 100 via the handle 106. For example, the pressure control switch 132 may be slid, rotated, depressed, or otherwise activated by a user to change one or more characteristics of the fluid pathway between the reservoir 104 and the handle 106, as described in more detail below. In some embodiments, the oral irrigator 100 may include a mode selector switch. In such embodiments, actuation of the mode selector switch may change or cycle the oral irrigator 100 between operating modes of the oral irrigator 100. The operating modes may include a normal mode, a cleaning mode, a massage mode, a soft mode, etc.

[0022] The reservoir 104 can be attached to or placed on the base 102. For example, the bottom of the reservoir 104 can be formed to fit snugly over the shape of the top of the base 102. In some embodiments, a portion of the bottom of the reservoir 104 can be received within the base 102 to position and couple the reservoir 104 to the base 102. In some embodiments, the reservoir 104 can be formed to fit snugly with the base 102. For example, the reservoir 104 can be formed to fit around a post 134 extending from the base 102. As shown, the reservoir 104 includes a lid 140. At least a portion of the lid 140 can be removable from the reservoir 104 to fill or drain the reservoir 104. For example, the lid 140 may include a first portion 142 securable to the reservoir 104 and a second portion 144 pivotable relative to the first portion 142 and away from the reservoir 104, and may define an opening through which fluid may be added to or removed from the reservoir 104. Depending on the application, the reservoir 104 may be removable from the base 102, for example, for cleaning, filling / draining the reservoir 104, or other purposes.

[0023] The handle 106 may include a tip 150 that defines a fluid pathway to a nozzle 152 through which fluid is ejected from the handle 106. The tip 150 may be configured to be inserted into a user's oral cavity to eject fluid onto the user's teeth, gums, tongue, etc. The tip 150 may be selectively detachable from the handle 106, for example, via a release button 154 (see FIG. 2 ). The removability of the tip 150 may provide many advantages. For example, the tip 150 may be replaced as desired, such as when the tip 150 reaches the end of its useful life, becomes damaged, or becomes contaminated, among other things. Furthermore, the removability of the tip 150 may allow multiple users to hygienically use the same handle 106, with each user attaching a respective tip 150 to the handle 106 for separate uses.

[0024] In some embodiments, the handle 106 includes one or more actuators that control one or more characteristics or parameters of the oral irrigator 100. For example, the handle 106 can include a pause button 160 that selectively places the oral irrigator 100 in a pause mode. During the pause mode, fluid flow is restricted or inhibited through the handle 106, which can be useful, for example, when a user desires to pause oral irrigation. To initiate the pause mode, the user can slide or depress the pause button 160 to block fluid flow through the handle 106. To resume normal operation, the user can release or again actuate (e.g., slide or depress) the pause button 160 to allow fluid flow through the handle 106. In some embodiments, the handle 106 can be similar to the handle disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 10,010,389, entitled "Dental Water Injector," the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein. The handle 106 can be positioned between a first mode and a second mode. In a first mode, fluid can flow through the handle 106 (e.g., an operating mode). In a second mode, fluid flow through the handle 106 can be restricted or inhibited (e.g., a pause mode).

[0025] The oral irrigator 100 shown in FIG. 1 is configured for use on a counter, including a plurality of feet 162 for supporting the base 102 on a counter surface. However, such a configuration is exemplary, and the oral irrigator 100 may include other configurations. For example, FIG. 2 shows the oral irrigator 100 embodied as a handheld oral irrigator. Referring to FIG. 2, in embodiments in which the oral irrigator 100 is a handheld unit, the reservoir 104 and the handle 106 may be coupled together. The reservoir 104 may include a removable cavity that can be refilled by a user and then reattached to the handle 106. Furthermore, in these embodiments, internal components of the oral irrigator 100, such as the motor and pump, may be included in the handle 106 rather than in the base unit. The following description of the oral irrigator generally refers to the oral irrigator 100 shown in FIG. 1. However, it should be noted that this description is equally applicable to the oral irrigator 100 shown in FIG. 2, except that the internal components of the base 102 are contained in the drum 106.

[0026] FIG. 3 illustrates a partial cutaway view showing one or more internal components of an oral irrigator 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In FIG. 3, selected elements are hidden for clarity. Referring to FIG. 3, the oral irrigator 100 may include a pump assembly 170, a motor 172, and a pressure regulation assembly 174. As shown, the pump assembly 170 may include an inlet 178 and an outlet 180. The inlet 178 may be fluidly connected to the reservoir 104, for example, via a port 182. In such an embodiment, the port 182 may be opened when the reservoir 104 is coupled to the base 102, for example, when the reservoir 104 is placed on the base 102, thereby opening the port 182 to allow fluid flow therethrough. When the reservoir 104 is removed from the base 102, the port 182 may automatically close, for example, with spring pressure. The outlet 180 may be fluidly connected to the hose 108 for delivering fluid from the pump assembly 170 to the handle 106. As a result, fluid may flow from the reservoir 104, through the port 182, and to the inlet 178 of the pump assembly 170. During operation, fluid entering the inlet 178 may pass through the pump assembly 170, exit the outlet 180 of the pump assembly 170, and be pumped through the hose 108 to the handle 106.

[0027] The motor 172 may be any type of motor configured to cause sufficient motion or generate mechanical work to drive the pump assembly 170. For example, the motor 172 may be a DC motor, and the rotational speed of the motor 172 may be controlled by a signal. In some embodiments, the motor 172 may be similar to the motor and motor control disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2017 / 0239132, entitled "Oral Irrigator with Variable Output Fluid Characteristics," the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein. As shown, a gearbox 184 may connect the motor 172 to the pump assembly 170. The gearbox 184 may include one or more gears, linkages, or other structures configured to convert rotation of the motor's output shaft into sufficient motion to drive the pump assembly 170.

[0028] The pressure regulation assembly 174 can include a number of configurations configured to control fluid flow through the pump assembly 170 from the inlet 178 to the outlet 180 based on the actuation of the pressure control switch 132. For example, based on the position of the pressure control switch 132, the pressure regulation assembly 174 can vary the fluid pressure at the outlet 180 of the pump assembly 170, for example, by varying the amount of fluid bleed-off or bypass under pressure. In one embodiment, the pressure regulation assembly 174 can be configured to adjust the output pressure at the handle 106. In some embodiments, the pressure regulation assembly 174 can be similar to the flow control disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 10,010,389.

[0029] 4 shows an exploded view of a pump assembly 170 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the pump assembly 170 may include a pump body 190, a piston 192, and a valve assembly 194 positioned within the pump body 190. As described herein, actuation of the piston 192 (e.g., via the motor 172) and the configuration of the valve assembly 194 within the pump body 190 can control fluid flow through the pump body 190. For example, the valve assembly 194 can be positionable in a first configuration that allows fluid flow through the outlet 180 of the pump body 190 during actuation of the piston 192 by the motor 172. At any time during actuation of the piston 192 by the motor 172, the valve assembly 194 can be positionable in a second configuration that restricts fluid flow through the outlet 180 of the pump body 190, for example, by placing the oral irrigator 100 in a pause mode.

[0030] As shown, the pump body 190 may include a first pump body 200 coupled to a second pump body 202. In such an embodiment, the first pump body 200 may include the inlet 178, and the second pump body 202 may include the outlet 180. The pressure regulation assembly 174 may be coupled to the first pump body 200, and the piston 192 may be associated with the second pump body 202. For example, the second pump body 202 may include a piston housing 204 configured to receive the piston 192. During operation, at least a portion of the piston 192 may reciprocate within the piston housing 204 to cause fluid flow through the pump assembly 170, as described in detail below.

[0031] Valve assembly 194 includes multiple valves that cooperate to define or restrict fluid flow through pump assembly 170. As shown in FIG. 4 , valve assembly 194 may include a bypass valve 210 and an inlet valve 212. Each of bypass valve 210 and inlet valve 212 may be movable between positions to control fluid flow through pump assembly 170. For example, bypass valve 210 may be movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, bypass valve 210 may direct fluid between inlet 178 and outlet 180. In the second position, bypass valve 210 may restrict fluid through outlet 180, as described in more detail below.

[0032] The inlet valve 212, which may also be referred to as a first valve, a first valve assembly, or an inlet valve assembly, may be movable between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the inlet valve 212 may allow fluid flow from the inlet 178. In the closed position, the inlet valve 212 may restrict fluid flow from the inlet 178. In some embodiments, as described in more detail below, the inlet valve 212 may be movable between the open position and the closed position regardless of the position of the bypass valve 210. For example, the inlet valve 212 may be movable between the open position and the closed position when the bypass valve 210 is positioned in a first position and a second position.

[0033] Pump assembly 170 may include additional features. For example, pump assembly 170 may include a spring 216 and a spring cap 218 for controlling the position of bypass valve 210 within the pump body, as described below. In some embodiments, pump assembly 170 may include a one-way flow assembly 220 positioned near outlet 180 to establish one-way flow through outlet 180 and limit backflow of fluid from hose 108 into pump assembly 170.

[0034] FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a pump assembly 170 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 5, the pump assembly 170 may include a valve chamber 230 that fluidly connects an inlet 178 to an outlet 180. The valve chamber 230 may be defined by a first pump body 200 and a second pump body 202. For example, the first pump body 200 may define a first portion of the valve chamber 230, and the second pump body 202 may define a second portion of the valve chamber 230. In such an embodiment, a seal 232 may be disposed at an interface between the first pump body 200 and the second pump body 202 to fluidly seal the valve chamber 230 at the interface.

[0035] The first pump body 200 can include a number of configurations that define one or more fluid flow characteristics within the valve chamber 230. For example, the first pump body 200 can include a plurality of ribs 236 that extend into the valve chamber 230 adjacent to or along the inlet valve 212. The ribs 236 can provide one or more movement limits for the inlet valve 212. For example, the ribs 236 can be configured to allow linear movement of the inlet valve 212 within the valve chamber 230 (e.g., between an open position and a closed position) but limit other movement of the inlet valve 212, such as rotation of the inlet valve 212 about a lateral axis or lateral movement of the inlet valve 212. In some embodiments, the ribs 236 can allow rotation of the inlet valve 212 about an axis that is generally parallel to the valve chamber 230 or about an axis that is generally parallel to at least the portion of the valve chamber 230 in which the inlet valve 212 is housed. The ribs 236 may extend parallel or generally parallel to one another, defining a plurality of grooves 238 between the ribs 236. In this manner, the ribs 236 (and grooves 238) may define a partial cylindrical wall that allows fluid flow around the inlet valve 212.

[0036] The first pump body 200 may include a shoulder 242 within the valve chamber 230. The inner diameter of the valve chamber 230 within the first pump body 200 may be stepped at the shoulder 242, such that the shoulder 242 defines a shelf within the valve chamber 230. As shown, the spring cap 218 may be positionable against the shoulder 242 of the first pump body 200. For example, the spring 216 may bias the spring cap 218 against the shoulder 242 of the first pump body 200 for purposes described below.

[0037] 5 , the pump assembly 170 may include a bypass flow circuit 246 within or associated with the first pump body 200. As described herein, the bypass flow circuit 246 may provide a secondary flow circuit through the pump assembly 170 when fluid flow through the outlet 180 is restricted (e.g., when the handle 106 is placed in a pause mode). The bypass flow circuit 246 fluidly connects the valve chamber 230 to the inlet 178 of the pump assembly 170 and may direct fluid between the valve chamber 230 and the inlet 178 based on the position of the bypass valve 210 within the valve chamber 230. For example, a first position of the bypass valve 210 may restrict fluid flow through the bypass flow circuit 246. In such an embodiment, a second position of the bypass valve 210 may allow fluid flow through the bypass flow circuit 246, as described below.

[0038] The bypass flow circuit 246 may be formed by one or more flow paths fluidly connected to the valve chamber 230 in the first pump body 200. For example, the bypass flow circuit 246 may include a first flow path 248 in fluid communication with the valve chamber 230 and a second flow path 250 in fluid communication with the inlet 178. As shown, the first flow path 248 may be formed adjacent the shoulder 242, for example, between the shoulder 242 and the second pump body 202. When fluid flow through the outlet 180 is restricted (e.g., when the handle 106 is placed in a pause mode), fluid may flow through the first flow path 248 and the second flow path 250 of the bypass flow circuit 246, diverting fluid and fluid pressure within the valve chamber 230 to the inlet 178 of the pump assembly 170.

[0039] In some embodiments, the pressure regulation assembly 174 can be at least partially integrated with the bypass flow circuit 246. For example, the first flow path 248 and the second flow path 250 of the bypass flow circuit 246 can be in fluid communication with the pressure regulation assembly 174. Specifically, fluid flowing through the first and second flow paths 248, 250 can flow around or near the pressure regulation assembly 174. In some embodiments, at least one flow path of the bypass flow circuit 246 can correspond to a flow path of the pressure regulation assembly 174. For example, both the pressure regulation assembly 174 and the bypass flow circuit 246 can utilize the second flow path 250 to divert fluid from the valve chamber 230.

[0040] Similar to the first pump body 200, the second pump body 202 may include many features that define fluid flow through the pump assembly 170. For example, the second pump body 202 may include one or more openings 256 that fluidly connect the valve chamber 230 to the piston housing 204. In such an embodiment, fluid may flow through the one or more openings 256 between the valve chamber 230 and the piston housing 204 as the piston 192 reciprocates within the piston housing 204.

[0041] 5 , fluid may be directed through the bypass valve 210. For example, the bypass valve 210 may include a hollow rod section 260 having one or more bores formed therethrough for directing fluid into the valve chamber 230. As shown, the bypass valve 210 may include a longitudinal bore 262 extending the length of the hollow rod section 260 and a plurality of transverse bores 264 formed through the hollow rod section 260 to the longitudinal bore 262. The transverse bores 264 may extend radially from the longitudinal bore 262, such as in a radial spoke pattern. During operation of the pump assembly 170, fluid may flow through the longitudinal bore 262 and the transverse bores 264 of the bypass valve 210. As shown, the bypass valve 210 may include a first end 268 near the inlet 178 and a second end 270 near the outlet 180. The longitudinal bore 262 can extend through a first end 268 of the bypass valve 210. In some embodiments, a second end 270 of the bypass valve 210 can be open such that the longitudinal bore 262 is formed through the entire length of the bypass valve 210. The second end 270 can include an end face 272 adjacent the outlet 180. Depending on the application, the end face 272 can be flat or can include a different shape, such as a frusto-conical shape as shown.

[0042] In some embodiments, the bypass valve 210 may include a ledge 276 extending annularly from the hollow rod section 260. In such embodiments, the spring 216 may seat against the ledge 276 to bias the ledge 276 away from the spring cap 218 (or from the shoulder 242 of the first pump body 200). In some embodiments, the ledge 276 may be pressable against the second pump body 202, for example, via the spring 216, to define a first position of the bypass valve 210 that allows fluid flow through the outlet 180 of the pump assembly 170. In this manner, the spring 216 may bias the ledge 276 against a first stop to define the first position. In some embodiments, the ledge 276 may be pressable against a second stop to define a second position of the bypass valve 210 that restricts fluid flow through the outlet 180, as described below. Depending on the application, the second stop may be defined by the spring cap 218. In such an embodiment, the spring 216 may be positioned against the ledge 276 and the spring cap 218 to bias the ledge 276 and the spring cap 218 away from each other.

[0043] Similar to the bypass valve 210, fluid can be directed through the inlet valve 212 during operation of the pump assembly 170. For example, the inlet valve 212 can include a central bore 280 and a plurality of side bores 282 formed through the inlet valve 212 to the central bore 280. The side bores 282 can extend radially from the central bore 280, such as in a radial spoke pattern. During operation of the pump assembly 170, fluid can flow through the side bores 282 and the central bore 280 of the inlet valve 212. In some embodiments, the inlet valve 212 can include a groove 284 (see FIG. 4 ) extending annularly around the inlet valve 212 adjacent the side bore 282. The groove 284 can aid in the flow of fluid around the inlet valve 212 and into the side bores 282. As shown, the inlet valve 212 can include a curved end 286 (e.g., a frusto-conical end) that sealingly engages a chamber inlet 288 of the valve chamber 230. An opposite end of the inlet valve 212 can be shaped to matingly engage with the bypass valve 210. For example, the inlet valve 212 can include a dished end that engages with the first end 268 of the bypass valve 210.

[0044] The bypass valve 210 can be sealed against the valve chamber 230 at multiple positions. For example, the valve assembly 194 can include a first seal 294, a second seal 296, and a third seal 298. The first seal 294 can seal a first portion of the bypass valve 210 against a first surface of the valve chamber 230 near the inlet 178. For example, the first seal 294 can seal the bypass valve 210 against the first pump body 200 near a shoulder 242 of the first pump body 200. The second seal 296 can seal a second portion of the bypass valve 210 against a second surface of the valve chamber 230 near the outlet 180. For example, the second seal 296 can seal the bypass valve 210 against the second pump body 202 between the outlet 180 and one or more openings 256 to the piston housing 204. The third seal 298 can selectively seal a third portion of the bypass valve 210 to a third surface of the valve chamber 230 between the first seal 294 and the second seal 296. For example, the third seal 298 can selectively seal the bypass valve 210 to the second pump body 202 near the interface between the first pump body 200 and the second pump body 202. The first seal 294, the second seal 296, and the third seal 298 can be commercially available O-rings or other gaskets configured to create a seal at the interface between the bypass valve 210 and the pump body 190.

[0045] In such an embodiment, the various seals may define separate fluid chambers within the valve chamber 230. For example, a first fluid chamber 302 may be defined between the first seal 294 and the chamber inlet 288, a second fluid chamber 304 may be defined between the first seal 294 and the third seal 298, a third fluid chamber 306 may be defined between the second seal 296 and the third seal 298, and a fourth fluid chamber 308 may be defined between the third seal 298 and the outlet 180. The first fluid chamber 302 may be referred to as the inlet or upper chamber, the second fluid chamber 304 may be referred to as the bypass or middle chamber, the third fluid chamber 306 may be referred to as the piston chamber, and the fourth fluid chamber 308 may be referred to as the outlet or lower chamber. In such an embodiment, a first seal 294 can seal the inlet chamber from the bypass chamber, a second seal 296 can seal the outlet chamber from the piston chamber, and a third seal 298 can selectively seal the piston chamber from the bypass chamber.

[0046] 5, one-way flow assembly 220, which may be referred to as a second valve, second valve assembly, or outlet valve assembly, may be located at or adjacent to second end 270 of bypass valve 210 near outlet 180. Depending on the application, one-way flow assembly 220 may include a check valve structure, such as a ball 312 biased by a spring 314 against an end face 272 of bypass valve 210. In such an embodiment, one-way flow assembly 220 may allow fluid to enter fourth fluid chamber 308 but restrict reverse fluid flow out of fourth fluid chamber 308.

[0047] FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of pump assembly 170 in a first configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of pump assembly 170 in a second configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of pump assembly 170 in a third configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of pump assembly 170 in a fourth configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. With reference to FIGS. 5 through 8 , valve assembly 194 can move within valve chamber 230 to control fluid flow through pump assembly 170. For example, both bypass valve 210 and inlet valve 212 can move within valve chamber 230 to control fluid flow between inlet 178 and outlet 180 of pump assembly 170.

[0048] FIG. 5 illustrates the bypass valve 210 in a first position and the inlet valve 212 in an open position. The first position of the bypass valve 210 can be associated with a first mode of the handle 106. For example, the bypass valve 210 can be positionable in the first position when fluid flows through the oral irrigator handle 106. Accordingly, FIG. 5 illustrates a vacuum stroke of the piston 192 when the handle 106 is in an open state. In this configuration, the piston 192 can move away from the valve chamber 230, creating a vacuum within the piston housing 204. The vacuum within the piston housing 204 can draw fluid into the inlet 178 of the pump assembly 170, causing fluid to flow from the inlet 178 through the valve assembly 194. For example, during the vacuum stroke illustrated in FIG. 5, fluid from the reservoir 104 can be drawn into the inlet 178 of the pump assembly 170. The fluid within the inlet 178 can be drawn into the first fluid chamber 302 via the chamber inlet 288 of the valve chamber 230. As fluid is drawn into the first fluid chamber 302 through the chamber inlet 288, the fluid may flow around the inlet valve 212 through grooves 238 defined between the ribs 236 of the valve chamber 230. The fluid flowing around the inlet valve 212 may be drawn into the side bore 282 of the inlet valve 212. The fluid in the side bore 282 may be forced into the central bore 280 of the inlet valve 212.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 5 , the vacuum stroke of the piston 192 can cause the inlet valve 212 to seat against the bypass valve 210. For example, the dished end of the inlet valve 212 can seat against the first end 268 of the bypass valve 210 such that the central bore 280 of the inlet valve 212 is in fluid communication with the longitudinal bore 262 of the bypass valve 210. In some embodiments, the dished end of the inlet valve 212 can engage with a first seal 294. In such embodiments, fluid in the central bore 280 of the inlet valve 212 can flow through the longitudinal bore 262 of the bypass valve 210 to the lateral bore 264, such that fluid in the lateral bore 264 is drawn into the third fluid chamber 306. Fluid in the third fluid chamber 306 can then be drawn into the piston housing 204 through one or more openings 256 between the valve chamber 230 and the piston housing 204.

[0050] FIG. 6 illustrates the bypass valve 210 in a first position and the inlet valve 212 in a closed position. Specifically, FIG. 6 illustrates the compression stroke of the piston 192 when the handle 106 is in an open position. In this configuration, the piston 192 moves toward the valve chamber 230, increasing fluid pressure within the piston housing 204. The fluid pressure within the piston housing 204 can cause fluid to flow through the valve assembly 194 and to the outlet 180 of the pump assembly 170. For example, during the compression stroke illustrated in FIG. 6, the increased fluid pressure can cause the inlet valve 212 to seat against the chamber inlet 288 of the valve chamber 230, sealing the valve chamber 230 from the inlet 178 of the pump assembly 170. When the chamber inlet 288 is sealed via the inlet valve 212, fluid can flow from the piston housing 204 through one or more openings 256 and into the third fluid chamber 306. Fluid within the third fluid chamber 306 may flow through the transverse bore 264 and into the longitudinal bore 262 of the bypass valve 210 .

[0051] The fluid pressure generated by the compression stroke of the piston 192 can overcome the one-way flow assembly 220, forcing fluid within the longitudinal bore 262 of the bypass valve 210 into the fourth fluid chamber 308. For example, the fluid pressure within the longitudinal bore 262 acting against the ball 312 can overcome the force provided by the spring 314 that seats the ball 312 against the second end 270 of the bypass valve 210. In such an embodiment, the ball 312 can disengage from the bypass valve 210 such that fluid flows around the ball 312 and into the fourth fluid chamber 308. Once fluid enters the fourth fluid chamber 308, it flows out the outlet 180 of the pump assembly 170 and into the hose 108 of the handle 106, such that the fluid is expelled from the tip 150 of the handle 106 for oral irrigation. When the pressure in the fourth fluid chamber 308 is reduced or released, the spring 314 can bias the ball 312 against the bypass valve 210, sealing the fourth fluid chamber 308 and restricting backflow of fluid from the fourth fluid chamber 308.

[0052] The piston 192 can reciprocate within the piston housing 204 during sustained oral irrigation action. In such an embodiment, the piston 192 can alternate between vacuum and compression strokes, often at a high frequency. As the piston 192 alternates between vacuum and compression strokes, the inlet valve 212 can move within the first fluid chamber 302 between open and closed positions at the same frequency. However, the bypass valve 210 can remain stationary in the first position when the handle 106 is in the open position for the oral irrigator.

[0053] In such a configuration, the spring constant of the spring 216 can be tailored to the fluid pressure within the valve chamber 230 during operation. For example, the spring constant can be sufficient to enable the spring 216 to hold the bypass valve 210 in a first position (e.g., seated against a first stop) during oral irrigation. More specifically, the spring constant can be sufficient to maintain engagement of the spring cap 218 with the shoulder 242 of the first pump body 200 and the ledge 276 of the second pump body 202. As a result, the first seal 294 can maintain a seal between the first pump body 200 and the bypass valve 210, and the third seal 298 can maintain a seal between the bypass valve 210 and the second pump body 202 to restrict fluid flow to the second fluid chamber 304 during oral irrigation.

[0054] FIG. 7 illustrates the bypass valve 210 in a second position and the inlet valve 212 in a closed position. Specifically, FIG. 7 illustrates the compression stroke of the piston 192 when the handle 106 is closed. The second position of the bypass valve 210 may be associated with a second mode of the handle 106. For example, the bypass valve 210 may be positionable in the second position when fluid flow through the handle 106 is stopped or restricted (e.g., a pause mode of the handle 106). When the handle 106 is closed, the fluid pressure in the fourth fluid chamber 308 may increase until the fluid pressure in the outlet 180 and against the end face 272 of the bypass valve 210 is sufficient to overcome the force of the spring 216 biasing the bypass valve 210 to the first position. When the fluid pressure overcomes the spring force, the fluid pressure may urge the bypass valve 210 to the second position. Specifically, fluid pressure in the fourth fluid chamber 308 can overcome the spring 216 and hold the bypass valve 210 in the second position against a second stop (e.g., the ledge 276 against the spring cap 218). In the second position of the bypass valve 210, the third seal 298 can disengage from the second pump body 202 such that the second fluid chamber 304 is in fluid communication with the third fluid chamber 306, for purposes described below. For example, movement of the bypass valve 210 from the first position to the second position can disengage the third seal 298 from the second pump body 202 to direct fluid from the valve chamber 230 to the bypass flow circuit 246. Depending on the application, the third seal 298 can be fully or partially disengaged from the second pump body 202. In some embodiments, the flexibility of the third seal 298 can allow fluid to flow past the third seal 298 when the bypass valve 210 is moved to the second position. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 18 , the upper end 315 of the valve bore 316 of the second pump body 202 can include an angled surface or chamfer 317 to facilitate fluid flow past the third seal 298 when the bypass valve 210 is moved to the second position.One or more scallops or recesses 318 can be formed in the chamfer 317 to allow sufficient fluid to flow past the third seal 298 when the bypass valve 210 is moved to the second position. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 18 , multiple recesses 318 can be formed in the chamfer 317 and spaced equidistantly around the circumference of the valve bore 316 of the second pump body 202. The number and size of the recesses 318 can vary depending on the application. The recesses 318 can relieve pressure on the third seal 298 to allow it to exit the valve bore 316 during movement of the bypass valve 210 to the second position. The recesses 318 reduce wear on the third seal 298, resulting in an extended lifespan for the third seal 298. The recess 318 can help ensure even flow around the third seal 298, thereby reducing the possibility that the bypass valve 210 will tilt within the second pump body 202 and compress the third seal 298 as the bypass valve 210 moves to the second position. The recess 318 can reduce compression of the valve spring 216 and shorten the travel of the bypass valve 210, resulting in a lower maximum pressure within the pump assembly 170.

[0055] As shown, the one-way flow assembly 220 can maintain engagement with the bypass valve 210 as the bypass valve 210 moves from the first position to the second position. For example, the one-way flow assembly 220 can move with the bypass valve 210 as the bypass valve 210 moves between the first and second positions. In this manner, one-way flow through the outlet 180 can be maintained as the bypass valve 210 moves within the valve chamber 230. Additionally, the second seal 296 can maintain a seal between the bypass valve 210 and the second pump body 202 as the bypass valve 210 moves between the first and second positions. As a result, fluid pressure in the fourth fluid chamber 308 can be maintained until flow through the handle 106 is resumed. In this manner, the bypass valve 210 can remain in the second position until the handle 106 is removed from the second mode and placed in the first mode.

[0056] Unless otherwise specified, fluid flow through the pump assembly 170 may be similar to that shown in FIG. 6 . For example, an increase in fluid pressure in the valve chamber 230 may seat the inlet valve 212 against the chamber inlet 288. Because pressure in the fourth fluid chamber 308 holds the bypass valve 210 in the second position, fluid may flow from the third fluid chamber 306 into the second fluid chamber 304 during the compression stroke of the piston 192. As a result, fluid in the second fluid chamber 304 may flow through the bypass flow circuit 246, for example, first into the first flow path 248 in fluid communication with the second fluid chamber 304. Fluid flowing through the bypass flow circuit 246 may then flow through the second flow path 250 to the inlet 178 of the pump assembly 170 for circulation back to the reservoir 104.

[0057] FIG. 8 illustrates the bypass valve 210 in a second position and the inlet valve 212 in an open position, and FIG. 8 illustrates the vacuum stroke of the piston 192 when the handle 106 is closed. Unless otherwise specified below, fluid flow through the pump assembly 170 may be similar to that illustrated in FIG. 5. For example, during a vacuum stroke of the piston 192, fluid from the reservoir 104 may be drawn into the inlet 178 of the pump assembly 170. The fluid in the inlet 178 may be drawn into the first fluid chamber 302 and around the inlet valve 212, similar to that described above with reference to FIG. 5. For example, as fluid is drawn into the first fluid chamber 302 through the chamber inlet 288, the fluid may flow through the grooves 238 defined between the ribs 236 of the valve chamber 230, around the inlet valve 212, and into the side bore 282 and central bore 280 of the inlet valve 212. Similar to the vacuum stroke shown in FIG. 5, fluid in the central bore 280 of the inlet valve 212 flows through the longitudinal bore 262 of the bypass valve 210 to the lateral bore 264, resulting in fluid in the lateral bore 264 being drawn into the third fluid chamber 306.

[0058] In addition to the fluid flows described above, during a vacuum stroke, shown in FIG. 8 , fluid can flow through the bypass flow circuit 246. For example, during a vacuum stroke of the piston 192, fluid from the reservoir 104 can be drawn from the inlet 178 of the pump assembly 170 via the second flow path 250 of the bypass flow circuit 246. Fluid in the bypass flow circuit 246 can be drawn into the second fluid chamber 304 of the valve chamber 230 via the first flow path 248 of the bypass flow circuit 246. Because the third seal 298 is disengaged in FIG. 8 , fluid in the second fluid chamber 304 can be drawn into the third fluid chamber 306. Fluid in the third fluid chamber 306 can be drawn into the piston housing 204 through one or more openings 256 between the valve chamber 230 and the piston housing 204.

[0059] The piston 192 can reciprocate within the piston housing 204 during sustained operation when the handle 106 is closed (e.g., in a paused mode). As the piston 192 alternates between vacuum and compression strokes, the inlet valve 212 can move between an open position and a closed position, similar to sustained oral irrigation operation. However, the bypass valve 210 can remain stationary in its second position when the handle 106 is closed. In this configuration, fluid can flow through the bypass flow circuit 246 as the piston 192 reciprocates between vacuum and compression strokes. Depending on the application, the bypass flow circuit 246 may generally be unshielded so that fluid can flow freely or nearly freely through the bypass flow circuit 246. As a result, stress strain on the motor 172 can be reduced when the handle 106 is closed, resulting in reduced noise and wear on one or more internal components of the oral irrigator 100 (e.g., the motor 172, the gearbox 184, etc.).

[0060] Figure 9 shows a cross-sectional view of a further pump assembly 320 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Unless otherwise noted below, the pump assembly 320 of Figure 9 may be similar to the pump assembly 170 of Figures 3 through 8. Accordingly, descriptions of similar features may be omitted for clarity. Also, similar reference numbers may be used to identify similar elements.

[0061] 9 , the second end 270 of the bypass valve 210 can be solid or substantially solid such that the longitudinal bore 262 does not extend entirely through the bypass valve 210. In such an embodiment, the second seal 296 can be embodied as a U-cup seal. The U-cup seal can be configured to function as the one-way flow assembly 220. For example, the U-cup seal can allow fluid to flow from the third fluid chamber 306 to the fourth fluid chamber 308, but restrict fluid flow from the fourth fluid chamber 308 to the third fluid chamber 306. In some embodiments, an increase in fluid pressure in the fourth fluid chamber 308 can increase the sealing engagement between the U-cup seal and the second pump body 202.

[0062] Figure 10 shows a perspective view of a further pump assembly 330 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 11 shows an exploded view of pump assembly 330. Unless otherwise specified below, pump assembly 330 may be similar to pump assembly 170 of Figures 3-8 and / or pump assembly 320 of Figure 9. Accordingly, descriptions of similar features may be omitted for clarity. Also, similar reference numbers may be used to identify similar elements.

[0063] 10 and 11 , pump assembly 330 includes first pump body 200 having inlet 178, second pump body 202 having outlet 180, and piston housing 204. As shown, pump assembly 330 also includes a third pump body 332 coupled between first pump body 200 and second pump body 202. For example, first pump body 200 may be coupled to third pump body 332 via one or more first fasteners 334, and second pump body 202 may be coupled to third pump body 332 via one or more second fasteners 336. Third pump body 332 may be configured to house or at least partially define pressure adjustment assembly 174.

[0064] 11 , the valve assembly 194 of the pump assembly 330 can include the bypass valve 210, spring 216, and spring 314 described above. In some embodiments, the pump assembly 330 can include a first valve assembly 340 positioned above the bypass valve 210 near the inlet 178 and a second valve assembly 342 positioned below the bypass valve 210 near the outlet 180. The first valve assembly 340 can be fixed or held in place within the pump assembly 330. The second valve assembly 342 can be held in contact with the bypass valve 210 as the bypass valve 210 moves within the pump assembly 330 between the first and second positions. For example, the spring 314 can bias the second valve assembly 342 against the bypass valve 210, such as in a manner similar to that described above with respect to the ball 312. In some embodiments, the second valve assembly 342 may be attached, glued, or otherwise coupled to the end face 272 of the bypass valve 210. In some embodiments, the second valve assembly 342 may be molded or formed into the bypass valve 210. As shown, the pump assembly 330 may include a washer 344 positioned between the bypass valve 210 and the second valve assembly 342. The washer 344, which may be formed from rubber or other suitable material, may help to form a good seal between the bypass valve 210 and the second valve assembly 342.

[0065] The first valve assembly 340 and the second valve assembly 342 can be configured to control fluid flow through the pump assembly 330. For example, the first valve assembly 340 can be configured to control fluid flow from the inlet 178, similar to the inlet valve 212 described above. Similarly, the second valve assembly 342 can be configured to control fluid flow through the outlet 180, similar to the one-way flow assembly 220 described above. For example, the first valve assembly 340 and the second valve assembly 342 can each form a one-way valve that controls fluid flow through the pump assembly 330.

[0066] The first valve assembly 340, which may also be referred to as a first valve, inlet valve, or inlet valve assembly, can include many configurations. For example, the first valve assembly 340 can include a first reed valve 350 and a first retainer 352. The first reed valve 350 is positioned relative to the first pump body 200 and can selectively seal the chamber inlet 288 to provide one-way flow to the fluid chamber 230. For example, the first reed valve 350 can be moved between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the first reed valve 350 can allow fluid to flow from the fluid inlet 178 through the chamber inlet 288 to the fluid chamber 230 during the vacuum stroke of the piston 192. In the closed position, the first reed valve 350 can limit or prevent backflow from the fluid chamber 230 through the chamber inlet 288 to the fluid inlet 178 during the compression stroke of the piston 192, as described below.

[0067] The first retainer 352 can hold the first reed valve 350 in place. For example, the first retainer 352 can secure or position the first reed valve 350 relative to the first pump body 200. Additionally, the first retainer 352 can limit or prevent the first reed valve 350 from over-expanding. For example, the first retainer 352 can include one or more structures (e.g., rods, surfaces, etc.) that limit expansion of the first reed valve 350 beyond a threshold. As shown, the first retainer 352 can include one or more holes 354 that allow fluid to flow through the first retainer 352.

[0068] The second valve assembly 342, which may also be referred to as a second valve, outlet valve, or outlet valve assembly, can include many configurations. In some embodiments, the second valve assembly 342 can be similar to the first valve assembly 340. For example, the second valve assembly 342 can include a second reed valve 360 ​​and a second retainer 362. The second reed valve 360 ​​can be positioned relative to the bypass valve 210 and / or the washer 344 and can selectively seal the longitudinal bore 262 of the bypass valve 210 to provide one-way flow to the fluid chamber 230. For example, the second reed valve 360 ​​can be moved between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the second reed valve 360 ​​can allow fluid to enter the fourth fluid chamber 308 during the compression stroke of the piston 192. In the closed position, the second reed valve 360 ​​can limit or prevent backflow from the fourth fluid chamber 308 during a vacuum stroke of the piston 192, as described below. In some embodiments, the second reed valve 360 ​​can be positioned against a washer 344. The washer 344 can form a good seal between the second reed valve 360 ​​and the bypass valve 210. In some embodiments, the washer 344 can be omitted. For example, the second reed valve 360 ​​can be formed of rubber or other sealing material, which would eliminate the need for the washer 344. In some embodiments, the second reed valve 360 ​​can be glued or otherwise secured to the bypass valve 210 and / or the washer 344.

[0069] The second retainer 362 can hold the second reed valve 360 ​​and / or the washer 344 in place. For example, the second retainer 362 can secure or position the second reed valve 360 ​​relative to the bypass valve 210 and / or the washer 344. Additionally, the second retainer 362 can limit or prevent the second reed valve 360 ​​from overextending; for example, the second retainer 362 can include one or more structures (e.g., rods, surfaces, etc.) that limit expansion of the second reed valve 360 ​​beyond a threshold. As shown, the second retainer 362 can include one or more holes 364 that allow fluid to flow through the second retainer 362. In some embodiments, the second retainer 362 can include a boss 366 to which the spring 314 is coupled.

[0070] 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a pump assembly 330 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As illustrated, a valve chamber 230 may be defined by a first pump body 200, a second pump body 202, and a third pump body 332. A seal 232 may be disposed at the interface between the second pump body 202 and the third pump body 332 to fluidly seal the valve chamber 230 at the interface. Similarly, one or more seals 370 (e.g., two seals 370) may be disposed at the interface between the first pump body 200 and the third pump body 332 to fluidly seal the valve chamber 230 at the interface. The third pump body 332 may include a shoulder 242, and a spring 216 seats against the shoulder 242 and a shelf 276 of the bypass valve 210 to bias the bypass valve 210 away from the shoulder 242 and toward the second body 202. A first seal 294 may seal the bypass valve 210 to the third pump body 332 near the shoulder 242, and a second seal 296 and a third seal 298 seal the bypass valve 210 to the second pump body 202. As shown, the first seal 294 may be embodied as a U-cup seal, although other configurations are contemplated.

[0071] FIG. 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the pump assembly 330 in a first configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the pump assembly 330 in a second configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 14 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the pump assembly 330 in a third configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 15 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the pump assembly 330 in a fourth configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. With reference to FIGS. 12 through 15, the bypass valve 210, the first valve assembly 340, and the second valve assembly 342 can be moved or reconfigured to control fluid flow through the pump assembly 330. For example, FIG. 12 illustrates the bypass valve 210 in a first position, the first valve assembly 340 in an open position, and the second valve assembly 342 in a closed position during a vacuum stroke of the piston 192 when the handle 106 is in an open position. In such a configuration, the vacuum stroke of the piston 192 can draw fluid into the inlet 178 of the pump assembly 330, through the first valve assembly 340, and into the valve chamber 230. For example, the first reed valve 350 can bend or flex away from the chamber inlet 288 to allow fluid to flow past the first reed valve 350 and through the first retainer 352 to the valve chamber 230. The first reed valve 350 can bend or flex until it contacts the first retainer 352 to limit or prevent the first reed valve 350 from overextending. Fluid can flow through the bypass valve 210 and into the piston housing 204, similar to what was described above with reference to FIG. 5 .

[0072] 13 shows the bypass valve 210 in a first position, the first valve assembly 340 in a closed position, and the second valve assembly 342 in an open position during the compression stroke of the piston 192 when the handle 106 is open. In this configuration, increased fluid pressure can cause the first reed valve 350 to seat against the chamber inlet 288 and the second reed valve 360 ​​to open, directing fluid through the second reed valve 360, through the second retainer 362, into the fourth fluid chamber 308, and out the outlet 180 of the pump assembly 330 toward the handle 106. The second reed valve 360 ​​can flex or deflect until it contacts the second retainer 362, limiting or preventing overextension of the second reed valve 360.

[0073] The piston 192 can alternate between vacuum and compression strokes during continuous oral irrigation. As the piston 192 alternates between vacuum and compression strokes, the first and second valve assemblies 340, 342 can each move between an open and closed position to draw fluid from the inlet 178 into the valve chamber 230 during the vacuum stroke of the piston 192 and expel fluid from the outlet 180 during the compression stroke of the piston 192. Similar to the pump assembly 170 described above, the bypass valve 210 can remain stationary in a first position when the handle 106 is in an open position for oral irrigation.

[0074] 14 shows the bypass valve 210 in the second position, the first valve assembly 340 in the closed position, and the second valve assembly 342 in the closed position during the compression stroke of the piston 192 when the handle 106 is in the closed or paused position. When the handle 106 is in the closed position, the fluid pressure in the valve chamber 230 can increase until the fluid pressure against the third seal 298 is sufficient to overcome the force of the spring 216 biasing the bypass valve 210 to the first position, causing the bypass valve 210 to move to the second position and the third seal 298 to disengage from the second pump body 202. When the handle 106 is in the closed position, fluid can stop flowing through the hose 108. On the next compression stroke of the piston 192, the pressure generated in the valve chamber 230 can act on the third seal 298 to move the bypass valve 210 to the second position. When the bypass valve 210 is moved to the second position, fluid can also pass through the second valve assembly 342 to compensate for the increased volume of the fourth fluid chamber 308 until the handle 106 is opened. The fluid trapped in the fourth fluid chamber 308 can maintain the bypass valve 210 in the second position. A constant or near-constant fluid pressure can be maintained in the fourth fluid chamber 308 by the spring 216 acting through the bypass valve 210 to keep the second valve assembly 342 closed during both the compression and vacuum strokes of the piston 192 as long as the handle 106 is closed.

[0075] In some embodiments, the bypass valve 210 can seat in or against the first retainer 352 when the bypass valve 210 is moved to the second position. As a result, a second stop can be defined by the first retainer 352. In some embodiments, the second stop can be defined by full compression of the spring 216. Additionally, increased fluid pressure in the valve chamber 230 can seat the first reed valve 350 against the chamber inlet 288, causing fluid to flow through the bypass flow circuit 246 for circulation back to the reservoir, for example, in the manner described above.

[0076] Similar to the one-way flow assembly 220 described above, the second valve assembly 342 can maintain engagement with the bypass valve 210 as the bypass valve 210 moves between the first and second positions, for example, by spring pressure from the spring 314. As a result, fluid pressure in the fourth fluid chamber 308 can be maintained until flow through the handle 106 is resumed.

[0077] Figure 15 shows the bypass valve 210 in the second position, the first valve assembly 340 in the open position, and the second valve assembly 342 in the closed position during the vacuum stroke of the piston 192 when the handle 106 is in the closed or paused position. In such a configuration, fluid from the inlet 178 can be drawn, for example, through the chamber inlet 288 and the first valve assembly 340 and into the valve chamber 230 in a manner similar to that described above with reference to Figure 12. Additionally, fluid can flow through the bypass flow circuit 246 in the configuration shown in Figure 15 in a manner similar to that described above with reference to Figure 8.

[0078] The piston 192 can reciprocate during sustained operation as long as the handle 106 is in a closed or paused state. As the piston 192 alternates between vacuum and compression strokes, the first valve assembly 340 can move between open and closed positions, similar to a sustained oral irrigation operation. The bypass valve 210 can remain stationary in a second position when the handle 106 is in a closed state. Similar to the pump assembly 170 described above, as the piston 192 reciprocates between vacuum and compression strokes when the handle 106 is in a closed state, fluid can flow (e.g., freely or nearly freely) through the bypass flow circuit 246.

[0079] The above-described embodiments are merely exemplary, and the pump assembly 330 may include other configurations. For example, as shown in FIG. 16 , the second valve assembly 342 may be embodied as a poppet valve. Accordingly, the second valve assembly 342 may include a poppet valve 380 biased against the end face 272 of the bypass valve 210 by a spring 314, for example, in a manner similar to the ball 312 described above. As a result, the poppet valve 380 functions similarly to the ball 312 described above, allowing fluid to flow into the fourth fluid chamber 308 while restricting backflow of fluid out of the fourth fluid chamber 308. During the compression stroke of the piston 192 when the handle 106 is in the open position, the fluid pressure on the poppet valve 380 may overcome the force exerted by the spring 314, causing the poppet valve 380 to disengage from the bypass valve 210 and allowing fluid to flow around the poppet 380 and into the fourth fluid chamber 308. When pressure in the fourth fluid chamber 308 is reduced or relieved, the spring 314 may bias the poppet 380 against the bypass valve 210, sealing the fourth fluid chamber 308 and restricting backflow of fluid from the fourth fluid chamber 308. The poppet 380 may seal on the outer edge of the bypass valve 210 to maximize the surface area of ​​the poppet 380 in contact with the fluid pressure. Such a configuration may improve flow rate by, for example, minimizing the cracking pressure required to disengage the poppet 380 from the bypass valve 210.

[0080] 17 illustrates a process 400 for controlling fluid flow through an oral irrigator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. It should be understood that any steps, sub-steps, sub-processes, or blocks of process 400 may be performed in a different order or sequence than in the embodiment illustrated by FIG. 17. For example, one or more blocks may be omitted from or added to process 400. Although process 400 is described with reference to the embodiment of FIGS. 1 through 16, process 400 may be applied to other embodiments.

[0081] The oral irrigator associated with process 400 can be similar to oral irrigator 100 described above. For example, the oral irrigator can include a fluid reservoir, a handle, a pump assembly, a piston and motor, and a valve assembly. The valve assembly can be similar to valve assembly 194 described above, including one or more valves or valve assemblies, such as a bypass valve movable between a first position and a second position, and an inlet valve and / or an outlet valve movable between an open position and a closed position to control fluid flow through the pump assembly.

[0082] In block 402, process 400 includes holding the bypass valve in a first position when the handle is in a first operating mode. For example, block 402 can include holding the bypass valve against a first stop using a spring. The first operating mode can be a handle rinse mode that allows fluid flow through the handle for rinsing the user's mouth. The first stop can be defined by a portion of the pump assembly, such as by a portion of the pump body. In such an embodiment, the portion of the bypass valve can be held against the pump body via a spring. The spring constant can be sufficient to cause the bypass valve to remain in the first position (e.g., be held against the pump body) during the first operating mode. For example, the spring constant can be sufficient to prevent fluid pressure within the pump assembly during rinsing from moving the bypass valve from the first position.

[0083] At block 404, process 400 includes holding the bypass valve in a second position when the handle is in the second operating mode. For example, block 404 can include holding the bypass valve against a second stop using fluid pressure. The second stop can be defined by another portion of the pump body or by the inlet valve. In some embodiments, the second stop can be defined by a spring cap or by fully compressing a spring. The second operating mode can be a pause mode of the handle that restricts fluid flow through the handle. When fluid flow is stopped by the handle, fluid pressure can increase in an outlet of the pump assembly. This increased fluid pressure in the outlet can move the bypass valve from the first position to the second position as the fluid pressure acts against an end face of the bypass valve. Specifically, as fluid pressure increases in the outlet, the fluid pressure acting against the bypass valve can overcome a spring that biases the bypass valve to the first position. When the fluid pressure overcomes the spring and moves the bypass valve to the second position, the bypass valve can remain in the second position until the handle is again in the first mode of operation.

[0084] In block 406, process 400 includes allowing the inlet valve to move between an open position and a closed position when the bypass valve is positioned in the first position and the second position. For example, the inlet valve can move between the open position and the closed position with the reciprocating motion of the piston regardless of the position of the bypass valve. In the open position, the inlet valve can allow fluid to be drawn from the fluid reservoir into the valve assembly under a vacuum stroke of the piston. In the closed position, the inlet valve can restrict or prevent backflow of fluid into the fluid reservoir under a compression stroke of the piston.

[0085] In block 408, process 400 may include flowing fluid through a bypass flow circuit when the bypass valve is positioned in the second position and the handle is in the second operating mode. For example, to prevent excessive pressure from being applied to the pump assembly when the handle is in the closed position, the pump assembly may include a bypass flow circuit that allows fluid to circulate back to the fluid reservoir under the compression stroke of the piston. In such an embodiment, access to the bypass flow circuit may be available only when the bypass valve is in the second position. For example, when the bypass valve is in the first position, the valve chamber may be sealed from the bypass flow circuit by a seal. In such an embodiment, block 408 may include disengaging a seal between the bypass valve and the valve chamber when the bypass valve moves to the second position. When the seal is disengaged, fluid may be directed from the valve chamber to the bypass flow circuit, for example, in the manner described above.

[0086] All relative and directional references (including above, below, side, forward, rearward, etc.) are provided by way of example to aid the reader in understanding the embodiments described herein. They should not be read as requirements or limitations on specific location, direction, or use, unless specifically recited in the claims. Connection references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, joined, etc.) should be interpreted broadly and can include intermediate members between connections of elements and relative movement between elements. Thus, connection references do not necessarily imply that two elements are directly connected and fixed relative to each other, unless specifically recited in the claims.

[0087] The present disclosure teaches in an illustrative and non-limiting sense. Accordingly, the matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings should be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. The claims are intended to cover all general and specific features described herein, as well as all statements of the scope of the present methods and systems that may be said to fall therebetween as a matter of language.

Claims

1. a handle positionable between a first mode and a second mode, the first mode being an operation mode of the handle and the second mode being a suspension mode of the handle; An oral irrigator comprising: a valve assembly including a bypass valve movable between a first position and a second position; an inlet valve movable between an open position and a closed position; and a spring; The bypass valve comprises a hollow rod section and a shelf extending annularly from the hollow rod section, the hollow rod section having one or more bores defined therethrough for directing fluid therethrough. the first position of the bypass valve is associated with the first mode of the handle, and the second position of the bypass valve is associated with the second mode of the handle, the bypass valve moving from the first position to the second position when the handle is positioned in the second mode and remaining in the second position until the handle is positioned in the first mode; the inlet valve moves between the open position and the closed position when the bypass valve is positioned at the first position and the second position; the spring biases the shelf against a first stop to define the first position; the built-up fluid pressure overcomes the spring to hold the bypass valve in the second position against a second stop. An oral irrigator characterized by:

2. further comprising an outlet valve movable between an open position and a closed position; the inlet valve comprises a first reed valve; the outlet valve comprises a second reed valve or a poppet valve. The oral irrigator according to claim 1.

3. the inlet valve moves between the open and closed positions while the bypass valve remains stationary in either the first or second position. The oral irrigator according to claim 1.

4. further comprising a pump assembly; The pump assembly includes: The entrance and The exit and a valve chamber fluidly connecting the inlet to the outlet, the bypass valve being movably positioned within the valve chamber; a bypass flow circuit fluidly connecting the valve chamber to the inlet to direct fluid between the valve chamber and the inlet based on the position of the bypass valve within the valve chamber; the first position of the bypass valve restricts fluid flow through the bypass flow circuit; the second position of the bypass valve permits fluid flow through the bypass flow circuit. The oral irrigator according to claim 1.

5. a pressure regulation assembly configured to regulate an output pressure at the handle, the pressure regulation assembly being at least partially integrated with the bypass flow circuit. The oral irrigator according to claim 4.

6. the bypass valve is biased toward the first position; the bypass valve is held in the second position by fluid pressure; The oral irrigator according to claim 1.

7. the first mode allows fluid flow through the handle; The second mode restricts fluid flow through the handle. The oral irrigator according to claim 1.

8. 1. A pump assembly for an oral irrigator, comprising: The pump assembly includes: The entrance and The exit and a bypass flow circuit; a valve assembly; The valve assembly includes: a bypass valve movable between a first position that directs fluid between the inlet and the outlet and a second position that directs fluid through the bypass flow circuit, the first position associated with an operating mode of the oral irrigator and the second position associated with a pause mode of the oral irrigator; an inlet valve movable between an open position and a closed position when the bypass valve is positioned at the first position and the second position; a spring; The bypass valve comprises a hollow rod section and a shelf extending annularly from the hollow rod section, the hollow rod section comprising one or more bores defined therethrough for directing fluid between the inlet, the outlet, and the bypass flow circuit. the spring biases the shelf against a first stop to define the first position; the pump assembly is configured such that fluid pressure built up in the outlet overcomes the spring to hold the bypass valve in the second position against a second stop. A pump assembly comprising:

9. further comprising an outlet valve positioned at or adjacent an end of the bypass valve near the outlet; the outlet valve moves with the bypass valve as the bypass valve moves between the first position and the second position.

9. The pump assembly of claim 8.

10. the inlet valve comprises a first reed valve; or the outlet valve comprises a second reed valve or a poppet valve.

10. The pump assembly of claim 9.

11. a first seal sealing a first portion of the bypass valve against a first surface of a valve chamber adjacent the inlet; a second seal sealing a second portion of the bypass valve against a second surface of the valve chamber adjacent the outlet; and a third seal that seals a third portion of the bypass valve against a third surface of the valve chamber between the first seal and the second seal when the bypass valve is in the first position; movement of the bypass valve from the first position to the second position disengages the third seal from the third surface to direct fluid from the valve chamber to the bypass flow circuit.

9. The pump assembly of claim 8.

12. the bypass flow circuit includes a first flow path in fluid communication with the valve chamber between the first seal and the third seal, and a second flow path in fluid communication with the inlet; engagement of the third seal with the third surface restricts fluid flow between the valve chamber and the inlet through the first flow path and the second flow path of the bypass flow circuit; disengagement of the third seal from the third surface permits fluid flow between the valve chamber and the inlet through the first flow path and the second flow path of the bypass flow circuit.

12. The pump assembly of claim 11.

13. 1. A method of controlling fluid flow through an oral irrigator comprising: a handle; a bypass valve movable between a first position and a second position, the bypass valve comprising a hollow rod section and a ledge extending annularly from the hollow rod section; and an inlet valve movable between an open position and a closed position, comprising: maintaining the bypass valve in the first position when the handle is in a first mode of operation, the first mode being a flushing mode of the handle that allows fluid flow through the handle; maintaining the bypass valve in the second position when the handle is in a second mode of operation; and allowing the inlet valve to move between the open position and the closed position when the bypass valve is positioned at the first position and the second position. A method characterized by:

14. and further comprising the step of: directing fluid through a bypass flow circuit when the bypass valve is positioned in the second position and the handle is in the second mode of operation. The method of claim 13.

15. allowing fluid to flow through the bypass flow circuit when the bypass valve is positioned in the second position and the handle is in the second mode includes disengaging a seal between the bypass valve and a valve chamber when the bypass valve is moved to the second position.

15. The method of claim 14.

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