Nail correction device and method of correcting nails using the same

Abstract

A nail correction device is disclosed. A nail correction device according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a strip body having elastic restoring force, a first adhesive part formed integrally with the strip body at one end of the strip body and attached to a first edge of a nail, a second adhesive part formed integrally with the strip body at the other end of the strip body and attached to a second edge on the other side of the first edge of the nail, and a hook insertion part into which a hook tool can be inserted in the second adhesive part. When the strip body is on a nail and the first adhesive part is attached to the first edge, the hook tool is coupled to the hook insertion part to pull the strip body, thereby attaching the second adhesive part to the second edge and providing a continuous elastic traction force between the nail edges.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a nail correction device and a correction method using the same. More specifically, as an auxiliary medical device for correcting in-grown nails or deformations, the invention relates to a simple nail correction device that continuously provides a corrective force by pulling the edge of the nail using an elastic strip, and a correction method using the same. Background Technology

[0002] Wire braces, U-shaped wires, and clip-type corrective devices are used for nail correction. Conventional nail corrective devices are difficult for users to self-manage because the insertion procedure is complex or requires skill, the continuous maintenance and replacement process over a certain period is cumbersome, and discomfort or pain may persist during wear.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need for a nail correction device with a structure that allows for easy attachment and maintenance for a certain period while providing continuous traction. Prior art literature

[0005] KR 10-2020-0119212 (2020.10.19) The problem to be solved

[0006] The present invention aims to solve the aforementioned problems by providing a nail correction device and a correction method using the same, which can be attached to the edge of a nail with a simple procedure and can provide continuous traction by allowing a user or medical professional to easily hook a loop with a hook tool, pull, and attach it to the opposite side.

[0007] In addition, we aim to provide a nail correction device and a correction method using the same, which optimize the material and structure of the elastic strip to effectively deliver corrective force while minimizing nail damage upon removal.

[0008] In addition, we aim to provide a nail correction device that allows for reattachment and reuse in the event of an incorrect attachment position using a hook tool, and a correction method using the same.

[0009] The problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned technical problems will be clearly understood by a person skilled in the art from the description below. means of solving the problem

[0011] A nail correction device according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a strip body having elastic restoring force; a first adhesive part formed integrally with the strip body at one end of the strip body and attached to a first edge of the nail; a second adhesive part formed integrally with the strip body at the other end of the strip body and attached to a second edge on the other side of the first edge of the nail; and a hook insertion part provided in the second adhesive part so as to be inserted therein. When the strip body is on the nail and the first adhesive part is attached to the first edge, the hook tool is coupled to the hook insertion part to pull the strip body, thereby attaching the second adhesive part to the second edge and providing continuous elastic traction force between the nail edges.

[0012] Additionally, the strip body (10) may be made of one or more of polyurethane elastomer, silicone rubber, or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

[0013] In addition, a medical adhesive application portion may be formed on the first adhesive portion and the second adhesive portion, or a pre-attachable adhesive pad may be installed.

[0014] In addition, the hook insertion portion may be formed in a pocket-like shape with a concave interior, into which a hook-shaped member of the hook tool is inserted so that it engages when pulled.

[0015] In addition, the central portion of the strip body may be formed to have a predetermined curvature corresponding to the curved surface of the nail.

[0016] In addition, the adhesive application portion is provided with a scratch shape having a plurality of protrusions and a predetermined pattern, so that the adhesive application area can be increased.

[0017] In addition, the hook insertion portion may have a shape inclined from the inside to the outside.

[0018] A nail correction method using a nail correction device according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a step of attaching a first adhesive portion, integrally formed with the strip body at one end of a strip body having elastic restoring force, to a first edge of a nail using an adhesive; a step of pulling the strip body to a second edge of the nail by inserting a hook tool into a hook insertion portion of a second adhesive portion, integrally formed with the strip body at the other end of the strip body; and a step of attaching the second adhesive portion to the second edge of the nail using the adhesive. Effects of the invention

[0020] A nail correction device and a correction method using the same according to one embodiment of the present invention can be attached to the edge of a nail with a simple procedure, and can provide continuous traction by easily attaching it to the opposite side by hooking a loop with a hook tool and pulling it.

[0021] In addition, by optimizing the material and structure of the elastic strip, corrective force can be effectively delivered while minimizing nail damage during removal.

[0022] In addition, a hook tool can be used to reattach and reuse the device if the attachment position is incorrect.

[0023] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by a person skilled in the art from the description below. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0025] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the overall shape of a nail correction device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a plan view of a nail correction device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a bottom view of a nail correction device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a side view of a nail correction device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a nail correction device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a state in which a hook is hooked onto a hook insertion part in a nail correction device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a drawing for explaining a method of using a nail correction device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a correction method using a nail correction device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0026] Embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the invention. However, the present invention may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, in order to clearly explain the embodiments of the present invention in the drawings, parts unrelated to the explanation have been omitted.

[0027] The terms used in this specification are used merely to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the invention. Singular expressions may include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0028] In this specification, terms such as “comprising,” “having,” or “having” are intended to indicate the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and should be understood as not excluding in advance the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0029] Furthermore, the components shown in the embodiments of the present invention are illustrated independently to represent different characteristic functions and do not imply that each component consists of separate hardware or a single software unit. That is, for convenience of explanation, each component is described as a separate component, and at least two of the components may be combined to form a single component, or a single component may be divided into multiple components to perform a function. Such integrated and separated embodiments of each component are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they do not deviate from the essence of the invention.

[0030] In addition, the following embodiments are provided to explain more clearly to those with average knowledge in the industry, and the shapes and sizes of the elements in the drawings may be exaggerated for clearer explanation.

[0031] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment according to the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings.

[0032] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the overall shape of a nail correction device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a plan view of a nail correction device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a bottom view of a nail correction device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 4 is a side view of a nail correction device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a nail correction device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a state in which a hook is hooked on a hook insertion part in a nail correction device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 6, a nail correction device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a strip body (110), a first adhesive part (120), a second adhesive part (130), and a hook insertion part (140). Here, the nail may be a fingernail or a toenail.

[0034] The strip body (110) is an elastic member in the form of a thin, elongated strip, and its width and thickness can be determined to be suitable for the width and thickness of the nail. In one embodiment, the central portion of the strip body (110) can be molded into a shape having a predetermined curvature so that it fits well on the curved surface of the nail when attached by the user. The material of the strip body (110) is a synthetic resin with excellent elastic recovery power, such as polyurethane elastomer, silicone rubber series, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), etc. The elastic characteristics of the strip body (110) can be designed with an appropriately adjusted strength so as to provide sufficient traction force when pulled after attachment, while preventing excessive pressure from being transmitted to the nail. In one embodiment, the strip body (110) is formed of SMP (e.g., Polyurethane-based SMP) and can be gradually restored to the target curvature by body temperature (about 30°C). This enables low-irritation correction for the user without abrupt changes in traction force, and the target curvature can be maintained consistently even when worn for more than a week.

[0035] The first adhesive portion (120) is provided with an adhesive layer to attach the first end (e.g., the left end) of the strip body (110) to the first edge of the nail. Specifically, the back surface (bottom) of the first adhesive portion (120) may have an adhesive (adhesive) applied to it, or may have a structure in which a separate adhesive pad can be attached in advance. The adhesive may be a medical or cosmetic adhesive that provides sufficient adhesive strength for single-use use without excessively damaging the nail surface upon removal. In one embodiment, when a separate adhesive pad is used, the adhesive pad may be in the form of a viscoelastic PSA tape attached. In this case, it can be easily removed and replaced after the correction cycle is completed. Additionally, because the strip body (110) can be reused thanks to modularity by using an adhesive pad, there is an effect of reducing medical waste and saving costs.

[0037] The second adhesive portion (130) is provided with an adhesive layer to attach the second end (e.g., the right end) of the strip body (110) to the second edge of the nail. The second edge is the other side of the first edge on the nail. Specifically, the back surface (bottom) of the second adhesive portion (130) may have an adhesive (adhesive) applied to it, or may have a structure in which a separate adhesive pad can be attached in advance. The adhesive may be a medical or cosmetic adhesive that provides sufficient adhesive strength for single-use use without excessively damaging the nail surface upon removal. The strip body (110), the first adhesive portion (120), and the second adhesive portion (130) may all be formed as a single unit. In one embodiment, an adhesive application portion (121, 131) may be provided at the lower portions of the first adhesive portion (120) and the second adhesive portion (130) to be adhered to the nail, and the adhesive application portion (121, 131) may have a predetermined pattern and be provided in a scratch shape having a plurality of protrusions to increase the adhesive adhesion area.

[0038] A hook insertion portion (140) is provided in the second adhesive portion (130) so that a hook tool (10) can be inserted. The hook insertion portion (140) may be formed in a pocket-like shape with a concave interior, so that a hook-shaped member of the hook tool (10) is inserted and caught upon pulling. The size and shape of the groove (pocket) of the hook insertion portion (140) may be determined so that the hook tool (10) can be accurately caught inside the hook insertion portion (140). The second adhesive portion (130) may have a thick thickness to prevent damage when the hook tool (10) is joined, and may be reinforced with a material and shape to ensure sufficient strength. In another embodiment, the hook insertion portion (140) may be formed in a shape that penetrates the second adhesive portion (130), so that the hook tool (10) can be joined at both ends of the second adhesive portion (130).

[0039] The hook tool (10) may be composed of a rod-shaped body with a length and grip portion that allows the user to operate it stably. The material of the hook tool (10) may be stainless steel, aluminum alloy, medical plastic, etc., and may be easy to disinfect and clean. The hook portion (hook portion) of the hook tool (10) may have a hook-shaped hook with a predetermined curvature formed at the end of the rod, and the size and curvature of the hook portion may be designed so that a stable catch is achieved when inserted into and coupled to the hook insertion portion. More specifically, the depth and width of the hook of the hook tool (10) may be adjusted to correspond to the width and depth of the hook insertion portion (140). Additionally, although not illustrated, in one embodiment, the hook insertion portion (140) may have a shape inclined from the inside to the outside, for example, an upward-sloping shape. In this case, the hook portion of the hook tool (10) can be effectively prevented from easily detaching from the hook insertion portion (140).

[0040] FIG. 7 is a drawing for explaining a method using a nail correction device according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 8 is a flowchart for a correction method using a nail correction device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, a nail correction method (S100) using a nail correction device according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a preparation step (S110), a first adhesive attachment step (S120), a hook coupling and traction step (S130), and a second adhesive attachment step (S140).

[0042] In the preparation step (S110), the user cleans and dries the target fingernail (or toenail). Additionally, the user prepares a nail correction device (100) and a hook tool (10), and prepares an adhesive (adhesive) necessary for attaching the nail correction device (100).

[0043] In the first adhesive attachment step (S120), a predetermined amount of adhesive is applied to the back surface of the first adhesive part (120) provided at the first end of the strip body (110). With the central part of the strip body (110) positioned to fit well with the curved surface of the nail, the first adhesive part (120) is attached in close contact to the first edge of the nail.

[0044] In the hook coupling and traction step (S130), the end hook portion of the hook tool (10) is inserted into the inner groove of the hook insertion portion (140) formed in the second adhesive portion (130) so that it is properly hooked. With the hook tool (10) coupled to the inner groove of the hook insertion portion (140), the user pulls the strip body (110) in the right direction (toward the edge opposite the nail), that is, in the direction of the second edge, using the hook tool (10). At this time, an elastic restoring force is generated in the strip body (110), and a continuous traction force can be formed between the nail edges.

[0045] In the second adhesive attachment step (S140), the user maintains the pulled state of the strip body (110) and applies adhesive (or attaches a pre-applied adhesive pad) to the back surface of the second adhesive part (130) to secure it in close contact with the right edge of the nail, i.e., the second edge. After attaching the second adhesive part (130) and removing the hook tool (10), the main body strip (110) maintains a constant tension while fixed on both sides, thereby gradually correcting the shape of the nail.

[0046] According to the nail correction device and nail correction method using the same described in the above-described embodiment, a user can correct their own fingernails and toenails through a simple procedure and can easily attach and detach them. Furthermore, since continuous elastic traction is transmitted to the nail, the correction effect is more stable and pain may occur compared to conventional methods. In addition, since it consists only of a nail correction device and a hook tool, it is advantageous in terms of cost reduction and hygiene management. Moreover, customized correction is possible by adjusting the strip width, thickness, and curvature to fit various nail sizes.

[0047] In addition, while other types of conventional correction devices that cannot use a hook tool are limited to single-use, the nail correction device and nail correction method using the same according to the above-described embodiment allow for easy use by hooking the hook tool into the hook insertion part formed in the second adhesive part, and even if it is attached incorrectly, it can be re-attached in the correct position using the hook tool, thus enabling reuse. Furthermore, it can be reused by separating it from the fingernail or toenail using the hook tool even after use during the correction period.

[0048] The present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, but this is merely illustrative, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and equivalent alternative embodiments are possible therefrom. Accordingly, the true technical scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the technical spirit of the appended claims. Explanation of the symbols

[0050] 10: Hook tool 100: Nail correction device 110: Strip body 120: First adhesive part 130: Second adhesive part 140: Hook insertion part

Claims

Claim 1 A nail correction device comprises: a strip body having elastic restoring force; a first adhesive part formed integrally with the strip body at one end of the strip body and attached to a first edge of the nail; and a second adhesive part formed integrally with the strip body at the other end of the strip body and attached to a second edge of the nail, which is the other side of the first edge. A nail correction device comprising: a hook insertion portion provided in the second adhesive portion, into which a hook tool can be inserted; wherein, when the strip body is attached to the first edge of the nail, the hook tool is coupled to the hook insertion portion to pull the strip body and attach the second adhesive portion to the second edge, thereby providing continuous elastic traction force between the nail edges; wherein the hook insertion portion is formed in a pocket shape with a concave space formed inside, and the interior is formed deeper than the entrance into which the end of the hook tool enters so that a hook-shaped member of the hook tool is inserted and catches upon pulling, and is formed inclined from the inside to the outside so that the hook tool is pressed more deeply into the inside of the hook insertion portion by the tension generated when the strip body is pulled, thereby preventing detachment; and wherein the strip body is formed of a shape memory polyurethane (SMP) material that gradually restores to a preset curvature in response to body temperature, thereby correcting the nail without abrupt changes in tensile force. Claim 2 delete Claim 3 A nail correction device according to claim 1, wherein a medical adhesive application portion is formed in the first adhesive portion and the second adhesive portion, or a pre-attachable adhesive pad is installed. Claim 4 delete Claim 5 delete Claim 6 A nail correction device according to paragraph 3, wherein the adhesive application portion is provided with a scratch shape having a plurality of protrusions having a predetermined pattern to increase the adhesive surface area of ​​the adhesive. Claim 7 delete Claim 8 delete

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