Valve system for dental cleaning appliance head-handle interface

Abstract

A dental cleaning appliance includes a handle including a pumping mechanism and a first fluid channel, and a detachable head including a second fluid channel, where the first and second channels are in fluid communication when the detachable head is attached to the handle. The appliance further includes a valve system configured to inhibit the flow of water and contaminants into the first fluid channel of the handle when the detachable head is disconnected from the handle.

Description

2024PF00063VALVE SYSTEM FOR DENTAL CLEANING APPLIANCE HEAD-HANDLE INTERFACEFIELD

[0001] The inventive concepts relate to dental cleaning appliances, and more particularly, to valve systems utilized at the head-handle interface of dental cleaning appliances.BACKGROUND

[0002] Dental cleaning appliances have become increasingly sophisticated in recent years, with many devices incorporating advanced features to improve oral hygiene.Among innovations being proposed are pneumatically and hydraulically driven oral care devices, which will offer unique advantages in terms of energy transfer and cleaning efficacy. These devices consist of a handle containing a drive system and a detachable head, such as a brush head or mouthpiece, that performs the cleaning action. Examples of such devices can be found in WO2022 / 109342 and WO2022 / 109345, which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] The interface between the handle and the detachable head is a critical component in pneumatic and hydraulic dental cleaning appliances. This head-handle interface (HHI) must allow for the efficient transfer of pneumatic or hydraulic energy from the drive system in the handle to the cleaning elements in the head. Additionally, the HHI needs to facilitate easy replacement of the head, as brush heads and mouthpieces generally have a limited lifespan and require periodic replacement.

[0004] However, the design of the HHI in pneumatic and hydraulic systems presents unique challenges compared to traditional mechanical energy transfer systems found in many electric toothbrushes. When the head is detached from the handle in these systems, the internal flow path is exposed to the external environment. This exposure creates potential issues related to contamination and fluid management.2024PF00063

[0005] Users of dental cleaning appliances often clean their devices after use, particularly around the area where the head connects to the handle, as this region tends to accumulate toothpaste residue and other debris. In pneumatic or hydraulic systems, this cleaning process can lead to water or other contaminants entering the internal circuitry of the drive system. Such contamination may potentially impact the performance and longevity of the device. Furthermore, in closed hydraulic systems, the detachment of the head may result in the loss of the driving fluid, which can impair the functionality of the device.SUMMARY

[0006] According to an aspect of the inventive concepts, a dental cleaning appliance is provided that includes a handle, a detachable head, and a valve system disposed at an interface between the handle and the detachable head. The valve system includes a valve in the handle, and is configured to close the valve when the detachable head is disconnected from the handle and to open the valve when the detachable head is connected to the handle.

[0007] The valve may be an elastomeric valve. The valve system may include an extension extending from the detachable head, the extension configured to push open the elastomeric valve when the detachable head is connected to the handle. The elastomeric valve may be a duckbill valve.

[0008] The valve system may further include a second valve in the detachable head. The valve system may be configured to close the second valve when the detachable head is disconnected from the handle and to open the second valve when the detachable head is connected to the handle.

[0009] The valve may be a swing check valve. The swing valve may include a hinged disc blocking a fluid flow through the handle in a closed position. The valve system may include a pin extending from the detachable head, the pin configured to push open the hinged disc when the detachable head is connected to the handle. The hinged disc may be configured to return to the closed position when the detachable head is detached from2024PF00063 the handle. The pin may engage a curved groove formed in the surface of the hinged disc, and the brush head may rotate during connection to the handle as the pin travels along the groove while pushing open the hinged disc.

[0010] The valve may be a lens aperture valve. The lens aperture valve may include a first disc having an opening therein, a second disc having an opening therein aligned with the opening in the first disc, the first disc rotatable relative to the second disc, and a plurality of fins pivotably mounted between the first and second discs. The fins open and close the aligned openings upon rotation of the first and second discs relative to each other. The first disc may be mounted to an inner wall of the handle, and the brush head may include a protrusion configured to engage and rotate the second disc when the brush head is connected to the handle.

[0011] The valve may be a slide valve, and the brush head may include a protrusion configured to slide open the slide valve when the brush head is connected to the handle.

[0012] The valve may be a slide ring valve, and the brush head may include an extension configured to push open the slide ring in a longitudinal direction when the brush head is connected to the handle.

[0013] According to another aspect of the inventive concepts, a dental cleaning appliance is provided that includes a handle including a pumping mechanism and a first fluid channel, and a detachable head including a second fluid channel, where the first and second channels are in fluid communication when the detachable head is attached to the handle. The appliance further includes a valve system configured to inhibit the flow of water and contaminants into the first fluid channel of the handle when the detachable head is disconnected from the handle.

[0014] The pumping mechanism may be a pneumatic pump, in which case the first and second fluid channels are for the passage of air.

[0015] The pumping mechanism may be a hydraulic pump, in which case the first and second fluid channels are for the passage of liquid.

[0016] The valve system may include at least one of an elastomer valve, a swing valve, a lens aperture valve and a slide valve.2024PF00063BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] The above and other aspects and features of the inventive concepts will become readily apparent from the detailed description that follows, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0018] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example of a dental cleaning appliance;

[0019] FIGS. 2 through 4 are schematic views for reference in describing a dental cleaning appliance including an elastomeric valve according to an embodiment of the inventive concepts;

[0020] FIGS. 5 through 7 are schematic views for reference in describing a dental cleaning application including two elastomeric valves according to an embodiment of the inventive concepts;

[0021] FIGS. 8 through 10 are schematic views for reference in describing a dental cleaning appliance including a swing valve according to another embodiment of the inventive concepts;

[0022] FIGS. 11 through 14 are schematic views for reference in describing a dental cleaning appliance including a lens aperture valve according to another embodiment of the inventive concepts;

[0023] FIGS. 15 through 17 are schematic views for reference in describing a dental cleaning appliance including a slide valve according to another embodiment of the inventive concepts; and

[0024] FIG. 18 is a schematic view for reference in describing a dental cleaning appliance including a slide ring valve according to another embodiment of the inventive concepts.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] In the following detailed description, for purposes of explanation and not limitation, representative embodiments disclosing specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of an embodiment according to the present teachings.2024PF00063Descriptions of known systems, devices, materials, methods of operation and methods of manufacture may be omitted so as to avoid obscuring the description of the representative embodiments. Nonetheless, systems, devices, materials and methods that are within the purview of one of ordinary skill in the art are within the scope of the present teachings and may be used in accordance with the representative embodiments. It is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for purposes of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. The defined terms are in addition to the technical and scientific meanings of the defined terms as commonly understood and accepted in the technical field of the present teachings.

[0026] It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, third etc. may be used herein to describe various elements or components, these elements or components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element or component from another element or component. Thus, a first element or component discussed below could be termed a second element or component without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0027] The terminology used herein is for purposes of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used in the specification and appended claims, the singular forms of terms “a,” “an” and “the” are intended to include both singular and plural forms, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Additionally, the terms “comprises,” and / or “comprising,” and / or similar terms when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0028] Unless otherwise noted, when an element or component is said to be “connected to,” “coupled to,” or “adjacent to” another element or component, it will be understood that the element or component can be directly connected or coupled to the other element or component, or intervening elements or components may be present. That is, these and similar terms encompass cases where one or more intermediate elements or2024PF00063 components may be employed to connect two elements or components. However, when an element or component is said to be “directly connected” to another element or component, this encompasses only cases where the two elements or components are connected to each other without any intermediate or intervening elements or components.

[0029] Relative terms, such as “above,” “below,” “top,” “bottom,” “upper” and “lower” may be used to describe the various elements’ relationships to one another, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. These relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device and / or elements in addition to the orientation depicted in the drawings. For example, if the device were inverted with respect to the view in the drawings, an element described as “above” another element, for example, would now be “below” that element. Similarly, if the device were rotated by 90° with respect to the view in the drawings, an element described “above” or “below” another element would now be “adjacent” to the other element; where “adjacent” means either abutting the other element, or having one or more layers, materials, structures, etc., between the elements.

[0030] The drawings may in some cases focus on structural features of embodiments of the inventive concepts. However, the drawings may not be drawn to scale, and relative dimensions of different structural elements may differ from those depicted in the drawings. Further, throughout the drawings, like reference numbers refer to the same or similar elements.

[0031] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example of a dental cleaning appliance. It will be understood that the configuration of FIG. 1 is just an example, and that dental cleaning appliances come in a multitude of shapes and designs.

[0032] Herein, the term “brush head” is used in a generic sense to denote both brushing mouthpieces (as in FIG. 1) and more traditional bristled brush heads.

[0033] Referring to FIG. 1 , in example embodiments of the inventive concepts, the dental cleaning appliance 100 is a pneumatically driven brushing mouthpiece. This has the advantage that energy generated by a pneumatic drive train in the handle 101 is quickly transferred to the mouthpiece brush head 102 without employing complicated mechanical energy transfer mechanisms. In other example embodiments, hydraulic2024PF00063 driving of the brush head 102 is adopted, which may be particularly useful for combining brushing and oral irrigation in one device. In FIG. 1, reference character P denotes either a pneumatic pump or hydraulic pump contained with the handle 101.

[0034] Whether pneumatic or hydraulic, the brush head 102 of electrical toothbrushes (or mouthpiece brushes) is typically detachable from handle 101. This is required since the brush head 102 needs to be periodically replaced. In pneumatic or hydraulic driven systems, the head-handle interface (HHI) 103 has very different characteristics than with the typical mechanical energy transfer in current power toothbrushes.

[0035] As suggested in the Background section herein, when detaching the brush head 102 from the handle 101, the HHI 103 is completely open in a pneumatically driven dental cleaning appliance. This allows water to run into the handle 101 and / or brush head 102 if the user decides to wash the device under a tap when detached. This user behavior is likely to occur, since debris typically collects in the HHI 103 which can only be removed when the brush head 102 is detached. In pneumatic toothbrushes, for example, toothpaste can collect under the brush head 102, which only becomes visible when the brush head 102 is detached. At that point users will clean this part away under a tap. This may result in water running from the tap directly into the handle.

[0036] Significant water exposure to the pump system within the handle may cause the pump system to dysfunction. This is at least in part because water is much more difficult to pump than air. Although the water may run out of the handle if the user happens to hold it upside-down, some water and possibly toothpaste remnants and other dirt will likely remain. Since the pump is made of a rubber material, water exposure is likely to induce mold-growth. In addition to creating a hygiene problem, mold can break down the thin rubber pump membrane over time, thereby reducing the lifetime of the pump system. Indeed, this problem has been observed in some dental appliances currently on the market.

[0037] In hydraulic systems removing the head may also cause contamination of the liquid intentionally contained within the handle. In closed systems, however, a more2024PF00063 significant problem is that the liquid can be lost from the system, which can impair its functionality.

[0038] The inventive concepts are directed to overcoming the afore-discussed drawbacks inherent in currently available pneumatic and hydraulic dental cleaning appliances. Generally, the inventive concepts provide a valve system in the HHI which is designed to be closed when the head is detached but open when the head is connected. Examples of such valve systems are discussed in the embodiments that follow.

[0039] FIGS. 2 through 4 are schematic views for reference in describing a dental cleaning appliance including an elastomeric valve according to an embodiment of the inventive concepts.

[0040] As an example, the elastomeric valve of the current embodiment is a duckbill valve. Duckbill valves are well-known in the art, examples of which are illustrated in the perspective views of FIG. 2. In particular, the left side of FIG. 2 illustrates a top view of a duckbill valve 201, and the right side of FIG. 2 illustrates a bottom view of the duckbill valve 201. Generally, a duckbill valve has two or more flaps, usually shaped like the beak of a duck. The flaps form a seal m a closed position of the valve, and are pushed apart in an open position of the valve.

[0041] Turning now to FIG. 3, the handle 101 and the brush head 102 of a dental cleaning appliance are schematically illustrated as being in a detached state. The handle 101 includes a channel 111. In the case of a pneumatic system, the channel 111 may be an air channel. In the case of a hydraulic system, the channel 111 may be a liquid channel. Likewise, the brush head 102 includes a channel 110 which may be an air channel in the case of a pneumatic system or a liquid channel in the case of a hydraulic system.

[0042] In the example of the present embodiment, the handle 101 includes an elastomer valve 201 in the vicinity of an opening of the channel 111. The elastomer valve 201, for example, may be a duckbill valve 201 such as that illustrated in FIG.2 or similar. As represented in FIG. 3, the elastomer valve 201 is closed when the detachable2024PF00063 brush head 102 is disconnected from the handle 101. As such, in the detached state, the flow of water and contaminants into the channel 111 of the handle 101 is inhibited.

[0043] The detachable head 102 further includes an extension 102a extending therefrom. The extension 102a is configured for insertion into the opening of the channel 111 of the handle 101.

[0044] FIG. 4 illustrates a state in which the brush head 102 is attached to (or connected to) the handle 101, i.e., the extension 102a of the brush head 102 is fully inserted into the opening of the channel 111 of the handle 101. In this state, as represented in FIG. 4, the extension 102a pushes open the elastomer valve 201, thus providing fluid communication between the channel 110 of the brush head 102 and the channel 111 of the handle 101. Herein, the term “fluid” encompasses both gases (such as air) and liquids (such as water).

[0045] It will be understood that upon detachment of the brush head 102 from the handle 101, the elastomer valve 201 recloses and the dental cleaning appliance returns to the state represented by FIG. 3 in which the flow of water and contaminants into the channel 111 of the handle 101 is inhibited.

[0046] The inventive concepts also contemplate an HHI valve system in which the flow of water and contaminants into the detachable brush head is inhibited. This may enhance the longevity of the brush head as well as the operability of the brush head over time. An example of this is described next.

[0047] FIGS. 5 through 7 are schematic views for reference in describing a dental cleaning appliance including multiple elastomeric valves according to an embodiment of the inventive concepts.

[0048] Referring to FIG. 5, the handle 101 and the brush head 102 of a dental cleaning appliance are schematically illustrated as being in a detached state. The handle 101 includes a channel 111. In the case of a pneumatic system, the channel 111 may be an air channel. In the case of a hydraulic system, the channel 111 may be a liquid channel. Likewise, the brush head 102 includes a channel 110 which may be an air channel in the case of a pneumatic system or a liquid channel in the case of a hydraulic system.2024PF00063

[0049] In the example of the present embodiment, the handle 101 includes a first elastomer valve 201 in the vicinity of an opening of the channel 111. The first elastomer valve 201 may be a duckbill valve 201 such as that illustrated in FIG.2 or similar. As represented in FIG. 5, the first elastomer valve 201 is closed when the detachable brush head 102 is disconnected from the handle 101. As such, in the detached state, the flow of water and contaminants into the channel 111 of the handle 101 is inhibited.

[0050] The detachable head 102 further includes an extension 102a extending therefrom. The extension 102a is configured for insertion into the opening of the channel 111 of the handle 101.

[0051] Also in the example of the present embodiment, the detachable brush head 102 includes a second elastomer valve 202 in the extension 102a in the vicinity of an opening of the channel 110. The second elastomer valve 202 may, for example, be a duckbill valve 201 such as that illustrated in FIG.2 or similar. As represented in FIG. 5, the second elastomer valve 201 is closed when the detachable brush head 102 is disconnected from the handle 101. As such, in the detached state, the flow of water and contaminants into the channel 110 of the brush head 102 is inhibited.

[0052] Still referring to FIG. 5, the handle 101 includes one or more protrusions 204 extending within the channel 111 in a direction towards the opening in the handle 101. Referring also to FIG. 6, the one or more protrusions 204 may be supported by a base member or bar 203 fixed to inner walls of the handle 101. The configuration of the base member or bar 203 is not limited so long as the channel 111 remains sufficiently open. Likewise, the configuration and number of protrusions 204 is not limited so long as they function as intended to open the second elastomer valve 202 as described next.

[0053] FIG. 7 illustrates a state in which the brush head 102 is attached to (or connected to) the handle 101, i.e., the extension 102a of the brush head 102 is fully inserted into the opening of the channel 111 of the handle 101. In this state, as represented in FIG. 7, the extension 102a pushes open the first elastomer valve 201. In addition, as also represented in FIG. 7, the protrusion(s) 204 push open the second2024PF00063 elastomer valve 202, thus providing a sealed fluid communication between the channel 110 of the brush head 102 and the channel 111 of the handle 101.

[0054] It will be understood that upon detachment of the brush head 102 from the handle 101, the first elastomer valve 201 and the second elastomer valve reclose and the dental cleaning appliance returns to the state represented by FIG. 5. In this state, the flow of water and contaminants into the channel 111 of the handle 101 is inhibited, and the flow of water and contaminants into the channel 110 of the brush head 102 is inhibited.

[0055] In the example embodiments so far described, an elastomer valve such as a duckbill valve is employed to prevent water and contaminants from entering the bush head and / or handle while the brush head and handle are in a detached state. However, as will be apparent from the embodiments described next, the inventive concepts are not limited to the use of elastomer valves.

[0056] FIGS. 8 through 10 are schematic views for reference in describing a dental cleaning appliance including a swing valve according to an embodiment of the inventive concepts.

[0057] Referring collectively to FIGS. 8 through 10, the brush head 102 of this example includes a pin member 501 extending outwardly from the channel 110 of the brush head 102. The pin member 501 may be supported by a base member or bar 502 fixed to inner walls of the brush head 102. The configuration of the base member or bar 502 is not limited so long as the channel 110 remains sufficiently open. Likewise, the configuration and number of pin member 501 is not limited so long as it functions as intended to open the swing valve 503 described below.

[0058] The swing valve 503 includes a spring loaded hinge 511 fixed to a disc 504. The disc 504 is sized to block access to the channel 111 of the handle 101 when the swing valve 503 is in a closed state. The hinge 511 is pivotably mounted to an inner wall of the handle 101. The spring action of the hinge 551 is configured to hold the swing valve 503 against a valve stop 520 in the absence of pressure by the pin member 501. In this state, the spring valve is closed.2024PF00063

[0059] As the brush head 102 is brought into attachment with the handle 101 (represented by the short and straight thick arrow in FIG. 8), the pin member 501 engages swing valve 501 and push open the swing valve as the channels 110 and 111 are brought into sealed fluid communication. As such, when the brush head 102 and handle 101 are attached, the swing valve 503. And subsequently, when the brush head 102 and handle 101 are detached, the swing valve 503 closes to inhibit water and contaminants from entering the handle 101.

[0060] In some example embodiments, a distal end of the pin member 503 engages a curved groove 510 formed in a surface of the disc 504 of the swing valve 503. In an initial position, at the start of engagement, the pin member 501 is located at one end of the groove 510. As the brush head 102 advances towards the handle 101, the pin member 501 travels along the groove 510 until it reaches the other end of the groove 510. At this point, the brush head 102 is fully attached to the handle 101. At the pin member 501 travels along the groove 510, the brush head 102 will rotate relative to the handle 101. This is represented by the orientations appearing in FIG. 9. The figure to the left depicts an initial position of pin member 501 , and the figure to the right depicts an end position of the pin member 501.

[0061] FIGS. 11 through 14 are schematic views for reference in describing another type of valve that may be adopted in accordance with the inventive concepts, namely, a lens-aperture type valve. Like the previous embodiment, this embodiment opens the valve upon rotation of the brush head relative to the handle.

[0062] Referring collectively to FIGS. 11-14, the lens-aperture type valve 600 is characterized by a first disc 601 having an opening therein, a second disc 602 having an opening therein aligned with the opening in the first disc 601, and a plurality of fin members 603 each pivotably mounted and sandwiched between the first and second discs 601 and 602. In this example, a diameter of the first disc 601 is greater than that of the second disc member 602. Rotation of the first disc 601 relative to the second disc 602 causes the pivot-mounted fin members 603 to open (FIG. 11) and close (FIG. 12) in the same manner that the lens aperture of a camera is known to work.2024PF00063

[0063] In embodiments of the inventive concepts, the lens-aperture type valve 600 is mounted at the opening of the handle of the dental care appliance, with the disc member 602 facing outwardly. In this case, the first disc member 601 is fixed to an inner wall of the handle, while the second disc member 602 is free to rotate relative to the handle.

[0064] In the meantime, the brush head is configured to engage the second disc member 602 when attached to the handle. When initially engaged, the lens-aperture type valve is locked in a closed state by, for example, either friction or a spring-loaded mechanism. However, rotation of the brush head by the user causes the second disc member 602 to rotate to transition the valve 600 the closed state to the open state, thus allowing fluid communication between the respective channels of the brush head and handle. Here, brush head and the handle are attached in a locked position, which in turn maintains the valve 600 in an open state. Conversely, the brush head is rotated by the user in the opposite direction from the locked position to allow detachment from the handle. This causes the second disc member 602 to also rotate in the opposite direction, thereby closing the valve 600. In this closed state, the flow of water and contaminants into the handle is inhibited.

[0065] FIGS. 15 through 17 are schematic views for reference in describing a dental cleaning appliance including a slide valve according to an embodiment of the inventive concepts.

[0066] Referring to FIG. 15, the handle 101 and the brush head 102 of a dental cleaning appliance are schematically illustrated as being in a detached state. The handle 101 includes a channel 111. In the case of a pneumatic system, the channel 111 may be an air channel. In the case of a hydraulic system, the channel 111 may be a liquid channel. Likewise, the brush head 102 includes a channel 110 which may be an air channel in the case of a pneumatic system or a liquid channel in the case of a hydraulic system.

[0067] In the example of the present embodiment, the handle 101 includes a slide valve 703 in the vicinity of an opening of the channel 111. In FIG. 15, the slide valve 703 is illustrated in a closed state. In this state, the flow of water and contaminants into2024PF00063 the handle 101 is inhibited. Although not illustrated, the slide valve may be held in the closed state by a spring mechanism or by some other mechanical mechanism.

[0068] In the meantime, the brush head 102 includes a slide-valve engagement protrusion 702 extending from the bottom thereof. Referring additionally to bottom view of FIG. 16, the protrusion 702 may be supported by a base member or bar 701 fixed to inner walls of the brush head 102. The configuration of the base member or bar 701 is not limited so long as the channel 111 remains sufficiently open. Likewise, the configuration of the protrusions 702 is not limited so long as it functions as intended to open the slide valve 703 as described next.

[0069] In the current embodiment, the brush head 102 is attached to the handle 101 by initially bringing the brush head 102 in off-center contact with the handle 101 such that the protrusion engages with a receiving feature (e.g., a crevice) on the surface of the slide valve 703. Then, using the example of the orientation of FIG. 15, the brush head is slid to the right for engagement with the handle 101. As shown in FIG. 17, this causes the protrusion 702 to open the slide valve 703, thereby providing fluid communication between the brush head 102 and the handle 101. Conversely, when the brush head 102 is detached from the handle, the protrusion 702 returns the slide valve 703 to the closed position. Alternatively, or in addition, a spring mechanism may be utilized to return the slide valve 703 to the closed position and lock in place. In this closed state, the flow of water and contaminants into the handle is inhibited.

[0070] FIG. 18 is a schematic view for reference in describing a dental cleaning appliance including a slide ring valve according to an embodiment of the inventive concepts.

[0071] Referring to FIG. 18, the brush head 102 of this example includes an extension 102a, and the channel 110 of the brush head 102 is configured with openings 902 at the side surface of the extension 102a. In addition, rubber O-rings 901 are located on the side surface of the extension above and below the openings of the channel 102a.2024PF00063

[0072] In the meantime, the handle includes a cavity 904 and a slide ring 903 separating the cavity 904 from the channel 111 of the cavity 904. The extension 102a of the brush head 102 is configured for insertion into the cavity 904.

[0073] FIG. 18 is representative of a state in which the brush head 102 is detached from the handle 101. In this state, the slide ring 903 is closed, and the flow of water and contaminants through the cavity 904 into the channel 111 is inhibited.

[0074] To open the slide ring 903, the extension 102a of the handle 102 is inserted into the cavity 904 of the handle 101. The causes the outer O-ring 901 (i.e., the O-ring closest to the end of the brush head 102) to engage the slide ring 903. The high surface friction of the rubber of the O-ring 901 pushes the slide ring 903 into an open position. As a result, openings 902 of the channel 110 of the brush head 102 are in fluid communication with the channel 111 of the handle 101. Conversely, when the user extracts the extension 102a from the cavity 904, the O-ring pulls the slide ring 903 back to close the valve.

[0075] It is noted that the inner O-ring acts as seal to close the pneumatic / hydraulic system when the head is connected.

[0076] In each of the embodiments described above, the manner in which the brush head is secured to the handle is not limited. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, mechanical attaching mechanisms such as clip-on and / or screw-on configuration can be adopted, as well as magnetic attachment schemes. Also, although not discussed above, there may be other elements such as a seal-ring located at the head-handle interface. Further, in the examples given above, a brushing mouth piece is illustrated. However, the inventive concepts are applicable as well to traditional bristled brush heads.

[0077] Further, it is noted that many other constructions than the embodiments described above may become apparent to those skilled in the art, including configurations having motorized or magnetic actuators designed to open and close channels of the handle and / brush head. The inventive concepts encompass such variations of valve systems configured to be open to allow fluid communication between the brush head and handle when the brush head and handle are attached to each other, and to close upon2024PF00063 detachment of the brush head and handle to inhibit the flow of water and contaminants into the handle.

[0078] While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, such illustration and description are to be considered illustrative or exemplary and not restrictive; the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Other variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. While representative embodiments are disclosed herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that many variations that are in accordance with the present teachings are possible and remain within the scope of the appended claim set. The invention therefore is not to be restricted except within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

2024PF00063WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A dental cleaning appliance comprising: a handle; a detachable head; and a liquid valve system disposed at an interface between the handle and the detachable head, wherein the valve system includes a valve in the handle, and wherein the valve system is configured to close the valve when the detachable head is disconnected from the handle and to open the valve when the detachable head is connected to the handle.

2. The dental cleaning appliance of claim 1, wherein the valve is an elastomeric valve.

3. The dental cleaning appliance of claim 2, wherein the valve system comprises an extension extending from the detachable head, the extension configured to push open the elastomeric valve when the detachable head is connected to the handle.

4. The dental cleaning appliance of claim 3, wherein the elastomeric valve is a duckbill valve.

5. The dental cleaning appliance of claim 1, wherein the valve is a first valve, and the valve system further comprises a second valve in the detachable head, and wherein the valve system is configured to close the second valve when the detachable head is disconnected from the handle and to open the second valve when the detachable head is connected to the handle.

6. The dental cleaning appliance of claim 5, wherein the first and second valves are elastomer valves.2024PF000637. The dental cleaning appliance of claim 1, wherein the valve is a swing check valve.

8. The dental cleaning application of claim 7, wherein the swing valve includes a hinged disc blocking a fluid flow through the handle in a closed position, wherein the valve system includes a pin extending from the detachable head, the pin configured to push open the hinged disc when the detachable head is connected to the handle, and wherein the hinged disc is configured to return to the closed position when the detachable head is detached from the handle.

9. The dental cleaning application of claim 7, wherein the pin engages a curved groove formed in the surface of the hinged disc, and wherein the brush head rotates during connection to the handle as the pin travels along the groove while pushing open the hinged disc.

10. The dental cleaning appliance of claim 1, wherein the valve is a lens aperture valve.

11. The dental cleaning appliance of claim 10, wherein the lens aperture valve includes: a first disc having an opening therein; a second disc having an opening therein aligned with the opening in the first disc, the first disc rotatable relative to the second disc; and a plurality of fins pivotably mounted between the first and second discs, wherein the fins open and close the opening upon rotation of the first and second discs relative to each other,2024PF00063 wherein the first disc is mounted to an inner wall of the handle, and wherein the brush head includes a protrusion configured to engage and rotate the second disc when the brush head is connected to the handle.

12. The dental cleaning appliance of claim 1, wherein the valve is a slide valve movable in a lateral direction, and the brush head includes a protrusion configured to slide open the slide valve when the brush head is connected to the handle.

13. The dental cleaning appliance of claim 1 , wherein the valve is a slid ring valve, and the brush head includes an extension configured to push open the slide ring in a longitudinal direction when the brush head is connected to the handle.

14. A dental cleaning appliance comprising: a handle including a pumping mechanism and a first fluid channel; a detachable head including a second fluid channel, wherein the first and second channels are in fluid communication when the detachable head is attached to the handle; and a valve system configured to inhibit the flow of water and contaminants into the first fluid channel of the handle when the detachable head is disconnected from the handle.

15. The dental cleaning appliance of claim 14, wherein the pumping mechanism is a pneumatic pump, and the first and second fluid channels are for the passage of air.

16. The dental cleaning appliance of claim 14, wherein the pumping mechanism is a hydraulic pump, and the first and second fluid channels are for the passage of liquid.2024PF0006317. The dental cleaning appliance of claim 14, wherein the valve system includes at least one of an elastomer valve, a swing valve, a lens aperture valve, a slide valve and a slide ring.

Images