Dental Floss Insertion Device with Roller Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dental appliances such as braces, bridges, and prosthetics create fully enclosed oral spaces that are difficult to clean with traditional flossing methods, leading to plaque buildup and potential health issues due to the inability to effectively insert and maneuver dental floss through these spaces.
Innovation Solution
A dental floss insertion device with a body and tip configuration that includes a floss guide path and a rotatable roller mechanism to advance and grip the floss, allowing for easier insertion and manipulation of dental floss into enclosed oral spaces, using a detachable tip and carriage member for various applications and ergonomic designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional flossing methods are used, then simple operation is maintained, but the ability to clean enclosed oral spaces is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a specialized flossing device as an intermediary tool between the user and the enclosed oral space. This device includes a rigid or semi-rigid floss holder with a tapered tip that can be inserted into enclosed spaces, while the user maintains control through a handle or gripping mechanism. The intermediary device bridges the gap between traditional flossing simplicity and the need to access difficult-to-reach areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The flossing system is segmented into distinct components: a handling portion (handle or grip mechanism), a transmission portion (rigid or semi-rigid connector), and a working portion (floss attachment area with tapered tip). This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall ease of use.
2Ease of operation
If leader floss with stiffened end is used, then insertion into enclosed oral space is facilitated, but maneuverability and complete insertion through the space remain difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a rigid or semi-rigid floss holder that can be dynamically manipulated by the user. The holder maintains structural integrity for insertion while allowing rotational and pushing motions to advance the floss through the enclosed space. The dynamic control enables the user to adapt the insertion force and angle as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The floss holder features a tapered tip that transitions from a wider base to a narrower point, allowing it to navigate curved and constricted pathways within the enclosed oral space. The curved or angled design of the holder enables it to follow the contours of teeth and appliances while maintaining forward progress.
3Adaptability or versatility
If interdental brush is used, then some oral cleaning needs are met, but the device is too large to fit into very small or tight enclosed oral spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a flossing device with a localized small-sized working tip while maintaining a larger handling portion for user control. The tapered tip or small working end can fit into tight spaces, while the bulk of the device remains outside the oral cavity, effectively separating the size requirements of different functional zones.
Solution Approach 2:
The floss is nested within or attached to the rigid/semi-rigid holder structure. The floss itself remains thin and flexible, capable of entering small spaces, while being supported and positioned by the larger holder that provides the necessary structural integrity for manipulation.
4Ease of operation
If traditional brushing and flossing are used, then simple hygiene routine is maintained, but enclosed oral spaces defined by dental appliances cannot be adequately cleaned
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a multi-functional flossing device that can accommodate various types of dental appliances (braces, bridges, fixed retainers, prosthetics). The device includes adjustable or interchangeable components that can adapt to different appliance configurations, making it a universal solution for cleaning around diverse dental fixtures while maintaining a relatively simple hygiene routine.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables effective cleaning of enclosed oral spaces by facilitating the insertion and advancement of dental floss, reducing the difficulty in reaching and cleaning areas around dental appliances, thereby improving oral hygiene and preventing plaque buildup.
Implementation Method 1
A floss advancing mechanism may be positioned along the guide path and may include a portion that is moveable relative to the body for advancing the end of the length of floss along the guide path and through the distal orifice
Data Source
AI summary
A dental floss insertion device for inserting an end of a length of dental floss into an enclosed oral space. The device may include a body and a tip attached to the body and cooperating with the body to define a floss guide path. A first roller may be positioned on a first side of the guide path and a second roller may be positioned on a second side of the guide path. The second roller may be moveable toward and away from the first roller to open and close a nip that receives the length of floss, thereby allowing a user to apply a compressive force on a piece of floss located between the first and second rollers while simultaneously rolling the second roller to advance the end of the length of floss along the guide path, through the distal orifice, and into an enclosed oral space. The body may include a removable carriage member that defines the floss guide path and supports the first and second rollers.