Dental Floss Holder Locking Mechanism for Tangling and Stretching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dental floss holders are difficult to use, prone to tangling and stretching, require frequent replacement, and often not reusable, with limited compatibility with different types of floss and inadequate accessibility for left-handed users.
Innovation Solution
A dental floss holder with a floss cassette and locking mechanism that securely holds floss in place, allowing for easy installation and reuse, compatible with various floss types, including dental tape, and designed for easy access and use by both left and right-handed users.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional dental floss holders are used, then the device structure is simple, but the floss becomes tangled and stretched during use
Solution Approach 1:
The holder is divided into distinct functional components: a body portion with a channel for floss passage, a locking mechanism with movable and stationary members, and a release mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, preventing tangling while maintaining manageable complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
A locking mechanism acts as an intermediary between the floss and the holder body. The movable locking member engages with the stationary locking member to secure the floss in place, preventing stretching and tangling without requiring complex structural modifications to the entire holder.
2Reliability
If dental floss is held loosely in the holder, then the holder structure is simple, but the floss cannot be firmly held in the desired position
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through user manipulation. When the user pulls on the floss, the movable locking member automatically engages with the stationary member to secure the floss in position, eliminating the need for separate adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism transitions from an unlocked to a locked state through user action. The movable locking member can freely move during installation but becomes fixed when engaged, providing dynamic adaptability that simplifies the overall structure while ensuring reliable floss positioning.
3Productivity
If a piece of floss is installed in the holder before each use, then the holder structure is simple, but the process is time-consuming and the floss becomes tangled
Solution Approach 1:
The holder is pre-configured with the locking mechanism and channel structure ready to receive and secure floss. The movable locking member is positioned to automatically engage when floss is inserted, eliminating the need for manual tying or complex assembly steps during each use.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function is extracted as a separate mechanism from the floss installation process. Users simply insert the floss through the channel, and the locking mechanism independently secures it, separating the installation action from the securing action to reduce complexity and time.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the holder is designed for right-hand users, then the structure is optimized for right-hand operation, but it is not convenient for left-hand users
Solution Approach 1:
The holder employs asymmetric design elements that accommodate both left and right-handed users. The channel and locking mechanism are positioned and oriented to allow intuitive operation regardless of which hand the user prefers, maintaining ease of operation across different user types.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder is designed as a universal device that functions equally well for both left and right-handed users. The symmetric placement of access points and the bidirectional capability of the locking mechanism enable the same structure to serve multiple user preferences without compromising operational convenience.
5Loss of substance
If large pieces of floss are replaced at a time, then the holder structure is simple, but this creates waste and is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The holder secures floss locally at the precise point where it exits the channel through the locking mechanism. This localized securing allows users to replace only the necessary portion of floss rather than replacing entire large pieces, reducing waste and replacement time.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder design enables users to discard only the used portion of floss while retaining and reusing the holder structure and any remaining unused floss. The locking mechanism facilitates clean separation of used and unused floss, minimizing waste and enabling efficient replacement of minimal amounts.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a bottom portion comprising a spindle for receiving a quantity of floss. A first locking plate is operable for receiving a feed portion of the floss upon a horizontal surface. A plate extends from the first locking plate where a distal end of the plate engages the feed portion and a return portion of the feed portion returns back over the horizontal surface. An aperture enables an exiting portion of the return portion to exit the bottom portion. A top portion includes a spindle cap portion operable for engaging the spindle. A second locking plate is operable for engaging the first locking plate to substantially constrain the feed portion of the floss and the return portion. A stretching mechanism is joined to the second plate for applying a stretching force along a portion of the feed portion and a portion of the return portion.