Flossing Tool With Rotatable Locking Pivot for Variable Angles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flossing tools are limited in their ability to accommodate different or variable flossing angles, preventing optimal positioning for all teeth or flossing circumstances.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable flossing tool with a headstock that allows for the attachment of string positioners, which can be rotated or replaced to adjust the angle of the floss strings relative to the major tool axis, enabling positioning at various angles or parallel to the axis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the floss string is fixed at a locked perpendicular position relative to the major tool axis, then the device structure is simple and stable, but the adaptability to different flossing angles is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a rotatable locking pivot mechanism that allows the string positioner to rotate between a locked perpendicular position and an adjustable angled position. This dynamic mechanism enables the floss string to be positioned at multiple angles relative to the major tool axis, transforming the fixed structure into an adjustable one that adapts to different flossing requirements while maintaining structural stability through the locking feature.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable locking pivot mechanism serves multiple functions: it locks the string positioner at a perpendicular position for standard flossing, allows rotation to various angled positions for different tooth configurations, and provides a stable locked state during use. This multi-functional mechanism resolves the contradiction by enabling angle adaptability without requiring completely separate devices for different flossing scenarios.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the floss string position is fixed, then the device is easier to manufacture and operate, but it cannot be adjusted to optimize flossing for all teeth or circumstances
Solution Approach 1:
The locking pivot mechanism provides a simple rotational motion that allows users to easily adjust the string position between locked and angled configurations. The locking feature ensures that once adjusted, the position remains stable during use, maintaining ease of operation while enabling adaptability to different flossing needs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single floss string is used with a fixed positioner, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate variable flossing angles for different teeth
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable locking pivot mechanism enables a single floss string to accommodate variable flossing angles by allowing the positioner to rotate to different angular positions. This dynamic adjustment capability provides angle variability without requiring multiple floss strings or complex multi-component systems, thus resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity.
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
An adjustable flossing tool includes a tool body having a major tool axis and a headstock. At least one string positioner having first and second positioner arms is positioned on the headstock. A floss string extends from the first positioner ami to the second positioner arm of each string positioner. Adjustment can be made to position the first string in a first string position in parallel to or at an angle to the major tool axis. Adjustment can also be made to position the first string to a second string position, the second string position being different from the first string position relative to the major tool axis.