CN108135680B

CN108135680B - Dental floss device

Info

Publication number: CN108135680B
Application number: CN201680062301.4A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 丁松俊
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2016-01-14
Filing date: 2016-12-23
Publication date: 2021-01-12
Anticipated expiration: 2036-12-23
Also published as: CN108135680A; WO2017121234A1

Abstract

A flosser comprises a handle (30) for gripping, a length of floss (11) for cleaning teeth, and a holder (20) for securing and supporting the length of floss (11); the handle (30) of the flosser includes a first gripping member (31), a second gripping member (32), and a hinge (33). The user can return the loosened dental floss segment (11) arranged on the handle (30) of the dental floss device to a tightening state by operating the handle.

Description

Dental floss device

Technical Field

The invention relates to an oral care product for cleaning teeth, in particular to a dental floss device. The user operates the dental floss device to clean the tooth surfaces at two sides of the slit between teeth. The flosser is capable of tightening a dental floss segment disposed thereon when in use.

Background

Currently, various techniques for flossing the teeth are known, as well as devices to assist in the manipulation of the floss. For example, U.S. patent publication No. USD403120 discloses a flosser (shown in fig. 1). The flosser comprises a handle 30 for grasping, a floss segment 11 for cleaning teeth, and a holder 20 for holding and supporting the floss segment 11; the handle 30 has one end connected to the bracket 20. This type of flosser is shaped like the english letter "F" and is therefore commonly referred to as an "F-shaped flosser". In addition, U.S. patent publication No. US5388600 discloses a flosser (shown in fig. 2). The flosser also includes a handle 30, a length of floss 11, and a holder 20, although the holder 20 of the flosser is connected to the handle 30 in a manner different from the aforementioned "F-shaped flosser". This type of flosser is shaped like the english letter "Y" and is therefore commonly referred to as a "Y-flosser".

In both of the foregoing types of flossers, the length of floss 11 is secured to a support bracket 20. The floss fibers are secured to the free ends of the first 21B and second 22B support arms of the holder 20, typically by an injection molding process. If a multi-cavity mold is adopted, a plurality of dental floss devices can be manufactured by one-time injection molding. Dental floss, used in the manufacture of flossers, is typically a filament of nylon or polyester fibers, or other high modulus fibers. The thickness of the fiber is approximately between 300 and 900 denier. The housing 20 and floss handle 30 portions are typically made of polypropylene or other suitable durometer plastic material. Many methods of manufacturing flossers have been disclosed and will not be described in detail herein.

In addition, there are other types of flossers, such as those disclosed in U.S. patent publication No. US4655233 (shown in fig. 3): the dental floss segment 11 is not fixed on the bracket 20 of the dental floss device; before the dental floss device is needed to be used, the dental floss section 11 is arranged on a dental floss bracket 20; after use, the dental floss segment 11 is removed from the floss carrier 20.

Whether a flosser in which the length of floss is secured to a floss carrier (such as the flosser disclosed in USD403120, US 5388600) or a flosser in which the length of floss can be attached and removed (such as the flosser disclosed in US 4655233) requires that the length of floss 11 be under tension on the carrier 20. The tight dental floss section can achieve better tooth cleaning effect.

Certain types of dental floss, such as those made from Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) fibers, are excellent, soft in texture and highly preferred by consumers. However, in flossers made of teflon floss, the length of floss (11) will be stretched and become loose when subjected to a large amount of tension during use (see fig. 5). This can impair the cleaning ability of the flosser. Therefore, there is a need for a flosser which allows the length of floss 11 which has become loose to return to a taut condition.

US patent publication No. US5829458 discloses a flosser (see fig. 4) which is capable of restoring a dental wire segment 11, which is provided on its support and which becomes loose after being stretched, to a tensioned state. Furthermore, U.S. patent publications US4192330 and USD424748 also disclose flossers similar to US5829458, which are also capable of restoring segments 11 of a dental wire, which are provided on their respective brackets, which become loose after being stretched, to a taut state.

However, the above patents have disadvantages: the user must squeeze the flosser handle harder to tighten the dental floss segment 11. Thus, the work of operating the flosser and cleaning the teeth becomes laborious.

In view of the above, there remains a need to design and manufacture a flosser that is labor efficient to operate and that can return a slack length of floss 11 to a tensioned state.

Disclosure of Invention

The object of the present invention is to provide a flosser which is capable of restoring a length of floss, which is set thereon and becomes loose, to a tensed state; moreover, the operation of the dental floss device is more labor-saving than the operation of the existing dental floss device with the function of tightening the dental floss section.

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a flosser comprising:

a first base;

a second base;

an elongated first gripping member having a top end connected to the first base;

an elongated second gripping member disposed alongside the first gripping member and having a top end connected to the second base;

a hinge having both ends connected to the first and second grip parts, respectively, and a rotation axis of the hinge extending along a length direction of the first and second grip parts such that the first and second grip parts are rotatable about the rotation axis of the hinge;

a first support arm having a bottom end connected to the first base;

a second support arm connected at a bottom end thereof to the second base, the first support arm being spaced apart from the second support arm to define a space between the first support arm and the second support arm;

a dental floss segment comprising a first end and a second end, the first end being connected to the top end of the first support arm and the second end being connected to the top end of the second support arm;

wherein the first and second gripping members have a thicker thickness, the hinge has a thinner thickness, and the distance between the top end of the first support arm and the top end of the second support arm can increase as the first or second gripping member rotates around the rotation axis of the hinge.

In use, a user may apply pressure to the first and second grasping members with the first and second fingers, respectively, to force the first grasping member to rotate about the hinge axis, thereby causing the first base and the first support rod to rotate about the hinge axis, and simultaneously force the second grasping member to rotate about the hinge axis, thereby causing the second base and the second support rod to rotate about the hinge axis. After the first and second gripping members are rotated by a proper angle, respectively, the distance between the top ends of the first and second support rods is longer than the distance between the top ends of the first and second support rods before the rotation, whereby the length of floss positioned between the top ends of the first and second support rods is tightened.

The length, width, thickness, and profile of the first gripping member and the second gripping member may be suitably arranged such that they generate a large rotational moment when subjected to pressure exerted by the first finger or the second finger. Therefore, a user only needs to use a small pressure to press the handle tightly to tighten the dental floss segment, and the operation is more labor-saving.

When the dental floss device is used, the loosened dental floss section arranged on the dental floss device can be recovered to the tightening state, and a user only needs to press the handle with smaller pressure to tighten the dental floss section, so that the operation is more labor-saving.

In one embodiment, the first gripping member has a first distal end that rotates about the hinge axis, the second gripping member has a second distal end that rotates about the hinge axis, and the distance between the tip of the first support arm and the tip of the second support arm increases as the first distal end and the second distal end approach each other.

In one embodiment, the first gripping member has a first distal end that rotates about the hinge axis, the second gripping member has a second distal end that rotates about the hinge axis, and the distance between the tip of the first support arm and the tip of the second support arm increases as the first distal end and the second distal end move away from each other.

In one embodiment, a toothpick component which can be used for picking teeth is arranged at the tail part of the first gripping component or the second gripping component.

In one embodiment, a plurality of raised portions are provided on the outer surface of the first gripping member and/or the second gripping member.

In one embodiment, the flosser further comprises a release-and-fasten mechanism configured to be operably switchable between a release position and a fastened position, a distance between a top end of the first support arm and a top end of the second support arm when the release-and-fasten mechanism is operated in the fastened position being greater than a distance between the top end of the first support arm and the top end of the second support arm when the release-and-fasten mechanism is in the release position.

In one embodiment, the bottom ends of the first and second support arms are provided with first and second insertion blocks, respectively, the first and second bases are provided with first and second insertion grooves, respectively, the first insertion block may be snap-coupled to the first insertion groove, and the second insertion block may be snap-coupled to the second insertion groove.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a flosser comprising:

a first base;

a second base having a gap with the first base;

a gripping member having a top end connected to the first base;

a first support arm having a bottom end connected to the first base;

a second support arm connected at a bottom end thereof to the second base, the second support arm being spaced apart from the first support arm to define a space between the first support arm and the second support arm;

a hinge having both ends connected to the first base and the second base, respectively, and a rotation shaft of the hinge extending in a thickness direction of the grip member;

a release-and-fasten mechanism configured to be operably switched between a release position and a fastened position, a distance between a top end of the first support arm and a top end of the second support arm when the release-and-fasten mechanism is operated in the fastened position being greater than a distance between the top end of the first support arm and the top end of the second support arm when the release-and-fasten mechanism is in the release position.

In one embodiment, the release-and-fasten mechanism comprises:

a first movable member hinged to the first base;

a second movable member hinged to the second base;

wherein the first movable member is engaged with the second movable member when the release-and-fasten mechanism is in the fastened position.

In one embodiment, the release-and-fasten mechanism comprises:

a first connecting member fixedly provided on the first base;

a second connecting member hinged to the second base;

wherein the first connection member is engaged with the second connection member when the release-and-secure mechanism is in the secured position.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a flosser comprising:

a gripping member;

a floss carrier adapted to be removably mounted to the gripping member, the floss carrier comprising:

a first base;

a second base;

a hinge having both ends connected to the first base and the second base, respectively;

a first support arm having a bottom end connected to the first base;

wherein a distance between a top end of the first support arm and a top end of the second support arm is greater when the floss carrier is mounted on the grip than when the floss carrier is detached from the grip.

In one embodiment, the hinge has a rotation axis extending in a thickness direction of the first base and the second base.

In one embodiment, the hinge axis extends along the length of the first and second bases.

In one embodiment, the grip is provided with a mounting head with an insertion slot, the first base is provided with a first insertion part snappingly connectable with the insertion slot, the second base is provided with a second insertion part snappingly connectable with the insertion slot, wherein the floss carrier is mounted on the grip when the first and second insertion parts are simultaneously snappingly connected with the insertion slot.

In one embodiment, the gripping member is provided with a mounting head with an insertion slot adapted to snap connect the first and second bases simultaneously;

the hinge is connected to the bottom of the first base and the second base, and a notch is provided between the first base and the second base and above the hinge, and the notch is configured such that when the first base and the second base are inserted into the insertion groove, an opening of the notch is expanded.

In one embodiment, a stop member is disposed within the insertion slot, the stop member extending outwardly from a bottom of the insertion slot and adapted to extend into and abut the notch when the first and second base portions are inserted into the insertion slot of the mounting head.

a first base;

a second base hinged to the first base and operable to switch between a release position and a fastening position;

a gripping member having a top end connected to the first base;

a hinge having both ends connected to the first base and the base, respectively, and a rotation shaft of the hinge extending in a width direction of the first base and the second base;

a first support arm having a bottom end connected to the first base;

wherein when the second base is switched from the release position to the fastening position, the second base engages with the first base, and a distance between a top end of the first support arm and a top end of the second support arm is greater than a distance between the top end of the first support arm and the top end of the second support arm when the second base is in the release position.

a first base;

a second base;

a first support arm having a bottom end connected to the first base;

a dental floss configured as an annular ring and removably connected to the first base, the second base, the first support arm, the second support arm;

wherein the first support arm and the first base are provided with a first clamping groove extending along the outer side of the first support arm and the first base, the second support arm and the second base are provided with a second clamping groove extending along the outer side of the second support arm and the second base, the dental floss is suitable for clamping in the first clamping groove and the second clamping groove, and a section of the dental floss is located between the top end of the first support arm and the top end of the second support arm;

the distance between the top end of the first support arm and the top end of the second support arm may increase as the first gripping member or the second gripping member rotates about the axis of rotation of the hinge.

Drawings

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a prior art flosser;

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of another flosser of the prior art;

FIG. 3 is a schematic view of yet another flosser of the prior art;

FIG. 4 is a schematic view of yet another prior flosser;

fig. 5 shows a state in which a floss section of the conventional flosser becomes loose after being elongated.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the flosser according to embodiment 1 of the present invention when not in use;

FIGS. 7-8 are perspective views of the flosser of FIG. 6 from two other points of view, respectively;

fig. 9 shows a state that a floss section is elongated and becomes loose after the flosser according to embodiment 1 of the present invention is used;

fig. 10 shows a state that a handle of the flosser according to embodiment 1 of the present invention is pressed by fingers;

FIG. 11a is a perspective view of the flosser of FIG. 10;

FIG. 11b is a cross-sectional view taken along the plane C-C in FIG. 11 a;

fig. 12 shows a state in which the flosser according to embodiment 1 of the present invention is used;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the flosser according to embodiment 2 of the present invention when not in use;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the flosser of embodiment 3 in accordance with the present invention when not in use;

FIGS. 15-16 are perspective views of the flosser of FIG. 14 from two other points of view, respectively;

FIG. 17 shows a state where a handle of the flosser according to embodiment 3 of the present invention is pressed by a finger;

FIG. 18a is a perspective view of the flosser of FIG. 17;

FIG. 18b is a cross-sectional view taken along the E-E plane in FIG. 18 a;

fig. 19 shows a state in which the flosser according to embodiment 3 of the present invention is used.

Fig. 20 is a perspective view of the flosser according to embodiment 4 of the present invention when not in use.

Fig. 21 is a perspective view of a flosser in accordance with embodiment 5 of the present invention when not in use.

FIGS. 22-23 are perspective views of the flosser of embodiment 6 in accordance with the present invention as viewed from two viewing points when not in use;

FIG. 24 shows a state where a handle of the flosser according to embodiment 6 of the present invention is pressed by a finger;

FIG. 25a is a perspective view of the flosser of FIG. 24;

FIG. 25b is a cross-sectional view taken along the G-G plane in FIG. 25 a;

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the flosser of embodiment 7 in accordance with the present invention when not in use;

FIGS. 27-28 are perspective views of the flosser of FIG. 26 from two other points of view, respectively;

fig. 29 shows a state which is assumed when a handle of the flosser according to the embodiment 7 of the present invention is pressed by a finger.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of the flosser according to embodiment 8 of the present invention when not in use;

fig. 31-32 are perspective views of the flosser of fig. 30 from two other points of view, respectively.

Fig. 33 shows a state in which the flosser according to embodiment 8 of the present invention is used.

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of the flosser of embodiment 9 in accordance with the present invention when not in use;

FIG. 35 is a schematic view of the flosser of embodiment 10 in accordance with the present invention shown when not in use;

FIG. 36 is a schematic view of a flosser in accordance with embodiment 10 of the present invention in use;

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of the flosser of embodiment 11 in accordance with the present invention when not in use;

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of the flosser in accordance with embodiment 11 of the present invention when in use;

FIG. 39 is a perspective view of the flosser according to embodiment 12 of the present invention when not in use;

FIG. 40 is a perspective view of the flosser in accordance with embodiment 12 of the present invention when in use;

41a-41b are perspective views of a flosser in accordance with embodiment 13 of the present invention when not in use, viewed from two viewing points, respectively;

FIG. 42 is a schematic structural view of a fixing lever of the flosser shown in FIGS. 41a and 41 b;

fig. 43 is a perspective view of a flosser in accordance with embodiment 13 of the present invention when in use;

FIG. 44 is a perspective view of the flosser according to embodiment 14 of the present invention when not in use;

FIG. 45 is a perspective view of the flosser in accordance with embodiment 14 of the present invention when in use;

FIG. 46 is a perspective view of a flosser in accordance with embodiment 15 of the present invention when not in use;

FIG. 47 is a perspective view of the flosser in accordance with embodiment 15 of the present invention when in use;

FIG. 48 is a perspective view of the flosser according to embodiment 16 of the present invention when not in use;

FIG. 49 is a perspective view of the flosser in accordance with embodiment 16 of the present invention when in use;

FIG. 50 is a perspective view of the flosser in accordance with embodiment 17 of the present invention when not in use;

FIG. 51 is a perspective view of the flosser in accordance with embodiment 17 of the present invention when in use;

FIG. 52 is a perspective view of the flosser in accordance with embodiment 18 of the present invention when not in use;

FIG. 53 is a perspective view of the flosser in accordance with embodiment 18 of the present invention when in use;

FIG. 54 is a perspective view of the flosser in accordance with embodiment 19 of the present invention when not in use;

FIG. 55 is a perspective view of the flosser in accordance with embodiment 19 of the present invention when in use;

FIG. 56 is a perspective view of the flosser in accordance with embodiment 20 of the present invention when not in use;

FIG. 57 is a perspective view of the flosser in accordance with embodiment 20 of the present invention when in use;

FIG. 58 is a perspective view of the flosser of embodiment 21 in accordance with the present invention when not in use;

FIG. 59 is a perspective view of the flosser in accordance with embodiment 21 of the present invention when in use;

FIG. 60 is a perspective view of a floss carrier separated from a gripping member when the flosser according to embodiment 22 of the present invention is not in operation;

FIG. 61 is a perspective view of the gripping member separated from the floss carrier when the flosser of embodiment 22 in accordance with the present invention is not in operation;

FIG. 62 is a perspective view of a flosser in accordance with embodiment 22 of the present invention with the floss carrier ready for installation into a gripping member;

FIG. 63 is a perspective view of the flosser in accordance with embodiment 22 of the present invention when in use;

FIG. 64 is a perspective view of a floss carrier separated from a gripping member when the flosser according to embodiment 23 of the present invention is not in operation;

FIG. 65 is a perspective view of a dental floss holder according to embodiment 23 of the present invention, ready for installation into a gripping member;

fig. 66 is a schematic view showing a configuration of a floss carrier of the flosser in accordance with the embodiment 24 of the present invention;

FIG. 67 is an exploded view of an insertion slot of a gripping member of the flosser in accordance with embodiment 24 of the present invention;

FIG. 68 is a perspective view of a flosser in accordance with embodiment 24 of the present invention with the floss carrier installed in the gripping member, with the mounting head separated into two parts for ease of viewing;

FIG. 69 is a perspective view of a support arm with dental floss segments when the flosser in accordance with embodiment 25 of the present invention is not in operation;

FIG. 70 is an enlarged perspective view of the head of the gripping member when the flosser is not in operation in accordance with embodiment 25 of the present invention;

FIG. 71 is a perspective view of the flosser in accordance with embodiment 25 of the present invention when in use;

FIG. 72 is an enlarged partial perspective view of a flosser in accordance with embodiment 26 of the present invention when not having floss attached;

FIG. 73 is a perspective view of a dental floss according to embodiment 26 of the present invention;

fig. 74 is an enlarged partial perspective view of a flosser in accordance with embodiment 26 of the present invention when flossing;

fig. 75 is a partially enlarged perspective view of a flosser in accordance with embodiment 26 of the present invention after flossing.

Detailed Description

In order to make the aforementioned objects, features and advantages of the present invention comprehensible, embodiments accompanied with figures are described in detail below. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein, but rather should be construed as broadly as the present invention is capable of modification in various respects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Example 1

Fig. 6, 7 and 8 are perspective views, respectively, of the flosser according to embodiment 1 of the present invention, when not in use, from different viewpoints. Fig. 6, 7, 8 show the state of embodiment 1 when not in use.

In this embodiment, the flosser includes a handle 30 for grasping, a floss segment 11 for cleaning teeth, and a holder 20 for holding and supporting the floss segment 11; the handle 30 has one end connected to the bracket 20.

The handle 30 comprises a first grip part 31, a second grip part 32 and a hinge 33; the rotation axis of the hinge 33 extends in the longitudinal direction of the handle 30 (the direction indicated by the broken line a-a in fig. 6, 7, 8); the hinge 33 has a suitable length (in embodiment 1, its length is approximately 5 cm); a first edge of the hinge 33 is connected to a partial edge of the first grip member 31, and a second edge of the hinge 33 is connected to a partial edge of the second grip member 32; and, from the first grip member 31, a first base 21A extends; and a first support arm 21B extending from the first base 21A; and, extending from the second gripping member 32 is a second base 22A; and a second support arm 22B extending from the second base 22A; the first support arm 21B and the second support arm 22B are spaced from each other by an appropriate distance; the thread segment 11 is provided so that both ends thereof are fixed to the free end of the first support arm 21B and the free end of the second support arm 22B, respectively.

The first base 21A, the first support arm 21B, the second base 22A, and the second support arm 22B together form the stand 20. The dental floss segment 11 is fixed and supported on the bracket 20.

In the present embodiment, the first and second

gripping members

31 and 32 have a thicker thickness, and the hinge 33 has a thinner thickness. A first edge of the hinge 33 is connected to a part of the edge of the first grip part 31 and a second edge of the hinge 33 is connected to a part of the edge of the second grip part 32.

When the first and/or second

gripping members

31, 32 are applied with a twisting pressure, the hinge 33 having a thinner thickness can be bent, whereby the first and/or second

gripping members

31, 32 can be rotated about the rotation axis of the hinge 33 (in embodiment 1, the rotation axis of the hinge 33 overlaps the broken line a-a in fig. 6, 7, 8) and can be rotated by a suitable angle (typically, the rotation angle is between 0 and 30 degrees).

The flosser bracket 20, handle 30 and hinge 33 are typically made of a semi-rigid plastic, preferably polypropylene. The hinge 33 made of semi-rigid plastic having a thin thickness is easily bent when a torsional pressure is applied; thus, a smaller pressure is applied, which causes the first grip member 31 and/or the second grip member 32 to rotate about the axis of rotation of the hinge 33.

The length, width, thickness, and outer shape of the first and second

gripping members

31 and 32 need to be appropriately set to satisfy the following conditions: when the first grip member 31 is rotated about the rotation axis of the hinge 33, the second grip member 32 does not block the first grip member 31 from being rotated by a proper angle, and when the second grip member 32 is rotated about the rotation axis of the hinge 33, the first grip member 31 does not block the second grip member 32 from being rotated by a proper angle.

In the present embodiment, the dental floss segment 11 is provided at the free end of the first support arm 21B and the free end of the second support arm 22B. The dental floss segment 11 is made of polytetrafluoroethylene fibers. The polytetrafluoroethylene fiber has excellent performance and soft texture, and is popular with consumers. However, when the polytetrafluoroethylene fiber is stretched with a large force during use, the polytetrafluoroethylene fiber is stretched and becomes loose. Fig. 9 shows the condition of embodiment 1 as it is used, the length of floss 11 is elongated and becomes slack.

After the length of floss 11 has been elongated and becomes loose, the flossing ability is impaired. At this point, the length of floss that has become slack needs to be retightened to achieve normal flossing ability.

Fig. 10 shows a state that the handle of the flosser of the present embodiment is pressed by a finger.

Fig. 11a is a schematic view of the flosser of the present embodiment in a state in which it is used.

In use, the operator grasps the flosser handle 30 with the first finger 41 and the second finger 42; the first finger 41 applies pressure to the first gripping member 31 to force the first gripping member 31 to rotate around the rotating shaft of the hinge 33, thereby rotating the first base 21A and the first support arm 21B around the rotating shaft of the hinge 33; at the same time, the second finger 42 applies pressure to the second grasping part 32 to force the second grasping part 32 to rotate around the rotating shaft of the hinge 33, thereby rotating the second base 22A and the second supporting arm 22B around the rotating shaft of the hinge 33; after the first and second

gripping members

31, 32 have been rotated by a suitable angle, respectively, the distance between the free end of the first support arm 21B and the free end of the second support arm 22B is longer than before the rotation, whereby the length of floss 11 secured between the free end of the first support arm 21B and the free end of the second support arm 22B, which has become loose, is re-tensioned.

In fig. 11a, a first arrow 51 indicates the direction in which the first finger 41 applies pressure to the first gripping member 31; the second arrow 52 indicates the direction in which the second finger 42 applies pressure to the second gripping member 32.

FIG. 11b is a cross-sectional view of the flosser of FIG. 11a taken along the plane C-C. As can be seen from fig. 11b, when the flosser is used, the first and second

gripping members

31 and 32 are rotated by a certain angle, for example, 20 degrees, around the rotation axis of the hinge 33, respectively, resulting in the first and second

gripping members

31 and 32 being close to each other. That is, as the first distal end of the first gripping member rotating about the rotational axis of the hinge and the second distal end of the second gripping member rotating about the rotational axis of the hinge approach each other, the distance between the tip of the first support arm and the tip of the second support arm increases and the length of floss tends to stretch.

Fig. 12 shows a state in which the flosser according to the present embodiment is used. In fig. 12, a third arrow 61 indicates a direction in which the first support arm 21B rotates about the rotation axis of the hinge 33; the fourth arrow 62 indicates the direction in which the second support arm 22B rotates about the axis of rotation of the hinge 33. Fig. 12 shows that the floss string 11 is tightened again after the first support arm 21B and the second support arm 22B are rotated by appropriate angles, respectively.

The length, width, thickness, and shape of the first and second

gripping members

31 and 32 may be set appropriately so that they generate a large rotational moment when they receive the pressure applied by the first or

second finger

41 or 42; thus, the user only needs to press the handle 30 with a small pressure to tighten the dental floss segment 11, and the operation is more labor-saving.

Example 2

Fig. 13 is a perspective view of a flosser in accordance with embodiment 2 of the present invention when not in use. Example 2 is a modification of example 1. The improvement of example 2 over example 1 is that: providing a plurality of protruding portions 34 on the outer surface of the first and/or second

gripping members

31, 32; therefore, on one hand, the friction coefficient of the outer surface of the gripping part can be increased, so that the gripping part is not easy to slip; on the other hand, the appearance of the flosser can be more beautiful.

Example 3

Fig. 14, 15, 16 are perspective views respectively obtained from different observation points when the flosser according to the present embodiment is not in use. Fig. 14, 15, 16 show the state of embodiment 3 when not used.

In the present embodiment, the flosser includes a handle 30 for grasping, a floss segment 11 for cleaning teeth, and a holder 20 for holding and supporting the floss segment 11; the handle 30 has one end connected to the bracket 20.

The handle 30 comprises a first grip part 31, a second grip part 32 and a hinge 33; the rotation axis of the hinge 33 extends in the longitudinal direction of the handle 30 (the direction shown by the broken line a-a in fig. 14, 15, 16); the hinge 33 has a suitable length (in embodiment 3, it is approximately 5 cm in length); a first edge of the hinge 33 is connected to a partial edge of the first grip member 31, and a second edge of the hinge 33 is connected to a partial edge of the second grip member 32; and, from the first grip member 31, a first base 21A extends; and a first support arm 21B extending from the first base 21A; and, extending from the second gripping member 32 is a second base 22A; and a second support arm 22B extending from the second base 22A; the first support arm 21B and the second support arm 22B are spaced from each other by an appropriate distance; the thread segment 11 is provided so that both ends thereof are fixed to the free end of the first support arm 21B and the free end of the second support arm 22B, respectively.

Wherein the first base 21A, the first support arm 21B, the second base 22A, and the second support arm 22B together constitute the stand 20 of embodiment 3; the dental floss segment 11 is fixed and supported on the bracket 20.

In the present embodiment, the first and second

gripping members

When the first and/or second

gripping members

31, 32 can be rotated about the rotation axis of the hinge 33 (in embodiment 3, the rotation axis of the hinge 33 overlaps the broken line a-a in fig. 14, 15, 16) and can be rotated by a suitable angle (typically, the rotation angle is between 0 and 30 degrees).

Fig. 17 shows a state which the handle of the flosser of the present embodiment is pressed by a finger.

Fig. 18a is a schematic view of the flosser of this embodiment in a state in which it is in use.

In use, the operator grasps the flosser handle 30 with the first finger 41 and the second finger 42; the first finger 41 applies pressure to the top of the handle 30, and at the same time, the second finger 42 applies pressure to the edge of the first gripping member 31 and the edge of the second gripping member 32, so as to force the first gripping member 31 to rotate around the rotating shaft of the hinge 33, thereby driving the first base 21A and the first support arm 21B to rotate around the rotating shaft of the hinge 33; at the same time, the second grip member 32 is forced to rotate around the rotation axis of the hinge 33, thereby rotating the second base 22A and the second support arm 22B around the rotation axis of the hinge 33; after the first and second

gripping members

31, 32 have been rotated by a suitable angle, respectively, the distance between the free ends of the first and

second support arms

21B, 22B is longer than before, whereby the length of floss 11 held between the free ends of the first and

second support arms

21B, 22B is tensioned.

In fig. 18a, a first arrow 51 indicates the direction in which the first finger 41 applies pressure to the handle 30; the second arrow 52 indicates the direction in which the second finger 42 applies pressure to the edge of the first gripping member 31 and to the edge of the second gripping member 32.

Fig. 18b is a cross-sectional view taken along the plane E-E in fig. 18 showing the handle as it would appear when the flosser of the present embodiment is in use. Fig. 18b has been enlarged for ease of viewing. As can be seen from fig. 18b, when the dental flosser of the present embodiment is in use, the first and second

gripping members

31 and 32 are rotated by a certain angle, for example, 15 degrees, around the rotation axis of the hinge 33, respectively, causing the first and second

gripping members

31 and 32 to move away from each other. That is, as the first distal end of the first grip component and the second distal end of the second grip component rotate about the hinge axis away from each other, the distance between the tip of the first support arm and the tip of the second support arm increases and the length of floss tends to stretch.

Fig. 19 shows a state in which the flosser according to the present embodiment is used. In fig. 19, a third arrow 61 indicates a direction in which the first support arm 21B rotates about the rotation axis of the hinge 33; the fourth arrow 62 indicates the direction in which the second support arm 22B rotates about the axis of rotation of the hinge 33. Fig. 19 shows that the floss string 11 is tensioned after the first supporting arm 21B and the second supporting arm 22B are rotated by proper angles, respectively.

Example 4

Fig. 20 is a perspective view of the flosser according to embodiment 4 of the present invention when not in use. The flosser of this embodiment is a modification of the flosser of embodiment 3. The improvement of the flosser of this embodiment over the flosser of embodiment 3 is: a toothpick member 35 is provided at the end of the first gripping member 31. Toothpick device 35 may be used for flossing, which adds to the flosser function. Of course, toothpick devices 35 could also be provided at the rear of second gripping member 32, as would be understood.

Example 5

Fig. 21 is a perspective view of a flosser in accordance with embodiment 5 of the present invention when not in use. The flosser of this embodiment is a modification of the flosser of embodiment 3. The improvement of the flosser of this embodiment over the flosser of embodiment 3 is: notches 36 are provided on the edges of the first and second

gripping members

31, 32. The notches 36 may increase the coefficient of friction of the edge of the gripping member so that it does not slip easily. Of course, it goes without saying that the notch 36 may also be provided only on the edge of the first gripping member 31 or the second gripping member 32.

Example 6

Fig. 22, 23 are perspective views respectively obtained from different observation points when the flosser according to embodiment 6 of the present invention is not in use. Fig. 22 and 23 show the state of embodiment 6 when not used.

The handle 30 comprises a first grip part 31, a second grip part 32 and a hinge 33; the rotation axis of the hinge 33 extends in the longitudinal direction of the handle 30 (the direction shown by the broken line a-a in fig. 22, 23); the hinge 33 has a suitable length (in this embodiment, it is approximately 6 cm in length); a first edge of the hinge 33 is connected to a partial edge of the first grip member 31, and a second edge of the hinge 33 is connected to a partial edge of the second grip member 32; and, from the first grip member 31, a first base 21A extends; and a first support arm 21B extending from the first base 21A; and, extending from the second gripping member 32 is a second base 22A; and a second support arm 22B extending from the second base 22A; the first support arm 21B and the second support arm 22B are spaced from each other by an appropriate distance; the thread segment 11 is provided so that both ends thereof are fixed to the free end of the first support arm 21B and the free end of the second support arm 22B, respectively.

The first base 21A, the first support arm 21B, the second base 22A, and the second support arm 22B together constitute the stand 20 of the present embodiment; the dental floss segment 11 is fixed and supported on the bracket 20.

In the present embodiment, the first and second

gripping members

31 and 32 have a thicker thickness, and the hinge 33 has a thinner thickness. Fig. 23 also shows that a first edge of the hinge 33 is connected to a part of the edge of the first grip part 31 and a second edge of the hinge 33 is connected to a part of the edge of the second grip part 32.

When the first and/or second

gripping members

31, 32 can be rotated about the rotation axis of the hinge 33 (in the present embodiment, the rotation axis of the hinge 33 overlaps the broken line a-a in fig. 22, 23) and can be rotated by a suitable angle (typically, the rotation angle is between 0 and 30 degrees).

Fig. 24 shows a state in which the handle of the flosser of the present embodiment is pressed by a finger.

Fig. 25a is a schematic view of the flosser of the present embodiment in a state in which it is used.

gripping members

second support arms

21B, 22B is longer than before the rotation, whereby the length of floss 11 held between the free ends of the first and

second support arms

21B, 22B is tightened.

In fig. 25a, the first arrow 51 indicates the direction in which the first finger 41 applies pressure to the first gripping member 31; the second arrow 52 indicates the direction in which the second finger 42 applies pressure to the second gripping member 32.

Fig. 25b is a cross-sectional view taken along the G-G plane in fig. 25 a. As can be seen from fig. 25b, when the flosser is used, the first and second

gripping members

31 and 32 are rotated about the rotational axis of the hinge 33 by substantially 15 degrees, respectively, resulting in the first and second

gripping members

31 and 32 being brought close to each other.

Example 7

Fig. 26, 27 and 28 are perspective views of example 7 of the present invention, when not in use, from different observation points, respectively. Fig. 26, 27, 28 show the state of embodiment 7 when not in use.

The handle 30 comprises a first grip part 31, a second grip part 32 and a hinge 33; the rotation axis of the hinge 33 extends in the longitudinal direction of the handle 30 (the direction shown by the broken line a-a in fig. 26, 27, 28); the hinge 33 has a suitable length (in this embodiment, it is approximately 6 cm in length); a first edge of the hinge 33 is connected with a part of the edge of the first grip part 31), a second edge of the hinge 33 is connected with a part of the edge of the second grip part 32; and, from the first grip member 31, a first base 21A extends; and a first support arm 21B extending from the first base 21A; and, extending from the second gripping member 32 is a second base 22A; and a second support arm 22B extending from the second base 22A; the first support arm 21B and the second support arm 22B are spaced from each other by an appropriate distance; the thread segment 11 is provided so that both ends thereof are fixed to the free end of the first support arm 21B and the free end of the second support arm 22B, respectively.

Wherein the first base portion 21A, the first support arm 21B, the second base portion 22A, and the second support arm 22B together constitute the stand 20 of embodiment 7; the dental floss segment 11 is fixed and supported on the bracket 20.

The first and second

gripping members

31, 32 have a relatively thick thickness and the hinge 33 has a relatively thin thickness. A first edge of the hinge 33 is connected to a part of the edge of the first grip part 31 and a second edge of the hinge 33 is connected to a part of the edge of the second grip part 32.

When the first and/or second

gripping members

31, 32 can be rotated about the rotation axis of the hinge 33 (in the present embodiment, the rotation axis of the hinge (33) overlaps the broken line a-a in fig. 26, 27, 28) and can be rotated by a suitable angle (typically, the rotation angle is between 0 and 30 degrees).

Fig. 29 shows a state which the handle of the flosser of the present embodiment is pressed by a finger.

In use, the operator grasps the flosser handle 30 with the first finger 41 and the second finger 42; the second finger 42 applies pressure to the bottom of the handle 30, and at the same time, the first finger 41 applies pressure to the edge of the first gripping member 31 and the edge of the second gripping member 32, so as to force the first gripping member 31 to rotate around the rotating shaft of the hinge 33, thereby driving the first base 21A and the first support arm 21B to rotate around the rotating shaft of the hinge 33; at the same time, the second grip member 32 is forced to rotate around the rotation axis of the hinge 33, thereby rotating the second base 22A and the second support arm 22B around the rotation axis of the hinge 33; after the first and second

gripping members

second support arms

21B, 22B is tightened.

Example 8

Fig. 30, 31, 32 are perspective views from different viewpoints of example 8 of the present invention when not in use, respectively. Fig. 30, 31, 32 show the state that embodiment 8 assumes when not in use.

The handle 30 comprises a first grip part 31, a second grip part 32 and a hinge 33; the rotation axis of the hinge 33 extends in the longitudinal direction of the handle 30 (the direction shown by the broken line a-a in fig. 30, 32); the hinge 33 has a suitable length (in this embodiment, approximately 6 cm in length); a first edge of the hinge 33 is connected to a partial edge of the first grip member 31, and a second edge of the hinge 33 is connected to a partial edge of the second grip member 32; and, from the first grip member 31, a first base 21A extends; and a first support arm 21B extending from the first base 21A; and, extending from the second gripping member 32 is a second base 22A; and a second support arm 22B extending from the second base 22A; the first support arm 21B and the second support arm 22B are spaced from each other by an appropriate distance; the thread segment 11 is provided so that both ends thereof are fixed to the free end of the first support arm 21B and the free end of the second support arm 22B, respectively.

Wherein the first base 21A, the first support arm 21B, the second base 22A, and the second support arm 22B together constitute the stand 20 of embodiment 8; the dental floss segment 11 is fixed and supported on the bracket 20.

The first and second

gripping members

When the first and/or second

gripping members

31, 32 are applied with a twisting pressure, the hinge 33 having a relatively thin thickness can be bent, whereby the first and/or second

gripping members

31, 32 can be rotated about the rotation axis of the hinge 33 (in the present embodiment, the rotation axis of the hinge 33 overlaps the dotted line a-a in fig. 30, 32) and can be rotated by a suitable angle (typically, the rotation angle is between 0 and 30 degrees).

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of example 8, as seen from a certain observation point, when it is used. FIG. 33 shows the state which embodiment 8 assumes when it is used.

gripping members

second support arms

21B, 22B is tightened.

In fig. 33, a first arrow 51 indicates the direction in which the first finger 41 applies pressure to the handle 30; the second arrow 52 indicates the direction in which the second finger 42 applies pressure to the edge of the first gripping member 31 and to the edge of the second gripping member 32.

Example 9

Fig. 34 is a perspective view of a flosser in accordance with embodiment 9 of the present invention when not in use. The flosser of this embodiment is substantially the same as the flosser of embodiment 8 except that it includes three

hinges

33a, 33b and 33c and the first and second

gripping members

31 and 32 have arcuate outer surfaces. The three

hinges

33a, 33b, and 33c have the same rotation axis.

Example 10

Fig. 35 is a structural view of the flosser according to the present embodiment when not in use, and fig. 36 is a structural view of the flosser according to the present embodiment when in use.

In this embodiment, as shown in fig. 35 and 36, the flosser includes a first base 21A, a second base 22A, a gripping member 37, a first support arm 21B, a second support arm 22B, a length of floss 11, a hinge 33 and a release-and-tighten mechanism 70.

A gap exists between the first base 21A and the second base 22. The top end of the grip member 37 is connected to the first base 21A, and the bottom end of the first support arm 21B is connected to the first base 21A. The bottom end of the second support arm 22B is connected to the second base 22A, and the second support arm 21B is spaced apart from the first support arm 22B to define a space between the first support arm 21B and the second support arm 22B. The dental floss segment 11 includes a first end connected to the tip of the first support arm 21B and a second end connected to the tip of the second support arm 22B. Both ends of the hinge 33 are connected to the first base 21A and the second base 22A, respectively, and the hinge 33 extends in the thickness direction of the grip member 37. The release-and-fasten mechanism 70 is operable and provided to be switchable between a release position and a fastening position, and when the release-and-fasten mechanism 70 is operated to be in the fastening position, a distance between the top end of the first support arm 21B and the top end of the second support arm 22B is larger than a distance between the top end of the first support arm 21B and the top end of the second support arm 22B when the release-and-fasten mechanism 70 is in the release position. The thickness of the hinge 33 is generally thickened, i.e., greater than the thickness of the first and

second bases

21A and 22A, to improve the durability of the hinge.

In the present embodiment, the release-fastening mechanism 70 includes a first fixing lever 71, a second fixing lever 72, a first hinge 73, a second hinge 74, and a third hinge 75. Both ends of the first hinge 73 are connected to the first fixing rod 71 and the first support arm 21B, both ends of the second hinge 74 are connected to the first fixing rod 71 and the second fixing rod 72, respectively, both ends of the third hinge 75 are connected to the second fixing rod 72 and the second support arm 22B, respectively, and the rotation shafts of the first hinge 73, the second hinge 74, and the third hinge 75 extend in the thickness direction of the first support arm 21B and the second support arm 22B. The lengths of the first fixing lever 71 and the second fixing lever 72 are configured such that, when the release-fastening mechanism is operatively switched from the release position to the fastening position, the distance between the tip of the first support arm 21B and the tip of the second support arm 22B is expanded to a preset length and is greater than the distance between the tip of the first support arm 21B and the tip of the second support arm 22B when the release-fastening mechanism 70 is in the release position.

In order to rotate the flosser from the initial state to the working state, the user needs to squeeze the release-fastening mechanism 70 with fingers to force the first fixing lever 71 and the second fixing lever 72 to rotate around the hinge until the first fixing lever 71 and the second fixing lever 72 are respectively abutted against the inner walls of the first base 21A and the second base 22A, whereupon the first fixing lever 71 and the second fixing lever 72 are stopped by the first base 21A and the second base 22A and cannot rotate any more.

In the process that the release-fastening mechanism is pressed by the finger and rotated to the base, the first supporting arm 21B is pushed by the first fixing lever 71 to drive the first base 21A to rotate around the hinge 33, and at the same time, the second supporting arm 22B is pushed by the second fixing lever 72 to drive the second base 22A of the flosser to rotate around the hinge 33, in the process, the top end of the first supporting arm 21B and the top end of the second supporting arm 22B are gradually separated from each other, that is, the distance between the two top ends is gradually enlarged. When the first fixing rod 71 and the second fixing rod 72 are respectively tightly attached to the inner walls of the first base 21A and the second base 22A, the distance between the top end of the first support arm 21B and the top end of the second support arm 22B is not enlarged any more, and reaches a preset length.

After the distance between the top end of the first support arm 21B and the top end of the second support arm 22B is expanded to a preset length, the dental floss segment 11 is tightened by bearing the tension applied by the first support arm 21B and the second support arm 22B; meanwhile, after the preset length is reached, the distance between the top end of the first supporting arm 21B and the top end of the second supporting arm 22B is not increased any more, and the pulling force applied to the dental floss segment 11 is not increased any more, so as to ensure that the dental floss segment is not pulled out from the top ends of the two supporting arms due to the excessive force.

Of particular concern is that the thickness of hinge 33 is thickened. The thickened hinge provides a more secure flosser, and the flosser swing is reduced when the floss section is subjected to tension.

Example 11

Fig. 37 is a structural view of the flosser according to the present embodiment when not in use, and fig. 38 is a structural view of the flosser according to the present embodiment when in use.

The flosser of this embodiment is substantially the same as the flosser of embodiment 10 except for the structure of the release-and-tighten mechanism.

In the present embodiment, as shown in fig. 37 and 38, the release-fastening mechanism further includes a first fixing piece 81 and a second fixing piece 82. The first fixing piece 81 includes a first lower surface, a part of the edge of the first fixing piece 81 is connected to the first fixing lever, and the connection angle and connection position between it and the first fixing lever are configured such that the first lower surface of the first fixing piece 81 is abutted against the upper surface of the first base when the release-fastening mechanism is operatively switched from the release position to the fastening position. The second fixing piece 82 includes a first upper surface, a part of the edge of the second fixing piece 82 is connected to the second fixing bar, and the connection angle and connection position between it and the second fixing bar are configured such that the first upper surface of the second fixing piece 82 is abutted against the lower surface of the second base when the release-fastening mechanism is operatively switched from the release position to the fastening position.

Example 12

Fig. 39 is a schematic view showing a configuration of a flosser according to the present embodiment when not in use, and fig. 40 is a schematic view showing a configuration of a flosser according to the present embodiment when in use.

As shown in fig. 39 and 40, the release-fastening mechanism includes a fixing lever 91 movably connected to the second support arm 22B, and a notch 92 provided on the first base 21A. In the present embodiment, the fixing lever 91 is connected to the second support arm 22B by a hinge. The shape of the notch 92 matches the shape of the free end of the fixing lever 91 so that the free end of the fixing lever 91 can closely fit the notch 92 when the release-fastening mechanism is switched from the release position to the fastening position.

The release-fastening mechanism further includes a first stopper piece 93, a second stopper piece 94, and a third stopper piece 95. The first stopper piece 93 and the second stopper piece 94 are provided on the notch 92, and when the release-and-fastening mechanism is operable to be switched from the release position to the fastening position, that is, when the free end of the fixing lever 91 is brought into close contact with the notch 92, the lower surface of the first stopper piece 93 abuts against the upper surface of the fixing lever 91, and the upper surface of the second stopper piece 94 abuts against the lower surface of the fixing lever 91, thereby clamping the fixing lever 91 and restricting the fixing lever 91 from wobbling in the thickness direction of the first base portion 21A. The third stopper 95 is provided at the junction of the second base 22A and the second support arm 22B above or below the fixing lever 91, in this embodiment, below the fixing lever 91, and when the release-fastening mechanism is operable to be switched from the release position to the fastening position, the upper surface of the third stopper abuts against the lower surface of the fixing lever, thereby further restricting the fixing lever 91 from wobbling in the thickness direction of the second base 22A.

Example 13

Fig. 41a to 41b are perspective views respectively viewed from two viewpoints when the flosser according to the present embodiment is not in use, fig. 42 is a structural schematic view of a fixing lever of the flosser of the present embodiment, and fig. 43 is a structural schematic view of the flosser according to the present embodiment when in use.

As shown in fig. 41A to 43, the release-fastening mechanism includes a fixing lever 101 movably coupled to the second support arm 22B, a first depression 105 and a second depression 106 provided on the first base 21A, a stopper 104 provided at the junction of the first base 21A and the first support arm 21B, and a stopper 107 provided on the first support arm 21B. In the present embodiment, the fixing lever 101 is connected to the second support arm 22B by a hinge. Specifically, as shown in fig. 43, the fixing lever 101 includes two first fixing pieces 102 and second fixing pieces 103 extending in the width direction of the fixing lever 101, the first fixing pieces 102 and the second fixing pieces 103 being arranged alternately at both ends in the thickness direction of the fixing lever 101.

The angle of connection between the blocking piece 104 and the first base 21A and the first support arm 21B and the position of connection are configured such that, when the release-fastening mechanism is switched operatively from the release position to the fastening position, the upper surface of the blocking piece 104 abuts against the lower surface of a portion of the fixing lever 101 near the free end of the fixing lever 101, and one of the edges of the blocking piece 104 abuts against one of the edges of the second fixing piece 103.

The first depression 105 is configured to complementarily engage the second stator 103, with the lower surface of the first depression 105 abutting the upper surface of the second stator 103 when the release-and-secure mechanism is operatively switched from the release position to the secure position. The second depression 106 is configured to complementarily engage a portion of the first securing plate 103, with the upper surface of the second depression 106 abutting the lower surface of the first securing plate 102 when the release-and-secure mechanism is operatively switched from the release position to the secure position.

The anti-slip block 107 is disposed on the side of the first support arm 21B facing the second support arm 22B, extends along the length direction of the first support arm 21B, and has a gradually decreasing width, i.e., the end close to the first base 21A has the largest width and the end far from the first base 21A has the smallest width. The position of the anti-skid block 107 on the first support arm 21B is such that when the release-and-tighten mechanism is operatively switched from the release position to the tightening position, the anti-skid block 107 just catches the free end of the fixing rod 101 between the anti-skid block 107 and the first base 21A, limiting the movement of the free end. The gradual width of the anti-slip block 107 makes it easy to snap the free end of the fixing rod 101 when the release-fastening mechanism is operatively switched from the release position to the fastening position, whereas it takes a lot of effort to push the free end of the fixing rod 101 out when the release-fastening mechanism is operatively switched from the fastening position to the release position. The anti-slip blocks 107 form a snap fit with the fixing bar 101.

Example 14

Fig. 44 is a schematic view showing a configuration of the flosser according to the present embodiment when not in use, and fig. 45 is a schematic view showing a configuration of the flosser according to the present embodiment when in use.

The flosser of this embodiment is substantially the same as the flosser of embodiment 10 except for the structure of the release-and-tighten mechanism. In the present embodiment, the release-fastening mechanism includes a first fixing lever 71, a second fixing lever 72, a first hinge 73, a second hinge 74, and a third hinge 75. Both ends of the first hinge 73 are connected to the first fixing lever 71 and the first support arm 21B, respectively, both ends of the second hinge 74 are connected to the first fixing lever 71 and the second fixing lever 72, respectively, and both ends of the third hinge 75 are connected to the second fixing lever 72 and the second support arm 22B, respectively. Unlike the embodiment 10 in which the rotation axes of the first hinge 73, the second hinge 74, and the third hinge 75 each extend in the thickness direction of the first support arm 21B and the second support arm 22B, in the embodiment, the rotation axes of the first hinge 73, the second hinge 74, and the third hinge 75 each extend in the extending direction of the first support arm 21B and the second support arm 22B. In this way, when the release-and-fasten mechanism of the present embodiment is in the release position, the first fixing lever 71 and the second fixing lever 72 are projected toward the thickness direction of the first support arm 21B and the second support arm 22B.

Further, in the present embodiment, the first fixing lever 71 has a first support wall 76, and the second fixing lever 72 has a second support wall 77. The thicknesses of the first support wall 76 and the second support wall 77 are configured such that, when the release-and-secure mechanism is operatively switched from the release position to the secure position, the first support wall 76 and the second support wall 77 are in close proximity to each other and can bear pressure to prevent the first fixing lever 71 and the second fixing lever 72 from being further depressed. Preferably, the thickness of the first fixing bar 71 is the largest at the first support wall 76, and the thickness of the second fixing bar 72 is the largest at the second support wall 77.

Example 15

Fig. 46 is a structural view of the flosser according to the present embodiment when not in use, and fig. 47 is a structural view of the flosser according to the present embodiment when in use.

The flosser of this embodiment is substantially the same as the flosser of embodiment 10 except that: the gripping member 37 includes a first gripping member 37A and a second gripping member 37B, the first gripping member 37A being connected to the first base 21A, the second gripping member 37B being connected to the second base 22A, the first gripping member 37A and the second gripping member 37B being spaced apart by the same gap as between the first base 21A and the second base 22A, and the hinge 33 being located at the distal ends of the first gripping member 37A and the second gripping member 37B.

Example 16

Fig. 48 is a schematic view showing a configuration of the flosser according to the present embodiment when not in use, and fig. 49 is a schematic view showing a configuration of the flosser according to the present embodiment when in use.

The flosser of this embodiment is substantially the same as the flosser of embodiment 10 except that: in embodiment 10, the flosser is an F-shaped flosser and in this embodiment, the flosser is a Y-shaped flosser.

Example 17

Fig. 50 is a schematic view showing a configuration of a flosser according to the present embodiment when not in use, and fig. 51 is a schematic view showing a configuration of a flosser according to the present embodiment when in use.

The flosser of this embodiment is substantially the same as the flosser of embodiment 14 except that: in embodiment 14, the flosser is an F-shaped flosser and in this embodiment, the flosser is a Y-shaped flosser.

Example 18

Fig. 52 is a schematic view showing a configuration of the flosser according to the present embodiment when not in use, and fig. 53 is a schematic view showing a configuration of the flosser according to the present embodiment when in use.

In this embodiment, as shown in fig. 52-53, the flosser includes a first base 21A, a second base 22A, a first support arm 21B, a second support arm 22B, a hinge 23, a floss segment 11 and a gripping member 37. The second base 22A is hinged to the first base 21A and is operable to switch between a release position and a fastening position. Specifically, the first base 21A and the second base 22A are connected to both ends of the hinge 23, respectively, and the rotation axis of the hinge 23 extends in the width direction of the first base 21A and the second base 22A. The top end of the grip member 37 is connected to the first base 21A. The bottom end of the first support arm 21B is connected to the first base 21A, the bottom end of the second support arm 22B is connected to the second base 22A, and the first support arm 21B is spaced apart from the second support arm 22B to define a space between the first support arm 21B and said second support arm 22B. The dental floss segment 11 includes a first end connected to the tip of the first support arm 21B and a second end connected to the tip of the second support arm 22B. When the second base portion 22A is switched from the release position to the fastening position, the second base portion 22A is engaged with the first base portion 21A, and the distance between the tip end of the first support arm 21B and the tip end of the second support arm 22B is larger than the distance between the tip end of the first support arm 21B and the tip end of the second support arm 22B when the second base portion 22A is in the release position.

In addition, the first base 21A has a first support wall engaged with the second base 22A, and the second base 22A has a second support wall engaged with the first base 21A, which are pressed against each other and can bear pressure when the second base 22A is in the fastening position to prevent the second base 22A from being further rotated.

During use, the user pushes the second base portion 22A to rotate about the first base portion 21A until the second support wall of the second base portion 22A is in abutting engagement with the first support wall of the first base portion 21A, at which point the distance between the tip of the first support arm and the tip of the second support arm increases, thereby stretching the length of floss causing the floss end to tighten. The length and width of the first and second support walls are configured such that when the second base 22A is in the fastened position, the second base 22A is not easily rotated further and is not easily loosened.

Example 19

Fig. 54 is a schematic view showing a configuration of a flosser according to the present embodiment when not in use, and fig. 55 is a schematic view showing a configuration of a flosser according to the present embodiment when in use.

The flosser of this embodiment is substantially the same as the flosser of embodiment 18 except that: in embodiment 18, the flosser is an F-shaped flosser and in this embodiment, the flosser is a Y-shaped flosser.

Example 20

Fig. 56 is a structural view of the flosser according to the present embodiment when not in use, and fig. 57 is a structural view of the flosser according to the present embodiment when in use.

The flosser of this embodiment is substantially the same as the flosser of embodiment 3 except that it further includes a release-and-secure mechanism 70.

As shown in fig. 56 and 57, the release-and-fastening mechanism 70 includes an arch member having one end connected to the first base 21A and the other end connected to the second base 22A so as to form an arch between the first base 21A and the second base 22A. The thickness of the arch-shaped member and the height of the arch are configured such that, when subjected to pressure applied by a user, the arch-shaped component will switch from the release position to the fastening position, the first support wall of the first base 21A and the second support wall of the second base 22A abut one another and are able to bear the pressure, thereby preventing further rotation of the first base 21A and the second base 22A relative to one another.

The arch member 70 is typically made of a semi-rigid material, such as polypropylene (polypropylene) plastic. For the flosser shown in fig. 56, the arch-shaped member is arched upward and when a user applies a downward pressure to the arch-shaped member, which is made of a semi-rigid material, deforms, reversing the direction of the arch, as shown in fig. 57. At the same time as the arch-shaped turning over, the first and second

gripping parts

31, 32 will rotate around the hinge, thereby rotating the first and second support arms such that the distance between the ends of the first and second support arms is increased, thereby tightening the length of dental floss. When the length of floss is tightened, the length of floss will exert a resistance force against the first and second support arms to prevent the first and second

gripping members

31, 32 from continuing to rotate. Meanwhile, when the arch member is turned to the fastening state, the arch part is always kept in the turned state unless being pressed by an external force. Thereby, the length of floss will remain taut at all times even if no further pressure is applied to the handle.

Example 21

Fig. 58 is a schematic view showing a configuration of a flosser according to the present embodiment when not in use, and fig. 59 is a schematic view showing a configuration of a flosser according to the present embodiment when in use.

The flosser of this embodiment is substantially the same as the flosser of embodiment 20 except that the first gripping member 31 of the flosser of this embodiment is relatively short and the second gripping member 32 is relatively wide.

As shown in fig. 58 and 59, the end of the first gripping member 31 connected to the first base is flush with the end of the second gripping member connected to the second base, but the first gripping member 31 is significantly shorter than the second gripping member 32. Furthermore, the second gripping member 32 is significantly wider than the first gripping member 31, e.g. the width of the second gripping member 32 is approximately twice the width of the first gripping member 31.

With the flosser of this embodiment, the user only needs to grip the second gripping member 32, not the first gripping member 31.

Example 22

The flosser of this embodiment includes a separable floss carrier and a grip member, the floss carrier being adapted to be removably mounted to the grip member.

Fig. 60 is a perspective view of the floss carrier separated from the gripping member when the flosser according to this embodiment is not in operation. The floss carrier 20 comprises a first base 21A, a second base 22A, a hinge 33, a first support arm 21B, a second support arm 22B, a floss end 11. Both ends of the hinge 33 are connected to the first base 21A and the second base 22A, respectively, and a rotation shaft of the hinge 33 extends in the thickness direction of the first base 21A and the second base 22A. The bottom end of the first support arm 21B is connected to the first base 21A, the bottom end of the second support arm 22B is connected to the second base 22A, and the first support arm 21B is spaced apart from the second support arm 22B to define a space between the first support arm 21B and the second support arm 22B. The dental floss segment 11 includes a first end connected to the tip of the first support arm 21B and a second end connected to the tip of the second support arm 22B.

In this embodiment, the floss carrier 20 further comprises a first insertion section 21C provided on the first base 21A, and a second insertion section 22C provided on the second base 22A.

Fig. 61 is a perspective view of the gripping member of the flosser of this embodiment separated from the floss carrier when not in operation. As shown, the gripping member 37 is provided with a mounting head 371 with an insertion slot 372. The first and

second insertion parts

21C and 22C are each configured to be snap-fit with the insertion groove 372, and the floss carrier 20 is mounted on the grip part 37 when the first and

second insertion parts

21C and 22C are simultaneously snap-fit with the insertion groove 372. The distance between the top end of the first support arm 21B and the top end of the second support arm 22B is greater when the floss carrier 20 is mounted on the grip 37 than when the floss carrier 20 is detached from the grip 37.

Fig. 62 is a perspective view of the flosser of this embodiment with the floss carrier ready for installation in the gripping member. As shown, before the floss carrier 20 is installed into the gripping member 37, the first base 21A and the second base 22A are pressed in opposite directions such that the first base 21A and the second base 22A rotate about the hinge 33 such that the first base 21A and the second base 22A are snug. At this time, the first insertion part 21C and the second insertion part 22C are also closely fitted, and the distance between the tip of the first support arm and the tip of the second support arm is increased, thereby stretching the floss string and tightening it. Thereafter, the first and

second insertion parts

21C, 22C will be inserted into the insertion groove 372 of the mounting head 371, as shown in FIG. 63, with the floss carrier 20 secured in the mounting head 371 by the snap-fit connection of the first and

second insertion parts

21C, 22C with the insertion groove 372, and with the insertion groove 372 holding the first and

second insertion parts

21C, 22C snug together, thereby preventing separation of the first and

second base portions

21A, 22A, the floss segment can be held taut.

The outer peripheral shapes of the first insertion member and the second insertion member are configured such that when the first insertion member and the second insertion member are inserted into the insertion groove of the mounting head portion while being fitted closely together, the outer contour of the insertion member assembly of the first insertion member and the second insertion member is fitted closely to the inner contour of the insertion groove. The first and second insertion parts may be configured to be tapered in width while extending outwardly from the first and second base parts, respectively, and the insertion groove may be configured to be tapered in width while extending from a receiving end for receiving the insertion part assembly to a distal end.

Example 23

Fig. 64 is a perspective view of the floss carrier of the present embodiment separated from the grip when the flosser is not in operation, and fig. 65 is a perspective view of the floss carrier of the present embodiment in preparation for installation into the grip.

The flosser of this embodiment is substantially the same as the flosser of embodiment 22 except that the axis of rotation of the hinge connecting the first and second bases extends in the length direction of the first and second bases.

As shown in fig. 64, the two ends of the hinge 33 of the floss carrier are connected to the first base 21A and the second base 22A, respectively, and the axis of rotation of the hinge 33 extends along the length of the first base 21A and the second base 22A. Prior to installation of the floss carrier in the gripping member, the first base 21A and the second base 22A are rotated to a parallel position such that the first base 21A and the second base 22A are snug, as shown in FIG. 65, and the floss carrier of this embodiment conforms to the floss carrier of embodiment 22 prior to being ready for installation in the gripping member.

Example 24

Fig. 66 is a schematic view showing a construction of a floss carrier of the flosser of this embodiment, fig. 67 is an exploded view showing an insertion groove of a grip member of the flosser of this embodiment, and fig. 68 is a perspective view showing the flosser of this embodiment when the floss carrier is mounted in the grip member, with a mounting head separated into two parts for easy viewing.

The flosser of this embodiment is substantially the same as the flosser of embodiment 22 except for the manner in which the floss carrier is attached to the gripping member.

In the present embodiment, as shown in fig. 66, the hinge 33 is connected to the bottom of the first base portion 21A and the second base portion 22A. A notch 111 is provided between the first base portion 21A and the second base portion 22A above the hinge 33, and the width of the notch 111 gradually decreases downward from the opening position. As shown in fig. 67, the grip member 37 is provided with a mounting head with an insertion slot adapted to snap-connect the first base 21A and the second base 22A simultaneously. A stop 112 is disposed within the insertion slot, and in this embodiment, the stop 112 is a wedge-shaped block. The stopper 112 extends outward from the bottom of the insertion slot, e.g., at an intermediate position, and gradually decreases in width.

The notch 111 is provided such that when the first base portion 21A and the second base portion 22A are inserted into the insertion groove, the opening of the notch 111 is widened. The inner contour shape of the notch 111 is similar to the outer contour shape of the stopper 112, and the maximum width of the notch 111 is smaller than the maximum width of the stopper 112.

The width of the mounting head of the gripping part 37, i.e. the width of the insertion slot, is greater than the distance between the bottoms of the first and second support arms fixed to the first and

second bases

21A, 22A, respectively, so that when the floss carrier is snap-connected to the insertion slot, the first and

second bases

21A, 22A are rotated about the hinge 33 away from each other, resulting in an increased distance between the top end of the first support arm fixed to the first base 21A and the top end of the second support arm fixed to the second base 22A, the floss segments being tightened. At the same time, the stop member 112 is inserted into the notch 111 and the outer profile of the stop member 112 abuts the inner profile of the notch 111, thereby preventing the floss carrier from rocking side-to-side.

Example 25

Fig. 69 is a perspective view of the support arm with the dental floss segment when the flosser of this embodiment is not in operation, fig. 70 is an enlarged perspective view of the head of the gripping member when the flosser of this embodiment is not in operation, and fig. 71 is a perspective view of the flosser of this embodiment when it is in use.

The flosser of this embodiment is substantially the same as the flosser of embodiment 3 except that the support arm is separable from the base.

As shown in fig. 69, the bottom end of the first support arm 21B is provided with a first insertion block 21D, the bottom end of the second support arm 22B is provided with a second insertion block 22D, and the dental floss segment 11 is connected between the top end of the first support arm 21B and the top end of the second support arm 22B. As shown in fig. 70, the first base portion 21A is provided with a first insertion groove 21E, and the second base portion 22A is provided with a second insertion groove 22E. The first insertion block 21D may be snap-connected to the first insertion groove 21E, and the second insertion block 22D may be snap-connected to the second insertion groove 22E.

Before use, the first insertion block 21D and the second insertion block 22D are inserted into the first insertion groove 21E and the second insertion groove 22E, respectively, and the first support arm 21B and the second support arm 22B are fixed to the

first base portions

21A and 22A, respectively, by the snap fit arrangement between the first insertion block 21D and the first insertion groove 21E and the snap fit arrangement between the second insertion block 22D and the second insertion groove 22E, as shown in fig. 71. The use process of the dental floss device of the embodiment is the same as that of the dental floss device of the embodiment 3, and the detailed description is omitted.

According to the dental floss ware of this embodiment, when the dental floss section need be changed, need not to change whole dental floss ware, only need change the support arm of connecting this dental floss section, so both be convenient for change and resources are saved.

Example 26

Fig. 72 is a partially enlarged perspective view of the flosser of this embodiment when it is not mounted with a dental floss, fig. 73 is a perspective view of the dental floss of this embodiment, fig. 74 is a partially enlarged perspective view of the flosser of this embodiment when it is mounted with a dental floss, and fig. 75 is a partially enlarged perspective view of the flosser of this embodiment after it is mounted with a dental floss.

The flosser of this embodiment is substantially the same as the flosser of embodiment 3 except that a ring-shaped, removable piece of dental floss is provided on the support arm.

As shown in fig. 72, the first support arm 21B and the first base 21A are provided with a first engaging groove 21F extending along the outer side surfaces of the first support arm 21B and the first base 21A, and the second support arm 22B and the second base 22A are provided with a second engaging groove 22F extending along the outer side surfaces of the second support arm 22B and the second base 22A. As shown in fig. 73, the floss is in the form of an annular ring adapted to be retained within the first and

second retaining slots

21F, 22F for removable attachment to the first and

second base portions

21A, 22A, 21B, 22B.

As shown in fig. 74, before installing the dental floss 11 on the flosser, the user applies pressure to the first and second gripping members to cause the first and second gripping members to rotate about the hinge to move closer together, thereby bringing the first and second bases closer together until the dental floss 11 can be fitted over the outer sides of the first and

second bases

21A, 22A, 21B, 22B. After the floss 11 is looped around the outside of the first base 21A, the second base 22A, the first support arm 21B, the second support arm 22B, the user releases the first and second grip members, the floss 11 will be retained within the first and

second pockets

21F, 22F and a length of floss will be defined between the top end of the first support arm 21B and the top end of the second support arm 22B, as shown in fig. 75. The use process of the dental floss device of the embodiment is the same as that of the dental floss device of the embodiment 3, and the detailed description is omitted.

According to the dental floss device of this embodiment, when the dental floss needs to be changed, need not to change whole dental floss device, only need change and connect this dental floss, so both be convenient for change and resources are saved.

The above-mentioned embodiments only express several embodiments of the present invention, and the description thereof is more specific and detailed, but not construed as limiting the scope of the present invention. It should be noted that, for a person skilled in the art, several variations and modifications can be made without departing from the inventive concept, which falls within the scope of the present invention. Therefore, the protection scope of the present patent shall be subject to the appended claims.

Claims

1. A flosser, comprising:

a first base;

a second base;

a first support arm having a bottom end connected to the first base;

2. The flosser of claim 1 wherein: the first grasping member has a first distal end that rotates about the rotational axis of the hinge, and the second grasping member has a second distal end that rotates about the rotational axis of the hinge, and when the first distal end and the second distal end approach each other, a distance between a tip of the first support arm and a tip of the second support arm increases.

3. The flosser of claim 1 wherein: the first grasping member has a first distal end that rotates about the rotational axis of the hinge, the second grasping member has a second distal end that rotates about the rotational axis of the hinge, and a distance between a tip of the first support arm and a tip of the second support arm increases when the first distal end and the second distal end are away from each other.

4. The flosser of claim 1 wherein: a toothpick component which can be used for picking teeth is arranged at the tail part of the first gripping component or the second gripping component.

5. The flosser of claim 1 wherein: a plurality of raised portions are provided on an outer surface of the first gripping member and/or the second gripping member.

6. The flosser of claim 1 wherein: the flosser further includes a release-and-fasten mechanism configured to be operably switchable between a release position and a fastened position, a distance between a top end of the first support arm and a top end of the second support arm when the release-and-fasten mechanism is operated to the fastened position being greater than a distance between the top end of the first support arm and the top end of the second support arm when the release-and-fasten mechanism is in the release position.

7. The flosser of claim 1 wherein: the bottom ends of the first and second support arms are respectively provided with a first insertion block and a second insertion block, the first and second bases are respectively provided with a first insertion groove and a second insertion groove, the first insertion block can be connected to the first insertion groove in a snap-fit manner, and the second insertion block can be connected to the second insertion groove in a snap-fit manner.

8. A flosser, comprising: a first base;

a second base having a gap with the first base;

a gripping member having a top end connected to the first base;

a first support arm having a bottom end connected to the first base;

9. The flosser of claim 8 wherein: the release-fastening mechanism includes:

a first movable member hinged to the first base;

a second movable member hinged to the second base;

10. The flosser of claim 8 wherein: the release-fastening mechanism includes:

a first connecting member fixedly provided on the first base;

a second connecting member hinged to the second base;

11. A flosser, comprising:

a gripping member;

a first base;

a second base;

a first support arm having a bottom end connected to the first base;

wherein a distance between a top end of the first support arm and a top end of the second support arm is greater when the floss carrier is installed on the grip than when the floss carrier is detached from the grip;

the grip part is provided with a mounting head with an insertion slot suitable for snap-connecting the first and second bases simultaneously; the hinge is connected to the bottom portions of the first and second base portions, a notch is provided between the first and second base portions and above the hinge, the notch is configured such that an opening of the notch is widened when the first and second base portions are inserted into the insertion groove, a stopper is provided in the insertion groove, the stopper extends outward from the bottom portion of the insertion groove, and is adapted to extend into and abut against the notch when the first and second base portions are inserted into the insertion groove of the mounting head.

12. The flosser of claim 11 wherein the axis of rotation of the hinge extends in the thickness direction of the first and second bases.