DE202016001011U1 - Set for the tongue cleaning - Google Patents

Abstract

Tongue cleaning set comprising a substantially disk-shaped body (2) provided on its use-side front surface (18) with a profiling (22) suitable for scraping off dirt adhering to the surface of the human tongue and forming a hose connection (6) with the profiling (22) communicates, and a handle handle (70) adapted to be fitted to the tongue cleaning head (1).

Description

The present invention relates to a set for tongue cleaning.

Tongue cleaners for human oral hygiene are in common use today. They are formed, inter alia, on the back of toothbrushes, usually in the form of knobs, which are provided from a flexible plastic, usually TPE, as encapsulation on the back of the toothbrush base body made of PP. Thus, the idea is pursued, at the same time to brush the teeth and the back of the toothbrush on the tongue to act to scrape there adhering dirt, such as dead cells or food particles and remove in the context of brushing teeth from the oral cavity. Also tongue cleaning heads are known which act only as such, ie have no bristle of a toothbrush. These are designed somewhat like a manual toothbrush and have at their use-side end a nubbed pillow, which is arranged on a head which is a unitary part of a main body of the tongue cleaner head (see. US 5,984,935 . WO 2006/074911 ).

The WO 98/42264 discloses a tongue cleaner with molded handle style, which forms a connection for a hose.

The present invention aims to make a contribution to better tongue cleaning. In particular, the present invention intends to specify a tongue cleaner which can be used in improved instruction under professional and domestic conditions.

To solve this problem, the present invention, a set with the features of claim 1 is given. This set has a tongue cleaner head with a substantially disc-shaped body. The disc-shaped body is characterized in that it has a utility-side, substantially disc-shaped front surface. The front surface has a substantially disc-shaped, d. H. flat extension, in order to be as flat as possible against the surface of the tongue can be created. On the front surface a profiling is provided at the tongue cleaner head. This profiling is suitably shaped to scrape off surface contaminants adhering to the human tongue. For this purpose, the profiling usually nubs and / or ribs through which said pollution can be scraped off. To realize the profiling of the tongue cleaner head all known, in particular in connection with tongue cleaner heads in toothbrushes known embodiments can be used. The body is also provided with a hose connection. This hose connection is usually below, at best at the level of the front surface on the usage side. In particular, the hose connection usually does not protrude beyond the front surface, so that a gentle cleaning of the human tongue is possible. The hose connection is regularly paragraph-free into the front surface and preferably laterally from it, d. H. extends with its longitudinal axis parallel to a plane in which lies substantially the front surface. The hose connection is provided such that it communicates with the profiling. For this purpose, one or more channels are provided in the body, through which usually provided within the profiling vents communicate with the hose connection. Accordingly, by means of a suction hose connected to the hose connection, it is possible to request dissolved dirt from the suction when the tongue cleaning head is acted upon.

The kit according to the invention for tooth cleaning further comprises a handle handle, which is adapted adapted for attachment to the tongue cleaner head. The adjustment is preferably carried out so that the handle handle can cooperate with the hose connection in order to effect a plug connection between the handle handle and the tongue cleaner head.

In this case, the tongue cleaning head in the present invention is usually a component which essentially comprises only the cleaning-active surface for tongue cleaning, d. H. the disc-shaped body adapted to the scraping of superficially adhering to the human tongue pollution formed profiling. From this disk-shaped body usually protrudes from the hose connection forming nozzle. The neck is usually not larger than the disc-shaped body. Thus, the tongue cleaning head according to the present invention, a component whose design extends substantially to the surfaces required for cleaning the tongue and optionally additionally has the connection piece, which forms the hose connection.

This relatively compact component can be manufactured as a disposable product and used in the professional field by a dentist who connects a suction hose to the hose connector in order to vacuum away the superficial contamination of the human tongue during dental hygiene. But the set according to the invention also offers the possibility to use the tongue cleaners to be used in the professional field for suction also in the home, where suction devices regularly absence. Instead, the tongue cleaner head is attached to the handle and can be handled so easily.

Thus, the present invention provides a resource-saving way of tongue cleaning, which can be used both in the professional field as well as in the home.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the handle handle on an end fitting sleeve, which is inserted or plugged into the hose connector for attaching the tongue cleaner head on the handle handle and has a relation to a grip portion of the handle stem reduced diameter. Plugging in is understood to mean a form-locking connection which connects the tongue-cleaning head to the handle handle substantially frictionally and thus rotationally so that the tongue-cleaning head can be handled precisely when the tongue-cleaning head is handled via the handle handle and the movement of the handle stem follows. The plugged tongue cleaner head interacts with the handle stem preferably as a rigid connection together. Additionally or alternatively, in the assembled state, a form-fitting connection can be effective, which, above all, prevents inadvertent release of the two connection partners.

With regard to an axial fixing of the tongue cleaning head relative to the grip handle, an annular surface extending essentially at right angles to a longitudinal axis of the grip handle is preferably formed between the fitting sleeve and the grip region. This annular surface is in the assembled state at the front against the hose connection and accordingly serves as a stop for fixing the tongue cleaner head relative to the handle.

The handle is preferably made of plastic, for example by blow molding or injection molding.

According to a preferred embodiment, an indicator is provided which makes the secure fixing of the tongue cleaner head visible on the handle. This indicator can be formed for example by an outwardly opening recess into which a latch spring when the tongue cleaner head is connected to the handle, so that visually displayed by the latch recess, the latch and thus the secure connection of the two elements is. The latching recess is preferably provided on the tongue cleaner head, and preferably at a location which is completely or partially covered in the application of the tongue cleaner head in conjunction with a suction hose from the inserted into the tongue cleaner head suction tube. Thus, by the indicator provided on the tongue cleaning head, the completely sealing contact of the hose in the tongue cleaning head can also be checked. This can ensure that before the beginning of a treatment with the tongue cleaner head this is located captive on the hose or the stem.

The tongue cleaner head is usually a disposable part. It is usually designed as a low-cost plastic and therefore as a Wegwert part. Preferably, the tongue cleaner head is made as a simple, one-piece injection molded part. In other words, all components of the tongue cleaner head, which will be explained in more detail below, are formed by a uniform injection-molded body. To produce the tongue cleaner head, the use of a single plastic component is sufficient. This may be a hard component or a soft component. Preferably, the tongue cleaner head can also be produced by means of multi-component injection molding. For example, an encapsulation made of a soft elastic plastic may be injection-molded onto a PP or PE or PA base body. This soft elastic plastic, for example TPE, can wholly or partially form the profiling. He can also form a seal for connecting a suction hose to the hose connection. In addition, the soft elastic component can also cover those areas of the base body which, in the context of normal use, are most likely to strike against the sensitive oral mucous membranes in order to protect them.

With a view to the cramped space in the human mouth, the body is as flat as possible. Preferably, the body is substantially plate-shaped and provided with a cylinder neck, which forms the hose connection. This cylinder neck preferably projects beyond the back substantially the plate-shaped, d. H. flat body of tongue cleaner head. The cylinder nozzle is arranged substantially flush with the utility-side front surface of the body. Preferably, the cylinder nozzle is essentially paragraph-free in a peripheral edge, which surrounds the plate-shaped body circumferentially.

The hose connector preferably communicates with one or more channels within the body that continue the suction line connected to the tongue cleaner head in the body of the tongue cleaner head and continue to profile it. With a view to the simplest possible embodiment, a discharge channel extending in the longitudinal direction of the hose connection in the body is provided, into which the Hose connection opens. The hose connection and the discharge channel are usually provided one behind the other in the longitudinal direction of the hose connection, particularly preferably coaxially with one another.

To prevent the tongue cleaner head from becoming tight, the extraction channel communicates with a ventilation opening. This vent is another opening that is not the hose connection. Rather, the ventilation opening is usually located in the longitudinal direction of the discharge channel or the hose connection on the opposite side of the hose connection, in particular at a front end of the discharge channel. The ventilation opening is dimensioned such that in the normally acting negative suction pressures of the tongue cleaner head is held with a certain holding force on the tongue fitting, in which he can not be stuck there. Thus, the tongue cleaner head can be moved and withdrawn relative to the tongue at all times.

The hose connection, the discharge channel and the ventilation opening are preferably arranged one behind the other in the axial direction of the cylinder nozzle. Accordingly, the channel formed by the exhaust duct and the cylinder nozzle usually passes through the body in the middle. With a view to a flat as possible, d. H. thin design of the actual body of the discharge channel is formed in a tapered pipe section, whose larger diameter end connects to the hose connection. As the distance from the hose connection increases, the effective flow cross-section of the exhaust duct decreases accordingly. But even at the end of the flue duct whose diameter is usually considerably larger than the effective flow diameter of the ventilation opening. This is usually at the level of the outer contour of the body. In other words, the conically tapering pipe termination ends at least substantially flush with the outer contour of the use-side surface. Preferably, the ventilation opening is located within the circumference surrounding the body circumferentially. On the opposite side usually protrudes the cylinder nozzle to form the pipe connection. Beyond this protruding from the body cylinder and the pipe section, the body is disc-shaped, usually elliptical or with a round basic shape.

According to a preferred further embodiment of the invention, the profiling is formed by mutually parallel slats. The tongue cleaner head has, for example, between four and six lamellae. The fins usually extend at right angles to the extraction duct and / or the hose connection, i. H. the cylinder neck.

The lamellae are preferably derived from a lamellar base. The slats are thinner than the slat base. The lamellar base is accordingly widened in relation to the lamellae. In a cross-sectional view through a lamella, a substantially L-shaped cross-section accordingly results, wherein the base of the L is formed by the widened lamellar base and the actual lamella projects as a web therefrom. The width of the slat base can be up to 4 to 8 times the width of the slat. In this case, the width is understood to be the extension parallel to the use-side surface in the case of a cross-sectional view through the lamella or the lamella base. In the preferred embodiment, in which the lamellae extend at right angles to the hose connection, the said sectional view extends in the longitudinal extension direction of the hose connection, i. H. Cylinder nozzle.

With a view to effective cleaning of the tongue surface a plurality of fins and / or lamellar bases are provided. These are usually arranged one behind the other in the longitudinal direction of the exhaust duct. They usually extend parallel to each other. Accordingly, there is a kind of rust, whereby usually only the free end surfaces of the lamellae come to bear against the surface of the tongue, whereas the lamellar bases are spaced apart and inwardly offset by the body. The design of the lamellar bases is usually the elasticity or restoring force of the individual lamellae varied. Each lamella and its associated lamellar base are usually formed in one piece and firmly connected. In this case, each lamellar base in its extension direction have a changing cross section or a changing cross-sectional shape in order to influence the restoring behavior of the lamella associated therewith. Thus, the thickness of the lamella, ie usually its extension perpendicular to the utility-side front surface in the direction of extension of the lamellar base, increase or decrease. Furthermore, slats of different position within the use-side front surface may be assigned to different functions. For this purpose, it is proposed according to a preferred further embodiment, the thickness of the lamellar base in the extension direction of the hose connection towards the center form decreasing. In other words, the fin base immediately adjacent to the hose fitting or at the opposite end, ie in the direction of extension of the hose fitting at the edge of the body, has a greater thickness and thereafter is more rigid than a blade base located approximately in the middle of the use-side front surface Is in the extension direction of the hose connection, ie, about the same distance to the front end of the discharge duct and the has the opposite end of the same, where the outlet channel opens into the hose connection.

Preferably, at least one of the front or rear walls of the lamella is convexly curved. In other words, results in a sectional view in the extension direction of the hose connection, an at least one-sided crown of the blade. In this case, the lamellae usually widen in the direction of their lamellar foot. In other words, the lamellae have a smaller width at their free end than at the transition of the lamella to the lamellar base. In this case, the width should be understood to mean that dimension which extends in a sectional view in the extension direction of the hose connection in that extension direction of the hose connection. The convexly curved front or rear wall of the lamella is usually that wall which is surmounted by the wider lamellar base associated with the respective lamella. The other side usually ends flush with the lamellar base and is preferably formed to extend in a straight line.

The end surfaces of the slats, d. H. the free, usually the use-side front surface of the disc-shaped body making end surfaces of the slats are preferably convexly curved. In its direction of extension, the lamella is correspondingly middle region, usually higher than at its edge, where the lamella usually passes paragraph-free into the outer edge of the disc-shaped body. Thus, each lamina clamps on itself a convex end surface. The curvature of the middle fins is usually stronger than the curvature of the end fins. The end faces of all lamellae are preferably in a spherically formed envelope surface. The marginal ends of all slats usually end flush with the edge surrounding the utility side front surface. The border defines the lowest level of the usage-side surface. From this edge protrude from the lamellae, which are each with their curved end surfaces within the aforementioned spherical envelope surface. The spherical envelope surface usually includes the surface of the peripheral peripheral edge.

According to a preferred further embodiment of the invention, at least one exhaust port communicating with the exhaust duct is provided between a rear side of a slat and one of the slat bases assigned thereto for this purpose. The exhaust opening is located in particular in extension of the longitudinal extent of the hose connection. Usually, all the exhaust openings are located on an axis which is predetermined by the longitudinal extension of the cylinder nozzle, d. H. they lie on a central longitudinal axis of the cylinder nozzle. To such a vent usually leads a gutter. The gutter is provided between a sipe and a sipe base, said sipe base being associated with another sipe provided adjacent to the aforementioned sipe. Accordingly, the vent opening is usually located between a rear wall of the fin and an end surface of a fin base, which is associated with the respective adjacent blade. There are on both sides of each vent opening each drainage channels provided, which extend to the respective edge.

The gutter is usually formed inclined in the direction of the exhaust opening. In other words, a lateral edge of the gutter is usually higher than the end surface of the gutter adjacent to the trigger opening. In this case, the gutter is usually offset inwards to the utilization-side surface of the lamella base. The lamellar base is relatively sharp, d. H. at right angles into the gutter, whereby under the cleaning active front surface formed by the end faces of the lamellae, a profiling between the lamellar base and the gutter is created, which may optionally contribute something to the cleaning of the tongue.

Finally, it is proposed according to a preferred further embodiment of the present invention to provide in the extension direction of the hose connection each vent openings in front of and behind each of the slats. This leads to a very effective removal of dissolved by profiling pollution. It is usually a vent more than the number of slats provided.

Further details of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of embodiments in conjunction with the drawings.

In this show:

1 a side perspective view of an embodiment of a tongue cleaner head;

2 a further perspective top view of the embodiment according to 1 ;

3 a perspective view accordingly 1 when cut through the central longitudinal axis;

4 a sectional view taken along the line IV-IV as shown in FIG 2 ;

5 a sectional view along the line VV as shown in FIG 2 ;

6 a sectional side view along the line VI-VI as shown in FIG

4 for another embodiment with rectilinear back walls of the slats,

7 a sectional side view along the line VII-VII as shown in FIG 4 for another embodiment with rectilinear back walls of the slats;

8th a plan view of a second embodiment of a tongue cleaner head;

9 a perspective underside view of the second embodiment of the tongue cleaner head;

10 a side view of the second embodiment of the tongue cleaner head;

11 an end view of the second embodiment of the tongue cleaner head;

12 a sectional view taken along the line XII-XII as shown in FIG 9 ;

13 a cross-sectional view along the line XIII-XIII as shown in FIG 9 .

14 an enlarged sectional view of an edge region of the second embodiment of the tongue cleaner head and

15 a top perspective view of a set according to the present invention.

In this drawing, reference designates 2 a disk-shaped body 2 The one-sided of a cylinder neck 4 is surmounted, which a hose connection 6 ausformt. The cylinder neck 4 continues in its longitudinal extension in a culvert 8th which is in a tapered pipe section 10 is formed. The pipe section 10 and the cylinder neck 4 have on their outside a smooth contour, ie go into each other without heel. The pipe section 10 ends at his the cylinder neck 4 opposite end in a front end wall 12 that with a ventilation opening 14 is provided. In the embodiment shown, the hose connection 6 , the withdrawal channel 8th and the ventilation opening 14 coaxial with each other. Between the hose connection 6 and the withdrawal channel 8th is a ring surface 16 shaped, the end-fitting and sealing one in the hose connection 6 inserted tube is used.

As in particular from 2 can be seen, is the disc-shaped body 2 dish-shaped and only on one back 17 from the cylinder neck 4 and the tapered pipe section 10 surmounted. An opposite use side front surface 18 the disc-shaped body, however, is essentially flat, which also contributes to the cylinder neck 4 on this front surface 18 flush with a peripheral peripheral edge 20 of the disc-shaped body 2 is trained. This circumferential edge 20 has - in cross-sectional view of the edge 20 - a uniform convex curvature to prevent injury to the sensitive oral mucosa.

Within this edge 20 there is a profiling 22 consisting of lamellas 24 extending from a lamellar base 26 rise. Between one of the lamella bases 26 and a lamella 24 with another lamellar base 26 there is a gutter 28 leading to a vent 30 leads. All exhaust openings 30 are in extension of the longitudinal extent of the cylinder nozzle 4 / Hose connection 6 intended. The gutter 28 is in each case by a relatively thin-walled web 32 formed between a lamellar base 26 and an adjacent thereto provided other slat 24 is arranged.

As can be seen, the slats extend 26 perpendicular to the extension direction of the cylinder nozzle 4 the hose connection 6 , The slats 24 and their respective assigned lamellar bases 26 are formed in cross-section L-shaped. Thus, the slats and their associated lamellar base run strictly parallel to each other. As the sectional views according to 3 and 6 clarify, is the lamellar base 26 opposite the lamella associated with it 24 widened. The width of the slat 24 is in 3B located. The slat 24 has a smaller width than the lamellar base 26 , This results in basically an L-shaped cross-sectional configuration of lamella 24 and this associated louver base 26 ,

Every single lamella 24 has a convexly curved end surface 34 , In other words, the endface goes 34 every single lamella 24 from the surrounding edge 20 from and is flush with this trained. The slat 24 but rises to the middle of the disk-shaped body 2 towards. In other words, the end face lies 34 at the level of the flue 8th higher than at the edge 20 , In addition, the middle slats have 24 a higher height than the other slats 24 , This results in a the end surfaces 34 containing enveloping surface, the is spherically designed and the useable surface of the edge 20 includes. How to continue 6 As can be seen, each lamella widened 24 to her lamella foot 36 out. The slat 24 is then narrower in the area of its end face 34 relative to the point where the lamella 24 in the lamellar base 26 passes. This broadening is mainly due to a convex curved rear wall 38 the slats 24 educated. The convex curvature on the back wall 38 varies, however, in the extension direction of the lamella 24 , So the crown of the lamella is near the edge 20 less than the one in the middle, ie at the height of the hose connection 6 or in axial extension thereof and at the level of the discharge channel 8th , So takes the width B of the slat 24 towards their middle continuously. Accordingly, the lamella has 24 its widest point in the axial extension of the hose connection.

While the back wall 38 the slat 24 convexly curved, runs a front wall 40 the slat 24 rectilinear, resulting in an L-shaped cross section for the unit of lamella 24 and associated slat base 26 results.

As in particular the sectional view according to 3 can be seen, varies the thickness S of the lamellar base 26 in the extension direction of the hose connection 6 , The thickness S takes in particular in the direction of extension of the hose connection 6 to the middle of the body 2 down. Edge-side lamellar bases 26.1 and 26.6 accordingly have a stronger strength S than the middle lamellar bases 26.3 and 26.4 ,

The slats 24 and the lamellar bases 26 are flush with the edge at the end 20 intended. Accordingly, results at the edge 20 a paragraph-free and smooth contour. The between a lamella 24.2 and one of the slats provided adjacent thereto 24.1 associated lamellar base 26.1 provided gutter 28 ends below the usage-side surface of the edge 20 ,

Each gutter 28 leads to the assigned vent opening 30 and is divided by these in the middle. The gutter 28 is inclined, ie tilts down towards the associated vent opening 30 ,

As the figures illustrate, the embodiment shown had six blades 24 with their associated lamellar bases 26 , There are, however, seven exhaust vents 30 intended. Each of the unit of lamella 24 and lamellar base 26 is front and back between two exhaust vents 30 intended.

In particular 4 clarifies, is the disc-shaped body 2 relatively thin, ie dish-shaped and only back of the cylinder nozzle 4 or the tapered pipe section 10 surmounted. Thus, the embodiment shown can be well introduced into the oral cavity of the human body. The width, ie extension direction of the disc-shaped body 2 in the longitudinal direction of the hose connection is preferably between 26 and 33 cm (without the use side front surface 18 outstanding cylinder neck 4 , In a direction perpendicular to this, the front surface has 18 an extension of between 23 and 28 cm.

The embodiment shown is made as an injection molded part. This is the hose connection 6 and the trigger channel 8th Released by a movable core, which is introduced into an injection mold, the dividing plane is substantially parallel to the utility-side front surface 18 extends and at the height of the largest width of the cylinder nozzle 4 located. The division level is in 3 marked with T. The slats 24 extend at right angles to the dividing plane T, so that the illustrated in the figures embodiment of a unitary injection molded body after opening the mold halves can be removed from the mold without further aids.

That in the 8th to 14 shown second embodiment is a tongue cleaner head, which is made by two-component injection molding and one with reference numerals 42 characterized soft component, by encapsulating a base body of a reference numeral 44 characterized hard component is formed. The soft component preferably has a hardness Shore A of between 25 and 80 and is preferably formed from TPE. The hard component is preferably PP and usually has a hardness Shore A of between 70 and 100. Corresponding to the reference numeral 44 for the hard component and the basic body formed by the hard component is also denoted by this reference numeral, whereas reference numerals 42 the soft component and thus the encapsulation clarifies. Otherwise, the reference numerals used in the previous description with reference to the first embodiment have been retained where possible.

How the particular 12 and 13 clarify, is the main body 44 in the area of the disc-shaped body 2 cup-shaped and has present several, usually at least one injection opening 46 , About this injection opening 46 is a pillow 48 at the back 17 one-piece with an elastomeric protective edge 50 connected to the edge 20 of the basic body 44 surpasses and essentially surrounds. Also the slats 24 are formed from the soft component. The lamellae are present here 24 exclusively from the soft component 42 educated. However, embodiments are also conceivable in which a skeleton of the hard component 49 from a soft component 42 is coated to the ribs 24 train.

In particular 11 clarifies, rejects the pillow 48 a basically flat, slightly outwardly convex curved design. Contrary to the first embodiment, this second embodiment lacks a pipe section projecting from the rear. Rather, the trigger channel 8th within the disc-shaped body 2 added. From the pillow 48 protrude pimples 52 . 54 different length. In the massage nubs with the reference numeral 52 it is the long, in the massage nubs with the reference numeral 54 These are the short pimples. The long pimples 52 in the present case are about twice as long as the short pimples 54 , Usually, the nubs 52 . 54 have a height of between 0.5 and 1.5 mm. The pimples 52 . 54 can have various configurations. Preferable are nubs with a circular cross-section. Their diameter is preferably between 0.3 and 2.0 mm. The back cushion 48 with the pimples 52 . 54 serves the massage of the tongue reason. With such a pillow 48 Soiling can be loosened in the mouth, which can then be sucked through the tongue cleaner head. It is also possible to clean different surfaces during a single movement through the mouth, namely those on which the pillow 48 is passed, and those where the slats 24 be passed.

Furthermore, the pillow can 48 with the pimples 52 . 54 be used as an applicator for applying cleaning or disinfecting agents to the tongue. The pillow 48 has a pimple field with between 30 and 80 pimples 52 . 54 on.

For this purpose, the pillow 48 a medium dosing range 48D with relatively small wall thickness on the side of the pillow 48 and relatively long pimples 52 . 54 and an application area surrounding this circumferentially 48A on. The dosing range 48D serves, for example, the application of a care substance to be incorporated. As further 9 clarified, may be on the edge between the dosing 48D , which in the present case is circular, and already in the application area 48A a branding 48B ie a mark or the like may be provided.

It can be provided between one and ten lamellae. In the second embodiment, there are five fins 24 realized. As 14 clarified by the profiling 22 the slats 24 a sharp edge 56 formed on the hose connection 4 facing flank of the blade between this edge and the end face 34 is shaped, and an inclined surface 58 that is between the end face 34 and that of the ventilation opening 14 facing flank on the lamella 24 is provided. This embodiment has proven to be advantageous for a thorough cleaning when coarsening the tongue. The sharp edge ( 56 ) remove stubborn dirt from the tongue. The inclined surface 58 improves the discharge of the so detached pollution in the flue 8th ,

As the 9 and 11 clarify, has the ventilation opening 14 a crescent-shaped or semicircular cross-section and is - like the profile of the flue 8th (see. 13 ) - towards the free ends of the slats 24 arched trained. This embodiment improves the suction of dissolved dirt and prevents, inter alia, that suctioned secretion can flow back again. The ventilation opening 14 allows operation of the embodiment without excessive stress on the tissue surface with a non-adjustable suction pressure, as is commonly available in dental workplaces available. There is a proportional relationship between the suction surface, ie within the edge 20 enclosed free space and the cross-section of the ventilation opening 14 , The suction area can be between 5 and 50 times larger than the cross section of the ventilation opening 14 , Also in the second embodiment is the vent 14 in extension of the exhaust duct 8th in order to provide in each case a certain suction pressure at the suction surface, ie the suction surface between the ventilation opening 14 and the hose connection 6 to place. As a result, the effect is achieved that the suction air flow is passed over the tissue surface and there shows a functional effect. Nevertheless, the ventilation opening could 14 be provided at another suitable location. In the embodiment shown is by the design and arrangement of the ventilation opening 14 Ensures that a uniform, in all areas of the suction equal suction power is provided.

The 12 clarifies the details of the hose connection 6 , which at a small axial distance from the mouth opening an insertion bevel 60 around the tube, which is usually a standard in dentistry used tubing with a diameter of about 6 mm, close to to lead. With further axial distance from the insertion opening are more holding ribs 62 , which clamp the hose inserted there circumferentially and hold. Furthermore, at the end of the hose connection 6 an attack 64 provided at which the insertion movement of the tube finds its end. The stop 64 marks the beginning of the withdrawal channel 8th , This trigger channel 8th usually opens paragraph-free in the at the stop 64 adjacent hose, ie the lumen of the hose. The cylinder neck 4 also has a plurality of axially spaced gripping ribs on its outer peripheral surface 66 with which the tongue cleaner head can be kept better and safer for pushing onto the tube.

Preferably, between one and three such grip ribs 66 intended.

As the 12 and 14 clarify, are the slats 24 formed basically with identical thickness and open directly into the discharge duct B. The detail with reference to the first embodiment explained profiling of the slats 24 is missing. Rather, the slats protrude 24 as "ribs" over the culvert 8th with a slightly convex curve transverse to the longitudinal extent of the discharge channel 8th over the circumferential protective edge 50 however, go paragraph-free into this protective margin 50 above.

15 shows a view of a set with a reference numeral 70 characterized grip handle, which has a widened diameter grip area 72 and a diameter sleeve which is reduced in diameter 74 formed. The handle 70 is made by injection molding.

In the embodiment shown, the reference numeral 1 characterized tongue cleaning head formed from a hard component, which in the region of the slats 24 is overmolded with an elastomeric coating. The hose connection 6 has an inner diameter that matches the outer diameter of the fitting sleeve 74 adapted adapted, so that the fitting sleeve 74 in the hose connection 6 can be inserted and plugged in there. In the process, a free end of the hose connection is encountered 6 against one between the fitting sleeve 74 and the grip area 72 trained ring surface 76 which is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the handle handle 70 extends. This ring surface 76 accordingly forms a stop for the axial fixing of the tongue cleaner head. When plugged in, it is non-rotatable and unmovable with the handle 70 connected.

The fitting sleeve 74 is at its free end with a latch 83 Mistake. Corresponding to this has the cylinder neck 4 a window at the back 84 , which as a recess for receiving the latch 83 is trained. The window 83 is located between the end opening of the cylinder nozzle 4 and the example in 3 with reference number 16 marked annular surface. This is the disc-shaped body 2 facing edge surface of the window 84 usually at the level of the ring surface 16 ,

The latch 83 and the window 84 are adapted so that when inserting the fitting sleeve 74 in the hose connection 4 upon reaching an end position, the storm-side end of the fitting sleeve 74 against the ring surface 16 abuts and thereby the latch 83 in the window 84 Pre-spring to the positive connection between the tongue cleaner head 1 and the handle 70 manufacture.

15 further illustrates an end cap 80 on a suction hose 82 can be placed to close this. The suction hose 82 is an alternative to the fitting sleeve 74 in the hose connection 6 einsteck- and there fluid-tight einbringbar. When inserted, the fluid hose is located 82 with its end usually against the example in 3 with reference number 16 marked annular surface sealingly. Due to the location of the window 84 can this sealing attachment through the window 84 be checked.

The window 84 accordingly serves as an indicator to check whether either the grip handle 70 or the suction hose 82 safe with the tongue cleaner head 1 connected is.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

Tongue cleaner head

2

Disc-shaped body

4

cylinder nozzle

6

hose connection

8th

culvert

10

pipe section

12

end wall

14

vent

16

ring surface

17

back

18

front surface

20

edge

22

profiling

24

lamella

26

slat base

28

gutter

30

vent

32

web

34

end face

36

Fir

38

rear wall

40

front wall

42

Soft component / encapsulation

44

Hard component / basic body

46

By injection opening

48

pillow

48A

application area

48B

branding area

48D

dosing

50

protective edge

52

Massage nubs, long

54

Massage knickers, short

56

Scharbkante

58

sloping surface

60

chamfer

62

holding rib

64

attack

66

handle rib

70

grip handle

72

grip area

74

fitting sleeve

76

ring surface

80

endcap

82

suction

83

latch

84

window

B

Width of the slat

S

Strength of the lamellar base

T

parting plane

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• US 5984935 [0002]
• WO 2006/074911 [0002]
• WO 98/42264 [0003]

Claims (38)

Set for the tongue cleaning with a substantially disk-shaped body ( 2 ), which on its utility-side front surface ( 18 ) having a profiling suitable for scraping off dirt adhering to the surface of the human tongue ( 22 ) and a hose connection ( 6 ) formed with the profiling ( 22 ) and a handle ( 70 ), which can be attached to the tongue cleaning head ( 1 ) adapted adapted. Set according to claim 1, characterized in that the handle ( 70 ) an end fitting sleeve ( 74 ), which in the hose connection ( 6 ) for attaching the tongue cleaning head ( 1 ) on the handle ( 70 ) can be inserted. Set according to claim 2, characterized in that the fitting sleeve ( 74 ) one opposite a grip area ( 72 ) of the handle ( 70 ) has reduced diameter. Set according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that between the fitting sleeve ( 74 ) and the grip area ( 72 ) is substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the handle ( 70 ) extending annular surface ( 76 ) is formed in the assembled state, the front side of the hose connection ( 6 ) is present. Set according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by an indicator ( 84 ), which ensures the secure fixing of the tongue cleaning head ( 1 ) to the handle ( 70 ) or one with the tongue cleaning head ( 1 ) to be connected to the suction hose ( 82 ) makes visible. Set according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the hose connection ( 6 ) by a a back ( 17 ) of the body ( 2 ) superior cylinder socket ( 4 ) is formed. Set according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the hose connection ( 6 ) in a longitudinal direction of the hose connection ( 6 ) in the body ( 2 ) extending withdrawal channel ( 8th ) opens. Set according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the withdrawal channel ( 8th ) with a ventilation opening ( 14 ) communicates. Set according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the hose connection ( 6 ), the withdrawal channel ( 8th ) and the ventilation opening ( 14 ) in the axial direction of the cylinder nozzle ( 4 ) are arranged one behind the other. Set according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the withdrawal channel ( 8th ) in a tapered pipe section ( 10 ) is formed, whose larger diameter end of the hose connection ( 6 ). Set according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the profiling ( 22 ) lamellae extending parallel to each other ( 24 ) having. Set according to claim 11, characterized in that the lamellae ( 24 ) at right angles to the withdrawal channel ( 8th ) and / or the hose connection ( 6 ). Set according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the lamellae ( 24 ) from a lamellar base ( 26 ), which are opposite to their lamellae ( 24 ) is widened. Set according to one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that a plurality of fins ( 24 ) and / or lamellar bases ( 26 ) in the longitudinal direction of the discharge channel ( 8th ) are provided one behind the other and extending parallel to each other. Set according to one of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that the free ends of the slats ( 24 ) has a convexly curved end surface ( 34 ) exhibit. Set according to claim 15, characterized in that the end surfaces ( 34 ) of all slats ( 24 ) lie in a spherically formed envelope surface. Set according to one of claims 11 to 16, characterized in that the slats ( 24 ) to her lamellae ( 36 ) widen. Set according to one of claims 11 to 17, characterized in that the width (B) of the blade ( 24 ) increases continuously towards its center. Set according to claim 18, characterized in that the lamella ( 24 ) its widest point in the axial extension of the hose connection ( 6 ) Has. Set according to one of claims 11 to 19, characterized in that at least one of the front or rear walls ( 40 ; 38 ) of the slats ( 24 ) is convexly curved. Set according to one of claims 11 to 19, characterized in that at least one of the front or rear walls ( 40 ; 38 ) of the slats ( 24 ) is designed to extend in a straight line. Set according to one of claims 11 to 21, characterized in that the thickness (S) of the lamellar base ( 26 ) in the extension direction of the hose connection ( 6 ) increases towards the middle. Set according to one of claims 11 to 22, characterized in that the lamella ( 24 ) and / or the lamellar base ( 26 ) at the end flush with a use side front surface ( 18 ) surrounding edge ( 20 ) is arranged. Set according to one of claims 11 to 23, characterized in that between a rear side of a blade ( 24 ) and one of the lamella adjacent thereto ( 24 ) associated lamellar base ( 26 ) at least one with the withdrawal channel ( 8th ) communicating exhaust port ( 30 ) is provided. Set according to one of claims 11 to 24, characterized in that between a lamella ( 24 ) and one of the lamella adjacent thereto ( 24 ) associated lamellar base ( 26 ) one to the exhaust port ( 30 ) leading gutter ( 28 ) is provided. Set according to claim 25, characterized in that the gutter ( 28 ) in the direction of the exhaust opening ( 30 ) is inclined. Set according to claim 25 or 26, characterized in that the gutter ( 28 ) at the edge below the utility side front surface ( 18 ) surrounding edge ( 20 ) ends. Set according to one of claims 11 to 27, characterized in that between four and seven fins ( 24 ) are provided. Set according to one of claims 11 to 28, characterized in that in the extension direction of the hose connection ( 6 ) Discharge openings ( 30 ) in front of and behind the slats ( 24 ) are provided. Set according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the body ( 2 ) substantially dish-shaped and on the back ( 17 ) only from the cylinder neck ( 4 ) and the tapered pipe section ( 10 ) is surmounted. Set according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cylinder neck ( 4 ) substantially flush with the utility-side front surface ( 18 ) is arranged. Set according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tapered pipe section ( 10 End ends substantially flush with the outer contour of the use-side surface. Set according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tongue cleaner is preferably made as a one-piece injection molded part as a multi-component injection molded part. Set according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a basic body ( 44 ), which is provided with an at least profiling overmolding of a soft component. Set according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the encapsulation profiling as well as a formed on the back of the tongue cleaner head cushion ( 48 ) ausformt. Set according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cushion ( 48 ) from another plastic component, in particular a soft component other than the profiling ( 22 ) is formed. Set according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that on the back ( 17 ) of the disc-shaped body ( 2 ) with nubs ( 52 . 54 ) cushion ( 48 ) is provided. Set according to claim 37, characterized in that the cushion ( 48 ) is formed of a soft component.

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