阅读说明：本技术 用于牙卫生的设备 (Device for dental hygiene ) 是由 安德烈·斯克拉夏 安东尼奥·科斯马蒂 于 2020-03-09 设计创作，主要内容包括：本发明涉及一种用于牙卫生的设备(1),特别是用于清洁牙弓的牙齿(2)的设备,其特征在于,其包括：-刷洗装置(3),其被构造为同时包裹上牙弓或下牙弓的所有牙齿(2),所述刷洗装置(3)包括多个可移动的清洁元件,所述清洁元件被构造为用它们的自由端部清洁所述牙齿(2)；-支撑结构(4),其包括覆盖壳体(5),该覆盖壳体旨在完全插入口腔内,并且被构造为在其中支撑并容纳所述刷洗装置(3),所述支撑结构(4)还包括附件(6),该附件与覆盖壳体(5)和/或刷洗装置(3)相关联,并且当所述覆盖壳体(5)定位在口腔内时,该附件旨在通过口裂至少部分地从所述口腔中出来；-机动单元(18),该机动单元被构造为在移动上施用所述清洁元件,并且其特征还在于,所述刷洗装置(3)包括：-至少一个第一刷洗组件(11),包括被布置和构造为作用在牙齿(2)的前庭表面上的多个清洁元件,-至少一个第二刷洗组件(12),包括被布置和构造为作用在牙齿(2)的舌侧表面上的多个清洁元件,-至少第三刷洗组件(13),包括被布置和构造为作用在牙齿(2)的咬合表面上的的多个清洁元件。(The invention relates to a device (1) for dental hygiene, in particular for cleaning the teeth (2) of an arch of teeth, characterized in that it comprises: -a brushing arrangement (3) configured to wrap all teeth (2) of an upper or lower arch simultaneously, the brushing arrangement (3) comprising a plurality of movable cleaning elements configured to clean the teeth (2) with their free ends; -a support structure (4) comprising a cover shell (5) intended to be fully inserted in the oral cavity and configured to support and house therein said brushing means (3), said support structure (4) further comprising an appendage (6) associated with the cover shell (5) and/or with the brushing means (3) and intended to come out at least partially of said oral cavity through a cleft of the mouth when said cover shell (5) is positioned in the oral cavity; -a motorized unit (18) configured to apply the cleaning elements in motion, and further characterized in that the brushing device (3) comprises: -at least one first brushing assembly (11) comprising a plurality of cleaning elements arranged and configured to act on vestibular surfaces of the teeth (2), -at least one second brushing assembly (12) comprising a plurality of cleaning elements arranged and configured to act on lingual surfaces of the teeth (2), -at least a third brushing assembly (13) comprising a plurality of cleaning elements arranged and configured to act on occlusal surfaces of the teeth (2).)

1. Device (1) for dental hygiene, in particular for cleaning the teeth (2) of an arch of teeth, characterized in that it comprises:

a brushing arrangement (3) configured to wrap all teeth (2) of an upper or lower arch simultaneously, the brushing arrangement (3) comprising a plurality of movable cleaning elements configured to clean the teeth (2) with their free ends,

a support structure (4) comprising a cover shell (5) intended to be inserted completely into the oral cavity and configured to support and house therein the brushing means (3), the support structure (4) further comprising an appendage (6) associated with the cover shell (5) and/or with the brushing means (3) and intended to come out of the oral cavity at least partially through a cleft of the mouth when the cover shell (5) is positioned in the oral cavity,

a motorized unit (18) configured to apply the cleaning element in motion,

and in that the brushing device (3) comprises:

at least one first brushing assembly (11) comprising a plurality of cleaning elements arranged and configured to act on vestibular surfaces of the teeth (2),

at least one second brushing assembly (12) comprising a plurality of cleaning elements arranged and configured to act on lingual surfaces of the teeth (2),

at least a third brushing assembly (13) comprising a plurality of cleaning elements arranged and configured to act on the occlusal surface of the teeth (2).

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the covering shell (5) has a substantially arched longitudinal extension to cover substantially all the teeth (2) of the arch and, in addition, has a concave profile to cover the vestibular, lingual and occlusal surfaces of the teeth (2), and the appendix (6) defines a handle for holding and moving the device and a housing for the motorised unit (18) and for a battery for powering the motorised unit.

3. An apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning elements comprise a rotating brush (14) provided with a core (15) having a longitudinal extension from which a plurality of thread-like elements (16) radially project, and wherein the first brushing assembly (11) comprises a plurality of brushes (14) arranged and configured to act on the vestibular surface of the teeth (2), the second brushing assembly (12) comprises a plurality of brushes (14) arranged and configured to act on the lingual surface of the teeth (2), and the third brushing assembly (13) comprises a plurality of brushes (14) arranged and configured to act on the occlusal surface of the teeth (2).

4. Apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the cores (15) of the brushes (14) of the three brushing assemblies (11, 12, 13) extend longitudinally along the extension of the dental arch and along respective directions substantially parallel to each other.

5. An apparatus according to any one of claims 3-4, wherein the core (15) of the brush (14) is longitudinally extendable/retractable.

6. An apparatus according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein the cleaning element comprises a continuous brush strip (14'), wherein the first brushing assembly (11) comprises a plurality of continuous brush strips (14') arranged and configured to act on vestibular surfaces of the teeth (2), the second brushing assembly (12) comprises a plurality of continuous brush strips (14') arranged and configured to act on lingual surfaces of the teeth (2), and the third brushing assembly (13) comprises a plurality of continuous brush strips (14') arranged and configured to act on occlusal surfaces of the teeth (2).

7. Apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the motorised unit (18) is configured for providing a tilting movement of the cleaning element in a forward and backward direction and is located on a drive shaft and a driven shaft, wherein each of the three brushing assemblies (11, 12, 13) is coupled to a respective drive shaft.

8. Apparatus according to claim 7, further comprising a transmission box provided with three slots arranged in correspondence with the drive shafts of the brushing assemblies (11, 12, 13) of the continuous brush strip (14').

9. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said motorised unit (18) comprises a single electric motor and a system (19) for transmitting the motion generated by said motor to all the cleaning elements of said three brushing assemblies (11, 12, 13), said transmission system (19) being arranged in correspondence of a median region of the arched longitudinal extension of said covering shell (5) and/or of said brushing means (3).

10. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the motorised unit (18) and/or the motion transmission system (19) are configured to cause the movement of the cleaning elements of the first brushing assembly (11) acting on the vestibular surface of the teeth and the movement of the cleaning elements of the second brushing assembly (12) acting on the lingual surface of the teeth, according to a direction of rotation proceeding from the gingival/crown of the teeth towards the apex of the teeth.

11. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the intermediate zone of the covering shell (5) corresponding to its arched longitudinal development is divided into two parts (10', 10 "), the two parts (10', 10") being hinged to each other in an adjustable manner about a pin (20) mounted in correspondence with the accessory (6).

12. The device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cover housing (5) comprises at least one longitudinally extendable portion (21), preferably configured like a bellows.

13. Dental cleaning kit, characterized in that it comprises a device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims and at least one of the following accessories:

a gel toothpaste compound (25) inserted into the cover housing (5) of the device and/or placed in the oral cavity before the cover housing (5) and brushing means (3) of the device (1) are inserted into the cavity,

a tooth whitening means removably inserted into a cover housing (5) of the device (1),

a sterilizing element, preferably of the disposable type, for sterilizing the device (1).

14. A dental cleaning kit, characterized in that it comprises a device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims and a base means (30) configured for electrical and mechanical engagement with the device (1) for:

recharging a battery provided in the device (1), and/or

Automatically cleaning a cover housing (5) and a brushing device (3) of the device (1) after use, and/or

For disinfecting the device (1), preferably by ultraviolet radiation, and/or

For positioning a toothpaste compound (25) in correspondence of the brushing means (3) within a covering casing (5) of the device (1).

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a device for dental hygiene.

Background

At present, electric devices for dental hygiene, similar to toothbrushes, are known and commercially available, wherein a head provided with a brush is rotated and/or vibrated by an electric motor.

Furthermore, devices for dental hygiene are currently known in which the movement of the brush is caused by a mechanical action extending through the bite, that is to say, exerted on the jaw by the lower jaw.

However, these known solutions are not entirely satisfactory because the movement of the bristles over the tooth surfaces typically extends vertically from the apex of the teeth to the gums, thereby carrying material under the gums. In this way, gingival infection or other disease may occur and cleaning is not optimal in any case.

Furthermore, such known devices cannot be used in the case of malocclusions and/or malpositions of the teeth, as they may cause damage to the structures of the oral cavity.

Furthermore, this known device does not allow for the correct use of toothpaste compounds for the correct wetting of the tooth surface.

Last but not least, the well-known devices are often impractical.

Disclosure of Invention

The object of the present invention is to propose a device for dental hygiene which overcomes the above-mentioned drawbacks of the traditional solutions.

Another object of the invention is to propose a device for dental hygiene that is easy to use, practical, intuitive and quick to use.

Another object of the invention is to propose a device for dental hygiene which provides a correct, effective, fast and accurate cleaning of all the teeth and of the interdental spaces at the surfaces of all the teeth (vestibular, lingual and occlusal surfaces).

It is another object of the present invention to provide a device for dental hygiene that is adaptable to different sizes and/or shapes of palate.

Another object of the invention is to propose a device for dental hygiene which allows an efficient and unequivocal removal of the dirt from the teeth.

It is another object of the present invention to propose a device for dental hygiene that optimizes the amount of toothpaste compound used.

Another object of the invention is to propose a device for dental hygiene that allows correct moistening of the teeth.

Another object of the invention is to propose a device particularly suitable for use by subjects lacking or having a low autonomy.

Another object of the invention is to propose a device for dental hygiene having alternative characteristics in terms of structure and function compared to traditional devices.

Another object of the present invention is to propose a device for dental hygiene that is available in a simple, quick and low-cost manner.

According to the present invention, all these objects and others which will result from the following description are achieved with a device for dental hygiene and a dental cleaning kit as defined in the independent claims.

The device for dental hygiene, in particular for cleaning the teeth of an arch, according to the invention comprises a brushing arrangement configured to wrap all the teeth of the upper or lower arch simultaneously, wherein the brushing arrangement comprises a plurality of movable cleaning elements configured to clean said teeth with their free ends.

The device further comprises a support structure with a cover housing intended to be fully inserted into the oral cavity and configured to support and house the brushing arrangement therein, the support structure further comprising an attachment associated with the cover housing and/or the brushing arrangement and intended to at least partially come out of the oral cavity through a cleft of the mouth when the cover housing is positioned in the oral cavity.

Furthermore, the apparatus comprises a motorized unit configured to execute the cleaning elements in motion, and at least a first brushing assembly comprising a plurality of cleaning elements arranged and configured to act on the vestibular surface of the teeth; at least a second brushing assembly comprising a plurality of cleaning elements arranged and configured to act on lingual surfaces of the teeth, and at least a third brushing assembly comprising a plurality of cleaning elements arranged and configured to act on occlusal surfaces of the teeth.

According to one embodiment, the covering shell has a substantially arched longitudinal extension to cover substantially all the teeth of the arch and, in addition, a concave profile to cover the vestibular, lingual and occlusal surfaces of the teeth, and the accessory defines a handle for holding and moving the device and also a shell for the motorised unit and for a battery for powering the motorised unit.

According to another embodiment, the cleaning elements comprise a rotating brush provided with a core having a longitudinal extension from which the plurality of thread-like elements radially protrude, and wherein the first brushing assembly comprises a plurality of brushes arranged and configured to act on the vestibular surface of the teeth, the second brushing assembly comprises a plurality of brushes arranged and configured to act on the lingual surface of the teeth, and the third brushing assembly comprises a plurality of brushes arranged and configured to act on the occlusal surface of the teeth. In an alternative embodiment, the thread-like element extends radially like a spiral from a core having a longitudinal extension.

In particular, the cores of the brushes of the three brushing assemblies extend longitudinally along the extension of the dental arch and along respective directions that are substantially parallel to each other.

In one embodiment, the core of the brush is longitudinally extendable/retractable.

According to another embodiment, the cleaning elements comprise a continuous strip of brushes, wherein the first brushing assembly comprises a plurality of continuous strips of brushes arranged and configured to act on vestibular surfaces of the teeth, the second brushing assembly comprises a plurality of continuous strips of brushes arranged and configured to act on lingual surfaces of the teeth, and the third brushing assembly comprises a plurality of continuous strips of brushes arranged and configured to act on occlusal surfaces of the teeth.

In particular, the motorized unit is configured for providing a tilting movement of the cleaning elements in forward and backward directions and the cleaning elements are located on a drive shaft and a driven shaft, wherein each of the three brushing assemblies is coupled to one drive shaft, respectively.

According to one embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a transmission case provided with three slots arranged respectively at the drive shafts of the brushing assemblies of the successive brush belts.

According to another embodiment, the motorised unit comprises a single electric motor and a system for transmitting the motion generated by said motor to all the cleaning elements of said three brushing assemblies, said transmission system being provided at a central region of the arcuate longitudinal extension of said covering shell and/or of said brushing means.

In particular, the motorised unit and/or the motion transmission system is configured to cause movement of the cleaning elements of the first brushing assembly acting on the vestibular surface of the teeth and movement of the cleaning elements of the second brushing assembly acting on the lingual surface of the teeth, according to a direction of rotation proceeding from the gingiva/crown of the teeth towards the apex of the teeth. Motion may also be transmitted on the occlusal surface.

According to one embodiment, the covering shell is divided at a median region of its arcuate longitudinal extension into two parts, which are hinged to each other in an adjustable manner about a pin mounted at the accessory. Alternatively, the system may be free of said pins and the movement or tilting effect may be provided by the flexibility of the material due to the nature of the material itself.

According to another embodiment, the cover housing comprises at least one longitudinally extendable portion, preferably configured like a bellows.

In another embodiment, each half arch terminates in a "dog-tooth shape" (detection point or platform mark: γ e β) from which one of two appendages of different sizes may be assembled in order to cover the entire length of the half arch. Each attachment (two different sizes) includes a corresponding cleaning element, i.e., a brushing element. The accessories receive in their structure an extensible/contractible element like a bellows.

The dental cleaning kit according to the invention comprises a device according to one of the preceding embodiments and at least one of the following accessories:

a gel toothpaste compound inserted into the cover housing of the device and/or placed within the oral cavity before the cover housing of the device and brushing means are inserted into the oral cavity,

-a tooth whitening means removably inserted into a cover housing of the device, an

-a sterilizing element, preferably of the disposable type, for sterilizing the device.

According to another embodiment, the toothpaste composition may be sprayed onto the cleaning elements, i.e., the brushing elements.

The dental cleaning kit according to the present invention comprises a device according to one of the preceding embodiments and a base means configured for electrical and mechanical engagement with said device, said base means for:

-recharging a battery provided in the device, and/or

-automatically cleaning the cover housing and the brushing means of the device after use, and/or

-sterilizing the device, preferably by ultraviolet radiation, and/or

-positioning a toothpaste compound within a cover housing of the apparatus, at a brushing device.

Drawings

The invention is further elucidated in some preferred embodiments of the invention, given purely by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

figure 1 shows a perspective view of a device according to the invention inserted into the oral cavity,

fig. 2 shows the device, wherein the support structure is transparent,

fig. 3 shows a perspective view of one half of the intraoral brushing apparatus and drive train, wherein the housing of the attachment of the support structure is transparent,

figure 4 shows the device in the oral cavity according to its vertical section,

fig. 5 shows, in a perspective view, the apparatus within the oral cavity, with one half of the brushing arrangement removed,

fig. 6 shows the device in the oral cavity according to a plan view, in the same state as in fig. 5, and wherein the cover housing is transparent,

figure 7 shows the brush of the scrub appliance in a front view in a compact configuration,

figure 8 shows the same brush of figure 7 in an extended configuration,

figure 9 shows in perspective view the lower arch with the applied toothpaste tablets,

fig. 10 shows in perspective view the bottom support structure of the apparatus according to the invention, with the recess facing upwards,

figure 11 shows in schematic perspective view a base unit (docking station) according to the invention,

figure 12 shows the device of figure 11 in a schematic exploded perspective view,

figure 13 shows an apparatus according to the invention,

figure 14 shows an apparatus according to one embodiment of the invention,

fig. 15 shows a detail of the device of fig. 14.

Detailed Description

As can be seen from the figures, the device 1 for dental hygiene according to the invention, in particular for cleaning teeth 2, comprises a brushing arrangement 3 configured to wrap all teeth of the upper or lower arch substantially simultaneously, preferably one arch at a time.

Preferably, the device can only act on one bow at a time.

Suitably, the brushing means 3 have a curved longitudinal extension substantially along the curved longitudinal extension of the dental arch to which the device is intended to apply.

Preferably, the cover housing has been further divided into two half-arches for the following advantages:

increase the ease of insertion on the bow,

adaptability to different heights of the chewing plane.

The two half arches are joined together by an interlocking joint system (for maintaining the dimensions of a particular tooth section). In particular, the two half arches join to form the entire arch.

The apparatus 1 further comprises a support structure 4, which in turn comprises:

a cover housing 5 intended to be inserted into the oral cavity during use of the device,

an appendage 6 associated with and/or projecting from the covering casing 5 and intended to be at least partially (preferably mostly or totally) broken by mouth during use of the device

And out of the mouth.

Suitably, the brushing device 3 is supported and housed within the cover shell 5 such that when inserted/positioned within the oral cavity, the device is separated/isolated and in particular not in contact with the tongue 7 and the inner surfaces of the lips, thereby allowing them to be protected. Suitably, the cover shell 5 externally wraps most or all of the brushing device 3, and furthermore, the cover shell has a configuration adapted to wrap all of the teeth of the upper or lower arch simultaneously, preferably one arch at a time.

Advantageously, the covering housing 5 comprises a protective sheath defining an inner compartment 8 in which the brushing means 3 are housed. Suitably, the inner compartment 8 opens outwardly to define the tooth insertion passage 2.

Advantageously, the covering shell 5 (and preferably also the appendix 6) is made of a biocompatible polymeric material.

Advantageously, the covering shell 5 has a substantially arched longitudinal extension, so as to preferably define a substantially "U" shape, so as to cover substantially all the teeth of the arch. Suitably, the longitudinal end of the covering shell 5 has a substantially dome-like section 9.

Advantageously, the covering shell 5 has a concave profile so as to preferably define a substantially "U" shape, covering the vestibular, lingual and occlusal surfaces of the teeth.

Suitably, the concave profile covering the housing 5 (which faces upwards when the housing is inserted into the mouth to act on the upper arch and downwards when the housing is inserted into the mouth to act on the lower arch) defines the compartment 8 in which the brushing device 3 is housed and supported.

Preferably, the appendix 6 and the covering shell 5 are substantially coplanar and, in particular, the appendix 6 extends outwards along a median axis of the covering shell 5 with respect to the arched extension thereof.

Preferably, the covering shell 5 is made up of two separate parts 10' and 10 "(along their arcuate longitudinal extension) slightly spaced apart, which are substantially symmetrical with respect to their median axis (i.e. the axis passing substantially between the two central incisors when the shell is inserted into the oral cavity).

Advantageously, the appendage 6 is substantially box-shaped, being enclosed between the lips and at least partially exiting outside said mouth when the device 1 is in use (i.e. when the covering shell 5 is inserted inside the mouth).

Preferably, the attachment 6 defines, at least in part, a handle to hold the entire apparatus 1 and to allow the cover housing 5 with the brushing arrangement 3 to be placed in and removed from the oral cavity.

Suitably, the brushing device 3 comprises three brushing assemblies, and in particular comprises:

a first brushing assembly 11 arranged and configured to act on the vestibular surfaces of the teeth and in the interstitial space present between the vestibular surfaces of two adjacent teeth,

a second brushing assembly 12 arranged and configured to act on the lingual surface of the teeth and in an interstitial space present between the lingual surfaces of two adjacent teeth,

a third brushing assembly 13 arranged and configured to act on the occlusal surfaces of the teeth and in the interstitial space present between the occlusal surfaces of two adjacent teeth.

Suitably, the third brushing assembly 13 is externally covered by the bottom of the recess of the cover housing 5 at an area substantially opposite to the area intended to be in contact with the occlusal surface of the teeth; suitably, the first and second brushing assemblies 11, 12 are externally covered by respective side sections of the recess of the cover shell 5 facing each other, at respective regions substantially opposite to the regions intended to be in contact with the vestibular and lingual surfaces of the teeth.

Suitably, each of the brushing assemblies 11, 12 and 13 comprises one or more cleaning elements, such as one or more brushes 14 aligned with each other or one or more continuous strips of brushes 14'. As described below, each brush assembly 11, 12, 13 is associated with a corresponding drive shaft.

As shown in fig. 2, in the case of brushes 14, each brush 14 of the brushing assemblies 11, 12 and 13 comprises a central core 15 (preferably defined by an elongated body) from which a plurality of filiform elements 16 project radially, which suitably define the bristles of said brush. Advantageously, the thread-like element 16 is constrained, preferably fixed, to the central core 15.

Preferably, the thread-like element 16 is made of a highly biocompatible polymeric material.

Suitably, each brush 14 comprises a plurality of groups 17 of thread-like elements 16 coplanar with each other and spaced apart along the longitudinal extension of the central core 15. Preferably, within each group 17, the thread-like elements 16 have equal spacing and angle with respect to each other. In particular, within each group 17, a plurality of (denser) thread-like elements is provided, preferably arranged on a plurality of longitudinal axes (cores). In a preferred embodiment, four coplanar thread-like elements 16 are provided, which extend radially from the central core 15 and define an angle of 90 ° with respect to each other. In another embodiment (not shown), the thread-like element 16 may be constrained to the central core 15 so as to define a helical path.

Preferably, within each assembly 11, 12 and 13, the core 15 of the brush 14 is coaxial.

Suitably, the free end portions of the wire-like elements 16 are intended to contact the tooth surfaces and/or interdental spaces to be cleaned.

Suitably, the cores 15 of the brushes 14 of the three brushing assemblies 11, 12 and 13 extend longitudinally in directions substantially parallel to one another. Preferably, the brush cores 15 of the three assemblies all extend in parallel along the extension of the dental arch.

In particular, it is advantageous, in the device 1 according to the invention:

the core 15 of the brush of the first brushing assembly 11 faces and is parallel to the vestibular surface of the teeth, and furthermore,

suitably angled (preferably perpendicular) with respect to the extension of the tooth in height,

the core 15 of the brush of the second brushing assembly 12 faces and is parallel to the lingual surface of the teeth and, in addition,

suitably angled (preferably perpendicular) with respect to the extension of the tooth in height,

the core 15 of the third brushing assembly 13 faces and is parallel to the occlusal surface of the teeth and is further aligned along the arcuate extension of the dental arch.

Suitably, a support 27 is provided on the inner surface of the cover housing 5 for mounting (preferably removably mounting) the core 15 of the brush 14 of the brush assembly.

Suitably, the device 1 further comprises a motorized unit 18, advantageously housed within said appendix 6, and connected (by means of a suitable motion transmission system 19) to the cleaning elements of the three brushing assemblies, so as to cause the movement thereof.

In the particular case of using the brush 14 as a cleaning element, in a preferred form, a further core is added, which can act longitudinally, preferably by emitting ultrasonic vibrations.

Advantageously, the motorised unit 18 comprises at least one electric motor, preferably with a rotation speed of about 10-50rpm, and preferably about 30 rpm. Suitably, the motorised unit 18 may comprise an ultrasonic motor and/or a piezoelectric motor.

Suitably, the motorised unit 18 is connected to an internal power source (not shown), preferably defined by a battery, also housed in a compartment provided in said accessory 6. Advantageously, the accessory 6 may be provided with a connector (for example a USB interface) for connecting the device 1 to an external power supply for charging the battery.

Advantageously, a control unit or controller (not shown) is housed in said accessory 6 to control the motorised unit. Preferably, the controller is a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) connected to an internal power source and/or the motorised unit 18. Advantageously, a receiver (for example a bluetooth terminal) is housed in said accessory 6, which receiver is connected to said control unit to receive commands for programming the motorised unit 18 from the outside, preferably via a portable device (for example a smartphone).

Suitably, the transmission system 19 comprises a series of toothed wheels for transmitting the motion generated by the motor of the motorised unit 18 to the cleaning elements, for example for transmitting the rotation generated by the motor of the motorised unit 18 to the central core 15 of the brush 14, causing the rotation of the core itself and therefore of the threadlike elements (bristles) 16 attached to the core.

Preferably, to precisely adapt to the vestibulo-palatal diameter, the transmission system has been modified by using a drive belt as an alternative to a washer (or toothed wheel). The "end" belt, which acts on the core of the brushing device, is interspersed between rows of bristles (whether arranged in a spiral or perpendicular arrangement to the tooth surface).

In essence, therefore, activation of the motor of the motorised unit 18 simultaneously causes movement of the cleaning elements of the three brushing assemblies 11, 12, 13 and, consequently, the action of the free ends of the cleaning elements on the corresponding surfaces of the teeth and of the opposite interdental space. For example, in the case of using the brush 14 as a cleaning element, the activation of the motor of the motorised unit 18 simultaneously causes the rotation of the brushes 14 of the three brushing assemblies 11, 12 and 13 and, consequently, the action of the filiform elements 16 on the respective surfaces of the teeth and of the opposite interdental space.

Preferably, the motor and/or transmission system 19 of the motorised unit 18 is configured such that the movement of the cleaning elements, for example the rotation of the brushes 14 of the first brush assembly 11 (acting on the vestibular surface of the teeth) and of the second brush assembly 12 (acting on the lingual surface of the teeth), is carried out according to a direction of travel from the gingiva/crowns of the teeth towards the apex of the teeth.

Suitably, in the case of use of the brush 14 as cleaning element, the motor and/or transmission system 19 of the motorised unit 18 is configured to cause a complete rotation (i.e. 360 °, and therefore in a single direction of rotation) of the thread-like element 16 of the brush 14 about an axis of rotation corresponding to the longitudinal extension of the central core 15. Suitably, in another embodiment, the motor and/or transmission system 19 of the motorised unit 18 is configured to cause an incomplete rotation (for example equal to or less than 180 ° and therefore in alternate directions of rotation) of the thread-like element 16 about said axis of rotation corresponding to the longitudinal extension of the central core 15, so as to act on the tooth by a substantially undulating movement of said thread-like element.

Suitably, the first brushing assembly 11 acting on the vestibular surfaces of the teeth and the second brushing assembly 12 acting on the lingual surfaces of the teeth extend across the entire arch, while the third brushing assembly (i.e. the assembly acting on the occlusal surfaces) does not extend across the extension of the entire arch, but is configured (i.e. positioned and extended) to act only on the occlusal surfaces of the premolars and molars, and at most also on the canine teeth.

Thus, basically, the brushing arrangement 3 is configured such that, in use (i.e. when the brushing arrangement 3 and the cover housing 5 are inserted into the oral cavity), at the incisors, and possibly also at the canine teeth, only the first and second brushing assemblies 11, 12 are active.

Advantageously, therefore, drive train 19 is housed within support structure 4 such that when brushing arrangement 3 and cover housing 5 are inserted into the oral cavity, they substantially straddle the incisor teeth (i.e., in the area where only first brushing assembly 11 and second brushing assembly 12 are provided and no third brushing assembly 13 is provided). Preferably, the transmission system 19 is positioned at the middle axis of the covering casing 15 and is in particular arranged in the space between the two above-mentioned parts 10' and 10 ″ defining the covering casing 5, facing away from which the accessory 6 is facing.

Suitably, on the inner surface of the covering casing 5, for each brush assembly 11, 12 and 13, a corresponding area (not shown) is provided to remove and collect the waste material captured from the ends of the cleaning elements of each assembly, for example from the linear elements of the brushes 14. Preferably, said removal and collection area is defined/provided on the inner surface of the covering shell 5, at a position downstream of the teeth 2, according to the direction of rotation of the brushes of each brushing assembly 11, 12 and 13. Advantageously, each zone comprises a protruding section (rib or strip) which cooperates with the end of the thread-like element 16 to remove the waste material from the thread-like element, said element itself removing the waste material as a result of contact with the corresponding tooth surface.

In addition or alternatively to using the brush 14, each brushing assembly 11, 12, 13 may comprise as cleaning elements a continuous brush strip 14', wherein each strip comprises a first end connected to the support structure of the brushing assembly (which is attached to the brushing assembly) and a second free end for cleaning the teeth. In principle, the apparatus 1 may be composed of brushing assemblies 11, 12, 13, all of which comprise a plurality of brushes 14 or all of which comprise a plurality of successive brush strips 14'. However, a configuration is also conceivable in which the apparatus 1 consists of a combination of brushing assemblies 11, 12, 13, some of which comprise a plurality of brushes 14 and others of which comprise a plurality of continuous brush strips 14'. For example, two brushing assemblies comprising brushes 14 and one brushing assembly comprising a continuous strip of brushes 14', or vice versa.

As shown in fig. 14 and 15, the geometry of the device 1 is slightly modified to have an increased ability to adapt to anatomical changes, with a further increase in the operating surface (cleaning). This capability is obtained because the tilting movement of the cleaning elements (i.e., the continuous belt 14') in the forward and rearward directions can be determined. A continuous brush belt 14' is mounted on the drive and driven shafts (not shown). Both mounted on inclined supports (on the chewing plane) to achieve greater adaptation to anatomical changes. The inclined support is in turn fixed to the apparatus 1. The tilting motion may be coupled to a rotational or semi-rotational motion produced by a roller system associated with the brush assembly.

The device 1 comprises a transmission box (not shown in the figures) with all the mechanical and mechanical elements that transmit the motion from the (external) motor to the cleaning elements. To allow this movement, the tank is equipped with three slots arranged at the drive shaft of the continuous brush belt 14'. These axes are located within the operating region at the mucosal gingival junction (vestibular side), gingival-palatal junction (lingual side) and crown level for motion on the chewing plane.

Along the path of movement, the motor small toothed wheel is directly interfaced with the longitudinal shaft (by means of a "male-female" interlock), which causes the two Archimedes (Archimedes) screws to rotate along the same axis. These screws are arranged counter-clockwise in the front and then have a movement at the destination that allows the continuous brush band 14' to run in the apical-coronal direction. The post placed on the palatal side operates in a clockwise direction to have a reverse motion and maintain the apical-coronal direction. In this case, the direction of rotation on the chewing plane is irrelevant.

The front cylinder transmits motion to (directly connected to) a toothed wheel connected to a second toothed wheel.

The second toothed wheel transmits motion to an additional toothed wheel located at the slot for communication with the drive shaft. At this point the transmission of the motion takes place by means of a toothed belt which, in coaxial relationship with the drive shaft, will find the third toothed wheel. The latter is coaxial with the drive shaft of the first brush element and the relationship between the two elements is of the "male-female" type to allow a single half-arch to be used by a user.

The rear cylinder also transmits motion to a toothed wheel, which is directly connected to the toothed wheel. Using the same technique as for the vestibular (anterior) side, the wheel is connected to two wheels (coaxial): one for providing motion to the drive shaft at the chewing plane and the other for providing motion to the drive shaft at the gum-palate boundary.

The motion passes through these paths into the operating field and is properly transmitted to the three drive shafts by action on the tooth surface.

In particular, the continuous brush belt 14' is mounted on sliding rollers which are connected to each other by a joint similar to a universal joint. The other rollers (present at the level of the chewing edges of the teeth) follow.

With regard to the transmission system, the device 1 according to the invention may comprise a flexible secondary shaft placed therein. These flexible secondary shafts follow the contour of the dental arch and have the task of generating a rotary motion on different characteristic planes in the vicinity of the teeth and gums. These flexible shafts are fixed integrally with movable (e.g. rotating) cleaning elements which perform the function of cleaning the teeth and gums and which, as mentioned above, can have various forms, i.e. brushes (14), continuous brush strips (14'), sliders, etc.

Motion may be transferred to these flexible shafts through one or more main shafts connected to one or more drive devices, typically electric motors, capable of generating torque. The device 1 is preferably positioned outside the oral cavity.

The task of the primary shaft is to transmit motion to the flexible secondary shaft by means of a joint or transmission system capable of transmitting torque.

In a first configuration, the flexible secondary shafts extend outside the oral cavity, where they are integrated, by means of removable joints (for example prismatic joints), with the same number of drive devices equipped with a main drive shaft. Typically, each flexible shaft is integrated by means of a separate prismatic joint.

In a second configuration, the spindle is fixedly secured to and rotates from the motor. In particular, it is coupled to the secondary shaft by means of a magnetic joint, without the need to achieve contact between the moving parts. These magnetic joints are composed of permanent magnets with alternating magnetic poles, realized on the primary and secondary shafts, and the transmission of torque is realized by means of the subsequent attraction and repulsion interactions that occur between adjacent magnets when the primary shaft rotates.

In a third configuration, the spindle is fixedly secured to and rotates from the motor. It is coupled in series to the secondary shaft by means of toothed wheels, the rotational speed of which can be varied, if necessary, by means of a suitable transmission ratio.

Advantageously, the device 1 according to the invention is configured to substantially vary the length of the brushing arrangement 3 and the arcuate longitudinal extension of the covering shell 5 and/or to vary the curvature of said longitudinal extension (i.e. the distance/angle defined between the brushing arrangement 3 and the respective end portion of the covering shell 5), thus allowing the device itself to adapt to the palate of different length and/or width.

Suitably, the two parts 10' and 10 "of the covering shell 5 are mutually articulated, preferably in a rotary joint, at an articulated joint 20, advantageously positioned at said appendix 6. Furthermore, advantageously, the two above-mentioned parts 10 and 10' are joined together by means of screws positioned between the covering casing 5 and said articulated joint 20 and adjustable by means of wheels 29 positioned thereon, so as to be able to vary their mutual distance (and thus the width of the device 1) in a manner substantially similar to the adjustment of the opening of the rod of a compass.

Advantageously, the covering shell 5 has at least one longitudinally extensible portion 21, preferably having the shape of an extensible and/or contractible portion (i.e. formed by an accordion-like folded shell), to allow said shell to extend in length. Preferably, a bellows zone is provided for each of the two parts 10' and 10 "defining said covering shell 5. Preferably, the bellows zone is defined at the zone of the covering shell 5 which, when the covering shell is inserted in the dental arch, is positioned between the outermost dog teeth and the mid-point of the semi-arcuate longitudinal extension of each of the two parts 10' and 10 "defining said shell. Preferably, the housing is perforated to further facilitate the removal of dirt by the bristles.

Advantageously, the cover shell 5 is made of a flexible material, so that the brushing assemblies 11 and 12 mounted on said shell can be spaced apart from each other according to the size of the teeth interposed between said assemblies.

Advantageously, the cleaning elements of the brush assemblies 11, 12 and 13 are longitudinally extendable. Suitably, for this purpose, in the case of the use of a brush 14, the central core 15 of the brush 14 has an extensible configuration, preferably of the extensible and/or contractible portion type. Thus, in essence, the core 15 of the brush 14 can move between at least an extended configuration (see fig. 8, in which adjacent series 17 of radial thread-like elements 16 are further spaced apart along the longitudinal extension of the supporting central core 15) and a more compact configuration (see fig. 7, in which adjacent series 17 of radial thread-like elements 16 are closer together along the longitudinal extension of the supporting central core). Preferably, the threadlike elements maintain the same ratio and/or distribution and/or density throughout the longitudinal length of the core. Similarly, the continuous brush belt 14' may be connected to a longitudinal support structure (also defined as a central core) having an extensible configuration, preferably of the extensible and/or contractible portion type.

Preferably, for reasons of robustness, only the end portions of the core of the brush 14 or the core of the continuous brush band 14' are extendable. Preferably, the entire core is extensible to ensure the advantage of the thread-like elements (brushes 14 or bands 14') remaining in the same proportion and/or distribution and/or density over the entire longitudinal length of the core. In particular, the difference in length (extension or contraction) is thus distributed over the entire longitudinal length, not only over the relevant section.

Advantageously, the cleaning elements of the brush assemblies 11, 12 and 13 and the cover shell 5 are fully extended/extended before insertion into the oral cavity, and once they have entered the oral cavity, the user can act (for example by acting on the shell to push it onto the dental arch) to reduce their extension until they are in contact with the lower jaw. Only then, therefore, is the motor of the motorised unit 18 activated, which causes a movement of the cleaning elements, for example a rotation of the brush 14, acting on the teeth 2 by means of the free end of the filiform element 16.

Preferably, the adjustment can also be made after recording (data collection) of the bow with another device ("plate"). The data is sent to a base station (docking station) which models the device based on the collected data.

In particular, the device denoted "plate" may be provided with a screen on which accessories (one for each half-arch) are shown, to be assembled to the central body, to adapt the device to the anatomy and the condition/characteristics of the arch intended to be inserted therein.

Advantageously, the device 1 may further comprise self-adjusting pneumatic means (not shown) for adapting the device itself to the anatomy and condition/characteristics of the oral cavity into which it is intended to be inserted. Preferably, the pneumatic device is also housed within the covering shell 5 and is configured to stabilize the brushing arrangement 3 by pressing the cleaning elements of the various brushing assemblies 11, 12 and 13 of the arrangement against the respective surfaces of the teeth 2.

Advantageously, the pneumatic device comprises an expandable structure, preferably modular, connected to the compressor to cause expansion of said structure; preferably, the expansion (and therefore the start-up of the compressor and/or the connection of the compressor to the structure) is automatically interrupted once a predetermined pressure level is reached. Suitably, such an expanded configuration may overcome any change in position between the teeth or their eventual absence, as well as allow for greater anchoring of brushing apparatus 3 on the dental arch. Suitably, the pneumatic means are connected to a control unit, thereby controlling the start/stop thereof.

Advantageously, on the inner surface of the covering shell 5 seats (not shown) are provided for positioning the sterilizing elements for sterilizing the device 1. Suitably, such a disinfection element is shaped like a film. Preferably, the disinfecting element is arranged on the inner surface of the covering shell 5 in a position upstream of the teeth 2, according to the movement of the cleaning element, for example according to the direction of rotation of the brush 14 of each brushing assembly 11, 12 and 13.

Advantageously, the disinfecting element contains a suitable disinfecting substance which is released upon contact with the free ends of the cleaning elements (e.g. the wire-like elements 16 of the brush 14), preferably when the rotation of the cleaning elements is activated both inside and outside the mouth (i.e. before/after it is used for cleaning the teeth).

Preferably, the covering shell 5 comprises perforations (not shown) to remove/release the sterilizing element and/or to remove mainly waste material.

Suitably, the invention also relates to a kit comprising the device 1 and a sterilising element, preferably disposable, to be inserted into the covering casing 5 to sterilise said device.

Advantageously, the present invention further relates to a kit comprising the above-mentioned device 1 and a gel toothpaste compound 25. Preferably, the compound 25 comprises a sheet of toothpaste having a shape substantially corresponding to the arcuate extension of an arch (see fig. 9). Suitably, the toothpaste sheet 25 contains a predetermined amount of toothpaste, which advantageously corresponds to the amount needed to properly clean the teeth.

Suitably, the toothpaste sheet 25 may be inserted into the oral cavity prior to insertion into the device 1 so as to be squeezed between the respective opposed teeth of the upper and lower arches. Furthermore, it can be arranged on the bristle body of the cleaning element before use and can be further applied in an automated manner by means of a charging station (docking station).

Suitably, a gel dentifrice composition 25 (particularly a slab of dentifrice) may be applied/positioned within the cover housing 5, between the brush assemblies 11, 12 and 13, such that its application occurs after insertion of the device 1 into the oral cavity.

Advantageously, the above mentioned kit may further comprise a tooth whitening means (not shown) removably inserted/positioned within the cover housing 5. Preferably, the tooth whitening device can be housed in the cover housing 5 in place of the brushing device 3, whereby the insertion/positioning of the tooth whitening device is slaved to/after the removal of the brushing device. Suitably, the whitening means comprises a series of light sources (preferably LEDs) which activate the tooth whitening compound to be inserted/contained within the cover shell 5.

Suitably, the invention also relates to a base device 30, also called docking station, configured to recharge a battery provided in the apparatus 1 for powering the motorised unit 18.

Advantageously, said base means 30 are also configured to clean the device 1 and/or to disinfect it (preferably by ultraviolet radiation) and/or to load it with a sheet of toothpaste 25 after use.

In particular, the base unit 30 comprises a battery charger of a conventional type, which can be suitably connected to a mains or other power source. Suitably, the base unit 30 further comprises a processor.

Suitably, the base device 30 comprises a housing 31 inside which the charger is housed and which is provided with an open door 32 for receiving a support (preferably mounted on a cradle) of the removal apparatus.

Suitably, the base unit 30 further comprises an inner housing 35 for the device 1 and for keeping the internal battery of said device charged.

Advantageously, the invention further comprises a silicone coated plate (not shown) and contains therein a grid of force, pressure and/or deformation sensors (e.g. capacitive or piezoelectric). Specifically, once inserted at the arch within the mouth, the plate detects the position of the arched tooth after analysis based on the pressure exerted by the tooth itself on the grid sensor. Suitably, the board may be mechanically and electrically connected to the device 1, so that the battery of the device may power the sensors of the board itself. Advantageously, the board displays the results of the data collection performed on its own display. Suitably, the grid sensors are electrically connected to the control unit of the apparatus, and therefore it is advantageous that signals representing measurements made by said sensors are stored in the controller and/or wirelessly transmitted to the base device 30 for their processing.

Suitably, within the processor of the base device 30, software is loaded and/or run that is configured to provide the dimensions of the dental arch based on the measurements made by the sensors. In particular, the parameters calculated by the software include, for example, arch length, anterior-posterior diameter, transverse diameter, and bend angle at certain predetermined detection points (markings) on the arch.

Advantageously, as mentioned, the base device 30 comprises an inner shell 35, preferably provided with supports 36 for engaging the apparatus at some predetermined detection points (markers) thereof.

Advantageously, on the basis of the measurements made by the sensors and the parameters calculated by the software, the support 36 (on which the device is hooked) is moved so as to adjust the length of the arcuate longitudinal extension of the device itself and/or the curvature of said arcuate longitudinal extension.

Advantageously, cleaning members (e.g. bristled/ciliated bodies) are provided in the base means 30, which cleaning members are configured to act on the device 1 when it is inserted, with the recess covering the housing 5 facing upwards, positioned within the inner housing compartment 35 provided in the device. Suitably, the base means 30 are configured to move the cleaning member along three axes orthogonal to each other and forward along the entire arcuate longitudinal extension of the apparatus 1, in order to remove the waste material that has been deposited inside the housing 5. In particular, in this way, the cleaning means cause the waste material to exit the apparatus through the holes provided in the covering casing 5 of the apparatus 1 and to accumulate in suitable containers provided in said base means 30.

Advantageously, the base device 30 further comprises at least one ultraviolet radiation source configured to send this radiation to all sides of the device 1 when inserted, with the recess of the protective casing 5 facing upwards, positioned inside an inner casing compartment 35 provided in the device.

Advantageously, the base means 30 further comprises means (for example a head) for applying a tablet of toothpaste 35 to the brushing means of the apparatus 1 when the brushing means 3 is inserted, with the recess of the cover housing 5 facing upwards, positioned within the inner housing compartment 35 provided in the device.

Suitably, the use of the apparatus 1 in combination with the base means 30 allows automation of all the different phases, also substantially avoiding any contact of the user with the moving parts of the apparatus (i.e. the brushing means 3 and the covering housing 5).

Suitably, the base unit 30 is provided with means for wireless connection with an external mobile device (e.g. a smartphone or tablet computer) so that data and/or commands and settings of the unit can be exchanged.

Suitably, the invention also relates to a kit comprising a base device 30 and an apparatus 1 as described above.

As is clear from the above, the device according to the invention is particularly advantageous compared to conventional solutions in that:

it allows an optimal and quick cleaning of the entire dental arch; in particular, the combination and simultaneous action of the brushing assembly on all the tooth surfaces and on all the opposite interdental spaces allows to obtain the correct dental hygiene, avoiding the usual operative inaccuracies due to manual oral hygiene, with a particularly short treatment duration (for example, about 15 seconds per arch),

it is simple and easy to use and does not require continuous movement, particularly for people lacking movement or having a reduced range of movement,

it is adaptable to different configurations and sizes of oral cavity, thus making it highly customizable,

it allows the use of accessories such as toothpaste capsules and sterile films, making it easier and more effective to use.

The invention also relates to another further related device: an outer housing (same shape as the main device, with the same fitting characteristics) internally houses an ultrasonic transducer (CMUT) that performs analysis of the gingival and dental tissue along a pre-established path (or guide) that completely covers all sides of the entire arch. This information is transmitted to the base station (docking station) for recording, analysis, refinement and further processing.

The "docking station" allows at least one of the following functions: data collected by other devices is recorded, analyzed, refined and processed.

It is advantageous to encode additional parameters (detection points or markers) to accommodate the oral device.

For more accurate measurement purposes, the detection point (marker) is already encoded (fig. 13) for the purpose of calculating the work surface. It follows that these points apply to both the device and the dental arch. In addition to the three points corresponding to the bilateral posterior ends and the midline, four additional detection points (markers) were added, obtained by the internal and external tangents of the incisor arch, namely:

σ corresponds to the medial posterior point of the last molar;

- γ corresponds to an external tangent line coinciding with the front arch of the door;

α corresponds to the lateral (vestibular) edge of the last molar;

β corresponds to an internal tangent line coinciding with the posterior incisor arch;

ε corresponds to the midpoint between γ and β ".

The detection spots (markers) are intended for the vestibular side and/or lingual/palatal side.

The invention has been shown and described in some of its preferred embodiments, but it should be understood that changes can be made in the practice without departing from the scope of the industrial invention patent.