DE102008034423A1 - Cleaning device, particularly atraumatic interdental cleaning device for inserting cleaning elements into interdental spaces, has handle with head part and cleaning element, where guide retains cleaning element in initial state - Google Patents

Abstract

The cleaning device (1) has a handle (10) with a head part (11) and a cleaning element. A guide is provided in the head part, where the guide retains the cleaning element in an initial state. A pushing device acts at a rear area of the cleaning element for removing the cleaning element from the guide. A push rod (31) is formed from plastic or metal in a complete or partial manner.

Description

The The invention relates to an improved device for introducing Cleaning elements in spaces to be cleaned; in particular, the Invention an atraumatic interdental cleaning device for Introduce of interdental brushes in interdental spaces.

in the Area of oral hygiene are in particular the areas between the teeth problematic during cleaning. Therefore, there are special for these areas various aids to hard at these with a normal brush accessible areas for Cleanliness. Special aids such as dental floss, interdental brushes and Toothpick for eliminate the dental plaque and the manual or electrical use Bacteria where the toothbrush can not get there.

Interdental brushes, me Interdental brushes called, are special brushes, because of their ease of handling for cleaning this heavy reachable places are particularly well suited and thus as additional Aids in oral hygiene. They will be in different Shape, strength or size offered and fight Plaque and decay effective between the teeth, but can also be used in orthodontic Splints (brackets), splints from periodontal or surgical Establish, fixed dentures or implants.

Show interdental brushes interchangeable interdental brushes and a handle with bracket on. The interdental brushes are similar in terms of Form small pipe cleaners and each consist of at least a thin one Wire are attached to the small plastic bristles. These brushes are screwed into special handles made of metal or plastic or stuck.

Various Manufacturers offer interdental brushes with a diameter of a few millimeters, in particular between 1.5 mm and 5.0 mm. Due to the small diameter of the wire are the interdental brushes however, they are very unstable and easily fold when inserted into interdental spaces from. Further, the wire of an interdental brush may introduce injury of the gums or cause bleeding gums.

It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a device which is characterized by easier insertion of cleaning elements in interspaces in particular, a device is to be provided which is through easier and gentler insertion of interdental brushes in interdental spaces distinguishes and the bending and bending of the interdental brushes prevented or reduced.

A Another object of the invention is to provide a device the injury or irritation of the gums when inserting interdental prevents or minimizes.

The The object is achieved with the features of claim 1. advantageous Embodiments are. Subject of dependent claims.

According to claim 1, a device is provided for cleaning a gap, a handle with a headboard, a cleaning element and a guide has in / on the head part. Furthermore, the cleaning device according to the invention one on the back Area of the cleaning element acting on pushing device.

The Cleaning device according to the invention is suitable for cleaning all types of spaces. Interspaces are in the following all areas to understand, due to their spatial Training difficult to reach and / or difficult to clean places exhibit. In particular, the areas between at least two side walls or between at least two objects, such as teeth, as a gap Are defined. The device proves to be particularly advantageous for cleaning gaps in the dental field, in particular for controlling plaque and tooth decay in interdental spaces, in orthodontic Splints (brackets), splints from periodontal or surgical Establish, fixed dentures and / or implants. The cleaning device is both professional and professional Teeth cleaning, as well as in the private household, for example, as an addition to the daily brushing your teeth, usable.

Cleaning devices have proven to be particularly advantageous, the handle of which is at least partially made of plastic and / or metal. The handle can in this case be made of a single element or be composed of different elements together, the individual elements are glued together, screwed and / or connected to each other in a different way. If the handle is composed of a plurality of individual elements, the individual elements of the handle can be made entirely of a single material or be formed of different materials. Handles with elements made of both plastic and metal have proven to be particularly advantageous. In this case, elements which are exposed to a higher load, be formed of metal, whereby a particularly high grip availability is achieved. At the same time, by using plastic for less stressed elements, the price of material and manufacturing can be kept low.

For the professional Handrails in particular have proven to be advantageous, the complete are made of metal, especially in this area especially high and long-lasting stress occur. Cost-effective alternatives, where the handle completely or at least in big ones Parts made of plastic are designed especially for the private Household beneficial.

in the Next, handles from one or more items will not further differentiated treated and become uniform as a handle designated. However, it should be made clear that the handlebar be formed below from several individual elements can.

The Shape of the handle varies with the different applications the cleaning device. Be particularly advantageous However, handles have proven to be a substantially elongated Form having at least two end portions. One of both End areas form the head part of the handle. The headboard can, as already indicated above, formed of the same material be like the rest of the handle, or because of the higher load be made of a different material, in particular metal.

Of Furthermore, the cleaning device has a cleaning element, that to clean the gaps suitable is. pending of the size and / or the shape of the space, as well as the dirt to be cleaned and / or In the field of application, the cleaning element can have different shapes, Sizes and / or Have strength or made of different materials be. Particularly advantageous conical cleaning elements have been found, because these with their pointed end particularly well let him interspaces. Alternatively offer cylindrical Cleaning elements, especially for larger spaces or larger areas benefits, because of the larger surface of the Cleaning element easier and faster large areas are cleanable.

As As described above, a cleaning element may have a variety of different Identify forms. For The following description of the invention are two sections of the cleaning element of particular importance. A first, the facing portion to be cleaned comprises an end of the cleaning element, due to its special training for the Cleaning gaps suitable is. The cleaning element has cleaning agents in this area, such as bristles made of plastic and / or natural hair and / or is made of plastic fibers, cotton, a sponge or Leather trained. The first, facing the gap to be cleaned Section is also called front section or section, front side or front area or section designated. A second, the first section opposite Section of the cleaning element is designed such that the thrust movement the pushing device is transferable to the cleaning element. This, the Pushing device facing portion of the cleaning element, too rear Area of the cleaning element, preferably has no Detergent up, and is particularly advantageous from a solid Material formed. It has been shown that cleaning elements for the Invention have particularly advantageous properties, if the back Area of the cleaning element is an area formed on the thrust device can act advantageously. Preferably this area is in the form of an additional plastic or metal body, the one at the back Region of the cleaning element is attached.

According to the invention the headboard of the grab handle a guide that is in an initial state receives the cleaning element. Especially advantageous as a guide longitudinal bores or cylindrical Recesses in the headboard proved. The specific design the shape and size of the leadership on the shape and size of the cleaning element dependent.

alternative or additionally is the lead through a guide element be formed, which can be coupled to the headboard, in particular in the Headboard screwed or pluggable, is. That as an independent element trained guide element facilitates, for example, the cleaning of the cleaning device after the actual cleaning of the gaps.

Either one as a longitudinal bore trained leadership in the headboard as well as a guide element is made of a solid material, in particular plastic and / or Metal, trained and protects thus the cleaning elements incorporated therein.

The pushing device of the cleaning device acts on the rear area of the cleaning element, in particular on the metal or plastic body. In particular, the pushing device and the cleaning element can be coupled to one another, as a result of which pushing movements of the pushing device can be transferred to the rear region of the cleaning element. Due to the pushing movement of the pushing device and the over transmission of this pushing movement on the cleaning element, the cleaning element can be pushed out of the guide. The section of the cleaning element facing the intermediate space to be cleaned is thus pushed out of the guide so far that at least part of the cleaning element protrudes from the guide and, in particular, the cleaning agents of the cleaning element can be used for cleaning.

As already indicated, the cleaning device according to the invention sees at least two different states in front. A first state represents an initial state, in which the cleaning element substantially completely in the guide is included. The leadership thus surrounds the cleaning element and protects it from external influences. The Cleaning element is characterized in particular against bending and / or kinking protected. Advantageously, the cleaning element is completely received in the guide. Alternatively, facing the space to be cleaned facing Section of the cleaning element protrude a fraction of the guide. Particularly advantageous they have proven embodiments in which the cleaning element up to a third of the total length of the Cleaning element from the guide protrudes, preferably up to a fifth and more preferably to to a tenth. These embodiments offer, in particular in combination with conical cleaning elements, the advantage that the cleaning elements slightly above the Position the gap to be cleaned, but at the same time through the leadership bending and / or kinking is prevented.

in the second state of the cleaning device is the cleaning element with the help of the pushing device pushed out of the guide and in introduced the gap. For this purpose, the cleaning device in the region of the gap to be cleaned placed, in particular, the opening is the cleaning element receiving leadership essentially about or at the gap to be cleaned. Through the on the back Area of the cleaning element acting thrust device is the cleaning element from the guide pushed and thus introduced into the gap. Both the leadership as also the side walls of the gap form during insertion of the cleaning element a channel in which the cleaning element is guided. Through the side walls of the guide and the space is a bending and / or buckling of the Cleaning element prevents, making the cleaning element lighter insertable into the space is.

Next facilitates the described "channel effect" the fitting to the gap to be cleaned guide the Introduce of the cleaning element. The cleaning device is initially in the area of the gap is created and is in the applied state on the exact gap can be positioned. Through the guide is the cleaning element protected, so a consideration on the cleaning element when positioning not or only partially is required. Also, when introducing conventional interdental brushes on it be sure that there is a minimum distance between the top of the Cleaning element and the side walls of the space to be cleaned is not fallen below, otherwise the cleaning elements fold over or bend. Through the leadership the cleaning device according to the invention the minimum distance is fixed and prevents bending and / or kinking of the cleaning element.

a further advantage of the cleaning device according to the invention provides the reduced risk of injury. As described above, is suitable the cleaning device, for example, for cleaning gaps in the Dentistry. When inserting A conventional cleaning element often causes injuries of the gums and / or to bleeding gums caused by the wires of the Cleaning element caused. While in conventional cleaning elements the wires for one sufficient stability of the cleaning element must provide and consequently rigid and inflexible, the leadership allows the Cleaning device to use cleaning elements whose wires are thinner and more flexible than the conventional cleaning elements.

The Device according to claim 1 thus allows a gentler insertion of the cleaning element, because the cleaning element directly and quickly into the space insertable is. Furthermore, more flexible cleaning elements can be used, the Prevent the risk of irritation and / or injury or further minimize.

When have particularly advantageous embodiment Cleaning devices have been found in which the cleaning element as a brush is trained. Especially in the dental field interdental brushes have as particularly useful Cleaning elements exposed.

Through the guide cleaning elements are particularly useful, which are compared to comparable conventional cleaning elements in the same area of application more flexible and finer, since fewer structural or stability-giving parts are necessary. Cleaning elements which can be formed entirely without fixed or rigid parts and thus further minimize the risk of injury have proven to be particularly advantageous or exclude entirely.

conventional commercial interdental have a wire diameter of 0.4 mm to 0.7 mm. It has shown to be interdental brushes do not have the necessary stability with a smaller wire diameter, around the brushes in the interstices introduce. With the help of the cleaning device according to the invention are now interdental brushes can be used, the one opposite the prior art have smaller wire diameter and easy in the interstices insertable are. It has also been found that brushes with a wire or wires preferably a maximum diameter of 0.4 mm, preferably at most 0.3 mm and more preferably 0.2 mm particularly advantageous Have properties.

at a further advantageous embodiment of the cleaning device the cleaning element is replaceable. As the cleaning element through its use wears out over time, but at the same time the rest of the cleaning device is subject to almost no wear, allows a replaceable cleaning element a multiple use the cleaning device. Additionally offers a cleaning device with replaceable cleaning element the possibility, to adapt the cleaning element to the specific needs. For example in the dental field can be different brush shapes and sizes in the same cleaning device can be used and through the adjustment the cleaning element to the gap to be cleaned an improved cleaning effect be achieved.

Further Bacteria and germs collect in and on the cleaning element. By regular replacement the cleaning element ensures improved hygiene.

Of the Handle of the cleaning device preferably has an elongated Shape up and is rod-shaped educated. For an improved operation further special holding areas are formed, which allow improved gripping and holding the handle. The special holding areas can be one roughened surface have to be provided with a special surface structure or coated or surrounded with an anti-slip material be.

It has been found that the handle on actuation of the Push device is particularly advantageous to use, if he has at least one holding element, in the form of a disc is formed and arranged radially around the handle. The handle points in this embodiment a substantially rod-shaped Training on. The longitudinal axis runs in the middle through the longest extent of the handle. The retaining element is in the preferred embodiment thus formed in the form of a circumferential collar perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

The Pusher generates and / or transmits a pushing motion to the Cleaning element and causes the cleaning element from the guide is pushed while it is inserted into the space. In an advantageous embodiment, the pushing device a push rod on. The pushing movement of the pushing device is transferable by the push rod on the cleaning element. For this is the Push rod of the pushing device with the space to be cleaned coupled away from the remote portion of the cleaning element.

When Particularly advantageous is a push rod has been found which is wholly or partly made of plastic and / or metal is. Push rods, which are at least partially flexible, allow In addition, a more flexible design of the handle and are therefore particularly preferred.

The Push rod of the cleaning device preferably has an actuating element on. The actuator serves the actuation the push rod, by which a pushing movement is generated. The actuator is in particular with the cleaning element facing away from the end coupled to the push rod.

at an advantageous embodiment of the cleaning device is the actuator as Pressure stamp formed. Alternatively, the actuating element is designed as a motor, which is coupled to the push rod.

It has been shown to be devices where between the longitudinal axis the leadership and the longitudinal axis of the handle an angle of preferably between 45 ° and 180 °, preferably between 60 ° and 165 ° and more preferably between 90 ° and 135 ° trained is, allow for improved handling.

As already described, an embodiment of the cleaning device has a push rod with the aid of which the pushing movement can be transferred to the cleaning element. In a preferred embodiment, the push rod is further coupled via a pivoting element with the cleaning element or coupled. The pivoting element is in this case fastened pivotably with a fastening element on the head part of the handle. Preferably, the fastening element is designed as a pin or screw. The pivotal element directs the direction of pushing movement of the push rod in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the cleaning element and / or in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the guide.

A alternative embodiment has a push rod, which is substantially completely in the handle and / or is received in the head part or is receivable.

at the further alternative embodiment is the cleaning element with the back area of the cleaning element connected.

The alternative embodiment further sees at the cleaning element facing the end of the push rod a holder for receiving the back area of the cleaning element suitable is. The cleaning element inserted in the holder is coupled to the push rod such that at a forward, backward and / or Rotary movement of the push rod, the respective movement to the cleaning element transferable is.

The Holder on the cleaning element facing the end of the push rod is preferably designed as a plug and / or screw connection, so that the cleaning element in the holder pluggable and / or is screwable.

at a further alternative embodiment run the longitudinal axis the pushing device, in particular the push rod, and the longitudinal axis of the cleaning element and / or the longitudinal axis of the guide in Essentially parallel to each other. In this embodiment the push rod is exclusive taken in the headboard of the handle and does not run in the area of the handle, which is provided for holding the device. An advantageous Embodiment has a push rod, whose the cleaning element facing end is coupled to the cleaning element. The cleaning element opposite end is provided with a plunger.

There the longitudinal axes four push rod and the cleaning element and / or the guide to each other run parallel, is not diverting the thrust direction of the thruster necessary, in particular, no further elements or components necessary to the pushing movement of the pushing device on the cleaning element transferred to. This embodiment is due to a simple construction and the resulting low number of different elements particularly simple and cheap to produce.

at a particularly advantageous embodiment of the further alternative embodiment lies the longitudinal axis of the cleaning element, the longitudinal axis the push rod and the actuator on a common axis. This offers the particular advantage that in the cleaning device a direct connection between the cleaning element, the push rod and the actuator can be formed and thus the operation of the actuator directly on the cleaning element, creating a precise control of the cleaning element possible is.

Preferably the cleaning device further comprises a retraction device or a Rear pusher on which the pushing device and / or the cleaning element in returns the initial state. As already described, in an initial state, the guide takes the cleaning element up and protects it thus prevents bending and / or buckling. Only when inserting the Cleaning element in the space to be cleaned becomes the cleaning element pushed by the pusher from the guide into the gap and thus introduced into the gap. In this pushed out Condition the detergents protrude from the guide and are for cleaning of the space suitable. In a cleaning device without retractor The cleaning element must be manually inserted after the cleaning process returned the initial state before being reintroduced into a gap can.

It it has been found that the retraction device the cleaning process considerably accelerated and facilitated. Two embodiments have proved to be particularly helpful. At a first Variant remains the cleaning element while cleaning a single Interspace permanently in ejected state. Only after completion of the cleaning process, the cleaning element through the retraction device back brought into the initial state. The cleaning element is thus after the cleaning process of a tooth space again in the guide and is protected by this; but stands for at the same time a further cleaning of a gap ready.

In an alternative variant, the cleaning element is pushed by actuation of the pushing device from the guide into the intermediate space to be cleaned. However, the cleaning element remains in this state only as long as the pusher is actuated or is. After releasing the operation or upon completion of the operation, the retraction device brings the cleaning element and / or the pushing device immediately back to the initial state. This variant has the advantage that the cleaning element pushed in the cleaning of a single space and then pulled out again becomes. By the movement of the cleaning element relative to the side walls of the gap, the cleaning device achieves its cleaning effect. At the same time, the alternative variant has the advantage that the cleaning device is positioned only at the beginning of the cleaning process in front of the gap to be cleaned and does not have to be moved during the entire cleaning process. The cleaning element is moved back and forth exclusively by the pusher and the Rückzugeiririchtung, so alternately introduced into the gap and pulled out of this. The position of the handle itself remains unchanged throughout the cleaning process.

A preferred retraction device is designed as a helical spring. The coil spring is here taken inside the handle and is arranged in such a way that the coil spring, the push device, in particular the push rod, at least partially surrounds and when pressed the pushing device is compressed. The pushing device and the coil spring are at least partially surrounded by the handle and are inside the handle.

alternative is the retreat device exclusively or mostly recorded in the headboard of the grab handle. Which is in the headboard extending part of the push rod is in this case of the retraction device, especially the coil spring, surrounded and the push rod with Coil spring is received in the headboard. In this alternative is the one end of the coil spring on the handle of the cleaning device on, while the other end of the coil spring facing the gap at the End of the tour is supported. The exclusive Take the as a retraction device trained coil spring in the head part is particularly advantageous if the push rod is not included in the handle, but is formed only in the region of the head part. Attaching the However, coil spring in the head part also has the advantage that the Force is generated where it is really needed. Thus, the largest possible Transmit power. At the same time a precise Works possible.

A Another alternative is an arrangement in which the coil spring is arranged between the cleaning element and the guide. The one End of the coil spring lies here at the front end of the push rod or on the bracket. The other end of the coil spring is on supported distal end of the head part. Especially advantageous This arrangement has been combined with one with the headboard bolted leadership proved. Due to the simple addition and the simple construction can be particularly cost-effective cleaning devices in this way with retraction device to produce.

The retractor generates a force directed against the thrust direction of the push rod is. In particular, the as a retraction device formed coil spring by actuation of the pushing device, So for example by pressing of the plunger, compressed. After completion of the operation the pushing device, so for example by solving the acting on the plunger pressure, the coil spring relaxes again and returns the pusher to the starting position.

Especially in cleaning devices in which the actuator already as Engine is designed, it has been shown that it is advantageous the retraction device also to train as a motor. The engine designed as a retraction device can be identical to that designed as an actuator Be an engine; alternative, the cleaning device at least two different engines that have different functions To run, namely the operation the pushing device or the return of the pushing device in the initial state.

Of the as a retraction device Trained engine is preferably designed as a linear motor.

A further advantageous embodiment of the Cleaning device further comprises a further motor, the with the cleaning element facing away from the region of the pushing device is coupled and over the push rod transmits a rotational and / or rotational movement to the cleaning element. To the insertion serve the cleaning element in the space to be cleaned the rotational and / or rotational movements of the cleaning element for Cleaning the gap. By the rotation and / or rotation of the Cleaning element is no additional Movement of the head part or the entire device necessary. The cleaning device with such a motor offers in particular the advantage that after insertion the cleaning element in the space no further movements of the handle are necessary and the cleaning device up to complete the cleaning of a gap substantially can be kept in the same position.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the cleaning device further comprises a lighting device mounted on the head part. The illumination device can be designed, for example, as a light-emitting diode (LED, light-emitting diode) and / or as a lamp. The lighting device is in particular to the directed cleaning space and illuminated this during the cleaning process. Cleaning devices with lighting device facilitate in particular the work in dark or hard to reach areas.

in the Dental area have to remove very adherent deposits or Contaminants, such as tartar or cement residue, ultrasonic cleaners are helpful proved. An improved cleaning effect is therefore particularly evident Cleaning devices, in which at the head part further comprises a sound generating device, in particular an ultrasonic generating device is mounted.

Based Figures will become specific embodiments of the invention explained in more detail. Show it:

1 a cleaning device according to the invention according to a first embodiment;

2a a detailed drawing of the cleaning device 1 in the initial state;

2 B a detailed drawing of the cleaning device 1 with an interdental brush pushed out;

3 a cleaning device according to the invention according to a second embodiment;

4A the cleaning device off 3 with an internally located coil spring and an interdental brush;

4B an alternative to the cleaning device according to 4A in which the coil spring is arranged in the head part;

5 the cleaning device off 3 with pushed out interdental brush;

6a a cleaning device according to the invention according to a third embodiment, wherein the cleaning device is in the initial state; and

6b the cleaning device off 6a with an interdental brush pushed out.

The in the figures shown elements and / or devices not to scale and also the ratios the elements and / or facilities are for illustrative purposes only.

1 shows a cleaning device 1 according to a first embodiment in an initial state. The cleaning device 1 is particularly suitable for cleaning in the dental field, in particular for cleaning interdental spaces. The cleaning device 1 has a handle 10 , an interdental brush 20 and a pushing device, wherein the pushing device in the first embodiment, a push rod 31 with a printing stamp 34 and a pivoting element 32 having.

Further, on a headboard 11 of the handle 10 a guide element 12 intended. The guide element 12 is formed of plastic and has substantially the shape of a truncated cone. The guide element 12 has a longitudinal bore along the axis passing through the top surface and bottom surface. This axis is referred to below as the longitudinal axis A of the guide element 12 designated. The longitudinal bore in the guide element 12 represents a first part of the tour in which the interdental brushing 20 is recorded in the initial state. The diameter of the longitudinal bore of the guide element 12 is at its smallest point substantially identical to the diameter of the interdental brush 20 , In the area of the base of the truncated cone, the guide element 12 a thread through which the guide element 12 with the headboard 11 is screwed. Also the headboard 11 points in the area of the connection between the guide element 12 and the headboard 11 a longitudinal bore, whose longitudinal axis is the longitudinal axis A of the guide element 12 through the headboard 11 extended through. The longitudinal bore in the headboard 11 provides a second part of the guide for the interdental brush 20 represents.

The headboard 11 of the handle 10 is at one end of the grab handle 10 educated. The handle 10 itself is essentially rod-shaped and a longitudinal axis B of the handle 10 runs from the headboard 11 centrally through the handle 10 , The handle 10 is made of metal, is hollow and has essentially the shape of an elongated cylinder. Furthermore, the handle has 10 for better handling a bend 14 on, whose distance to the headboard 11 and to the opposite end of the grab handle 10 is essentially the same size. In a holding area 15 of the handle 10 is formed a plurality of longitudinal grooves, which prevent slipping during the cleaning process and allow improved handling. Further, on the headboard 11 opposite end of the grab handle 10 a holding element 13 educated. The holding element 13 runs radially around the handle 10 and forms a conclusion of the holding element 10 ,

As described, form the push rod 31 with the printing stamp 34 and the pivoting element 32 the pushing device of the cleaning device 1 according to a first embodiment. The pushrod 31 The push device runs inside the handle 10 , At the headboard 11 opposite end of the push rod 31 is the printing stamp 34 educated. The headboard 11 facing end of the push rod 31 is with the swivel element 32 coupled.

The pivoting element 32 is through a pen 33 swiveling with the headboard 11 of the handle 10 connected. Furthermore, the pivoting element 32 with the interdental brush 20 coupled and transmits a pushing movement of the push rod 31 on the portion of the interdental brush facing away from the intermediate space to be cleaned 20 , The thrust direction 35 the push rod 31 is towards the headboard 11 directed and will be in 1 represented by an arrow.

The two longitudinal axes A and B are substantially perpendicular to each other and form an angle a. The thrust direction 35 is therefore perpendicular to the interdental brush 20 and becomes when inserted over the pivot member 32 diverted.

2a and 2 B are detail drawings of the headboard 11 together with the guide element 12 , the interdental brush 20 and the headboard 11 facing the end of the handle 10 as well as the pushing device.

2a shows the cleaning device 1 according to a first embodiment in an initial state. As in 2a can be seen, is the interdental brush 20 in an initial state substantially in the frusto-conical guide member 12 and in the headboard 11 and is protected by the guide against kinking or bending. The pivoting element 32 is located in 2a in the initial state.

The interdental brush 20 has for improved transfer of force to the rear, which faces away from the gap to be cleaned area a gain in the form of a cylindrical plastic element. The plastic element is with the gift element 32 coupled and protrudes in the initial state of the interdental brush 20 receiving longitudinal bore of the guide element 12 and the headboard 11 at the end of the headboard 11 out.

By pressing the plunger 34 becomes the push rod 31 inside the handle 10 pushed up. The pivoting element transmits 32 the pushing movement of the push rod 31 on strengthening of interdental brush 20 and push the interdental brush 20 in the direction of the longitudinal axis A of the guide element 12 from the opening of the guide element facing the interdental space to be cleaned 12 , Through the guide, so the longitudinal bore in the headboard 11 and the longitudinal bore in the guide element 12 , becomes a bending of the interdental brush 20 safely prevented. The guide element 12 that before pushing out the interdental brush 20 , was positioned in front of and / or over a tooth space to be cleaned, is applied to the two adjacent teeth, which form the interdental space. Thus, the interdental brush becomes 20 introduced into the interdental space as soon as the interdental brush 20 the leadership leaves. In this phase, the sidewalls of the teeth prevent bending and / or buckling of the interdental brush 20 , During insertion of the interdental brush 20 Thus, first, the guide forms a channel and then form the tooth side walls a channel. Because the interdental brush 20 is guided and protected by the channels, is a lighter and gentler insertion of the interdental brush 20 in the interdental space possible, with a bending and / or kinking is prevented. By reciprocating the cleaning device is placed on the interdental brush thus introduced into the interdental space 20 generates a reciprocating motion relative to the interdental space and through a plurality of bristles 22 of the interdental brush 20 As a result, a cleaning effect on the tooth side walls and / or on the gum is achieved.

2 B shows the cleaning device 1 of the first embodiment with ejected interdental brush 20 for clarity without the teeth forming the interdental space.

The interdental brush 20 has a soul 21 made of two plastic-coated wires, on which the variety of bristles 22 are arranged. The front section of the interdental brush 20 is from the tooth space facing the end of the guide element 12 through the pivoting element 32 been pushed out. By pressing the plunger 34 becomes the interdental brush 20 through the pivoting element 32 held in an extended state after insertion into the interdental space. As the diameter of the reinforcement of the interdental brush 20 larger than the diameter of the longitudinal bore of the guide element 12 , but at the same time smaller than the diameter of the longitudinal bore in the head part 11 becomes the reinforcement of the interdental brush 20 from the pivoting element 32 against the guide element 12 pressed. The interdental brush 20 thus sits firmly in the pushed-out state in the guide, so that neither a forward nor a backward movement of the interdental brush 20 is possible.

3 shows a cleaning device 1' in the Initial state according to a second embodiment. A handle 10 ' of the second embodiment has the shape of an elongated cylinder, at one end of a head part 11 ' is trained. The headboard 11 ' is bent and is at one end with the handle 10 ' connected. In the area of the other end of the headboard 11 ' narrows the diameter of the head part 11 ' light and forms at its end a guide element 12 ' out. Furthermore, the handle has 10 ' a holding element 13 ' on, whose distance to the headboard 11 ' and to the opposite end of the grab handle 10 ' is essentially the same size.

The cleaning device 1' further comprises a pushing device consisting of a push rod 31 ' and a printing stamp 34 ' is trained. The push rod 31 ' runs inside the handle 10 ' and is made of flexible plastic. At the headboard 11 ' opposite end of the push rod 31 ' is the printing stamp 34 ' intended. The push rod 31 ' transfers the pushing movement, which with the help of the pressure stamp 34 ' can be generated on one in the headboard 11 ' taken up interdental brush 20 ' ,

As in 4A can be seen, this points to the interdental brush 20 ' facing end of the push rod a bracket 36 on. You can also see that the push rod 31 ' is composed of two elements having different thicknesses and formed of different materials. The back, the printing stamp 34 ' facing portion of the push rod 31 ' has a thicker diameter than the front, the headboard 11 ' facing portion of the push rod 31 , In addition, the rear portion has a higher rigidity than the front portion. The rear section of the push rod 31 ' protrudes in the initial state from the headboard 11 ' opposite end of the handle 10 ' out.

The interdental brush 20 ' is in the initial state completely in the guide element 12 ' and in the headboard 11 ' added. Also in this embodiment, the interdental brush 20 ' at the end facing away from the gap to be cleaned on a gain. The reinforcement of the interdental brush 20 ' forms with the holder 36 the push rod 31 ' a connector, causing the interdental brush 20 ' with the push rod 31 ' is connectable.

By pressing the plunger 34 ' , namely by pressing the plunger 34 ' against the handle 10 ' , the push rod becomes 31 ' inside the handle 10 ' and relative to the handle 10 ' towards the headboard 11 ' emotional. Because the interdental brush 20 ' over the bracket 36 with the push rod 31 ' is connected, the movement of the push rod 31 ' also on the interdental brush 20 ' transfer. The pushing movement of the push rod 31 ' thus causes a pushing out of the interdental brush 20 ' out of the lead.

The cleaning device 1' of the second embodiment further comprises a designed as a retraction coil spring 40 on. The coil spring 40 is between the push rod 31 ' and the inner wall of the grab handle 10 ' arranged and largely surrounds the push rod 31 ' inside the handle 10 ' , In this embodiment, the one end of the coil spring is located 40 on the handle part 31 ' while the other end of the coil spring 40 at the headboard 11 ' is supported. In the initial state is the coil spring 40 in a relaxed state. By pressing the plunger 34 ' becomes the coil spring 40 compressed and generates a directed against the thrust direction force. After releasing the pressure on the plunger 34 ' becomes the push rod 31 ' through the coil spring 40 together with the interdental brush coupled to it 20 ' brought back to the original state. The coil spring 40 thus acts against the thrust direction 35 ' ,

By alternately pressing the plunger 34 ' and then releasing the pressure thus becomes a forward or backward movement of the push rod 31 ' reached. The same applies to the push rod 31 ' coupled interdental brushes 20 ' What happens in a forward or backward movement of the interdental brush 20 ' results.

To clean a tooth gap, the guide element 12 ' the cleaning device 1' in the initial state, ie with retracted interdental brush 20 ' , applied to the interdental space to be cleaned. The guide element 12 ' In this case, it is positioned so that it bears against both teeth forming the interdental space and the opening of the guide element 12 ' is positioned substantially centrally above the tooth space to be cleaned. Because during the positioning process the interdental brush 20 ' is included in the guide, a bending or buckling is prevented.

Once the positioning of the opening of the guide element 12 ' above the interdental space to be cleaned, the interdental brush can 20 ' with the help of the pressure stamp 34 ' and the push rod 31 ' be introduced from the guide into the interdental space. During insertion, the guide initially prevents bending and / or buckling of the interdental brush 20 ' while then the side walls of the teeth bending and / or buckling of the interdental brush 20 ' prevent. Both the leadership and the sei The walls of the teeth form a channel. By doing that, the interdental brush 20 ' It is easier to insert into the interspace through the canal to avoid injury and irritation of the gums. Furthermore, the interdental brush has 20 ' a core wire of 0.2 mm thickness, whereby the interdental brush 20 ' is particularly flexible. When colliding the interdental brush 20 ' with a solid object such as the tooth or the gums gives the interdental brush 20 ' Consequently, without the tooth or the gum is injured.

After the first insertion of the interdental brush 20 ' in the interdental space is by pressing the plunger 34 ' and then returning to the initial state by the coil spring 40 the interdental brush 20 ' moved back and forth relative to the interdental space. The interdental space is through the bristles 22 of the interdental brush 20 ' cleaned. The cleaning device 1' stays in the same position during the entire cleaning process.

In the 4B is one too 4A alternative embodiment of the cleaning device 1' shown in which a coil spring 40 ' instead of the handle 10 ' in the headboard 11 ' is arranged. The coil spring 40 ' surrounds the cleaning element 20 ' , Further, the coil spring 40 ' here at one end to the bracket 36 supported and at the other end in the region of the space to be cleaned facing the distal end of the head part 11 ' supported. The operation otherwise corresponds to that of the embodiment of 4A ,

In 5 becomes the cleaning device 1' with ejected interdental brush 20 ' illustrated according to the second embodiment. The push rod 31 ' is in this state mostly inside the handle 10 ' added. The interdental brush 20 ' was due to the movement of the push rod in the thrust direction 35 ' from the guide element 12 ' postponed.

As already indicated above, the headboard 11 ' of the handle 10 ' bent. The longitudinal axis B 'of the handle 10 ' runs from the headboard 11 ' facing the end of the handle in the direction of the plunger 34 ' facing the end of the handle 10 ' and is substantially parallel to the thrust direction 35 ' , The longitudinal axis A 'of the guide element runs centrally through the interdental brush 20 ' and forms with the longitudinal axis B 'the angle a.

6a and 6b show a cleaning device 1'' according to a third embodiment. As can be seen, lie in this embodiment, the longitudinal axis of an interdental brush 20 , the longitudinal axis of a push rod 31 '' and a printing stamp 34 '' on a common axis C.

elements and components of the third embodiment with the same reference numerals as the corresponding elements and Assemblies of the first embodiment have the same or similar Properties, unless otherwise indicated in the following sections Statements are made. On a detailed description will omitted for the sake of clarity.

A headboard 11 '' of the handle 10 has in the third embodiment, a longitudinal bore on the guide element 12 along the common axis C through the headboard 11 '' runs and at least partially the push rod 31 '' receives. That the interdental brush 20 facing end of the push rod 31 '' is through a plug connection with the interdental brush 20 connected. The pushing movement of the push rod 31 '' is thus directly on the interdental brush 20 transfer.

In 6a is the cleaning device 1'' shown in the initial state. The interdental brush 20 is here completely in the guide element 12 and in the headboard 11 '' is absorbed and thus protected from bending and / or buckling. In the initial state, the push rod protrudes 31 '' at the interdental brush 20 opposite end of the headboard 11 '' out of the longitudinal bore.

Pressing the plunger turns the push rod 31 '' along the common axis C towards the guide element 12 pushed. That with the push rod 31 '' connected interdental brushes 20 This is in the direction of the opening of the guide element 12 pushed and then projects at least partially out of the opening of the guide element 12 out.

6b shows the cleaning device 1'' of the third embodiment with ejected interdental brush 20 , The push rod 31 '' This is essentially completely in the longitudinal bore of the head part 11 '' pushed, causing the interdental brush 20 is pressed out of the guide. Through the connection between interdental brushes 20 and push rod 31 '' is the interdental brushing 20 with pressed plunger 34 '' always in the same position.

Introducing the interdental brush 20 in the interdental space is substantially similar to the other embodiments.

1, 1 ', 1' '

cleaning device

10 10 ', 10' '

handle

11 11 ', 11' '

headboard

12 12 ', 12' '

guide element

13 13 '

retaining element

14

bend

15

holding area

20

interdental

21

soul

22

bristles

31 31 ', 31' '

pushrod

32

pivoting element

33

pen

34 34 ', 34' '

plunger

35, 35 '

thrust direction

36

bracket

40 40 '

coil spring

A, A '

longitudinal axis of the guide element

B B '

longitudinal axis of the handle

C

common axis

Claims (34)

Device for cleaning a gap with: a handle ( 10 ), a headboard ( 11 ) having; a cleaning element ( 20 ); one in / on the headboard ( 11 ) ( 12 ), whereby the leadership ( 12 ) in an initial state the cleaning element ( 20 ) receives; and one on the rear area of the cleaning element ( 20 ) acting thrust device ( 31 . 32 . 34 ) for at least partially moving out of the cleaning element ( 20 ) from the leadership ( 12 ). Device according to claim 1, wherein the guide ( 12 ) at least partially as a longitudinal bore in the head part ( 11 ) is trained. Device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the guide ( 12 ) at least partially as one with the head part ( 11 ) connectable guide element is formed. Device according to claim 1, wherein the guide ( 12 ) from a longitudinal bore in the head part ( 11 ) and one with the head part ( 11 ) connectable guide element is formed. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the handle ( 10 ) a holding element ( 13 ) formed in the form of a disc and radially around the handle ( 10 ) is arranged. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the pushing device ( 31 . 32 . 34 ) a push rod ( 31 ) having. Apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the push rod ( 31 ) is wholly or partly made of plastic and / or metal and in particular is partially flexible. Apparatus according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the cleaning element ( 20 ) opposite end of the push rod ( 31 ) an actuating element ( 34 ) having. Device according to claim 8, wherein the actuating element ( 34 ) is designed as a plunger. Device according to claim 8, wherein the actuating element ( 34 ) is designed as a motor and with the push rod ( 31 ) is coupled. Device according to one of claims 8-10, wherein the cleaning element ( 20 ) with the actuating element ( 34 ) facing away from the end of the push rod ( 31 ) can be coupled. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein between the longitudinal axis (A) of the guide ( 12 ) and the longitudinal axis (B) of the handle ( 10 ) is an angle (a) is formed and the angle (a) is preferably between 45 ° and 180 °, preferably between 60 ° and 165 ° and particularly preferably between 90 ° and 135 °. Device according to one of claims 6-12, wherein the push rod ( 31 ) via a pivoting element ( 32 ) with the cleaning element ( 20 ) can be coupled. Device according to claim 13, wherein the pivoting element ( 20 ) with a fastening element ( 33 ), in particular a pin, on the head part ( 11 ) is pivotally mounted and the direction of the thrust movement ( 35 ) of the push rod ( 31 ) in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the cleaning element ( 20 ) and / or in the direction of the longitudinal axis (A) of the guide ( 12 ) redirects. Device according to one of claims 6-12, wherein the handle ( 10 ) and the head part ( 11 ) the push rod ( 31 ) in essence. Device according to one of claims 6-12 or 15, wherein the pushing device ( 31 . 32 . 34 ) with the rear area of the cleaning element ( 20 ), in particular by a plug and / or push connection, can be coupled. Device according to one of claims 6-12, 15 or 16, wherein the cleaning element ( 20 ) facing end of the push rod ( 31 ) a holder ( 36 ) having. Apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the rear region of the cleaning element ( 20 ) in the holder ( 36 ) of the push rod ( 31 ) is pluggable and / or screwed. Device according to one of claims 6-11, wherein the longitudinal axis of the push rod ( 31 ) and the longitudinal axis of the cleaning element ( 20 ) and / or the longitudinal axis of the guide ( 12 ) are substantially parallel and wherein the head part ( 11 ) the push rod ( 31 ). Device according to one of claims 6-11 or 19, wherein the longitudinal axis of the cleaning element ( 20 ), the longitudinal axis of the push rod ( 31 ) and the actuating element ( 34 ) lie on a common axis (C). Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device further comprises a retraction device ( 40 ) having the thrust device ( 31 . 32 . 34 ) and / or the cleaning element ( 20 ) returns to the initial state. Apparatus according to claim 21, wherein the retraction device ( 40 ) as one between the push rod ( 31 ) and grab handle ( 10 ) and / or headboard ( 11 ) arranged coil spring is formed. Apparatus according to claim 21, wherein the retraction device ( 40 ) is a helical spring, which between the push rod ( 31 ) and / or the cleaning element ( 20 ) on the one side and the head part ( 11 ) and / or the leadership ( 12 ) is arranged on the other side. Apparatus according to claim 21, wherein the retraction device ( 40 ) as one with the push rod ( 31 ) coupled motor, in particular as a linear motor is formed. Device according to one of claims 21-24, wherein the retraction device ( 40 ) one against the thrust direction ( 35 ) of the push rod ( 31 ) directed force generated. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning element ( 20 ) is designed as a brush, in particular as an interdental brush. Apparatus according to claim 26, wherein the brush is a soul ( 21 ) and a variety of with the soul ( 21 ) associated bristles ( 22 ) having. Apparatus according to claim 26 or 27, wherein the soul ( 21 ) of the brush at least one wire, in particular at least one plastic-coated wire having. Apparatus according to claim 28, wherein the wire of the brush preferably a maximum diameter of 0.4 mm, preferably a maximum 0.3 mm and more preferably 0.2 mm. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning element ( 20 ) is interchangeable. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device further comprises a at the head part ( 11 ) has mounted lighting device which illuminates the space to be cleaned. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device further comprises a at the head part ( 11 ) mounted sound generating device, in particular an ultrasonic generating device, for cleaning the gap. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a motor with the cleaning element ( 20 ) facing away from the region of the thrust device ( 31 . 32 . 34 ) and via the push rod ( 31 ) a rotary and / or rotary movement on the cleaning element ( 20 ) is transferable. Use of the device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device ( 1 ) is used for cleaning interstices in the dental field, in particular for cleaning interdental spaces and / or is usable.