WO2008133413A1 - Device for cleaning and sterilizing dentures using low-temperature plasma - Google Patents
Device for cleaning and sterilizing dentures using low-temperature plasma Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO2008133413A1 WO2008133413A1 PCT/KR2008/001964 KR2008001964W WO2008133413A1 WO 2008133413 A1 WO2008133413 A1 WO 2008133413A1 KR 2008001964 W KR2008001964 W KR 2008001964W WO 2008133413 A1 WO2008133413 A1 WO 2008133413A1
- Authority
- WO
- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- dentures
- electrodes
- upper body
- cleaning
- temperature plasma
- Prior art date
Links
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 15
- 230000001954 sterilising effect Effects 0.000 title claims abstract description 13
- 238000012856 packing Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 8
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 6
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 6
- 230000002265 prevention Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 4
- 229910001868 water Inorganic materials 0.000 description 31
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 28
- -1 hydroxyl radicals Chemical class 0.000 description 22
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 12
- 239000001301 oxygen Substances 0.000 description 9
- 229910052760 oxygen Inorganic materials 0.000 description 9
- 244000052616 bacterial pathogen Species 0.000 description 8
- QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N atomic oxygen Chemical compound [O] QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 6
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 6
- 239000001257 hydrogen Substances 0.000 description 5
- 229910052739 hydrogen Inorganic materials 0.000 description 5
- 150000002500 ions Chemical class 0.000 description 5
- 210000000214 mouth Anatomy 0.000 description 4
- 238000004659 sterilization and disinfection Methods 0.000 description 4
- 210000000170 cell membrane Anatomy 0.000 description 3
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000005684 electric field Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000011368 organic material Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000001590 oxidative effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 125000004430 oxygen atom Chemical group O* 0.000 description 3
- BASFCYQUMIYNBI-UHFFFAOYSA-N platinum Chemical compound [Pt] BASFCYQUMIYNBI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- MHAJPDPJQMAIIY-UHFFFAOYSA-N Hydrogen peroxide Chemical compound OO MHAJPDPJQMAIIY-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 238000006243 chemical reaction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000012459 cleaning agent Substances 0.000 description 2
- 125000004435 hydrogen atom Chemical group [H]* 0.000 description 2
- 229910010272 inorganic material Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000011147 inorganic material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 2
- 235000012054 meals Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000011347 resin Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920005989 resin Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 2
- 241000195493 Cryptophyta Species 0.000 description 1
- CBENFWSGALASAD-UHFFFAOYSA-N Ozone Chemical compound [O-][O+]=O CBENFWSGALASAD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- RTAQQCXQSZGOHL-UHFFFAOYSA-N Titanium Chemical compound [Ti] RTAQQCXQSZGOHL-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000005299 abrasion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000007792 addition Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000015556 catabolic process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 210000004027 cell Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 239000004020 conductor Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000000354 decomposition reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000003912 environmental pollution Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000005669 field effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 235000013305 food Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- TUJKJAMUKRIRHC-UHFFFAOYSA-N hydroxyl Chemical compound [OH] TUJKJAMUKRIRHC-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007747 plating Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229910052697 platinum Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 230000004044 response Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000006467 substitution reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000008399 tap water Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000020679 tap water Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000010936 titanium Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052719 titanium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 229940034610 toothpaste Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 239000000606 toothpaste Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000003053 toxin Substances 0.000 description 1
- 231100000765 toxin Toxicity 0.000 description 1
- 108700012359 toxins Proteins 0.000 description 1
- 235000021419 vinegar Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000000052 vinegar Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002351 wastewater Substances 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
- A61L2/00—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor
- A61L2/02—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor using physical phenomena
- A61L2/14—Plasma, i.e. ionised gases
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
- A61L2202/00—Aspects relating to methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects
- A61L2202/10—Apparatus features
- A61L2202/11—Apparatus for generating biocidal substances, e.g. vaporisers, UV lamps
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
- A61L2202/00—Aspects relating to methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects
- A61L2202/10—Apparatus features
- A61L2202/17—Combination with washing or cleaning means
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
- A61L2202/00—Aspects relating to methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects
- A61L2202/20—Targets to be treated
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
- A61L2202/00—Aspects relating to methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects
- A61L2202/20—Targets to be treated
- A61L2202/21—Pharmaceuticals, e.g. medicaments, artificial body parts
Definitions
- the present invention relates, in general, to a device for sterilizing and cleaning dentures and a denture cleaning toothbrush using low-temperature plasma, which is generated in water.
- dentures are artificial insertions that, when natural teeth fall out, artificially replace the shapes and functions of the lost teeth, and assume a considerably important role in the intake of food.
- the dentures must be taken out before going to sleep, must be separately cleaned using a toothbrush, and must then be soaked in a vessel containing water for use thereof, so that there is an inconvenience in that the user must clean his or her dentures in a separate process.
- the dentures and the oral cavity must be rinsed clean using water after every meal, the oral cavity, the gums and the tongue, as well as the dentures, must also be sufficiently cleaned at least once a day, the oral cavity must be cleaned using a soft toothbrush or a water-moistened piece of gauze, and teeth must necessarily be brushed after every meal in the case where partial dentures are used.
- the oral cavity may be infected by germs due to the insanitary management of dentures, and high-priced dentures cannot be sanitarily managed.
- the method using UV rays is problematic in that, because dentures are made of material such as resin plastic, deformation, attributable to dryness, and variation in color may be caused in the case where the dentures are exposed to UV light for a long time, and in that UV lamps must often be replaced because the life span thereof is short.
- the latter cleaning method using ultrasonic waves, is a method of removing foreign materials by causing strong sound waves to be reflected from a target cleaning object.
- the method using ultrasonic waves is problematic in that, because the dentures themselves are made of resin, ultrasonic waves, having short wavelengths, are absorbed thereby, rather than reflected therefrom, and thus cleaning power is lowered, and in that the ultrasonic waves cannot be used to sterilize the dentures because they have only a cleaning function.
- the method using ultrasonic waves is problematic in that the module for generating ultrasonic waves is complicated and heavy, and thus the size thereof is large, and in that replacement work must be frequently conducted because the period of replacement of an ultrasonic vibrator is short, as in the UV lamps.
- the present invention has been made keeping in mind the above problems occurring in the prior art, and the present invention is directed to provide a device for cleaning and sterilizing dentures using low-temperature plasma, which enables hydroxyl radicals, having strong oxidizing and sterilizing power, to be generated using low-temperature plasma, which is generated in water by an underwater low-temperature plasma generator for generating hydroxyl radicals (Korean Pat. No. 0741741, filed by the present applicant), thus realizing cleaning and sterilization.
- the preset invention is directed to reduce the size of the device using the hydroxyl radicals, which are generated by low-temperature plasma, so that no additional costs are incurred because only water is used, and to clean and sterilize both dentures and a denture wearer's toothbrush in the case where partial dentures are used.
- the present invention provides a device for cleaning and sterilizing dentures using low-temperature plasma, including: a body comprising a lower body, an upper body, which is coupled to the upper surface of the lower body, a cover, which is mounted to the upper surface of the upper body so as to be opened and closed, a toothbrush insertion hole, which is formed in a portion of the upper portion of the lower body, and a seat depression, which is formed in the lower body; a plasma generator fastened in such a way that electrodes are sequentially placed in the seat depression, an insulating plate is interposed between the electrodes, ground bolts, along with packings, are tightened to the electrodes and protrude from the lower end of the upper body, an electrode fastening part and a filter are sequentially disposed on the electrodes, a cover, in which a plurality of through holes is formed at regular intervals, is disposed on the filter and is threadedly fastened to the upper body, and leakage prevention packings and ground nuts
- the device be configured such that dentures and a toothbrush are sterilized and cleaned using hydroxyl radicals, generated by the plasma.
- the present invention can clean and sterilize dentures using hydroxyl radicals having strong oxidizing sterilization power, which are generated by low-temperature plasma generated in water.
- the size of the device can be reduced using the hydroxyl radicals, which are generated by low-temperature plasma, no additional costs are incurred because only water is used, and both dentures and a denture wearer's toothbrush can be cleaned and sterilized in the case where partial dentures are used.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing the separated state of an entire device according to the present invention.
- FIG. 2 is a schematic side sectional view of the entire device according to the present invention.
- FIG. 3 is a schematic exploded perspective view showing a hydroxyl radical generator according to the present invention.
- FIG. 4 is an enlarged sectional view of a principal part showing the use of the device according to the present invention.
- FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view showing the coupled state of the entire device according to the present invention. Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention
- the present invention includes a body including a lower body 1, an upper body 7, which is coupled to the upper surface of the lower body 1, a cover 2, which is mounted to the upper surface of the upper body 7 so as to be opened and closed, a toothbrush insertion hole 3, which is formed in a portion of the upper portion of the lower body 1, and a seat depression 4, which is formed in the lower body 1 ; a plasma generator 5 mounted in the seat depression 4; and a denture holding container 6 provided in the lower body 1.
- the plasma generator 5 is fastened in such a way that electrodes 14 and 15 are sequentially placed in the seat depression 4, an insulating plate 16 is interposed between the electrodes 14 and 15, ground bolts 17, along with packings, are tightened to the electrodes 14 and 15 and protrude from the lower end of the upper body 7, an electrode fastening part 19 and a filter 18 are sequentially disposed on the electrodes 14 and 15, a cover 20, in which a plurality of through holes is formed at regular intervals, is disposed on the filter 18 and is threadedly fastened to the upper body 7, and leakage prevention packings and ground nuts are sequentially tightened to the ground bolts, which protrude from the lower end of the upper body 7.
- reference numeral 21 indicates an operating switch
- reference numeral 22 indicates a jack to which a power supply cord is connected
- reference numeral 23 indicates a power control unit.
- a user opens the cover 2, which is mounted to the upper surface of the upper body 7, and then takes out the denture holding container 6.
- the denture holding container 6 is inserted into the upper body 7 again, and then a predetermined amount of water is supplied to the upper body 7, the water flows in the holding container 6, in which the dentures are placed, through long slots, which are formed in the denture holding container 6, and thus the dentures soak in the water.
- the power source unit converts Alternating Current (AC) power, which is supplied from the outside (from an electric outlet, or dry cells), into Direct Current (AC) power, and outputs the Direct Current (DC) power.
- AC Alternating Current
- DC Direct Current
- the power source unit is configured such that an AC voltage of 110 ⁇ 220 VAC is converted into a DC voltage of 3 ⁇ 47 VDC, and then an AC voltage is generated by a subsequent pulse circuit.
- connection unit is a part to which the electrode connection terminals (contact bolts, nuts, and power lines) of the low-temperature plasma generator are connected.
- the switching unit turns on/off the supply of power to the power source unit in response to control signals from the control unit.
- Switching elements such as PNP- type transistors or NPN-type transistors and Field Effect Transistors (FETs), may be used for the switching unit.
- FETs Field Effect Transistors
- the control unit When the power switch is turned on, the control unit causes DC power to be supplied from the source unit to the low-temperature plasma generator via the connection unit by applying an ON control signal to the switching unit. After a preset operation period has elapsed, the control unit causes the supply of power to be interrupted by applying an OFF control signal to the switching unit. Furthermore, the control unit causes a positive voltage and a negative voltage to be alternately supplied by controlling the switching unit within a range of one second to five minutes, and thus the polarities of the connection terminals are altered whenever the power is alternately supplied. Furthermore, the control unit controls the signal output unit and the operational LED.
- Electrons are separated from the hydrogen atoms (H) by a strong electrochemical energy, which is caused by the above-described low-temperature plasma, and thus the hydrogen atoms (H) become positive hydrogen ions (H+).
- the oxygen molecules (O 2 ) are changed into negative oxygen ions by accepting surrounding electrons, and parts of the oxygen molecules (O 2 ) are changed into O 3 .
- the above-described electrochemically dissociated state is generally restored to the original state within 2 - 5 hours in the atmosphere, or within about 48 hours in an airtight state, as in a refrigerator, and the water exhibits a moderately alkaline characteristic of about 7.4 Ph.
- a strong electric field is formed between minute underwater air bubbles, which are generated by a strong electric field between the cathode electrode and the anode electrode, and thus underwater germs and other organic and inorganic materials can be electrically removed.
- the present invention is designed such that it causes no harm to the human body even though plated materials or metal surfaces are separated and are dissolved in water after being used for a long time, and such that the generation of radicals is further promoted in a strong electric field by plating pure platinum (Pt: more than 99.9 %) on a pure titanium conductor, which causes no concern about secondary environmental pollution, and thus the decomposition reaction of organic materials can be safely and effectively induced.
- the present invention can clean and sterilize dentures using hydroxyl radicals having strong oxidizing sterilization power, which are generated by low-temperature plasma generated in water.
- the size of the device can be reduced using the hydroxyl radicals, which are generated by low-temperature plasma, no additional costs are incurred because only water is used, and both dentures and a denture wearer's toothbrush can be cleaned and sterilized in the case where partial dentures are used.
Abstract
Disclosed herein is a device for cleaning and sterilizing dentures using low-temperature plasma. The device includes a body, a plasma generator, and a denture holding container. The body includes a lower body, an upper body, a cover, a toothbrush insertion hole, and a seat depression. The plasma generator is fastened in such a way that electrodes are sequentially placed in the seat depression, an insulating plate is interposed between the electrodes, ground bolts, along with packings, are tightened to the electrodes and protrude from the lower end of the upper body, an electrode fastening part and a filter are sequentially disposed on the electrodes, a cover member, is disposed on the filter and is threadedly fastened to the upper body, and leakage prevention packings and ground nuts are sequentially tightened to the ground bolts. The denture holding container is provided in the lower body.
Description
Description
DEVICE FOR CLEANING AND STERILIZING DENTURES USING LOW-TEMPERATURE PLASMA
Technical Field
[1] The present invention relates, in general, to a device for sterilizing and cleaning dentures and a denture cleaning toothbrush using low-temperature plasma, which is generated in water. Background Art
[2] Generally, dentures are artificial insertions that, when natural teeth fall out, artificially replace the shapes and functions of the lost teeth, and assume a considerably important role in the intake of food.
[3] Conventionally, when a user wants to go to sleep at night after using his or her dentures, it is necessary to relax the tissue under the dentures. Accordingly, the user stores his or her dentures in a vessel containing water after removing them, and puts the dentures in again in the morning for use thereof.
[4] However, the above-described method, in which dentures are merely taken out and then put into a vessel containing water, is problematic in that it is inconvenient to use because the dentures must be stored after foreign materials present on the dentures have been cleaned off in a separate process.
[5] That is, the dentures must be taken out before going to sleep, must be separately cleaned using a toothbrush, and must then be soaked in a vessel containing water for use thereof, so that there is an inconvenience in that the user must clean his or her dentures in a separate process.
[6] Furthermore, in order to use dentures, the dentures and the oral cavity must be rinsed clean using water after every meal, the oral cavity, the gums and the tongue, as well as the dentures, must also be sufficiently cleaned at least once a day, the oral cavity must be cleaned using a soft toothbrush or a water-moistened piece of gauze, and teeth must necessarily be brushed after every meal in the case where partial dentures are used.
[7] Furthermore, conventionally, when dentures are cleaned, there is a disadvantage in that the dentures slip from the hands and are thus broken. In order to solve this disadvantage, it is recommended to clean dentures in a washstand using flowing water. However, this method is also disadvantageous in that, since persons who use dentures are aged, it is difficult and inconvenient for them to move their bodies frequently, and thus their caregivers must clean the dentures.
[8] Furthermore, it is prohibited to boil dentures to sterilize the dentures, or to sterilize the dentures using hot water, and thus it is possible only to clean the dentures,
therefore a sanitation problem occurs.
[9] In addition, problems occur in that soft brushes must be used to clean dentures, liquid cleaning agents must be used because general toothpaste may cause serious abrasion, the dentures must occasionally be soaked in brewing vinegar overnight when the dentures are excessively stained, and it is inconvenient to store the dentures.
[10] For the reasons described above, conventionally, the oral cavity may be infected by germs due to the insanitary management of dentures, and high-priced dentures cannot be sanitarily managed.
[11] Meanwhile, in order to solve the above-described problems, a method using Ul- traViolet (UV) rays and a method using ultrasonic waves have recently been proposed.
[12] In the former method of performing sterilization using UV rays, only portions on which UV waves are radiated are locally sterilized, but portions on which UV rays are not directly radiated are not sterilized. Accordingly, a sufficient effect is not achieved.
[13] Furthermore, the method using UV rays is problematic in that, because dentures are made of material such as resin plastic, deformation, attributable to dryness, and variation in color may be caused in the case where the dentures are exposed to UV light for a long time, and in that UV lamps must often be replaced because the life span thereof is short.
[14] Meanwhile, the latter cleaning method, using ultrasonic waves, is a method of removing foreign materials by causing strong sound waves to be reflected from a target cleaning object.
[15] However, the method using ultrasonic waves is problematic in that, because the dentures themselves are made of resin, ultrasonic waves, having short wavelengths, are absorbed thereby, rather than reflected therefrom, and thus cleaning power is lowered, and in that the ultrasonic waves cannot be used to sterilize the dentures because they have only a cleaning function.
[16] Furthermore, the method using ultrasonic waves is problematic in that the module for generating ultrasonic waves is complicated and heavy, and thus the size thereof is large, and in that replacement work must be frequently conducted because the period of replacement of an ultrasonic vibrator is short, as in the UV lamps.
[17] Accordingly, in order to solve the above-described problems, chemical cleaning agents have been developed and are marketed, but it is not known for certain whether various chemical components are suitable for the constitutions of individual users, and unnecessary expenses are incurred because a cleaning solution must be repeatedly purchased and used. Disclosure of Invention Technical Problem
[18] Accordingly, the present invention has been made keeping in mind the above problems occurring in the prior art, and the present invention is directed to provide a device for cleaning and sterilizing dentures using low-temperature plasma, which enables hydroxyl radicals, having strong oxidizing and sterilizing power, to be generated using low-temperature plasma, which is generated in water by an underwater low-temperature plasma generator for generating hydroxyl radicals (Korean Pat. No. 0741741, filed by the present applicant), thus realizing cleaning and sterilization.
[19] Furthermore, the preset invention is directed to reduce the size of the device using the hydroxyl radicals, which are generated by low-temperature plasma, so that no additional costs are incurred because only water is used, and to clean and sterilize both dentures and a denture wearer's toothbrush in the case where partial dentures are used. Technical Solution
[20] In order to accomplish the above object s, the present invention provides a device for cleaning and sterilizing dentures using low-temperature plasma, including: a body comprising a lower body, an upper body, which is coupled to the upper surface of the lower body, a cover, which is mounted to the upper surface of the upper body so as to be opened and closed, a toothbrush insertion hole, which is formed in a portion of the upper portion of the lower body, and a seat depression, which is formed in the lower body; a plasma generator fastened in such a way that electrodes are sequentially placed in the seat depression, an insulating plate is interposed between the electrodes, ground bolts, along with packings, are tightened to the electrodes and protrude from the lower end of the upper body, an electrode fastening part and a filter are sequentially disposed on the electrodes, a cover, in which a plurality of through holes is formed at regular intervals, is disposed on the filter and is threadedly fastened to the upper body, and leakage prevention packings and ground nuts are sequentially tightened to the ground bolts, which protrude from the lower end of the upper body; and a denture holding container provided in the lower body.
[21] It is preferred that the device be configured such that dentures and a toothbrush are sterilized and cleaned using hydroxyl radicals, generated by the plasma.
Advantageous Effects
[22] The present invention can clean and sterilize dentures using hydroxyl radicals having strong oxidizing sterilization power, which are generated by low-temperature plasma generated in water.
[23] Furthermore, in the present invention, the size of the device can be reduced using the hydroxyl radicals, which are generated by low-temperature plasma, no additional costs are incurred because only water is used, and both dentures and a denture wearer's toothbrush can be cleaned and sterilized in the case where partial dentures are used.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[24] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
[25] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing the separated state of an entire device according to the present invention;
[26] FIG. 2 is a schematic side sectional view of the entire device according to the present invention;
[27] FIG. 3 is a schematic exploded perspective view showing a hydroxyl radical generator according to the present invention;
[28] FIG. 4 is an enlarged sectional view of a principal part showing the use of the device according to the present invention; and
[29] FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view showing the coupled state of the entire device according to the present invention. Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention
[30] The present invention includes a body including a lower body 1, an upper body 7, which is coupled to the upper surface of the lower body 1, a cover 2, which is mounted to the upper surface of the upper body 7 so as to be opened and closed, a toothbrush insertion hole 3, which is formed in a portion of the upper portion of the lower body 1, and a seat depression 4, which is formed in the lower body 1 ; a plasma generator 5 mounted in the seat depression 4; and a denture holding container 6 provided in the lower body 1.
[31] The plasma generator 5 is fastened in such a way that electrodes 14 and 15 are sequentially placed in the seat depression 4, an insulating plate 16 is interposed between the electrodes 14 and 15, ground bolts 17, along with packings, are tightened to the electrodes 14 and 15 and protrude from the lower end of the upper body 7, an electrode fastening part 19 and a filter 18 are sequentially disposed on the electrodes 14 and 15, a cover 20, in which a plurality of through holes is formed at regular intervals, is disposed on the filter 18 and is threadedly fastened to the upper body 7, and leakage prevention packings and ground nuts are sequentially tightened to the ground bolts, which protrude from the lower end of the upper body 7. Here, reference numeral 21 indicates an operating switch, reference numeral 22 indicates a jack to which a power supply cord is connected, and reference numeral 23 indicates a power control unit.
[32] The operation of the device according to the present invention, which is constructed as described above, is described below.
[33] A user opens the cover 2, which is mounted to the upper surface of the upper body 7, and then takes out the denture holding container 6.
[34] After dentures have been put in the denture holding container 6, the denture holding container 6 is inserted into the upper body 7 again, and then a predetermined amount of water is supplied to the upper body 7, the water flows in the holding container 6, in which the dentures are placed, through long slots, which are formed in the denture holding container 6, and thus the dentures soak in the water.
[35] In this state, when the power switch of the lower body 1 is turned on, the operation is performed in order of power source unit → switching unit/power source LED (LCD) → pulse generating unit → connection unit → power switch → control unit → power source unit/switching unit → signal output unit/operational LED (LCD).
[36] The above-described operation is the same as that in Korean Pat. No. 0741741, filed by the present applicant, who is an entity who has registered rights.
[37] That is, the power source unit converts Alternating Current (AC) power, which is supplied from the outside (from an electric outlet, or dry cells), into Direct Current (AC) power, and outputs the Direct Current (DC) power. For example, the power source unit is configured such that an AC voltage of 110 ~ 220 VAC is converted into a DC voltage of 3 ~ 47 VDC, and then an AC voltage is generated by a subsequent pulse circuit.
[38] The connection unit is a part to which the electrode connection terminals (contact bolts, nuts, and power lines) of the low-temperature plasma generator are connected.
[39] The switching unit turns on/off the supply of power to the power source unit in response to control signals from the control unit. Switching elements, such as PNP- type transistors or NPN-type transistors and Field Effect Transistors (FETs), may be used for the switching unit.
[40] When the power switch is turned on, the control unit causes DC power to be supplied from the source unit to the low-temperature plasma generator via the connection unit by applying an ON control signal to the switching unit. After a preset operation period has elapsed, the control unit causes the supply of power to be interrupted by applying an OFF control signal to the switching unit. Furthermore, the control unit causes a positive voltage and a negative voltage to be alternately supplied by controlling the switching unit within a range of one second to five minutes, and thus the polarities of the connection terminals are altered whenever the power is alternately supplied. Furthermore, the control unit controls the signal output unit and the operational LED.
[41] When current is applied to the device according to the present invention, described above, in the state in which it is installed in a water tank, or in a vessel, in which a liquid, such as general tap water, dirty water or waste water, is contained, low- temperature plasma is generated between the positive and negative electrodes of the device due to a water breakdown mechanism, and thus water molecules (H2O) are decomposed into hydrogen ions and oxygen ions and are then diffused in the water as
numerous minute air bubbles, which are kinds of ion clusters. In this case, oxygen molecules (O2) are created through bonding between oxygen atoms because the oxygen atoms each exhibit a property of attaining a stable state through bonding with other oxygen atoms.
[42] Electrons are separated from the hydrogen atoms (H) by a strong electrochemical energy, which is caused by the above-described low-temperature plasma, and thus the hydrogen atoms (H) become positive hydrogen ions (H+). The oxygen molecules (O2) are changed into negative oxygen ions by accepting surrounding electrons, and parts of the oxygen molecules (O2) are changed into O3. The above-described electrochemically dissociated state is generally restored to the original state within 2 - 5 hours in the atmosphere, or within about 48 hours in an airtight state, as in a refrigerator, and the water exhibits a moderately alkaline characteristic of about 7.4 Ph.
[43] The positive hydrogen ions (H+) and the negative oxygen ions (O2 ), which are generated as described above, react with surrounding water molecules (H2O), and thus hydroxyl radicals and various oxygen-based active species ions, such as negative ions, are generated in a cluster form.
[44] In this case, hydrogen peroxide, which is generated along with the ions, is evaporated upwards from the surface of the water, and the hydroxyl radicals function to be attached to germs and to decompose and remove the germs.
[45] The hydroxyl radicals, which enter a very unstable state in the characteristic of molecules, are restored again to water (H20) by capturing hydrogen ions (H) present in the cell membranes of germs. In this case, the germs, from the cell membranes of which hydrogen ions (H) are removed, are changed into inactive and harmless materials when the cell membranes are destroyed. Due to the reaction of ozone (03), which is generated when the germs are changed, and is one oxygen-based active species, algae, such as mold and some kinds of moss, are also treated.
[46] In addition, a strong electric field is formed between minute underwater air bubbles, which are generated by a strong electric field between the cathode electrode and the anode electrode, and thus underwater germs and other organic and inorganic materials can be electrically removed.
[47] Oxygen-based active species ions, as wells as the hydroxyl radicals, which are generated in water by the low-temperature plasma, enter an unstable state, and thus they are converted to water within 2 - 5 hours in the normal atmosphere after reaction with germs, toxins or underwater organic or inorganic materials, therefore there is no concern about secondary pollution.
[48] The present invention is designed such that it causes no harm to the human body even though plated materials or metal surfaces are separated and are dissolved in water after being used for a long time, and such that the generation of radicals is further
promoted in a strong electric field by plating pure platinum (Pt: more than 99.9 %) on a pure titanium conductor, which causes no concern about secondary environmental pollution, and thus the decomposition reaction of organic materials can be safely and effectively induced.
[49] When hydroxyl radicals, which are caused by plasma, are generated in the lower body, the effects of both cleaning and sterilizing the dentures are achieved through the above-described operation.
[50] Meanwhile, when a toothbrush is inserted into the toothbrush insertion hole 3, which is formed in a portion of the upper portion of the upper body 7, various foreign materials present on the toothbrush are simultaneously cleaned and sterilized by the hydroxyl radicals. Accordingly, a toothbrush can be sterilized along with dentures. Industrial Applicability
[51] As described above, the present invention can clean and sterilize dentures using hydroxyl radicals having strong oxidizing sterilization power, which are generated by low-temperature plasma generated in water.
[52] Furthermore, in the present invention, the size of the device can be reduced using the hydroxyl radicals, which are generated by low-temperature plasma, no additional costs are incurred because only water is used, and both dentures and a denture wearer's toothbrush can be cleaned and sterilized in the case where partial dentures are used.
[53] Although the preferred embodiment of the present invention has been disclosed for illustrative purposes, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications, additions and substitutions are possible, without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention as disclosed in the accompanying claims.
Claims
[1] A device for cleaning and sterilizing dentures using low-temperature plasma, comprising: a body comprising a lower body, an upper body, which is coupled to an upper surface of the lower body, a cover, which is mounted to an upper surface of the upper body so as to be opened and closed, a toothbrush insertion hole, which is formed in a portion of the upper portion of the lower body, and a seat depression, which is formed in the lower body; a plasma generator fastened in such a way that electrodes are sequentially placed in the seat depression, an insulating plate is interposed between the electrodes, ground bolts, along with packings, are tightened to the electrodes and protrude from the lower end of the upper body, an electrode fastening part and a filter are sequentially disposed on the electrodes, a cover, in which a plurality of through holes is formed at regular intervals, is disposed on the filter and is threadedly fastened to the upper body, and leakage prevention packings and ground nuts are sequentially tightened to the ground bolts, which protrude from the lower end of the upper body; and a denture holding container provided in the lower body.
[2] The device according to claim 1, wherein the device is configured such that dentures and a toothbrush are sterilized and cleaned using hydroxyl radicals, generated by the plasma.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
KR10-2007-0040140 | 2007-04-25 | ||
KR1020070040140A KR100770628B1 (en) | 2007-04-25 | 2007-04-25 | The denture's washing and sterilizer which has a -oh generator |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
WO2008133413A1 true WO2008133413A1 (en) | 2008-11-06 |
Family
ID=38815995
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/KR2008/001964 WO2008133413A1 (en) | 2007-04-25 | 2008-04-08 | Device for cleaning and sterilizing dentures using low-temperature plasma |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
KR (1) | KR100770628B1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2008133413A1 (en) |
Cited By (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2011110343A1 (en) * | 2010-03-10 | 2011-09-15 | Max-Planck-Gesellschaft Zur Foerderung Der Wissenschaften E.V | Appliance, particularly kitchen appliance or laboratory table and deodorant device |
EP2387907A1 (en) * | 2010-05-19 | 2011-11-23 | Max-Planck-Gesellschaft zur Förderung der Wissenschaften e.V. | Appliance, particularly kitchen appliance or laboratory table |
WO2011144344A3 (en) * | 2010-05-19 | 2012-02-16 | Max-Planck-Gesellschaft Zur Foerderung Der Wissenschaften E.V. | Appliance for at least partially sterilizing a contaminated surface |
CN112842599A (en) * | 2020-12-26 | 2021-05-28 | 深圳市海龙达义齿科技有限责任公司 | Protective device for detachable false tooth |
Families Citing this family (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
KR200451601Y1 (en) | 2010-05-06 | 2010-12-24 | 주식회사 에코프롬 | Portable water sterilizer utilizing cold plasma |
KR101652474B1 (en) | 2015-10-01 | 2016-08-31 | 김영수 | sterilizing and cleaning device for artificial tooth |
KR101719681B1 (en) | 2016-04-24 | 2017-03-31 | 주식회사 이바이오테코 | Device for cleaning denture and gargling using hydrogen-rich electrolyzed water |
KR101893971B1 (en) | 2017-03-31 | 2018-08-31 | 김건환 | Ultra-sonic cleansing device for denture |
KR102237809B1 (en) * | 2019-06-17 | 2021-04-08 | 이정훈 | Air Cleaning Apparatus Combined with Denture Cleaning Device |
US10986917B2 (en) | 2019-08-14 | 2021-04-27 | Sdc U.S. Smilepay Spv | Multifunctional dental appliance and toothbrush cleaner |
KR102325992B1 (en) | 2021-02-16 | 2021-11-12 | 주식회사 하예 | Denture sterilization unit equipped with mobile sterilization module |
KR102611517B1 (en) | 2021-03-10 | 2023-12-08 | (주)아이에어 | Denture cleaning device |
Citations (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JPH0531159A (en) * | 1991-07-31 | 1993-02-09 | Morita Mfg Co Ltd | Medical appliance sterilizing container and medical fluid sterilizing device |
JP2001112857A (en) * | 1999-08-10 | 2001-04-24 | Daito Kanaami Kk | Container for medical equipment |
KR20040032833A (en) * | 2004-03-19 | 2004-04-17 | 이태성 | Apparatus for generating cluster negative ions, and container, construction and transportation having the same for storing food |
KR200357417Y1 (en) * | 2004-04-13 | 2004-07-27 | 주식회사 치아랑 | Case for cleaning false teeth |
KR200413279Y1 (en) * | 2006-01-06 | 2006-04-06 | 김희우 | Sterilization sink with hydroxyl generator |
-
2007
- 2007-04-25 KR KR1020070040140A patent/KR100770628B1/en active IP Right Grant
-
2008
- 2008-04-08 WO PCT/KR2008/001964 patent/WO2008133413A1/en active Application Filing
Patent Citations (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JPH0531159A (en) * | 1991-07-31 | 1993-02-09 | Morita Mfg Co Ltd | Medical appliance sterilizing container and medical fluid sterilizing device |
JP2001112857A (en) * | 1999-08-10 | 2001-04-24 | Daito Kanaami Kk | Container for medical equipment |
KR20040032833A (en) * | 2004-03-19 | 2004-04-17 | 이태성 | Apparatus for generating cluster negative ions, and container, construction and transportation having the same for storing food |
KR200357417Y1 (en) * | 2004-04-13 | 2004-07-27 | 주식회사 치아랑 | Case for cleaning false teeth |
KR200413279Y1 (en) * | 2006-01-06 | 2006-04-06 | 김희우 | Sterilization sink with hydroxyl generator |
Cited By (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2011110343A1 (en) * | 2010-03-10 | 2011-09-15 | Max-Planck-Gesellschaft Zur Foerderung Der Wissenschaften E.V | Appliance, particularly kitchen appliance or laboratory table and deodorant device |
EP2387907A1 (en) * | 2010-05-19 | 2011-11-23 | Max-Planck-Gesellschaft zur Förderung der Wissenschaften e.V. | Appliance, particularly kitchen appliance or laboratory table |
WO2011144344A3 (en) * | 2010-05-19 | 2012-02-16 | Max-Planck-Gesellschaft Zur Foerderung Der Wissenschaften E.V. | Appliance for at least partially sterilizing a contaminated surface |
CN112842599A (en) * | 2020-12-26 | 2021-05-28 | 深圳市海龙达义齿科技有限责任公司 | Protective device for detachable false tooth |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
KR100770628B1 (en) | 2007-10-26 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
WO2008133413A1 (en) | Device for cleaning and sterilizing dentures using low-temperature plasma | |
US20060186058A1 (en) | Ionized-water supplying apparatus using in-water plasma discharging | |
KR100918474B1 (en) | Oral irrigator with plasma generating apparatus | |
CN101208270B (en) | Apparatus for manufacturing sterilized water, and portable aparatus for manufacturing sterilize salt solution | |
JP2002220211A (en) | Ozone and minus ion generator | |
KR100359480B1 (en) | Water brushing device with sterilizer | |
KR20070088413A (en) | Oral cavity cleaning and sterilization device using water | |
WO2021000612A1 (en) | Photocatalytic sonic electric toothbrush | |
CN112741704B (en) | Plasma jet device for cleaning and/or whitening teeth | |
CN213951359U (en) | Super oxygen oral cavity cleaner | |
KR200419542Y1 (en) | Gargle liquid manufacturing device for oral cleaning | |
KR102104709B1 (en) | Plasma-Sterilized Drinking-Water System | |
JP2002028031A (en) | Electronic toothbrush and electronic brush | |
KR100869774B1 (en) | Apparatus for keeping false teeth | |
KR100830147B1 (en) | Ultraviolet rays sterilizer using electrolytic cell and ultrasonic waves | |
KR20110108565A (en) | Sterilized water creation equipment of multi-function | |
KR100449506B1 (en) | Hair brush for prevention of depilation and stimulation of hair using for negative ion and potential | |
CN209108174U (en) | A kind of artificial tooth disinfection box | |
CN220274753U (en) | Hydrogen water device and food material purifier thereof | |
CN211068779U (en) | Photocatalyst sound wave electric toothbrush | |
KR100821587B1 (en) | Electronic toothbrush and electronic brush | |
CN114751384A (en) | Ozone ion generating device for tooth flushing device | |
CN216984673U (en) | Superoxide ion tooth glass | |
EP4000558A1 (en) | Oral care assembly and method of operating the same | |
KR200289133Y1 (en) | Hair brush for prevention of depilation and stimulation of hair using for negative ion and potential |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
121 | Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application |
Ref document number: 08741213 Country of ref document: EP Kind code of ref document: A1 |
|
NENP | Non-entry into the national phase |
Ref country code: DE |
|
32PN | Ep: public notification in the ep bulletin as address of the adressee cannot be established |
Free format text: NOTING OF LOSS OF RIGHTS PURSUANT TO RULE 112(1) EPC ( EPO FORM 1205A DATED 05-03-2010). |
|
122 | Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase |
Ref document number: 08741213 Country of ref document: EP Kind code of ref document: A1 |