U.S. patent application number 13/111240 was filed with the patent office on 2012-11-22 for device and method for removing earwax.
Invention is credited to Steven Burres.
Application Number | 20120296355 13/111240 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 47175497 |
Filed Date | 2012-11-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120296355 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Burres; Steven |
November 22, 2012 |
DEVICE AND METHOD FOR REMOVING EARWAX
Abstract
The present invention describes an earwax removal device having
varying structures to provide different earwax removal
capabilities. In all designs, the overall contour of the
earwax-extracting member resembles the dimensions of the external
auditory canal and is flexible enough to conform to it during
insertion. Each engages and collects wax using the pressure of
insertion and rotation effects. Embodiments include a club-like
member having multiple protrusions and extractions to collect wax
along its sides, and an opening in the tip that leads to a channel
to collect wax; a flexible spiral member to compress when the
device is inserted in an ear and thereby extract wax as it expands
when the device is removed; a screw-like structure to laterally
move wax and grind as it rotates; a multi-channel structure to cut
and collect wax simultaneously; and a shovel-like structure to
effectively shear and scrape wax from an ear canal.
Inventors: |
Burres; Steven; (Beverly
Hills, CA) |
Family ID: |
47175497 |
Appl. No.: |
13/111240 |
Filed: |
May 19, 2011 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
606/162 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61F 11/006
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
606/162 |
International
Class: |
A61F 11/00 20060101
A61F011/00 |
Claims
1. An earwax removal device comprising: a shaft having a
longitudinal axis; and an earwax-extracting member comprising a
body portion and a tip portion, the body portion having a first end
and a second end, the first end and the second end of the body
portion located opposite each other, the tip portion located at the
first end of the body portion, the shaft connected to the second
end of the body portion.
2. The earwax removal device of claim 1, the body portion
comprising multiple protrusions and multiple recesses formed on the
body portion, the tip portion comprising multiple protrusions
formed on the tip portion, the body portion having widths
perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft, wherein widths
of the body portion at two different distances from the second end
of the body portion are different from each other.
3. The earwax removal device of claim 2, wherein the protrusions of
the body portion and the recesses of the body portion are arranged
alternately.
4. The earwax removal device of claim 2, wherein an opening is
formed in the tip portion, a hole is formed in at least one of the
recesses of the body portion, and a tunnel is formed inside the
earwax-extracting member such that the opening of the tip portion
and the hole of the body portion are connected to the tunnel.
5. The earwax removal device of claim 2, wherein the recesses of
the body portion and the protrusions of the tip portion are
substantially round or oval in shape.
6. The earwax removal device of claim 2, wherein the tip portion is
slanted in a conical manner such that an angle between a tangent
plane to a central surface of one of the protrusions of the tip
portion and a horizontal plane perpendicular to the longitudinal
axis of the shaft is approximately 15.degree..
7. The earwax removal device of claim 2 further comprising a guard
member surrounding the body portion at the second end of the body
portion.
8. The earwax removal device of claim 2, wherein the
earwax-extracting member has a length in a range of between about 5
mm and about 7 mm.
9. The earwax removal device of claim 2, wherein the multiple
protrusions of the body portion comprise a first group of
protrusions and a second group of protrusions, the first group of
protrusions being smaller in size than the second group of
protrusions.
10. The earwax removal device of claim 2, wherein the body portion
comprises an upper section and a lower section, the upper section
located between the lower section and the tip portion, a width of
the lower section being larger than a width of the upper
section.
11. The earwax removal device of claim 10, further comprising three
extension members, a first extension member surrounding the
perimeter of the tip portion, a second extension member surrounding
the perimeter of the body portion and located between the upper
section and the lower section, and a third extension member
surrounding the perimeter of the body portion and located proximate
to the second end of the body portion.
12. A method for removing earwax from an ear canal, the method
comprising: providing an earwax removal device according to claim
2; inserting the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal
device into the ear canal; rotating the earwax removal device while
the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal device is
located in the ear canal; and pulling out the earwax-extracting
member of the earwax removal device from the ear canal.
13. The earwax removal device of claim 1, the body portion
comprising multiple bristles protruding substantially perpendicular
to the longitudinal axis of the shaft.
14. The earwax removal device of claim 13, the tip portion
comprising a cone-shaped spiral.
15. The earwax removal device of claim 14, wherein the bristles are
substantially cylindrical in shape.
16. The earwax removal device of claim 14, wherein at least two of
the bristles are different in size.
17. The earwax removal device of claim 13, wherein an opening is
formed in the tip portion, a hole is formed in the body portion,
and a tunnel is formed inside the earwax-extracting member such
that the opening of the tip portion and the hole of the body
portion are connected to the tunnel.
18. A method for removing earwax from an ear canal, the method
comprising: providing an earwax removal device according to claim
13; inserting the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal
device into the ear canal; rotating the earwax removal device while
the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal device is
located in the ear canal; and pulling out the earwax-extracting
member of the earwax removal device from the ear canal.
19. The earwax removal device of claim 13, wherein the tip portion
comprises multiple elongated protrusions extending substantially
parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft.
20. The earwax removal device of claim 19, wherein at least two of
the bristles are different in shape.
21. The earwax removal device of claim 19, wherein an opening is
formed in the tip portion, a hole is formed in the body portion,
and a tunnel is formed inside the earwax-extracting member such
that the opening of the tip portion and the hole of the body
portion are connected to the tunnel.
22. A method for removing earwax from an ear canal, the method
comprising: providing an earwax removal device according to claim
19; inserting the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal
device into the ear canal; rotating the earwax removal device while
the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal device is
located in the ear canal; and pulling out the earwax-extracting
member of the earwax removal device from the ear canal.
23. An earwax removal device comprising: a shaft having a
longitudinal axis; and an earwax-extracting member comprising a
flexible body, the flexible body connected to an end of the shaft,
the flexible body capable of contracting and extending in a
direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the
shaft.
24. The earwax removal device of claim 23, wherein the flexible
body comprises a plurality of rings, the rings connected and
stacked in a zigzag manner.
25. The earwax removal device of claim 23, the rings having widths
perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft, wherein widths
of the rings at two different distances from the end of the shaft
to which the flexible body is connected are different from each
other.
26. The earwax removal device of claim 23 further comprising a
guard member surrounding the device in proximity to the end of the
shaft to which the flexible body is connected.
27. A method for removing earwax from an ear canal, the method
comprising: providing an earwax removal device according to claim
23; inserting the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal
device into the ear canal; and pulling out the earwax-extracting
member of the earwax removal device from the ear canal.
28. The method of claim 27 further comprising: rotating the earwax
removal device while the earwax-extracting member of the earwax
removal device is located in the ear canal.
29. The earwax removal device of claim 23, wherein the flexible
body comprises a spiral member, the spiral member having a first
end and a second end, the first end and the second end of the
spiral member located opposite each other, the earwax-extracting
member further comprising a tip portion, the tip portion comprising
a cross-shaped element and a bar, the bar connected to the
cross-shaped element and extending from the first end of the spiral
member in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal
axis of the shaft, the shaft connected to the second end of the
spiral member.
30. The earwax removal device of claim 29 further comprising a
guard member surrounding the device in proximity to the second end
of the spiral member.
31. A method for removing earwax from an ear canal, the method
comprising: providing an earwax removal device according to claim
29; inserting the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal
device into the ear canal; rotating the earwax removal device while
the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal device is
located in the ear canal; and pulling out the earwax-extracting
member of the earwax removal device from the ear canal.
32. The earwax removal device of claim 23, wherein the flexible
body comprises a first spiral section, an intermediate section, and
a second spiral section, the second spiral section connected to the
shaft, the intermediate section connected to the first spiral
section and to the second spiral section and located between the
first spiral section and the second spiral section, the
intermediate section having a width perpendicular to the
longitudinal axis of the shaft, the first spiral section having a
width perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft, the
second spiral section having a width perpendicular to the
longitudinal axis of the shaft, the width of the intermediate
section being larger than the width of the first spiral section and
larger than the width of the second spiral section.
33. The earwax removal device of claim 32 further comprising a tip
portion, the tip portion comprising a vertical bar, a first pair of
horizontal bars and a second pair of horizontal bars, the vertical
bar extending from the first spiral section in a direction
substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft, the
first pair of horizontal bars extending from a first location of
the vertical bar such that the first pair of horizontal bars cross
each other, the second pair of horizontal bars extending from a
second location of the vertical bar such that the second pair of
horizontal bars cross each other, the first location of the
vertical bar more distant from the first spiral section than the
second location of the vertical bar, the first pair of horizontal
bars and the second pair of horizontal bars substantially
perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft.
34. The earwax removal device of claim 32, wherein the intermediate
section comprises multiple protrusions and multiple recesses formed
on the intermediate section.
35. The earwax removal device of claim 34, wherein the protrusions
and the recesses of the intermediate section are substantially
curved.
36. A method for removing earwax from an ear canal, the method
comprising: providing an earwax removal device according to claim
33; inserting the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal
device into the ear canal; rotating the earwax removal device while
the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal device is
located in the ear canal; and pulling out the earwax-extracting
member of the earwax removal device from the ear canal.
37. An earwax removal device comprising: a shaft having a
longitudinal axis; an earwax-extracting member comprising a central
rod having a first end and a second end, the second end connected
to an end of the shaft, the central rod extending in a direction
substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft; and a
helical ridge member extending about the central rod.
38. The earwax removal device of claim 37, the helical ridge member
having widths perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft,
wherein widths of the helical ridge member at two different
distances from the end of the shaft to which the flexible body is
connected are different from each other.
39. The earwax removal device of claim 37, wherein an opening is
formed in the first end of the central rod, a hole is formed in the
central rod, and a tunnel is formed inside the central rod such
that the opening of the central rod and the hole of the central rod
are connected to the tunnel.
40. The earwax removal device of claim 37, the helical ridge member
having at least one notch therethrough.
41. A method for removing earwax from an ear canal, the method
comprising: providing an earwax removal device according to claim
37; inserting the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal
device into the ear canal; rotating the earwax removal device while
the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal device is
located in the ear canal; and pulling out the earwax-extracting
member of the earwax removal device from the ear canal.
42. An earwax removal device comprising: a shaft having a
longitudinal axis; and an earwax-extracting member, the
earwax-extracting member comprising a body portion having a first
end and a second end, the shaft connected to the second end of the
body portion, the body portion further comprising a set of two
interconnected and overlapping helical structures.
43. The earwax removal device of claim 42, the body portion having
a second set of two interconnected and overlapping helical
structures connected to the first set of two interconnected and
overlapping helical structures, a width of the first set of two
interconnected and overlapping helical structures being larger than
a width of the second set of two interconnected and overlapping
helical structures.
44. A method for removing earwax from an ear canal, the method
comprising: providing an earwax removal device according to claim
42; inserting the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal
device into the ear canal; rotating the earwax removal device while
the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal device is
located in the ear canal; and pulling out the earwax-extracting
member of the earwax removal device from the ear canal.
45. An earwax removal device comprising: a shaft having a
longitudinal axis; an earwax-extracting member comprising a body
portion, the body portion having a first end and a second end, the
first end and the second end of the body portion located opposite
each other, the shaft extending from the second end of the body
portion, the body portion comprising a curved elongated member
extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis and
forming an interior space; and an elongated cross-bar member
extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis within
the interior space, wherein a first quadrant, a second quadrant, a
third quadrant, and a fourth quadrant are formed between the curved
elongated member and the elongated cross-bar.
46. The earwax removal device of claim 45, the curved elongated
member having at least one slit extending from the first end to the
second end of the body portion.
47. The earwax removal device of claim 46, the at least one slit
having a pointed lip along a longitudinal edge of the slit.
48. The earwax removal device of claim 46 further comprising a
plurality of holes along the curved elongated member and into at
least one channel, wherein each hole further comprises a projecting
member capable of guiding earwax into the hole and into the
channel.
49. A method for removing earwax from an ear canal, the method
comprising: providing an earwax removal device according to claim
47; inserting the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal
device into the ear canal; rotating the earwax removal device while
the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal device is
located in the ear canal; and pulling out the earwax-extracting
member of the earwax removal device from the ear canal.
50. The earwax removal device of claim 45, said curved elongated
member further comprises a first flag member and a second flag
member, said first flag member and said second flag member attached
to a pair of opposing ends of said elongated cross-bar member.
51. The earwax removal device of claim 50, said first and second
flag members each comprising a wedge portion extending therefrom,
said wedge portions each comprising a pointed longitudinal
edge.
52. The earwax removal device of claim 51, said first and second
flag members further comprising at least one aperture
therethrough.
53. A method for removing earwax from an ear canal, the method
comprising: providing an earwax removal device according to claim
51; inserting the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal
device into the ear canal; rotating the earwax removal device while
the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal device is
located in the ear canal; and pulling out the earwax-extracting
member of the earwax removal device from the ear canal.
54. An earwax removal device comprising: a shaft having a
longitudinal axis; an earwax-extracting member comprising a body
portion having a first and second elongated member, each extending
substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis and each having a
curved exterior surface.
55. The earwax removal device of claim 54, further comprising an
elongated vertical bar member extending in a direction
substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft and
connecting the first elongated member and second elongated
member.
56. The earwax removal device of claim 54, each first and second
elongated member having a sloped interior surface.
57. The earwax removal device of claim 54, further comprising at
least one curved horizontal member substantially perpendicular to
the longitudinal axis and connecting the first elongated member and
second elongated member.
58. The earwax removal device of claim 57, further comprising a
third elongated member connected to the curved horizontal member
between the first and second elongated members, the third elongated
member is connected to an end of the shaft.
59. The earwax removal device of claim 54, wherein each of said
elongated members is connected to an end of the shaft.
60. A method for removing earwax from an ear canal, the method
comprising: providing an earwax removal device according to claim
54; inserting the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal
device into the ear canal; rotating the earwax removal device while
the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal device is
located in the ear canal; and pulling out the earwax-extracting
member of the earwax removal device from the ear canal.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] This invention relates to a device and method for removing
earwax.
[0003] 2. Description of Related Art
[0004] Devices for the extraction of earwax are generally known in
the art. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,923,061 discloses a body with
a padding mounted at one end of a shaft, wherein the padding has
multiple grooves formed spirally in the body around the axis of the
shaft. This design is disadvantageous because the body has narrow
grooves that collect a small fraction of the superficial wax in an
ear canal. Further, these general swab-type devices pack dense wax
down into the ear canal generating a bolus of deep, chronic wax
against the eardrum.
[0005] Similarly, U.S. Pat. No. 1,450,612 describes an earwax
removal device comprising an ear manipulator mounted at one end of
a shaft, wherein the outer surface of the manipulator is covered
with a series of radially disposed soft fins, which serve to brush
the passage in the ear when inserted therein, and twisted or
rotated. The ear manipulator has a pointed end to aid the removal
of the waxy deposit in the external auditory canal. Again the solid
head tends to bludgeon wax medially. Furthermore, the blind
manipulation of small tool tips can often result in damage to the
delicate canal skin-tympanic membrane surface interface.
[0006] Techniques of wax removal known in the art fail to penetrate
into hard, dry impacted wax for effective extraction. The known
devices for removal by experts under direct visualization, e.g.
metal curettes and picks, tend to stir and particulate the
material, disengaging it piecemeal from the mass and often cause
canal skin injury. Present rotating devices may engage soft wax on
walls but do poorly with more solid accumulations, are readily
misdirected hazardously, and can be dangerous near the eardrum.
Known irrigation techniques are often performed blindly, can be
cumbersome in many settings, and do not detach wax from skin.
Residual wet wax can be a nidus for infection. Poorly performed
irrigation results in vertigo by stimulating the posterior
semicircular canal. Likewise, wax softeners may aid in extraction
but do not extract.
[0007] More efficient and effective devices and methods for
removing earwax are needed. For example, wax removal devices with
structural variations that provide multiple methods of extracting
different forms of wax are needed. Thus, an objective of the
present invention is to provide a wax removal device that has
varying tip and body structures that allow removal of wax in
different manners simultaneously. Another object of the invention
is to provide wax removal devices with varying body structures
incorporating at least one channel within the body to effectively
collect wax, steer the wax laterally out of the canal, and actively
prevent impaction of wax often caused by the use of present
devices. Yet another object of the invention is to provide devices
with various compressible and extension structures to effectively
engage and dislodge wax and minimize the risk of damage by overly
forceful insertions. Also, more anatomically correct wax removal
devices are needed to better conform to an ear canal to ensure that
the surface contacts are flush with the skin and eardrum to avoid
the damage that may occur when small tools are inserted blindly in
uncontrolled directions. Canal-fitted tools can more effectively
remove the wax in bulk. Improved tools can bore, grind and mince
wax in the course of collection. With these goals in mind, the
inventor has created an improved wax removal device and method
having the aforementioned desired qualities.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The present invention describes an earwax removal device
comprising a shaft having a longitudinal axis and an
earwax-extracting member. The earwax-extracting member can include
a body portion and a tip portion, the body portion having a first
end and a second end, the first end and the second end of the body
portion located opposite each other, the tip portion located at the
first end of the body portion, the shaft connected to the second
end of the body portion. The shaft and earwax-extracting member can
be several connected components or one integrated component. The
body portion can include a guard member to protect the ear from
insertion of the device.
[0009] The body portion can have varying widths. In some
embodiments, an opening is formed in the tip portion and a hole is
formed in at least one of the recesses of the body portion such
that a tunnel is formed inside the earwax-extracting member.
[0010] In one embodiment, the body portion has multiple protrusions
and recesses formed on the body portion. The tip portion can also
comprise multiple protrusions.
[0011] In another embodiment, the body portion comprises multiple
bristles protruding substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal
axis of the shaft and the tip portion comprises a cone-shaped
spiral. In another embodiment, the tip portion comprises multiple
elongated protrusions extending substantially parallel to the
longitudinal axis of the shaft.
[0012] Another earwax removal device described herein comprises a
shaft having a longitudinal axis and an earwax-extracting member
comprising a flexible body, the flexible body connected to an end
of the shaft, the flexible body capable of contracting and
extending in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal
axis of the shaft. The flexible body can comprise a plurality of
rings, the rings connected and stacked in a zigzag manner. In one
embodiment, the flexible body comprises a spiral member, the spiral
member having a first end and a second end, the first end and the
second end of the spiral member located opposite each other, the
earwax-extracting member further comprising a tip portion, the tip
portion comprising a cross-shaped element and a bar, the bar
connected to the cross-shaped element and extending from the first
end of the spiral member in a direction substantially parallel to
the longitudinal axis of the shaft, the shaft connected to the
second end of the spiral member.
[0013] In another embodiment, the flexible body can comprise a
first spiral section, an intermediate section, and a second spiral
section, the second spiral section connected to the shaft, the
intermediate section connected to the first spiral section and to
the second spiral section and located between the first spiral
section and the second spiral section, the intermediate section
having a width perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft,
the first spiral section having a width perpendicular to the
longitudinal axis of the shaft, the second spiral section having a
width perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft, the
width of the intermediate section being larger than the width of
the first spiral section and larger than the width of the second
spiral section. This embodiment can also have a tip portion
comprising a vertical bar, a first pair of horizontal bars and a
second pair of horizontal bars, the vertical bar extending from the
first spiral section in a direction substantially parallel to the
longitudinal axis of the shaft, the first pair of horizontal bars
extending from a first location of the vertical bar such that the
first pair of horizontal bars cross each other, the second pair of
horizontal bars extending from a second location of the vertical
bar such that the second pair of horizontal bars cross each other,
the first location of the vertical bar more distant from the first
spiral section than the second location of the vertical bar, the
first pair of horizontal bars and the second pair of horizontal
bars substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the
shaft.
[0014] In yet another embodiment, the earwax-extracting member can
comprise a central rod having a first end and a second end, the
second end connected to an end of the shaft, the central rod
extending in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal
axis of the shaft and a helical ridge member extending about the
central rod. The helical ridge member can further have at least one
notch therethrough.
[0015] In another embodiment, the body portion of the device can
comprise a set of two interconnected and overlapping helical
structures. The body portion can further have a second set of two
interconnected and overlapping helical structures connected to the
first set of two interconnected and overlapping helical structures,
both sets having varying widths.
[0016] In yet another embodiment, the body portion can comprise a
curved elongated member extending substantially parallel to the
longitudinal axis and forming an interior space and an elongated
cross-bar member extending substantially parallel to the
longitudinal axis within the interior space, wherein a first
quadrant, a second quadrant, a third quadrant, and a fourth
quadrant are formed between the curved elongated member and the
elongated cross-bar. The quadrants can be open or closed along the
length of the body. The body can further comprise a plurality of
holes into a channel formed by a quadrant, each hole further
comprising a projecting member capable of guiding earwax into the
hole and into the channel.
[0017] In another embodiment, the curved elongated member can
comprise a first flag member and a second flag member, said first
flag member and said second flag member attached to a pair of
opposing ends of said elongated cross-bar member.
[0018] Another embodiment of the device has a body portion having a
first and second elongated member, each extending substantially
parallel to the longitudinal axis, and each having a sloped
interior surface and curved exterior surface.
[0019] A method for earwax removal is also described, generally
comprising the steps of providing an embodiment of an earwax
removal device described herein, inserting the earwax-extracting
member of the earwax removal device into the ear canal, and pulling
out the earwax-extracting member of the earwax removal device from
the ear canal. Prior to pulling out the device, a step of rotating
the earwax removal device while the earwax-extracting member of the
earwax removal device is located in the ear canal can be
included.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a wax removal device
having a body comprising multiple protrusions and recesses
according to the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of a wax removal device
having a body comprising multiple protrusions and recesses, and a
tunnel therethrough, according to the present invention;
[0022] FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of a wax removal device
having a body of varying widths and comprising multiple protrusions
and recesses according to the present invention;
[0023] FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of a wax removal device
having a body comprising multiple protrusions and recesses
according to the present invention;
[0024] FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment of a wax removal device
having bristles according to the present invention;
[0025] FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of a wax removal device
having bristles and a cone tip according to the present
invention;
[0026] FIG. 7 illustrates an embodiment of a wax removal device
having bristles, a cone tip, and a tunnel through the body
according to the present invention;
[0027] FIG. 8A illustrates an orthogonal view of an embodiment of a
wax removal device having bristles and a tip having protrusions
according to the present invention;
[0028] FIG. 8B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a
wax removal device having bristles and a tip having protrusions
according to the present invention;
[0029] FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a
wax removal device having bristles, a tip having protrusions, and a
tunnel through the body according to the present invention;
[0030] FIG. 10A illustrates an orthogonal view of an embodiment of
a wax removal device having a ring structure according to the
present invention;
[0031] FIG. 10B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of
a wax removal device having a ring structure according to the
present invention;
[0032] FIG. 11 illustrates an embodiment of a wax removal device
having a spiral member and a cross-shaped tip according to the
present invention;
[0033] FIG. 12 illustrates an embodiment of a wax removal device
having a spiral member and intermediate section comprising
protrusions and recesses according to the present invention;
[0034] FIG. 13A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of
a wax removal device having a helical ridge member according to the
present invention;
[0035] FIG. 13B illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a wax
removal device having a helical ridge member according to the
present invention;
[0036] FIG. 14A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of
a wax removal device having a helical ridge and varying widths
according to the present invention;
[0037] FIG. 14B illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a wax
removal device having a helical ridge and varying widths according
to the present invention;
[0038] FIG. 15A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of
a wax removal device having a helical ridge, and a tunnel
therethrough, according to the present invention;
[0039] FIG. 15B illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a wax
removal device having a helical ridge, and a tunnel therethrough,
according to the present invention;
[0040] FIG. 16A illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a wax
removal device having overlapping and interconnecting helical
structures according to the present invention;
[0041] FIG. 16B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of
a wax removal device having overlapping and interconnecting helical
structures according to the present invention;
[0042] FIG. 17A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of
a wax removal device having two sets of overlapping and
interconnecting helical structures according to the present
invention;
[0043] FIG. 17B illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a wax
removal device having two sets of overlapping and interconnecting
helical structures according to the present invention;
[0044] FIG. 18A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of
a wax removal device having channels and cutting structures
according to the present invention;
[0045] FIG. 18B illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a wax
removal device having channels and cutting structures according to
the present invention;
[0046] FIG. 18C illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a wax
removal device having channels and cutting structures according to
the present invention;
[0047] FIG. 19A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of
a wax removal device having channels, cutting structures, and a
tunnel therethrough, according to the present invention;
[0048] FIG. 19B illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a wax
removal device having channels, cutting structures, and a tunnel
therethrough, according to the present invention;
[0049] FIG. 19C illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a wax
removal device having channels, cutting structures, and a tunnel
therethrough, according to the present invention;
[0050] FIG. 20 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an embodiment
of a wax removal device having channels, cutting structures, and a
tunnel therethrough, according to the present invention;
[0051] FIG. 21A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of
a wax removal device having flag members according to the present
invention;
[0052] FIG. 21B illustrates a perspective side view of an
embodiment of a wax removal device having flag members according to
the present invention;
[0053] FIG. 21C illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a wax
removal device having flag members according to the present
invention;
[0054] FIG. 21D illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a wax
removal device having flag members according to the present
invention;
[0055] FIG. 22A illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a wax
removal device having a shovel-type elongated member according to
the present invention;
[0056] FIG. 22B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of
a wax removal device having a shovel-type elongated member
according to the present invention;
[0057] FIG. 23A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of
a wax removal device having a shovel-type elongated member
according to the present invention;
[0058] FIG. 23B illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a wax
removal device having a shovel-type elongated member according to
the present invention; and
[0059] FIG. 24 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a
wax removal device having flag members according to the present
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0060] The detailed description set forth below in connection with
the appended drawings is intended to provide example embodiments of
the present invention and is not intended to represent the only
forms in which the invention may be constructed or utilized. The
description sets forth the functions and the sequences of steps for
constructing and operating the invention. However, it is to be
understood that the same or equivalent functions and sequences may
be accomplished by different embodiments that are also intended to
be encompassed within the spirit and scope of the invention.
[0061] Some embodiments of the invention will be described in
detail with reference to FIGS. 1-24. Additional embodiments,
features, and/or advantages of the invention will become apparent
from the description or may be learned by practicing the invention.
The drawings in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale and
have like numerals referring to like features through both the
drawings and the description.
[0062] FIGS. 1 through 24 illustrate embodiments of earwax removal
devices and methods for removing earwax. An earwax removal device
10 generally comprises a shaft 20 having a longitudinal axis and an
earwax-extracting member 30. The earwax-extracting member 30 and
shaft 20 can be separate and removably connected, or can be made as
one integrated structure. The two-piece configuration can include
elements that screw together via a thread-fit, friction fit,
snap-fit or any other suitable type of attachment. This
configuration also allows one to choose which embodiment of the
earwax-extracting member 30 to use based on the desired earwax
removal capabilities such that the earwax-extracting members 30 are
interchangeable.
[0063] The components of the device 10 may be made of plastic,
rubber, metal, or another suitable material as required for desired
control and flexion. Additionally, the device 10 can be comprised
of a single, solid material or can have a core material with an
outer shell, e.g. a wire covered by a molded plastic that has the
appropriate structure. The device 10 and its components are
intended to be either disposable or reusable. The device 10 can
also be made of a material suitable for various methods of
sterilization, including irradiation.
[0064] The shaft 20 may be of varying lengths and widths. The shaft
20 can be manually rotated by the user or can incorporate a
motor-driven shaft 20 that provides rotation. A typical length
range can be two to three inches, but longer or shorter lengths may
be utilized depending on the desired amount of control. The width
of the shaft 20 can be similar to that of the ear canal, about six
to seven millimeters, particularly when the shaft 20 and
earwax-extracting member 30 form a single structure. The shaft 20
can also include gripping surface 24, such as a flange design,
etching, spiral ridging or a coarse surface, to improve handling.
The shaft 20 can also include a handle 26 in any suitable form for
improved gripping.
[0065] The design of the shaft 20 of the device 10 generally
remains the same while the earwax-extracting member 30 can have
significantly different structures. However, each embodiment of the
present invention may have several common properties. Unless
otherwise specified, each embodiment can include a conical surface
configuration or conical configuration of members at the tip
portion 50 of the device 10 to meet flush with the tympanic
membrane. Each device 10 can have a soft widening of the body
portion 40 or increase in the height of the active surface members,
which create a gradual widening of the wax removal tip as the
external auditory canal widens. Further, each device 10 can include
an opening 54 in the tip portion 50 that leads to a channel through
which wax is actively driven or channeled by the pressure of device
10 insertion and rotation. The body portion 40 of the
earwax-extracting member 30 can include an exit hole 49 to exhaust
wax under pressure in the device body closer to the tip. The device
10 can be comprised of a flexible material such that the body of
the earwax-extracting member 30 can compress and expand to dislodge
engaged wax. Use of a softer material, such as soft plastic or
rubber, can allow for a tight fit of the earwax-extracting member
30 against the ear canal skin, thereby enhancing functionality. Ear
wax removing tips with soft core or compressible design will
self-guide through the external auditory canal tortuosities and
compress to minimize the risk of damage during blind insertion. In
addition, the earwax-extracting members 30 that anatomically fit
the external auditory canal can remove the wax bolus as a single
collection.
[0066] The typical human ear canal is about five to six millimeters
across in the bony portion near the tympanic membrane and about
eight to ten millimeters wide ear the lateral, cartilaginous
region. The canal length, about two to three centimeters long,
defines the maximum depth of penetration of the earwax-extracting
member 30. Various widths permit the device 10 to adapt to
individual variations in the human ear canal. Anatomically correct
wax removal devices better conform to an ear canal to ensure that
the surface contacts are flush with the skin and eardrum to avoid
damage that may occur when small tools are inserted blindly in
uncontrolled directions. Also, the canal-fitted tools can more
effectively remove the wax in bulk. Other configurations can be
determined for appropriate animals.
[0067] The device 10 can have internal safety guards to control the
depth at which the device 10 is inserted in the ear canal. For
example, each device 10 can include a guard member 70, such as a
ring or coil, or another suitable sharp local flaring at about five
to seven millimeters from the tip portion 50 or end of the
earwax-extracting member 30. The guard member 70 is intended to
limit the extent of tip penetration at the narrowing of the canal
known as the "bony-cartilaginous junction."
[0068] Additional rings or flares along the earwax-extracting
member's body can be included to control the width of the body and
limit penetration in the ear from the conchal bowl region into the
external auditory canal itself. They can be used to adjust the
exposure of the functional elements, such as bristles 45, to the
canal skin surface. Such embodiments can comprise three extension
members distributed about the body portion 40 and tip portion 50 of
the device 10. A first extension member is located along the
perimeter of the tip portion 50, a second extension member is
located at the junction of the upper section 41 and lower section
43 of the body portion 40, and a third extension member is located
at an end of the wax extracting member 30 closest to the shaft 20
of the device 10. The extension members may be in the shape of
solid rings or coils and can be used to control the depth to which
the earwax-extracting member 30 can be inserted in the ear canal.
Section dividing rings or coils can enhance device 10 rotation
through canal curvatures.
[0069] As discussed above, the earwax-extracting member 30 may have
variations in dimensions and configurations. For example, a
straight, wide cylindrical design can contact the ear canal walls
more evenly and draw in softer wax as it rotates. A conical design
that tapers toward the tip may bore into a harder wax plug,
intending to engage the plug and extract it entirely. A narrow
cylindrical design may bore smaller holes into a large solid wax
accumulation, which may facilitate removal with a second extraction
technique. All surfaces of the earwax-extracting members 30 can be
textured or etched to increase hold of the wax onto the device 10.
A wide base, with or without a narrower tip segment, is a safety
control that can limit penetration of the wax removing tip.
[0070] The earwax-extracting member 30 may vary in sharpness and
hardness. Soft wax would be safely and effectively removed with
soft outer edges whereas harder wax may warrant sharper, blade-like
edges that cut into the wax. The earwax-extracting member 30 may
terminate with or without a tip such that it can have a flat end or
have a gentle, conical rise that can engage wax near the tip. The
conical design may come to a point or have a blunt end. A flat,
umbrella-style cover may be added to the end of the
earwax-extracting member 30 to minimize the risk of damage to the
eardrum. The umbrella-style cover may have an added coating or
surface material, such as foam or cotton to further prevent
potential damage to the eardrum. The ear-extracting member in all
embodiments can be made of a soft, malleable plastic, rubber, or
other suitable material to conform to the anatomical shape of the
ear canal.
[0071] All embodiments of the earwax-extracting member 30 can flex
and can be compressible in a direction along the longitudinal axis
of the shaft 20 of the device 10. The range of compressibility is
approximately one millimeter to four millimeters. Embodiments using
firmer plastics generally compress when coil or spring segments are
utilized. Embodiments using softer materials can vary in the amount
of compressibility, depending on the structure of the
earwax-extracting member 30. The various compressible and extension
structures of the earwax-extracting member 30 effectively engage
and dislodge wax while minimizing the risk of damage that can be
caused by overly forceful insertions.
[0072] The earwax-extracting member 30 can have a hollow core to
admit and collect wax, as well as an opening 54 at the tip portion
50, to core into impacted wax. The openings in the
earwax-extracting member 30 can lead to at least one channel within
the body to effectively collect wax, steer the wax laterally out of
the canal, and actively prevent impaction of wax. In other
embodiments, the body portion 40 may be comprised of a harder
material to scrape out harder wax in the ear canal. In addition,
the hollow interior may be filled with a wire mesh that aids in
grating wax, or a cutting blade(s) to cut canal hair.
[0073] Several non-limiting specific embodiments of the device 10
having various earwax-extracting members 30 are described below.
The scope of the invention shall not be limited to the following
examples or their headings.
Embodiments of the Present Invention Having a "Club" Design
[0074] As shown in FIGS. 1-4, the "club" embodiment of the device
10 comprises an earwax-extracting member 30 having an irregular
surface with a bump and trough pattern. Some troughs may open into
an optional wax channel(s) through the earwax-extracting member 30.
An optional central channel network may steer compressed wax
laterally through the device 10. The embodiment can be made in a
soft material that could allow "sponging" of wax into its
center.
[0075] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the earwax removal device 10
comprises a shaft 20 having a longitudinal axis and an
earwax-extracting member 30. As a non-limiting example, the
earwax-extracting member 30 can have a length in a range of between
about ten to twelve millimeters. The earwax-extracting member 30
has a body portion 40 having a first end 42 and a second end 44,
the first end 42 and the second end 44 of the body portion 40
located opposite each other. The earwax-extracting member 30 also
has a tip portion 50 located at the first end 42 of the body
portion 40. The shaft 20 is connected to the second end 44 of the
body portion 40.
[0076] Multiple protrusions 46 and multiple recesses 48 are formed
on the surface of the body portion 40 and multiple protrusions 52
are formed on the tip portion 50. FIG. 2 illustrates that the
protrusions 46 of the body portion 40 and the recesses 48 of the
body portion 40 can be arranged alternately and can be curved or
substantially round in shape. Also, as shown in FIG. 1, the
multiple protrusions 46 of the body portion 40 can vary in size, a
first group of protrusions 46A being smaller in size than a second
group of protrusions 46B. The differently sized protrusions 46 can
create an irregular or irregularly, irregular surface. The
protrusions 46 can also be coupled with troughs or deep-set
entrances into a tunnel 60 that is formed inside the
earwax-extracting member 30.
[0077] The widths of the body portion 40 at two different distances
from the second end 44 of the body portion 40 are different from
each other. The varying widths allow the device 10 to better fit
within the ear canal. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the body
portion 40 can be divided among an upper section 41 and a lower
section 43. In such embodiments, the width of the lower section 43
can be larger than the width of the upper section 41 to better fit
the ear canal. The device 10 can include coil or ring connections
between segments to allow rotation and flexion between medial and
lateral components.
[0078] To prevent damage to the eardrum, the tip portion 50 can be
slanted in a conical manner such that an angle between a tangent
plane to a central surface of one of the protrusions 52 of the tip
portion 50 and a horizontal plane perpendicular to the longitudinal
axis of the shaft 20 is approximately 15.degree. or less. To
further prevent damage to the eardrum, a guard member 70, such as a
ring or other suitable extending structure, can surround the body
portion 40 at the second end 44 of the body portion 40.
[0079] Alternatively, a safety mechanism can be used at three
junctions of the ear-extracting member. For example a safety
mechanism can include three extension members, a first extension
member 32 surrounding the perimeter of the tip portion 50, a second
extension member 34 surrounding the perimeter of the body portion
40 and located between the upper section 41 and the lower section
43, and a third extension member 36 surrounding the perimeter of
the body portion 40 and located proximate to the second end 44 of
the body portion 40. The first through third extension member can
increase in size to anatomically correspond with the ear.
[0080] In some embodiments, shown in FIG. 2, the earwax-extracting
member 30 can include a channel therethrough. In such embodiments,
an opening 54 is formed in the tip portion 50 where wax can enter
the device 10 into a tunnel 60 that is formed inside the
earwax-extracting member 30. Earwax can also enter into the tunnel
60 through troughs or deep-set entrances coupled with protrusions
46 on the body. The wax can subsequently exit through an exhaust
port or hole 49 in at least one of the recesses 48 of the body
portion 40.
Embodiments of the Present Invention Having a "Bristle" Design
[0081] FIGS. 5 through 9 illustrate several different embodiments
of the device 10 having bristles 45. Varying the bristle width and
length as shown in FIG. 5 will allow for controlled wax removal
while the direction of the bristles 45 will allow for collection of
wax in a particular direction. The earwax-extracting member 30 of
this embodiment has a body portion 40 comprising multiple bristles
45 protruding substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis
of the shaft 20. The bristles 45 can be in a configuration that is
adapted to fit an eardrum-canal skin envelope. As shown in FIGS.
5-7, the bristles 45 can be substantially cylindrical in shape and
vary in size. The bristles 45 allow for effective dislodging and
removal of wax upon rotation of the device 10.
[0082] In an alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the tip
portion 50 of the earwax-extracting member 30 can include a
cone-shaped spiral 56 to bore into wax. In another alternate
embodiment shown in FIG. 7, an opening 54 is formed in the tip
portion 50, a hole 49 is formed in the body portion 40, and a
tunnel 60 is formed inside the earwax-extracting member 30 such
that the opening 54 of the tip portion 50 and the hole 49 of the
body portion 40 are connected to the tunnel 60. Wax can thereby
enter the device 10 through the opening 54 and exit the device 10
through the hole 49 in the wax-extracting member 30.
[0083] In yet another alternate embodiment shown in FIGS. 8A and
8B, the tip portion 50 can comprise multiple elongated protrusions
58 extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the
shaft 20 to further dislodge and remove wax. Also shown in FIGS. 8A
and 8B, the bristles 45 of the body portion 40 can have different
sizes and shapes, including a rectangular 45A, V 45B, and plus-sign
(+) 45C shape. As shown in FIG. 9, this embodiment can also have an
opening 54 in the tip portion 50 connected to a tunnel 60 through
the body portion 40 and exhaust hole 49 in the body portion 40 for
wax removal.
Embodiments of the Present Invention Having a "Coil" Design
[0084] The device 10 having a flexible coil-like earwax-extracting
member 30 is shown in FIGS. 10 through 12. As shown in FIGS. 10-12,
the earwax-extracting member 30 can comprise a flexible body 80
connected to an end of the shaft 20 and capable of contracting and
extending in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal
axis of the shaft 20. When this embodiment of the device 10 is
used, the inward pressure on the spring member allows the device 10
to core into wax, after which the spring nature can tighten the
spring member around the wax as extraction occurs. By virtue of its
spring action, repeat tugs on this device 10 can dislodge a bolus
from canal skin. A spring member or multiple spring members at the
base or junctions of the ear-extracting member 30 of the device 10
can reduce the risk of damage from overly forceful insertion.
[0085] The flexible body 80 can be comprised of a plurality of
rings 90, the rings 90 connected and stacked in a zigzag manner as
shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B. The rings 90 can have varying widths
that are perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft 20. In
another embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the flexible body 80 comprises
a spiral member 100 having a first end 102 and a second end 104.
The first end 102 and the second end 104 of the spiral member 100
are located opposite each other. The earwax-extracting member 30
further comprises a tip portion 50 having a cross-shaped element 51
and a bar 53. The bar 53 of the tip portion 50 is connected to the
cross-shaped element 51 and extending from the first end 102 of the
spiral member 100 and the shaft 20 is connected to the second end
104 of the spiral member 100. In this embodiment, the tip portion
50 can penetrate wax a few millimeters to anchor to the bolus, and
even the spiral member 100 can catch more superficial portion of a
cerumen bolus. The spring action of the spiral member 100 allows
intermittent tugs to dislodge the bolus.
[0086] In yet another embodiment shown in FIG. 12, the flexible
body 80 comprises a first spiral section 120, an intermediate
section 130, and a second spiral section 140. The second spiral
section 140 is connected to the shaft 20, the intermediate section
130 is located between the first spiral section 120 and the second
spiral section 140. The intermediate section 130 is similar to the
"club" embodiment of the device 10 in that it can include
protrusions 46 and recesses 48 to better facilitate wax removal. In
addition, the earwax-extracting member 30 can include a tip portion
50 having a vertical bar 53. A first pair 55 and a second pair 57
of horizontal intersecting bars can be attached to the vertical bar
53 to also better remove wax.
Embodiments of the Present Invention Having a "Screw" Design
[0087] Several screw-type embodiments of the device 10 are
illustrated in FIGS. 13-17B. For example, as illustrated in FIGS.
13A and 13B, the earwax-extracting member 30 of this embodiment can
comprise a central rod 150 and a helical ridge member 170 extending
about the central rod 150. The earwax-extracting member 30 of this
embodiment drives wax laterally as device 10 turns. This embodiment
provides a mechanism for removing wax in which the wax is not
simply bound to surface or within cavity but channeled by the force
of insertion and turning into a lateral portion of the body,
thereby promoting lateral excursion of wax. The screw configuration
self-steers and seals along the canal walls during insertion.
[0088] As shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, the helical ridge member 170
can have varying widths to accommodate and better fit the
anatomical structure of the ear canal. As shown in FIGS. 13A-15B,
the earwax-extracting member 30 can also include one or more
notches 172 that grind the engaged wax within channel of the
helical ridge member 170. Like the other embodiments, an opening
156 can be formed at the first end 152 of the central rod 150,
leading to a tunnel 160 formed therein to collect wax, as shown in
FIGS. 15A and 15B. An exit hole 158 at a second end 154 of the
central rod 150 can be used to empty the wax from the tunnel
160.
[0089] In another embodiment of the earwax-extracting member 30,
illustrated in FIGS. 16A and 16B, the body portion 40 can be
comprised of a set of two interconnected and overlapping helical
structures 310, 320. Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B,
the body portion 40 can have a second set of interconnected and
overlapping helical structures 410, 420, each set having a
different width to better fit the ear canal and extract wax out of
the ear when the device 10 is rotated.
Embodiments of the Present Invention Having a "Multi-Channel"
Design
[0090] The device 10 having a multi-channel design is shown in
FIGS. 18-20. This design resembles a "potato masher" in that the
tip portion 50 where the channels meet the wax can break up the wax
and admit the wax into the channels. This design also has resembles
a "potato peeler" in that the side slits in the channels can cut
wax and admit wax into the channels along the sides of the
earwax-extracting member 30. Lastly, this embodiment resembles a
"cheese grater" in that the projecting members can engage wax in
the direction of the projecting members as the device 10 moves in,
out, or rotates. Each projecting member can be a turret to provide
optional rotation of the projecting member.
[0091] As shown in FIGS. 18A-20, the earwax-extracting member 30
has a body portion 40 comprising a curved elongated member 180
extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. The
curved elongated member 180 forms an interior space 182 within it.
An elongated cross-bar member 190 extending substantially parallel
to the longitudinal axis is connected to the curved elongated
member 180 within its interior space 182. A first 200, second 202,
third 204, and fourth 206 channel are formed as a result of the
connection between the curved elongated member 180 and elongated
cross-bar 190. The tip of the earwax-extracting device 10 can
thereby cut and collect wax into the four channels formed
therein.
[0092] Further, as shown in FIGS. 18A-20, a slit 184 can be formed
in a curved elongated member 180. The slit 184 can extend from the
first end 42 to the second end 44 of the body portion 40 and can
include a pointed lip 186 along a longitudinal edge of the slit 184
to cut wax along the side of the ear-extracting member 30. In
addition, shown in FIGS. 18A-18B and 19A-19B, a plurality of holes
188 can be formed along the curved elongated member 180 and into at
least one channel 200, 202, 204, 206 to thereby intake wax into the
channel. Also, the elongated member 180 can include at least one
projecting member 189 capable of guiding earwax into a hole 189 and
into a channel 200, 202, 204, 206. In another embodiment shown in
FIGS. 19A-C and 20, the shaft 20 can include an aperture 22
therethrough to collect and exhaust wax.
[0093] In another embodiment shown in FIGS. 21A-21D, the curved
elongated member 180 can be comprised of a first flag member 181
and a second flag member 183. The first and second flag members
181, 183 are attached at one pair of opposing ends of the elongated
cross-bar member 190. Each flag member 181, 183 may further
comprise an extending wedge portion 185 having a pointed
longitudinal edge 187. The longitudinal edge 187 can thereby scrape
earwax from inside the ear when the device 10 is rotated. The flag
members 181, 183 can also each have at least one aperture 192
therethrough. The apertures 192 in the flag members 181, 183 can
further collect wax as the device 10 is rotated during use.
[0094] Embodiments of the Present Invention Having a "Shovel"
Design
[0095] FIGS. 22A-24 illustrate embodiments of the present invention
having a shovel-like earwax-extracting member 30. This embodiment
of the device 10 can also cut wax at the tip portion 50 while
scrape wax along the sides of the earwax-extracting member 30. As
shown in FIGS. 22A and 22B, the earwax-extracting member 30 can
comprise a body portion 40 having a first 210 and second elongated
member 220, each of the elongated members are connected to an end
of the shaft 20 of the device 10. To facilitate collection of wax,
the elongated members 210, 220 can have a sloped interior surface
230 to cut wax and curved exterior surface 240 to scrape wax along
its edges.
[0096] Another embodiment of the shovel-like device 10 shown in
FIGS. 23A and 23B includes a curved horizontal member 250
connecting the first elongated member 210 and second elongated
member 220. The curved horizontal member 250 adds flexibility to
the lateral elongated members 210, 220 which can then bend and
sweep up wax when the device 10 is rotated in the ear. A third
elongated member 260 connected to the curved horizontal member 250
between the first 210 and second 220 elongated members can also
further increase dislodging of wax from the ear. All three
elongated members 210, 220, 260 can vary in size and shape.
[0097] In yet another embodiment shown in FIG. 24, the first and
second elongated members 210, 220 can be connected to opposing side
ends 302, 304 of an elongated vertical bar member 300 that is
extending in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal
axis of the shaft. The elongated vertical bar member 300 can be
formed in any shape and is not limited to that shown in FIG.
24.
[0098] As will be understood upon using the embodiments of the
device 10, one earwax-extracting member 30 can provide
multi-functional properties. The tip portion 50 and body portion 40
can provide dual-action structures and mechanisms to remove
different forms of wax from the ear at the front end of the device
10 and on the sides of the device 10. In addition, various
embodiments utilizing spring structures, ridge structures,
openings, tunnels and holes in the device 10 can increase the
function of capturing and removing wax in different manners.
[0099] A method for removing earwax from an ear canal is also
described, the method comprising the steps of providing any of the
above embodiments of the earwax removal device 10, inserting the
earwax-extracting member 30 of the earwax removal device 10 into
the ear canal, rotating the earwax removal device 10 while the
earwax-extracting member 30 of the earwax removal device 10 is
located in the ear canal, and pulling out the earwax-extracting
member 30 of the earwax removal device 10 from the ear canal.
Certain embodiments of the device 10, such as those described with
a "coil" design above, do not require the rotating step to
effectively capture and remove wax from the ear.
[0100] While the present invention has been described with regards
to particular embodiments, it is recognized that additional
variations of the present invention may be devised without
departing from the inventive concept. A person skilled in the art
would appreciate that exemplary embodiments described hereinabove
are merely illustrative of the general principles of the present
invention. Other components, configurations, modifications or
variations may be employed that are within the scope of the
invention. Accordingly, the drawings and description are
illustrative and not meant to be a limitation thereof.
[0101] All terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible
manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms
"comprises" and "comprising" should be interpreted as referring to
elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner,
indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may
be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements,
components, or steps that are not expressly referenced. Thus, it is
intended that the invention cover all embodiments and variations
thereof as long as such embodiments and variations come within the
scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.
* * * * *