Collapsible Cheek Retractor Frame for One-Handed Oral Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cheek retraction devices are difficult to insert and remove, often requiring both hands, cause patient discomfort, and can activate the gag reflex, while providing inadequate access to the oral cavity.
Innovation Solution
A selectively collapsible and expandable frame with v-shaped hinges and posteriorly flared design that facilitates one-handed insertion and maintains position within the oral cavity, featuring lip protectors and a removable tongue guard for enhanced comfort and access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the device is made with a structure that provides stability and retraction capability, then it can effectively bear against and retract soft oral tissue, but it becomes difficult to insert and remove, often requiring both hands
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into an upper frame element and a lower frame element that can be folded relative to each other about a transverse axis. This segmentation allows the device to be collapsed into a compact configuration for easy one-handed insertion and removal, while maintaining the full retraction capability when expanded during use
Solution Approach 2:
The frame incorporates a folding mechanism with v-shaped hinges that enables dynamic transition between expanded and collapsed states. This dynamic structure allows the device to adapt its form factor based on operational needs - compact during insertion/removal and expanded during the dental procedure
2Reliability
If the device has a structure that provides stability in the oral cavity, then it can maintain position during procedures, but it tends to be pushed out rather than maintained in place
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs asymmetric dimensions where the posterior width between the v-shaped hinges is greater than the anterior width. This asymmetric geometry creates a wedge effect that generates engaging forces against the oral tissues, causing the device to pull itself into the oral cavity and maintain retention during use
3Ease of operation
If the device is designed for easy insertion and removal, then it can be inserted with one hand, but it may be difficult to maintain stability and provide adequate retraction
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented frame design with upper and lower elements connected by v-shaped hinges enables the device to be collapsed for easy one-handed insertion while maintaining full retraction capability when expanded. The segmentation allows independent optimization of insertion ease and retraction stability
Solution Approach 2:
The device is pre-configured in a collapsed state for insertion, then transitions to an expanded state once positioned. This preliminary action sequence ensures easy insertion followed by stable retraction without compromising either function
Data Source
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AI summary
A cheek retraction device comprising a frame having anterior and posterior portions for insertion into an oral cavity, which is selectively collapsible and expandable so as to be in a collapsed configuration and in an expanded configuration while positioned in the oral cavity in order to bear against and retract soft oral tissue so as to isolate one or more teeth from the soft oral tissue and create an enlarged working field, the device comprising an upper frame element and a lower frame element, the upper and lower frame elements comprising flexible left and right frame portions joined together in the posterior portion of the frame on left and right sides; and the upper and lower frame elements comprising an anterior width defined by a portion that is generally horizontal before bending in a posterior direction toward the flexible left and right frame portions.