Dental Adapter for Incompatible Handpiece Geometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dental hygiene devices often require downtime for sterilization and are limited by incompatible geometries between dental prophylaxis angles (DPAs) and handpieces, leading to reduced modularity and increased need for multiple handpieces.
Innovation Solution
A dental device adapter system that allows connection of multiple DPAs and handpieces with different geometries using interchangeable adapters, enabling use of incompatible devices with a single handpiece or DPA, and includes features for secure engagement and easy sterilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dental handpieces with different geometries are used to accommodate different DPAs, then compatibility between DPAs and handpieces is improved, but device complexity and the number of components required increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces adapter components as intermediaries between the DPA and handpiece. These adapters have complementary geometries that bridge incompatible interfaces, allowing a DPA with one geometry to connect to a handpiece with a different geometry through the adapter medium, thereby achieving compatibility without requiring multiple handpieces.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter system creates a universal interface solution where a single adapter can enable compatibility across multiple DPA and handpiece geometry combinations. The adapter serves multiple functions: connecting incompatible geometries, maintaining mechanical coupling, and enabling torque transmission across different interface types.
2Reliability
If dental hygiene devices are sterilized frequently to maintain hygiene standards, then infection control is improved, but downtime for sterilization increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the dental hygiene device into sterilizable components (adapter and DPA) and non-sterilizable components (handpiece). The adapter and DPA can be detached as a separate assembly for sterilization, allowing the handpiece to remain in use or be sterilized less frequently, thereby reducing overall downtime while maintaining infection control standards.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter is designed with features that facilitate quick preparation for sterilization, such as easy detachment mechanisms and pre-positioned sterilization indicators. The system allows for preliminary separation of sterilizable components before the sterilization cycle begins, streamlining the process and minimizing disruption to clinical workflow.
3Reliability
If adapters with complex engagement features are used to ensure secure connection, then connection reliability is improved, but ease of operation and quick attachment/detachment deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter employs asymmetric engagement features including cam-actuated locking mechanisms and bayonet-style connectors. These asymmetric geometries provide inherent mechanical advantage, allowing secure locking with a single rotational or pressing motion while preventing accidental disengagement. The asymmetric design enables reliable connection through simple, intuitive user actions.
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided is a dental handpiece adapter connection system, dental handpiece adapter connection method, and a dental handpiece adapter. The dental handpiece adapter includes a first portion configured to engage a dental device having a first geometry and a second portion configured to engage a dental handpiece having a second geometry. The first portion being engaged with the adapter and the second portion being engaged with the adapter permits the dental handpiece to rotate a rotatable portion of the dental device.