Integrated Dental Camera Lens Alignment and Wireless Video Output
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current dental instruments with cameras are cumbersome and limit the user's ability to view the oral cavity effectively while using the tool, as the camera is typically separate and not aligned with the tool's line of sight, requiring users to alternate between using the tool and viewing the results.
Innovation Solution
A dental instrument camera apparatus integrated with a housing, a camera lens aligned with the tool's working tip, and a light source, allowing simultaneous use and wireless video output to devices like smartphones or tablets, enabling clear viewing and illumination during procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a camera is mounted on a dental instrument, then the user can view the oral cavity during procedures, but the camera lens and housing become bulky and limit the instrument's ability to fit within tight locations
Solution Approach 1:
The camera lens is nested within the distal end of the instrument shaft, with the lens positioned inside a recessed area that allows the housing to be compact. This nesting arrangement enables the camera components to be contained within the instrument's existing structure without adding significant external bulk, allowing the instrument to maintain its slenderness while providing viewing capability.
2Ease of operation
If the camera is placed at the location of the tool tip, then the user can view the worked region, but the perspective becomes too close to adequately view the work being performed
Solution Approach 1:
The camera lens is positioned at an angle relative to the instrument shaft axis, creating a multi-dimensional viewing perspective. Specifically, the lens is oriented at approximately 45 degrees to the shaft axis, which allows the camera to capture the work area from an optimized angle that provides adequate viewing perspective while maintaining proximity to the working tip.
3Measurement precision
If separate cameras and instruments are used, then the camera can be optimized for imaging, but the user must manipulate both the camera and instrument, making alignment difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system is merged with the dental instrument into a single integrated unit. The camera lens, housing, and illumination components are combined with the instrument shaft into one cohesive assembly that functions as a single manipulable unit, eliminating the need to separately handle both camera and instrument while maintaining imaging quality.
4Illumination intensity
If sufficient light is allowed to shine into the oral cavity for viewing, then the oral cavity becomes more visible, but the light source adds complexity and bulk to the instrument
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a bulky external light source, the patent employs LED illumination elements that are compact and can be integrated directly into the instrument housing near the camera lens. These LED copies of traditional light sources provide sufficient illumination for the oral cavity while maintaining a compact form factor and minimizing added complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates easy and effective viewing of the oral cavity during dental procedures, allowing users to maintain a clear perspective of the tool's operation and providing real-time video feedback, enhancing precision and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing cameras to see within oral cavities
Implementation Method 2
focused light sources, such as via strategically placed lamps or the like may be utilized to shine light into an oral cavity
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to dental instruments having video capabilities. Specifically, the present invention relates to a dental instrument having a video camera for viewing a user's or patient's mouth when utilizing the dental instrument. More specifically, the dental instrument provides video output to a wireless device, such as a smart phone, tablet computer or other like computer. Methods of using the same are further provided.