Dental Unit Programmable Functions Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern dental units with advanced functions have complex user interfaces that can lead to errors and increased complexity, making them difficult to use safely and flexibly during treatment operations.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a configuration function that allows users to customize programmed functions, including adding, removing, and combining control operations, and defining parameters, which can be accessed through a graphical user interface using foot controls or touch screens, enabling personalized settings for specific treatment procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If diverse and advanced functions are added to the dental unit, then the versatility and capability of the device is improved, but the user interface complexity increases making it more difficult to use safely
Solution Approach 1:
The control operations are segmented into individually selectable components that can be independently configured. Each control operation (e.g., chair position, light intensity, instrument settings) can be separately enabled or disabled within programmed functions, allowing the user interface to present only relevant controls for each specific treatment scenario rather than all possible functions simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The user interface dynamically adapts its complexity based on the selected programmed function. When a dentist selects a specific treatment protocol, the interface automatically configures itself to show only the control operations relevant to that protocol, reducing visual clutter and cognitive load while maintaining access to all advanced functions when needed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If diverse and advanced functions are added to the dental unit, then the versatility of operations is improved, but the likelihood of user errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
Control operations are pre-configured into programmed functions that define safe and correct sequences of operations for specific treatment scenarios. These pre-programmed sequences have already been validated for safety and correctness, eliminating the need for dentists to manually configure complex multi-step procedures and reducing the risk of configuration errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback mechanisms that monitor and verify the correct execution of control operations within programmed functions. The interface can confirm when operations are completed correctly, alert to potential errors, and provide guidance for proper usage, thereby reducing the likelihood of user errors even when advanced functions are available.
3Ease of operation
If manual adjustments and simple controls are used, then the user interface is clear and easy to understand, but the capability to perform versatile operations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The programmed functions serve as universal templates that can be applied to different treatment scenarios by selecting and configuring appropriate control operations within each function. A single programmed function structure can accommodate multiple treatment types by dynamically enabling/disabling relevant controls, maintaining interface simplicity while providing access to diverse operational capabilities.
Data Source
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AI summary
Dental unit, which comprises at least one connection for at least one ancillary device, a drive-power and feed system for providing drive power or feed to said at least one ancillary device, and a control system for controlling the drive-power and feed system as well as the at least one ancillary device. For its part, the control system comprises at least one programmed function, which includes at least one predefined control operation directed to at least one ancillary device. In addition, at least one trigger is defined for each programmed function within the control system, in response to which said programmed function is performed. According to the invention, the dental unit comprises configuration means, which are arranged to receive control commands from the user in order to configure at least one programmed function and to configure said at least one programmed function according to control commands received from the user.