Elastic Dental Sensor Holder with Adjustable Hook and Loop Bond
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dental sensor holders are uncomfortable for patients, difficult to install and remove, and may damage sensors due to inadequate security during x-ray imaging, especially when dealing with reusable digital sensors that require sterile sheaths to prevent cross-contamination.
Innovation Solution
A dental sensor holder made from a pliable, longitudinally elastic material with a permanent bond and an adjustable 'hook and loop' fastener system that forms a loop, allowing for secure positioning and easy removal of the sensor without damaging the data cable, accommodating various sensor sizes and ensuring patient comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional holder is applied loosely to facilitate removal, then ease of operation is improved, but the sensor security during x-ray imaging deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The holder employs a dynamic fastening system with an adjustable bond that transitions between engaged and disengaged states. During imaging, the bond is engaged to securely hold the sensor, while during removal, the bond can be easily disengaged by pulling on the data cable, providing both security during use and ease of removal when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder is divided into distinct functional segments: a secure loop portion that wraps around the sensor, an adjustable bond portion with attachment surfaces for securing, and a data cable attachment portion. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function independently, with the bond portion providing adjustable security while the loop provides structural support.
2Reliability
If a tight wrap is used to secure the sensor, then sensor security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable bond creates a dynamic security system that can be engaged tightly during imaging to secure the sensor, then easily disengaged during removal. The bond's ability to transition between engaged and disengaged states resolves the contradiction between tight security and ease of removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable bond acts as an intermediary mechanism between the holder loop and the sensor. It provides the necessary security when engaged but can be easily released when needed, mediating between the conflicting requirements of tight security and ease of removal.
3Reliability
If adhesives are used to bond the holder to the sensor, then sensor security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces adhesive bonding with a mechanical adjustable bond system featuring attachment surfaces. This mechanical system provides secure bonding when engaged but allows for easy removal without the complexity of adhesive application, curing, and removal processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable bond system is self-servicing in that it provides automatic security when engaged and can be easily released by pulling on the data cable. It eliminates the need for complex adhesive application procedures while maintaining secure bonding during imaging.
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
The holder provides a secure, comfortable, and easy-to-use solution for dental imaging, preventing sensor damage and ensuring proper hygiene by allowing for gentle yet firm support of the sensor during imaging and easy removal without stressing the data cable.
Implementation Method 1
a pliable, longitudinally elastic material
Implementation Method 2
an adjustable bond portion on the inside of the loop which may selectively be engaged to join adjacent portions of the loop into a functional bitewing
Data Source
AI summary
A dental sensor holder including a loop of material and an adjustable bond. The adjustable bond portion is located on the inside of the loop which may selectively be engaged to join adjacent portions of the loop into a functional bitewing.