Interchangeable Dental Spatula Tips With Adjustable Gear Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dental tools require multiple devices due to fixed angles and lack of versatility, leading to space occupation, high investment costs, and difficulty in performing dental procedures.
Innovation Solution
A spatula with interchangeable tips and adjustable angles using a gear-shaped joint and spring mechanism for secure attachment, allowing various tools to be used on a single rod.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a ball joint is used for connection between tip and rod, then the instrument can be assembled, but the connection is not rigid and allows movement during use
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into separate components: a gear-shaped joint with external teeth on the tip and a corresponding gear structure on the rod, allowing independent assembly and secure engagement without requiring a ball joint
Solution Approach 2:
A spring mechanism acts as an intermediary element between the gear-shaped joint and the rod, providing both secure fixation and the ability to accommodate angular adjustments while maintaining rigidity during use
2Reliability
If a screw is used to secure the joint, then rigidity is achieved, but the tip becomes difficult to change and maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into separate components: a gear-shaped joint with external teeth on the tip and a corresponding gear structure on the rod, allowing independent assembly and secure engagement without requiring a ball joint
Solution Approach 2:
A spring mechanism acts as an intermediary element between the gear-shaped joint and the rod, providing both secure fixation and the ability to accommodate angular adjustments while maintaining rigidity during use
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different tools are used for different dental procedures, then all dental needs are met, but space and investment cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The rod is designed with a universal gear-shaped joint interface that can accept multiple different tip configurations (wax ladle, scalpel, brush, odontoscope, explorer probe), allowing a single rod to perform multiple dental functions
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism enables dynamic adjustment of the tip angle while maintaining secure connection, allowing the same rod-tip assembly to adapt to different angular requirements of various dental procedures
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
Provides rigidity, ease of tip replacement, and increased versatility by enabling multiple tool functions on a single spatula, reducing space requirements and costs.
Implementation Method 1
The joint is fixed by means of a spring that contracts the gear
Data Source
AI summary
The spatula with an interchangeable tip and adjustable angle of the invention comprises a rod (2) for fitting the tips (3), which are dental tools, fittings for scalpels, brushes, or similar items, by means of a joint (3-A) in a cylindrical shape with external teeth that are coupled to the housing (2-B-3) of the trigger (2-B), which allows the tip (3) to be angled, and is pressed by a spring (4), when extended, against the tip (2-D) securing the tip (3). The change in tools is carried out by activating the triggers (2-B), which compresses the springs (4), releasing the joints (3-A), and allowing the tips (3) to be changed.