Lateral Canal Detection Using Model Data Comparison
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting the position and opening direction of lateral canals in dentistry face inaccuracies due to variations in measurement signals within the root canal, leading to errors in distance display and difficulty in rotating the measurement electrode for precise detection.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that compare measured signals with pre-stored model tooth data to accurately determine the lateral canal position and opening direction, using a conductive metal electrode with an insulating film to expose the metal portion in the long axis direction, allowing for precise rotation and signal measurement within the root canal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a measurement electrode is inserted into a root canal to detect lateral canal position, then the lateral canal position can be detected, but the measurement signal varies within the root canal causing errors in distance display
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement electrode is divided into multiple segments along its length, with each segment capable of independent measurement. This allows the system to detect signal variations at different positions within the root canal and identify the lateral canal position more accurately despite overall signal variability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors measurement signals during electrode insertion and uses feedback to identify when the lateral canal is detected. The feedback mechanism compares signal characteristics against stored model data to confirm position detection accuracy and adjust measurement parameters in real-time.
2Measurement precision
If the measurement electrode is rotated to detect opening direction, then the opening direction can be determined, but the electrode is difficult to rotate precisely for accurate detection
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode incorporates a rotation mechanism that enables dynamic adjustment of the electrode orientation. The rotation capability allows the electrode to be precisely oriented in different directions while maintaining stable contact with the root canal walls, facilitating accurate opening direction detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual rotation operation is replaced with an automated rotation mechanism that precisely controls electrode orientation. This mechanical substitution eliminates the difficulty of manual rotation while maintaining the ability to detect opening direction through signal analysis during rotation.
3Measurement precision
If multiple measurement signals are applied to improve detection accuracy, then the lateral canal position can be detected more accurately, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement electrode is designed to perform multiple functions: it can detect lateral canal position, determine opening direction, and identify root apex position using the same basic electrode structure. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized electrodes and simplifies the overall device while maintaining high measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system varies measurement parameters such as signal frequency and amplitude to optimize detection at different stages of electrode insertion. By changing parameters rather than adding complex hardware, the system achieves accurate detection of multiple features including lateral canal position and opening direction.
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
This approach enables more accurate detection of lateral canal positions and opening directions, reducing errors and improving the precision of distance displays during dental treatments.
Implementation Method 1
a measurement signal is applied between the measurement electrode and the buccal cavity electrode
Data Source
AI summary
A method comprising: comparing each value of measured signals with a plurality of model tooth position measurement data groups, and storing the measured signal values and an indication value at the time when a fluctuation of the indication value which indicates a distance from a root apex position to a distal end of an electrode for position detection shows an apex in a convex shape, the indication value being indicated by a model tooth position measurement data group in a predetermined relationship; and comparing second-time measured signal values and an indication value with the stored first-time measured signal values and the stored indication value, respectively, if at least two of them correspond or fall within a predetermined error range, stopping the electrode and measuring a position of the distal end of the electrode.