Circumferential Matrix System with Integrated Spindle Tensioner

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing circumferential matrix band systems in dentistry require tensioners that need to be removed or left in place, restricting the restoration procedure due to their presence.

Innovation Solution

A compact circumferential matrix system with a matrix band permanently affixed to a spindle and housing, allowing for tightening, loosening, and tactile feedback without the need for external tensioning devices, featuring a handle, housing, and base design that fits anatomically between teeth.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If external tensioning devices are used to tighten the matrix band, then the matrix band can be securely held in place, but the restoration procedure is restricted by the presence of the tensioning device

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvematrix band retentionVSAvoidrestoration procedure freedom

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the matrix band with an integrated tensioning mechanism into a single unified device. The matrix band is permanently affixed to a spindle that can be rotated to tighten the band, eliminating the need for separate external tensioning devices. This merging allows the practitioner to tighten and loosen the matrix band directly as needed during the restoration procedure without being restricted by external devices.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The matrix band system is designed to be self-contained with the tensioning capability built into the band itself through the integrated spindle mechanism. The practitioner can independently tighten and loosen the band without requiring separate tensioning tools, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating restrictions on the restoration procedure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If a compact matrix system is designed to fit within the mouth, then ease of use is improved, but the mechanism for tightening and loosening becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccessibility within mouthVSAvoidintegrated tightening mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The compact matrix system is divided into distinct functional segments: the matrix band itself, the spindle for tightening, the housing for containment, and the base for stability. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall compactness for oral accessibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The spindle is housed within a compact housing that is contained within the base structure, creating a nested arrangement. This nesting allows the tightening mechanism to be compact enough to fit within the mouth while still providing the necessary mechanical functionality for tightening and loosening the matrix band.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS12193904B2Circumferential matrix system

Publication Date: 2025.01.14 DENTSPLY SIRONA INC

AI summary

A circumferential matrix system having a matrix band and a body, such that the body comprises a handle, a housing and a base, and a spindle within the body is attached to the handle. The matrix band on one end is permanently affixed to the spindle and the matrix band on another end is permanently affixed to an inside wall of the housing. The circumferential matrix system can be tightened around a tooth without the need or use of a retaining ring.