Multi-Directional Dental Suction Mirror for Fog and Debris Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dental mirrors become fogged or non-reflective due to moisture and debris accumulation during dental procedures, requiring additional tools or hands for cleaning, which disrupts the procedure.
Innovation Solution
A disposable dental mirror holder with a thermoplastic polymer frame and integrated suction tube, featuring deformable posts and ribs to secure the mirror and create airflow channels, allowing for continuous suction and debris removal without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If a separate suction tube is used to clean debris from the mirror, then debris removal capability is improved, but device complexity and the need for additional hands increase
Solution Approach 1:
The suction tube is integrated directly into the mirror holder structure, merging the cleaning function with the viewing function. The suction tube extends through the mirror holder and positions itself within the reflective surface area, allowing debris removal without requiring a separate tool or additional hand.
Solution Approach 2:
The mirror holder is designed to perform multiple functions: it holds the mirror for viewing, provides integrated suction for debris removal, and includes a handle for manipulation. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate cleaning tools and reduces the number of hands required during the procedure.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If the mirror is frequently removed for cleaning, then reflective surface clarity is improved, but procedure continuity and time are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The suction tube enables the mirror to clean itself during the procedure. By positioning the suction opening within the reflective surface area, the system automatically removes fog and debris without requiring manual intervention or removal of the mirror, maintaining continuous viewing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated suction system allows continuous removal of fog and debris during the dental procedure without interrupting the workflow. The suction tube remains positioned within the reflective surface area throughout the procedure, enabling ongoing cleaning action that prevents accumulation rather than requiring periodic removal for cleaning.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If a cloth or water spray is used to clean the mirror, then reflective surface clarity is improved, but the number of additional tools and manual steps increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical cleaning methods of using cloths or water sprays are replaced with a pneumatic suction system. The suction tube uses airflow to remove fog and debris from the mirror surface, eliminating the need for manual cloths, water bottles, or spray mechanisms, thereby reducing the number of tools required.
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
Maintains a clear reflective surface by preventing fog and debris accumulation, reducing the need to remove the mirror from the patient's mouth for cleaning, and ensuring effective suction regardless of the mirror's angular position.
Implementation Method 1
The posts are then deformed using heat so that they bend over an edge of the mirror
Implementation Method 2
The reflective surface of a typical hand-held dental mirror becomes fogged due to moisture and heat in the patient's mouth
Data Source
AI summary
A disposable apparatus including: (a) a mirror holder including a floor with a raised circumferential edge having a height≥(Height of a support base+thickness of the mirror); (b) three or more deformable posts distributed around an inner side of said circumferential edge; (c) a plurality of said support bases, each of said bases adjacent to one of said posts on an inner side of the post; and (d) a suction tube with a mouth spanning a plane of a mirror positioned on said bases and a rear opening across said tube from said mouth. Related apparatus and methods are also disclosed.