Pivoting Dental Manikin for Four-Hand Simulation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing didactic dentistry apparatuses limit the ability to perform simulations with four hands due to the positioning of the simulation manikin, which also restricts the use of the space as a writing or studying desk, and lack precise and repeatable positioning options, leading to compromised user freedom and increased risk of equipment damage.

Innovation Solution

A base structure with a pivoting simulation manikin positioned centrally, allowing rotation between operating and inactive positions, and incorporating a housing seating to accommodate the manikin within the supporting plane, along with a brushless motor for precise positioning and protection, enabling comfortable use with four hands and protection from accidental knocks.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the manikin is positioned in a lateral zone of the table top, then the user can use the table for writing and reading, but the ability to perform simulations with four hands is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveuse as desk for writing and readingVSAvoidsimulation with four hands

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The manikin is made movable through a pivoting mechanism that allows it to rotate between a lateral operating position (for two-hand simulations) and a central stored position (for four-hand simulations and desk use). This dynamic repositioning enables the system to adapt to different operational modes, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation as a desk and adaptability for various simulation types.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Volume of moving object

If the manikin is positioned in a lateral zone, then space under the table can be used for legs, but the freedom of movement for four-hand simulations is restricted

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespace under table for legsVSAvoidfreedom of movement for four-hand simulations

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The pivoting mechanism allows the manikin to dynamically reposition from a lateral zone (preserving leg space) to a central position (enabling four-hand simulations). This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to adapt its configuration based on the simulation requirements, providing both leg space and freedom of movement when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If a mechanical joint is used to position the manikin, then the manikin can move between positions, but the positioning is constrained to predefined angles and lacks precision

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemanikin movement between positionsVSAvoidpositioning accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The mechanical joint system is replaced with an electric motor-driven pivoting mechanism. This substitution enables precise and repeatable positioning of the manikin at various angles, overcoming the limitations of predefined mechanical joint angles while maintaining ease of movement between positions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Ease of operation

If the manikin remains visible below the table top in inactive position, then it is accessible, but it is subject to accidental knocks

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccessibility of manikinVSAvoidaccidental knocks

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The manikin is nested within a housing structure located in the central zone of the table top when in the inactive position. This nesting provides physical protection against accidental knocks while keeping the manikin accessible and visible. The housing acts as a protective enclosure that can be opened when the manikin needs to be accessed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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

Enables reliable simulation with four hands and protects the manikin when not in use, allowing for free movement and use of the space as a desk without compromising functionality, while ensuring precise and repeatable positioning.

Implementation Method 1

incorporating a brushless motor for precise positioning and protection

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectBrushless motor: Electromagnetic Propulsion

Implementation Method 2

pivoted to the supporting plane so as to be able to rotate with respect to the latter at least between a first operating position and a second inactive position

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPivoting: Hinge

Data Source

PatentUS8651872B2Apparatus for didactic dentistry operations

Publication Date: 2014.02.18 SARATOGA

AI summary

An apparatus for didactic dentistry operations comprising a base structure conformed so as to define a supporting plane raised from the floor, and a dentistry simulation apparatus pivoted to the supporting plane, so as to be able to rotate with respect to the latter between a first operating position, in which the simulation apparatus extends laterally from the bulk of the supporting plane, and a second inactive position in which the simulation apparatus is substantially comprised in the bulk of the supporting plane. The simulation apparatus is pivoted to the supporting plane in correspondence with a median zone of the latter. The supporting plane comprises a housing seating which at least partly accommodates the simulation apparatus in the inactive position thereof.