Portable Light Output Measurement for Dental Curing Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dental resin restorations often fail due to inadequate polymerization, leading to secondary caries, marginal defects, and increased wear, while current light measurement instruments are not portable and costly.
Innovation Solution
A system using a light collector, non-spectral light detector, and computer programmed with a neural network to measure and adjust light source output power without spectral data, enabling precise control of curing times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If typical instruments for measuring light output power are used, then measurement accuracy is achieved, but portability is lost and operating costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential measurement function from complex traditional instruments by using a simplified detector that measures only the total power of light sources without requiring spectral data. This extraction of the core measurement capability enables portability while maintaining accuracy for the specific application of measuring dental curing lights and similar sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs a cost-effective detector design that does not require expensive spectral analysis components. By using a simpler detector that only needs to measure total power output, the system achieves portability and lower operating costs while still providing accurate measurements for light curing applications.
2Reliability
If insufficient light energy is delivered to resin restoration, then polymerization is incomplete causing restoration failure, but excessive light energy causes temperature increase in tooth and surrounding tissues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the light output power is measured and used to control the curing process. By providing real-time measurement of light power, the system enables precise control of exposure time and energy delivery, ensuring complete polymerization while preventing excessive heat generation in the tooth and surrounding tissues.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention enables dynamic adjustment of curing parameters based on measured light output power. By changing the exposure time parameter in response to measured power levels, the system achieves optimal polymerization while maintaining safe temperature levels, resolving the contradiction between complete curing and heat prevention.
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
The system allows for accurate and portable measurement of light source output power, reducing the risk of resin restoration failure by ensuring proper curing, thus enhancing dental restoration quality and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a light detector to provide a signal from light collected by the light collector
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention provides a system and related equipment for the precise measurement of the output characteristic of a light source, e.g., a dental light curing unit (LCU) or light for photodynamic therapy, using a light collector, a light detector, and a computer programmed to deliver the value of the output characteristic of the light source to the user. The systems allow for the determination of a proper exposure time or the selection of a light source as needed for a specific application.