Universal Radiation Sensor Holder with Ring Guide Adapter

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Solution Overview

Problem

Dental professionals face inefficiencies in switching between different sensor holders and bite blocks for various dental radiation sensing devices, leading to time-consuming adjustments and improper alignment during x-ray procedures.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising a holder with retention guides and a ring guide adapter that allows for versatile positioning and alignment of radiation sensing devices with a rod and ring guide combination, enabling use with multiple types of radiation sensing devices and positions within the mouth.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If multiple sensor holders are used for different sensing devices, then each sensing device can be properly positioned, but the time required to change between holders increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning accuracyVSAvoidtime to change holders
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The rod and ring guide combination is designed to be universally compatible with multiple types of sensor holders through standardized engagement features. The ring guide can accommodate different holder configurations while maintaining precise positioning, eliminating the need for multiple specialized holders for different sensing devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If multiple sensor holders are used for different areas of the mouth, then proper alignment is achieved, but the complexity of managing multiple holders increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment accuracyVSAvoidnumber of holders
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The rod and ring guide system serves multiple functions: it provides alignment guidance, supports different holder types, and accommodates various sensing device configurations. This multi-functional design reduces the number of separate devices needed while maintaining alignment precision across different oral regions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of manufacture

If standardized holder dimensions are used, then manufacturing is simplified, but the ability to accommodate different sensing device sizes is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveholder productionVSAvoiddevice compatibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The holder system is segmented into modular components: the basic holder body with standardized manufacturing features, and interchangeable ring guides that provide adaptability. This segmentation allows the main holder to be manufactured simply while the removable ring guides provide customization for different device sizes and configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Reliability

If multiple bite blocks and holders are maintained, then each sensing device has its optimal holder, but inventory management and selection time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice-holder matchVSAvoidholder selection
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The rod and ring guide combination creates a universal interface that works with multiple holder types and sensing devices. This universality maintains reliable device-holder matching while eliminating the need for dental professionals to manage extensive inventories of specialized holders and bite blocks for different device types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS9354506B2Radiation sensing device and holder
Publication Date: 2016.05.31 SCHMULENSON HAROLD K
  • US9354506B2 patent drawing
  • US9354506B2 patent drawing
  • US9354506B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for holding and aligning a radiation sensing device is described. The system includes a radiation sensing device having a sensor engagement member. The system also includes a holder having a retention member including first and second retention guides connected with opposing ends of a back plate. The first retention guide also includes a complementary holder engagement member configured to mate with the sensor engagement member at a preset position.