Rotatable Torso Dental Simulator Space Optimization
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current dental simulators lack the versatility and space efficiency needed for effective preclinical training, as they often require dedicated spaces and do not fully replicate the clinical environment.
Innovation Solution
A bench-mounted dental simulator system that incorporates a continental delivery system, a fully pivoting and adjustable torso, and the ability to be stored under a workstation, allowing for ambidextrous use and efficient use of space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a dental simulator is designed to provide a realistic clinical setting with adjustable positioning, then the training realism and versatility are improved, but the space required and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The simulator employs dynamic positioning mechanisms including a rotatable torso assembly that can pivot between stored and operational positions, and an adjustable head assembly with multiple degrees of freedom. These dynamic elements allow the same device to transition between compact storage and full clinical simulation mode, resolving the contradiction between training realism and space requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The design utilizes vertical space by positioning the torso assembly on a rotatable platform that can be stored in a vertical orientation against the workstation. This dimensional transformation allows the simulator to occupy minimal floor space when not in use while providing full three-dimensional positioning capability during training
2Adaptability or versatility
If a dental simulator is designed with a rotatable torso and adjustable head for 180-degree access, then the operational versatility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The torso assembly is segmented into distinct rotatable components including a torso platform, head assembly, and positioning mechanisms. This segmentation allows each component to be independently adjusted and positioned, enabling 180-degree access and various operational configurations while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable torso and adjustable head assembly serve multiple functions: they enable 180-degree access for ambidextrous operation, allow positioning for various dental procedures, and facilitate storage in a compact configuration. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by making the complexity worthwhile through enhanced operational versatility
3Area of stationary object
If the simulator is designed to be stored under the workstation when not in use, then space efficiency is improved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The torso assembly incorporates a rotatable platform with easy-to-actuate positioning mechanisms that allow students to transition between stored and operational positions with minimal effort. The dynamic design enables smooth rotation and locking at various angles, maintaining ease of operation while achieving compact storage
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus to support dental simulation, the apparatus including a torso to support a dental simulation manikin, an arm rotatably coupled to the torso, the torso rotatable along a first axis with respect to the arm, and a connector base to rotatably couple the arm to a hub portion, the connector base rotatable along a second axis, the second axis different than the first axis.