Universal Endodontic Instrument with Anti-Slip Handle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Endodontic instruments lack versatility, as they are typically designed for either manual use or automated rotation, limiting their applicability and increasing the risk of thumb and finger slippage during procedures, which can lead to irreparable damage.
Innovation Solution
A universal endodontic instrument with a tapered elongate shaft, a handle featuring a projection to prevent slippage, and a movable stop, allowing for both manual and automated use with a dental rotation device, and capable of being used as a file, reamer, or broach.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If endodontic instruments are designed for manual use only, then the dentist has tactile feedback and control, but the procedure is time-consuming and less efficient
Solution Approach 1:
The endodontic instrument is designed with a universal handle that can function in both manual and automated rotation device contexts. The handle includes a projection that provides tactile feedback during manual use while also being compatible with automated rotation devices, allowing the same instrument to serve dual purposes without sacrificing the benefits of either method
2Productivity
If endodontic instruments are designed for automated rotation device use only, then the procedure is more efficient, but the dentist loses tactile feedback and ability to perform detailed portions
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument design allows seamless interchange between automated and manual operation. The projection on the handle provides tactile feedback when used manually, while the same handle interface accommodates automated rotation devices, eliminating the need to switch between different instrument sets
3Adaptability or versatility
If dentists use duplicative instrument sets for manual and automated use, then each instrument can be optimized for its specific use, but the complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single set of endodontic instruments is designed to be universally compatible with both manual and automated rotation devices. The handle includes a projection that serves both as a tactile feedback element during manual use and as an interface feature for automated device attachment, eliminating the need for separate instrument sets
Solution Approach 2:
The handle design incorporates a movable projection that can adapt to different operational modes. The projection can provide tactile feedback during manual manipulation while also accommodating the mechanical interface requirements of automated rotation devices, allowing dynamic adaptation to different usage scenarios
4Ease of operation
If the handle of endodontic instruments has no barrier, then the instrument is easier to grip, but the dentist's thumb and/or finger(s) can slip onto the shaft causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The projection on the handle creates a physical barrier that prevents the dentist's fingers from slipping onto the shaft before slippage can occur. This preliminary protective structure blocks the harmful action of finger slippage while maintaining the ease of gripping the handle portion
Solution Approach 2:
The projection acts as a protective barrier positioned beforehand to prevent finger slippage onto the shaft. This structural element provides a safety cushion that stops potential harmful movement before it can cause damage to the dentist's fingers or the patient
Data Source
AI summary
A method and instrument for removing material from an internal portion of a tooth wherein the tool used to remove the material includes an elongate shaft extending from a first end to a second end; a cutting surface extending along a working portion of the elongate shaft; a handle attached to the first end of the elongate shaft, the handle including a first end and a second end; a projection attached to the elongate shaft and extending around a portion of the perimeter of the shaft substantially adjacent to the first end of the handle, wherein the projection provides a barrier to prevent a user's fingers from moving beyond the handle directly onto the elongate shaft.