U.S. patent application number 10/278223 was filed with the patent office on 2004-04-22 for interlocking syringe rack segments and syringe rack systems incorporating said segments.
Invention is credited to Fischer, Dan E..
Application Number | 20040074795 10/278223 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32093394 |
Filed Date | 2004-04-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040074795 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Fischer, Dan E. |
April 22, 2004 |
Interlocking syringe rack segments and syringe rack systems
incorporating said segments
Abstract
An assembled rack is provided for holding a set of syringes. The
syringes may be conventional syringes or unique syringes that have
a hollow elongated barrel engaged by a plunger with unique relative
lengths. The assembled rack is made by interlocking smaller rack
segments to create an assembled rack of any desired length. The
assembled rack is configured to rest on a flat surface and hold the
syringes so that the syringes are horizontal relative to the flat
surface for easy viewing. The assembled rack has a series of
cradles adapted to hold the barrels of syringes. To optionally
stack one assembled rack on another assembled rack, the racks may
have stacking prongs extending therefrom and corresponding
recesses.
Inventors: |
Fischer, Dan E.; (Sandy,
UT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Rick D. Nydegger
WORKMAN, NYDEGGER & SEELEY
1000 Eagle Gate Tower
60 East South Temple
Salt Lake City
UT
84111
US
|
Family ID: |
32093394 |
Appl. No.: |
10/278223 |
Filed: |
October 21, 2002 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
206/366 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61C 19/02 20130101;
A61M 5/008 20130101; A61C 5/62 20170201 |
Class at
Publication: |
206/366 |
International
Class: |
B65D 083/10 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A syringe rack segment for use in assembling a syringe rack,
comprising: a rack segment body having a top, a bottom and opposing
sides, the bottom of the rack segment being adapted to rest on a
flat surface, the top of the rack segment comprising a plurality of
syringe cradles, each adapted to hold a syringe therein; attachment
means on at least one of the opposing sides of the rack segment
body for selectively interconnecting two or more of the rack
segment bodies side by side to yield an assembled rack comprising a
desired number of rack segment bodies.
2. A syringe rack segment as defined in claim 1, the rack segment
body comprising two syringe cradles.
3. A syringe rack segment as defined in claim 1, the rack segment
body comprising three syringe cradles.
4. A syringe rack segment as defined in claim 1, the rack segment
body comprising four or more syringe cradles.
5. A syringe rack segment as defined in claim 1, the attachment
means comprising one or more projections disposed on a first side
of the rack segment body.
6. A syringe rack segment as defined in claim 5, the attachment
means further comprising one or more recesses corresponding to the
one or more projections on an opposite side of the rack segment
body.
7. A syringe rack segment as defined in claim 6, the attachment
means comprising one or more projections and one or more
corresponding recesses on both sides of the rack segment body.
8. A syringe rack segment as defined in claim 1, each cradle
further comprising at least one locking extension that serves to
more securely retain a syringe within the cradle.
9. A syringe rack segment as defined in claim 1, further comprising
one or more stacking projections extending from the top of the rack
segment body and one or more corresponding recesses within the
bottom of the rack segment body that facilitate stacking of one
rack segment body over another.
10. A syringe rack segment as defined in claim 1, each cradle being
separate from an adjacent cradle by a spacing element disposed
therebetween.
11. A syringe rack segment for use in assembling a syringe rack,
comprising: a rack segment body having a top, a bottom and opposing
sides, the bottom of the rack segment being adapted to rest on a
flat surface, the top of the rack segment comprising a two or more
syringe cradles, each adapted to hold a syringe therein; at least
one projection on at least one of the opposing sides of the rack
segment body and at least one recess on at least other of the
opposing sides of the rack segment body that cooperate to permit
selective side by side interconnection of two or more of the rack
segment bodies.
12. A kit for use in assembling a syringe rack, the kit comprising
a plurality of syringe rack segments, each syringe rack segment
comprising: a rack segment body having a top, a bottom and opposing
sides, the bottom of the rack segment being adapted to rest on a
flat surface, the top of the rack segment comprising a plurality of
syringe cradles, each adapted to hold a syringe therein; attachment
means on at least one of the opposing sides of the rack segment
body for selectively interconnecting two or more of the rack
segment bodies side by side to yield an assembled rack comprising a
desired number of rack segment bodies.
13. A kit as defined in claim 12, at least one of the syringe rack
segments having two cradles and at least one other of the syringe
rack segments having three cradles.
14. A kit as defined in claim 16, further comprising at least one
additional syringe rack segment having one cradle.
15. A kit as defined in claim 12, at least one of the syringe rack
segments having at least four cradles.
16. A kit as defined in claim 12, the attachment means comprising
one or more projections disposed on a first side of the rack
segment body.
17. A kit as defined in claim 16, the attachment means further
comprising one or more recesses corresponding to the one or more
projections on an opposite side of the rack segment body.
18. A kit as defined in claim 12, further comprising one or more
stacking projections extending from the top of the rack segment
body and one or more corresponding recesses within the bottom of
the rack segment body that facilitate stacking of one rack segment
body over another.
19. A kit for use in assembling a syringe rack, the kit comprising
a plurality of syringe rack segments, each syringe rack segment
comprising: a rack segment body having a top, a bottom and opposing
sides, the bottom of the rack segment being adapted to rest on a
flat surface, the top of the rack segment comprising a plurality of
syringe cradles, each adapted to hold a syringe therein; at least
one projection on at least one of the opposing sides of the rack
segment body and at least one recess on at least other of the
opposing sides of the rack segment body that cooperate to permit
selective side by side interconnection of two or more of the rack
segment bodies.
20. A syringe rack system comprising at least one set of syringes
and at least one assembled syringe rack formed by assembling a
plurality of syringe rack segments side by side, each syringe rack
segment comprising: a rack segment body having a top, a bottom and
opposing sides, the bottom of the rack segment being adapted to
rest on a flat surface, the top of the rack segment comprising a
plurality of syringe cradles, each adapted to hold a syringe
therein; attachment means on at least one of the opposing sides of
the rack segment body for selectively interconnecting two or more
of the rack segment bodies side by side to yield the assembled
rack.
21. A syringe rack system as defined in claim 20, wherein each
syringe within the set of syringes comprises a hollow syringe
barrel with a chamber containing a composition and a plunger that
can be used to selectively advance the composition contained within
the barrel chamber.
22. A syringe rack system as recited in claim 21, wherein each
syringe contains from about 0.1 ml to about 0.7 ml of the
composition.
23. A syringe rack system as defined in claim 20, the assembled
syringe rack comprising at least one syringe rack segment having
two cradles and at least one syringe rack segment having three
cradles.
24. A syringe rack system as defined in claim 23, the assembled
syringe rack further comprising at least one additional syringe
rack segment having one cradle.
25. A syringe rack system as defined in claim 20, the assembled
syringe rack comprising at least one syringe rack segment having at
least four cradles.
26. A syringe rack system as defined in claim 20, the attachment
means comprising one or more projections disposed on a first side
of each rack segment body.
27. A syringe rack system as defined in claim 26, the attachment
means further comprising one or more recesses corresponding to the
one or more projections on an opposite side of each rack segment
body.
28. A syringe rack system as defined in claim 20, further
comprising one or more stacking projections extending from the top
of each rack segment body and one or more corresponding recesses
within the bottom of each rack segment body.
29. A syringe rack system as defined in claim 28, the syringe rack
system comprising a plurality of assembled syringe racks stacked
together.
30. A syringe rack system comprising at least one set of syringes
and at least one assembled syringe rack formed by assembling a
plurality of syringe rack segments side by side, each syringe rack
segment comprising: a rack segment body having a top, a bottom and
opposing sides, the bottom of the rack segment being adapted to
rest on a flat surface, the top of the rack segment comprising a
plurality of syringe cradles, each adapted to hold a syringe
therein; at least one projection on at least one of the opposing
sides of the rack segment body and at least one recess on at least
other of the opposing sides of the rack segment body that
interconnect two or more of the rack segment bodies side by side
within the assembled syringe rack.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. The Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to a system of syringes
arranged for performing a procedure, preferably in sequential
order. More particularly, the present invention is directed to a
system including a set of syringes and a rack configured to hold
and display the set of syringes. The rack systems comprise
segmented rack components that can be assembled as desired to form
a syringe rack of a desired size.
[0003] 2. The Relevant Technology
[0004] Many dental procedures require the delivery of multiple
compositions so several syringes are typically used. For example,
when restoring a carious tooth with a composite filling the
procedure may involve the use of a caries indicator, an etchant, a
primer or bonding agent, a bonding resin, and a polymerizable
composite. Such a procedure also typically involves the use of a
polishing agent and a sealant. Due to the many compositions that
are utilized in such procedures, there is a need for a system of
organizing the various delivery devices. More particularly, a
system is needed which reduces the time in between the steps of
applying the various compositions.
[0005] The delivery devices used in such procedures are typically
syringes. An example of a widely used conventional syringe is shown
in FIGS. 2A-2D at 100. Although such a syringe may be useful as a
delivery device in many procedures, particularly dental procedures,
some circumstances require the use of uniquely configured syringes.
For example, many dental procedures are optimally performed with
enhanced delivery control. Additionally, it is often preferable to
deliver very small amounts of a liquid from a syringe that is sized
so as to be disposed of after a single use. Accordingly, syringes
are also needed which enable small amounts to be delivered from
single use disposable syringes that enable a user to have a high
degree of control during delivery.
[0006] In conclusion, a system is needed for supporting a set of
syringes in an organized arrangement. The system needs to allow the
syringes to be easily fully viewed when held by a display and
holding device and to be easily removed and returned to the device.
In addition, it would be an improvement to provide a system that
can be configured as needed to support any desired number of
syringes. Such a system is needed for conventional syringes and
also for syringes designed for single use so that the entire system
is disposable.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The present invention relates to interconnecting syringe
rack segments, kits comprising such segments, and syringe rack
systems comprising one or more assembled syringe racks adapted for
holding a set of syringes. The syringes may be conventional
syringes or unique syringes that have a hollow elongated barrel
engaged by a plunger with unique relative lengths.
[0008] The assembled rack is configured to rest on a flat surface
and hold the syringes so that the syringes are horizontal relative
to the flat surface. For example, if a user has the rack resting on
a table the entire syringe can be easily viewed. More importantly,
the syringe barrel of each syringe can be seen and the printed
indicia can be easily read.
[0009] The assembled rack and the set of syringes held in the rack
may be used in various procedures; however, dental procedures are
particularly benefited by the use of the rack and the set of
syringes. Dental procedures such as procedures related to the
restoration of a tooth typically involve the use of several
different compositions that are sequentially delivered from
different syringes. The systems and methods disclosed herein are
very useful for such procedures as the syringes are held in a
manner that enables the practitioner to easily remove each syringe
from the rack and return each syringe to the rack in a sequential
manner such that the time in between the steps of applying the
various compositions is minimized.
[0010] The assembled rack has a series of cradles adapted to
holding the barrels of syringes. The cradles conform to the
configuration of the syringe barrels, which are typically round.
Each cradle has a slot configuration with an open top, two opposing
sides and a bottom surface. Since the cradle holds the syringe in
an open configuration the full length of the syringe barrel can be
seen, so that a user can quickly identify the contents of the
syringe based on indicia such as the printed material on the
barrel, the color of the barrel, the color of the plunger, etc.
[0011] Each cradle preferably has a locking extension that extends
from both sides of the cradle. The locking extensions are raised
portions that extend slightly beyond the surface of the sides to
provide a tight fit with the syringe barrel. This tight fit enables
the syringe barrels to be held in place as the rack is moved with
the set of syringes during transportation and use.
[0012] Each cradle is separated from an adjacent cradle by a
spacing element. The spacing elements have a width or thickness
that is at least about the same as or slightly greater than the
length of elements extending from the syringes. More particularly,
the grasping handle of each syringe is prevented from contacting
the syringe barrel of an adjacent syringe due to the length of the
spacing elements. Accordingly, syringes can be positioned close
together without diminishing the accessibility of the syringes.
[0013] The thickness between each bottom surface of each cradle and
the base surface of the rack is preferably about the same as or
greater than the length that each grasping handle extends from each
syringe barrel. This configuration prevents the syringes from being
pivoted out of the cradles when the rack is placed on a flat
surface. Also when several racks are stacked on each other, this
configuration prevents the grasping handles of the syringes in one
set from becoming encumbered by the grasping handles of the
syringes in the adjacent set.
[0014] To attach a rack segment to another rack segment, each rack
segment includes projections and corresponding recesses for
interlocking various rack segments together in an interlocking
segmented configuration. The projections for interlocking are
preferably at the opposing ends of the rack. When individual rack
segments are connected together, they form an assembled syringe
rack. Kits according to the invention include a plurality of rack
segments, preferably of varying sizes, that can be assembled to
yield a final rack having a desired number of syringe cradles in a
row. For example, a kit that comprises segments having either 2 or
3 cradles can be used to form a finished rack having 2 or more
syringe cradles as desired.
[0015] To optionally stack one rack on another, the rack segments
preferably have stacking prongs extending from the top of the rack
segments (e.g., extending from the spacing elements) and
corresponding recesses in the bottom of the rack segments.
Stackable rack systems are disclosed more particularly in U.S.
application Ser. No. 09/597,208, filed Jun. 20, 2000, which is
incorporated herein by reference. The optional prongs are
preferably at the opposing ends of the rack.
[0016] The syringes used with the rack may be conventional syringes
or syringes that are uniquely configured for delivery of small
amounts of a composition in a unidose or single application. The
chamber of the syringe barrel is preferably sized to hold just
enough composition for use in a single dental restorative
procedure. The small size of the syringe barrel enables less
plastic material to be used so that the syringes can be disposed of
after a single use.
[0017] In contrast to existing syringes which have chambers and
plungers with approximately the same lengths, the plunger may have
a length that is significantly longer than that of the chamber of
the barrel. The plunger preferably has a length that is at least
twice that of the chamber of the barrel. Accordingly, when the
plunger is fully advanced within the chamber a portion of the
plunger extends out of the chamber with a length that is preferably
at least equal to that of the chamber. The length of the plunger
relative to that of the chamber enables the syringe to be grasped
in a single position and then to be used to continuously deliver
the composition by advancing the plunger within the chamber until
the composition is expressed from the chamber. This is a
significant advantage as it eliminates the possibility of
accidentally moving the syringe due to altering one's grasp of the
syringe. It is typically necessary to regrasp existing syringes as
the plunger is depressed within the barrel. Not only is it
unnecessary to regrasp the syringe during the depression of the
plunger into the chamber, the configuration of the syringe also
enables a user to exert less effort in delivering the composition.
Further, the configuration enables a user to exert essentially the
same amount of effort throughout the depression of the plunger
within the chamber of the barrel, thereby avoiding the possibility
of suddenly varying the delivery rate.
[0018] These and other features of the present invention will
become more fully apparent from the following description and
appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention
as set forth hereinafter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] To further clarify the above and other advantages and
features of the present invention, a more particular description of
the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments
thereof which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is
appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of
the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of
its scope. The invention will be described and explained with
additional specificity and detail through the use of the
accompanying drawings in which:
[0020] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an assembled segmented
interlocking rack according to the invention holding a set of
syringes therein;
[0021] FIG. 1B is a bottom view of assembled segmented interlocking
rack shown in FIG. 1A;
[0022] FIG. 1C is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the
assembled segmented interlocking rack shown in FIG. 1A;
[0023] FIG. 1D is a perspective view of a plurality of assembled
segmented interlocking racks shown in FIG. 1A that have been
vertically stacked together;
[0024] FIG. 1E is an exploded view of the segmented interlocking
rack shown in R, FIGS. 1A and 1C;
[0025] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a conventional syringe;
[0026] FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of the syringe shown in
FIG. 2A;
[0027] FIG. 2C is a perspective view of the syringe shown in FIG.
2A loaded with a composition and with the plunger positioned to
initially express the composition from the syringe;
[0028] FIG. 2D is a perspective view of the syringe shown in FIG.
2A after the plunger has been fully depressed to express all of the
composition from the syringe;
[0029] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a unit dose syringe;
[0030] FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the syringe shown in
FIG. 3A;
[0031] FIG. 3C is a perspective view of the syringe shown in FIG.
3A loaded with a composition and with the plunger positioned to
initially express the composition from the syringe;
[0032] FIG. 3D is a perspective view of the syringe shown in FIG.
3A after the plunger has been fully depressed to express all of the
composition from the syringe;
[0033] FIG. 4 is a side view of another embodiment of an inventive
syringe;
[0034] FIG. 5 is a side view of an additional embodiment of an
inventive syringe;
[0035] FIG. 6A is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
of an assembled segmented interlocking rack according to the
invention holding a set of syringes;
[0036] FIG. 6B is a bottom view of the assembled segmented
interlocking racks shown in FIG. 6A;
[0037] FIG. 6C is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the
assembled segmented interlocking rack shown in FIG. 6A;
[0038] FIG. 6D is a perspective view of a plurality of assembled
segmented interlocking racks shown in FIG. 6A; that have been
vertically stacked together; and
[0039] FIG. 6E is an exploded view of the segmented interlocking
rack shown in FIGS. 6A and 6C.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0040] The present invention relates to a rack system for syringes
arranged for performing a procedure, preferably in sequential
order. More particularly, the present invention is directed to a
system including a set of syringes and a rack configured to hold
and display the set of syringes. The syringes in the set may be
conventional syringes. However, the syringes in the set are
preferably configured to deliver relatively small amounts such that
the syringes are disposed of after a single use.
[0041] FIG. 1A depicts a set of conventional syringes 100a-f being
held by assembled segmented interlocking syringe rack 10. Rack 10
is assembled by interlocking smaller rack segments together, as
will be discussed in more detail below. Assembled rack 10 has a
series of cradles 20 adapted to holding the barrels of syringes.
Cradles 20 are preferably rounded as shown in order to conform to
the typically round configuration of syringe barrels. More
particularly, each cradle preferably has two opposing sides 22 with
a curved bottom surface 24. An advantage of this open configuration
is that each syringe is held securely by its barrel in one of the
cradles in a manner that enables the full length of the barrel to
be simultaneously viewed, so a user can quickly identify the
contents of the syringe based on indicia such as the printed
material on the barrel, the color of the barrel, the color of the
plunger, and the like.
[0042] Note that the length of each cradle is optionally less than
about half of the length of the syringe barrels 120. This length is
sufficient to maintain a syringe in a horizontal position relative
to the cradle and also ensures the easy removal of a syringe from
the cradle.
[0043] Each cradle 20 optionally has a locking extension 28 that
extends from both sides 22 of the cradle. The locking extensions 28
are raised portions that extend slightly beyond the surface of
sides 22 such that there is a tighter fit with the syringe barrel
as compared with the fit between the syringe barrel and the lower
portion of sides 22 when the syringe barrel 120 is resting on
bottom surface 24. The fit between locking extensions 28 and
syringe barrel 120 enables the syringe barrels to be held in place
as assembled rack 10 is moved or repositioned with the set of
syringes 100a-f. More particularly, the fit is preferably
sufficiently tight that assembled rack 10 may be moved in any
direction without displacing syringes 100a-f, including moving the
assembled rack such that it is upside down as shown in the bottom
view depicted in FIG. 1B.
[0044] Each cradle is separated from an adjacent cradle by a
spacing element 30. As shown in FIG. 1C, the width or thickness of
interior spacing elements 30 is preferably selected so that the
syringes can be positioned close together, as shown in FIG. 1A. For
example, grasping handle 126e of syringe 100e is shown in FIG. 1A
spaced about 1 mm or less from barrel 120d of syringe 100d. The
spacing element may, however, have any suitable width. The spacing
elements 30a at the terminal ends of the rack segments are shown
having a width equal to internal spacing elements 30, although each
rack segment could be configured to have narrower (e.g. half the
width of the internal spacing elements 30) terminal spacing
elements 30a. This alternative is preferable in instances where a
more compact configuration is desired. As discussed below, an
example is provided in FIGS. 6A-6D of an embodiment of an assembled
rack with wider internal spacing elements and narrower terminal
spacing elements.
[0045] FIGS. 1B and 1C depict assembled rack 10 with only three
syringes instead of six syringes as in FIGS. 1A and 1D. The number
of syringes in the set varies depending on the particular procedure
that the set is used to complete, as described below in greater
detail. As indicated above, FIG. 1B depicts the bottom view of
assembled rack 10. From this view it is evident that assembled rack
10 is hollow. The hollow configuration reduces the manufacturing
costs. Assembled rack 10 can alternatively be formed to be solid.
When assembled rack 10 is hollow, as shown, the bottom side of each
cradle 20 appears as a rounded swell 40 and the bottom side of each
spacing element 30 appears as a flat surface 42.
[0046] As shown in FIGS. 1C and 1E, assembled rack 10 is assembled
by attaching interlocking rack segments 10w, 10x, 10y, and 10z. To
attach the rack segments in a horizontal configuration, each rack
segment includes projections 54 and corresponding recesses 52 for
interlocking any number of rack segments together in an
interlocking segmented configuration. Each rack segment may include
any desired number of cradles, although it is preferable for each
segment to have either two or three cradles to reduce manufacturing
costs and reduce the size of the segments that must be shipped. An
assembled rack of any desired number of cradles (other than 1) can
be created from a combination of one or more segments having two
cradles and/or one or more segments having three cradles. For
example, where it is desirable to have a rack with two or three
cradles, a single rack segment may be used. For an assembled rack
with four cradles, two two-cradle segments can be interlocked to
create a four cradle assembled rack. One two-cradle segment and one
three-cradle segment can be interlocked to create a five cradle
assembled rack. The assembled rack illustrated in FIG. 1A is made
up of two three-cradle rack segments and two two-cradle rack
segments to form an assembled rack with ten cradles.
[0047] Each rack segment (or rack segment body) includes one or
more projections 54 and corresponding recesses 52. The projections
and recesses are located so as to allow the recesses 52 on rack
segment to receive projections 54 of an adjacent rack segment.
Projections 54 preferably extend horizontally from each rack
segment's terminal spacing element. Alternatively, rather than
projecting out perpendicularly from the terminal end of rack 10,
projections 54 could project at and interlock at an angle relative
to the terminal end. In this way the rack segments can be
interconnected side by side to create an assembled syringe rack.
The projections and recesses for interlocking the rack segments are
preferably at the opposing ends of the rack as seen in FIG. 1E.
These projections and recesses are examples of means for
interlocking another rack to the rack in a manner that is secure
yet detachable.
[0048] As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1C, assembled rack 10 may
optionally have stacking prongs or projections 32 extending
vertically from terminal spacing elements 30a at the opposing ends
of each rack segment of assembled rack 10. The optional prongs 32
enable a series of assembled racks (e.g., racks 10, 10a, and 10b as
shown in FIG. 1D) to be stacked on top of each other. The optional
stacking prongs are preferably hollow such that each stacking prong
has a recess 44 as shown in FIGS. 1B and 1C.
[0049] As mentioned above, FIG. 1A and FIG. 1D depict assembled
rack 10 holding six syringes 100a-f, while FIG. 1B and FIG. 1C
depict three syringes 100a-c. Assembled rack 10 may be configured
with more or less cradles 20. For example, when used with a
relatively small number of syringes--such as three syringes--the
three syringes may be merely spaced apart from each other as shown
in FIG. 1B and FIG. 1C or, alternatively, assembled rack 10 could
be assembled with different and/or fewer segments so as to have
less cradles 20. Assembled rack 10 may hold syringes for use in
many different procedures. However, assembled rack 10 preferably
holds syringes arranged for sequential use in a procedure requiring
use of different compositions held in different syringes. Such a
system is particularly useful for many dental procedures.
[0050] An example of a dental procedure that may be beneficially
performed in accordance with the present invention through using
syringes sequentially arranged in assembled rack 10 is a dental
restoration procedure, especially a dental restoration procedure
that is achieved using dental composite material. As indicated
above, restoration of a carious tooth with a composite filling
typically involves the use of a caries indicator, an etchant, a
primer, a bonding agent, a polymerizable composite, a polishing
agent and a sealant. If syringes 100a-f shown in FIG. 1A and FIG.
1B are filled with such dental compositions then syringe 100a may
hold a carious indicator, such as SEEK.RTM. caries indicator sold
by ULTRADENT PRODUCTS, INC., syringe 100b may hold an etchant such
as ULTRA-ETCH.RTM. etchant sold by ULTRADENT PRODUCTS, INC.,
syringe 100c may hold a one-part priming-bonding agent such as
PQ1.RTM. priming-bonding agent sold by ULTRADENT PRODUCTS, INC.,
syringe 100d may hold a flowable composite such as PERMAFLO.RTM.
flowable composite sold by ULTRADENT PRODUCTS, INC., syringe 100e
may hold a polishing agent such as ULTRADENT.RTM. DIAMOND POLISH
sold by ULTRADENT PRODUCTS, INC., and syringe 100f may hold a
sealant such as PERMASEAL.RTM. sealant sold by ULTRADENT PRODUCTS,
INC.
[0051] Dental procedures such as restoration procedures involving
use of composite materials to fill the preparation are typically
performed with syringes such as syringe 100 depicted in FIGS.
2A-2D. However, such procedures may also be performed with a
syringe such as syringe 200 shown in FIGS. 3A-3D and in FIGS. 6A-6D
with assembled rack 10'. Syringe 200 has several advantages over
syringe 100 that enable syringe 200 to be particularly useful with
an assembled rack such as assembled rack 10 or assembled rack 10'.
The primary advantage of syringe 200 is that it is specifically
designed for a single use. Accordingly, each syringe in the system
that is held by assembled rack 10 may be used and then the entire
system, including assembled rack 10 and the syringes, may be
disposed of after a single use. Another advantage of syringe 200 is
enhanced delivery control.
[0052] To appreciate the differences between syringe 100 and
syringe 200, it is necessary to first understand the configuration
of a conventional syringe such as syringe 100. The elements of such
a syringe are briefly described hereinbelow in reference to FIGS.
2A-2D.
[0053] The main components of syringe 100 are of course the barrel
120 and the plunger 150 that is slidably engaged in barrel 120.
Barrel 120 has a top grasping end 121 opposite a bottom end 129
with a substantially cylindrical sidewall 122 extending
therebetween. Sidewall 122 has an exterior surface 123 and an
interior surface 124. Interior surface 124 defines a substantially
cylindrical chamber 125 for holding a composition. Chambers such as
chamber 125 of barrel 120 are typically configured to hold about
1.2 cc of liquid.
[0054] Barrel 120 has a grasping handle 126 which is an annular
flange extending radially outward from sidewall 122 at top grasping
end 121 of barrel 120. Grasping handle 126 is centrally located
around opening 127 which has the same diameter as the interior
surface 124 of chamber 125.
[0055] A radial extension 128 extends integrally from sidewall 122
at bottom 129 inward to define an exit port 132. Radial extension
128 acts as a stop for plunger 150 as plunger 150 is depressed.
[0056] Exit port 132 is the opening into channel 133 which enables
channel 133 to communicate with chamber 125. Note that channel 133
is the interior surface of tapered exit tube 130. Channel 133
extends through tapered exit tube 130 and terminates at outlet
134.
[0057] Surrounding exit tube 130 is an attachment sleeve 136.
Attachment sleeve 136 has an anterior surface 137 with engagement
threads 138 positioned thereon. A nozzle or tip 140, shown in FIGS.
2C and 2D, may be selectively attached to barrel 120 by coupling
with threads 138. A variety of tips are available which may be
attached such that channel 133 of exit tube 130 is in fluid
communication with the tip for guided delivery of the composition
to a desired location.
[0058] Tip 140 is configured to selectively attach in fluid
communication with exit tube 130. To accomplish this end, tip 140
has a threaded end 142 for engagement with threads 138 of
attachment sleeve 136. Opposite threaded end 142 is a flexible and
angled spout 144 for guiding delivery of the composition to a
desired location. Of course different sizes and shapes of spouts
can be used depending on the type and intended use of the
composition. Furthermore, in alternative embodiments, tip 140 may
be permanently attached to bottom end 129 or mechanisms other than
threads may be used to attach different sizes and/or shapes of
tips.
[0059] Plunger 150 has a distal lead end 151 opposite from a
proximal pushing end 153 with a stem 152 extending therebetween.
Radially extending outward at pushing end 153 is an annular pushing
handle 158 used in advancing plunger 150. Plunger 150 is sized to
be slidably received within chamber 125 through opening 127 at top
grasping end 121. Plunger 150 has a length that permits it to be
advanced to bottom end 129 such that a small portion of plunger 150
remains extending beyond opening 127.
[0060] Positioned at lead end 151 of plunger 150 is a cylindrically
shaped sealing gasket 160. More particularly, gasket 160 is coupled
to stem 152 via a gasket holder as shown in FIG. 2B at 164. Gasket
160 is made of a soft, compressible, sealing material, such as
rubber, which allows the exterior surface of gasket 160 to seal
against interior surface 124 of chamber 125 as plunger 150 is
advanced within chamber 125 or selectively slid down to bottom end
129. Gasket holder 164 has a post 166 with a head element 165
integrally extending at one end and a base 167 integrally extending
from the other end. Head element 165 and post 166 are inserted into
an opening 162 of gasket 160 which expands such that head element
165 can be inserted therein and then elastically return to its
original size such that head element 165 is removably held in
gasket 160. Base 167 is connected to stem 152 to hold gasket holder
164 in position.
[0061] As discussed above, a small portion of plunger 150 remains
extending beyond opening 127, as shown in FIG. 2D, when plunger 150
has been fully depressed such that gasket 160 contacts radial
extension 128. The length of the portion of plunger 150 extending
beyond opening 127 of syringe 100 when plunger 150 is fully
depressed is about 1 cm. This configuration is typical for a
conventional 1.2 cc syringe. Note that the length of the barrel is
about 5 cm while the length of the plunger which includes gasket
160 is about 6 cm such that the ratio of the length of the plunger
to the length of the chamber is 1.2:1.
[0062] While syringes such as syringe 10 are suitable for many
uses, these syringes also have certain limitations. For example, in
some instances it can be difficult to apply an adequate amount or
the appropriate amount of force required to push the composition
from chamber 125 into channel 133 and ultimately out of tip 140
attached to barrel 120. FIG. 2C depicts a loaded syringe with only
gasket 160 and a portion of stem 152 in chamber 125 of barrel 120.
As shown in FIG. 2C, a user typically grasps syringe 100 such that
barrel 120 is held by the user's middle and index fingers as well
as the user's thumb. As the plunger is depressed further and
further into chamber 125 until gasket 160 contacts radial extension
128 to stop the depression of plunger 150 as shown in FIG. 2D, the
user may have to exert increasing effort to dispense the
composition. Accordingly, it may become difficult to dispense the
composition at a uniform rate and in a controlled manner. When a
composition is relatively viscous, the difficulty experienced in
applying either an adequate amount or the appropriate amount of
force may further increase.
[0063] As indicated above, FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate a syringe 200
which is useful for dispensing compositions in accordance with the
present invention. Syringe 200 is shown having a barrel 220 with a
plunger 250 slidably engaged therein. Note that in contrast to
syringe 100 shown in FIGS. 2A-2D, barrel 220 is much shorter than
barrel 120. More particularly, barrel 220 is shown having a length
which is almost half that of barrel 120. Accordingly, plunger 250
is much longer than barrel 220. Although the advantages of this
configuration are fully related below it should be understood that
the primary advantage resulting from this configuration is that a
user can grasp the syringe and express all of the composition
contained in the syringe without having to change the grasping
position.
[0064] As also discussed in greater detail hereinbelow, barrel 220
is adapted for unidosing so that its contents are dispensed in a
single use. The syringe may then be discarded along with assembled
rack 10 and the other syringes once each syringe has been used.
Other features will be appreciated after understanding the details
of the elements of syringe 200 as set forth herein below. The
components of syringe 200 are essentially identical to those of
syringe 100 with the exception of the barrel lengths. Barrel 220 is
much shorter than barrel 120. Although the components are
essentially identical, the components of syringe 200 are also
described in detail to provide a complete description of syringe
200. Note that the components of syringe 200 that are similar or
identical to those of syringe 100 are numbered similarly with a
difference of 100.
[0065] Barrel 220 has a top grasping end 221 opposite a bottom end
229 with a substantially cylindrical sidewall 222 extending
therebetween. Sidewall 222 has an exterior surface 223 and an
interior surface 224. Interior surface 224 defines a substantially
cylindrical chamber 225 for holding a composition. Cylindrical
chamber 225 is discussed in greater detail hereinbelow in reference
to plunger 250.
[0066] Barrel 220 has a grasping handle 226 which is an annular
flange extending radially and perpendicularly outward from sidewall
222 at top grasping end 221 of barrel 220. Grasping handle 226 is
centrally located around opening 227 which has the same diameter as
the interior surface 224 of chamber 225. Grasping handle 226 is an
example of means for grasping the barrel such that a user's fingers
can grasp the barrel. Additional examples of means for grasping the
barrel include a raised engagement surface on the barrel as shown
in FIG. 4 at 226', a textured engagement surface on the barrel as
shown in FIG. 5 at 226" or combinations of such surfaces. The
engagement surface may be textured as shown by any suitable
mechanism. Additionally, the engagement surface may be a smooth or
textured groove around the perimeter of the barrel. As shown, the
grasping handle 226 and the alternative grasping surfaces 226' and
226" are located at top grasping end 221 of barrel 220. While the
grasping handle or grasping surface may also be located elsewhere
on the barrel such as at bottom end 229, the location at top
grasping end 221 is advantageous for several reasons. First, this
enables a user to comfortably grasp the handle or surface of the
barrel and the plunger. Additionally, it provides optimal
visibility to the delivery site such that the user's view is not
blocked by the user's fingers.
[0067] A radial extension 228 extends integrally from sidewall 222
at bottom end 229 inward to define an exit port 232. Exit port 232
is the opening which enables the composition in chamber 225 to
exit. Radial extension 228 acts as a stop for plunger 250 as
plunger 250 is depressed.
[0068] Exit port 232 is also the opening into chamber 233 which
enables channel 233 to communicate with chamber 225. Note that
channel 233 is the interior surface of tapered exit tube 230.
Channel 233 extends through tapered exit tube 230 and terminates at
outlet 234.
[0069] Surrounding exit tube 230 is an attachment sleeve 236.
Attachment sleeve 236 has an interior surface 237 with engagement
threads 238 positioned thereon. A nozzle or tip 240, shown in FIGS.
3C and 3D, may be selectively attached to barrel 220 by coupling
with threads 238. A variety of tips are available which may be
attached such that channel 233 of exit tube 230 is in fluid
communication with the tip for guided delivery of the composition
to a desired location. Note that exit tube 230 and attachment
sleeve 236 are integral parts of barrel 220.
[0070] Tip 240 is configured to selectively attach in fluid
communication with exit tube 230. To accomplish this end, tip 240
has a threaded end 242 for engagement with threads 238 of
attachment sleeve 236. Opposite threaded end 242 is a flexible and
angled spout 244 for guiding delivery of the composition to a
desired location. Different sizes and shapes of spouts can be used
depending on the type and intended use of the composition.
Furthermore, in alternative embodiments, tip 240 may be permanently
attached to bottom end 229 or means for attaching the barrel to a
tip 140 other than threads may be used to attach different sizes
and/or shapes of tips. Additionally, syringes within the scope of
the present invention need not necessarily utilize a separate tip
or have an integral tip.
[0071] Plunger 250 has a distal lead end 251 opposite from a
proximal pushing end 253 with a stem 252 extending therebetween.
Plunger 250 is sized to be slidably received within chamber 225
through opening 227 at top grasping end 221. Plunger 250 has a
length that permits it to be advanced to bottom end 229 while a
significant portion of plunger 250 remains extending beyond opening
227. The length of plunger 250 is discussed in greater detail
hereinbelow.
[0072] Radially extending outward at pushing end 253 of plunger 250
is an annular pushing handle 258 used in advancing plunger 250.
Note that the pushing handle of the plunger is preferably
configured as shown at 258 which is described in greater detail in
U.S. Design Pat. No. 322,317. U.S. Design Pat. No. 322,317, which
issued to Dan E. Fischer on Dec. 10, 1991 and is owned by Ultradent
Products, Inc., is hereby incorporated by reference.
[0073] Positioned at lead end 251 of plunger 250 is a cylindrically
shaped sealing gasket 260. More particularly, gasket 260 is coupled
to stem 252 via a gasket holder as shown in FIG. 3B at 264. Gasket
260 is made of a soft, compressible, sealing material, such as
rubber, which allows the exterior surface of gasket 260 to seal
against interior surface 224 of chamber 225 as plunger 250 is
advanced within chamber 225 or selectively slid down to bottom end
229. Gasket holder 264 has a post 266 with a head element 265
integrally extending at one end and a base 267 integrally extending
from the other end. Head element 265 and post 266 are inserted into
an opening 262 of gasket 260 which expands such that head element
265 can be inserted therein and then elastically return to its
original size such that head element 265 is removably held in
gasket 260. Base 267 is connected to stem 252 to hold gasket holder
264 in position.
[0074] A plunger within the scope of the present invention includes
at least a stem and preferably also includes a handle such as
pushing handle 258. The plunger may also include a gasket held by a
gasket holder extending from a stem as discussed above. The plunger
may also be shaped like the plunger shown and described in U.S.
Pat. No. 4,986,820, which is hereby incorporated by reference. U.S.
Pat. No. 4,986,820, which is entitled "Syringe Apparatus Having
Improved Plunger," issued to Dan E. Fischer and is owned by
Ultradent Products, Inc. Note that the entire plunger disclosed in
U.S. Pat. No. 4,986,820 is integral. Another integral plunger is
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,398,763, which is hereby incorporated
by reference. As described hereinbelow, specialized plungers may
also be utilized which deploy a paddle. Examples of such
specialized plungers are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,309,372,
which is hereby incorporated by reference. In any event, as
discussed below, plungers within the scope of the present invention
are configured to be significantly longer than the length of the
chamber of the barrel. The plungers disclosed herein are examples
of plunger means for advancing the composition positioned within
the barrel through the exit port at the first end of the
barrel.
[0075] Plunger 250 is shown having a length which is about twice as
long as chamber 225. This is perhaps most clearly seen in FIG. 3D,
where plunger 250 is fully advanced within chamber 225, since the
portion of plunger 250 extending out of chamber 225 has a length
that is at least equal to that of the portion of plunger 250 within
chamber 225. This length provides significant advantage over prior
art syringes. For example, reference to syringe 100 as depicted in
FIGS. 2C and 2D shows that a user must change hand positions as the
plunger is depressed while reference to FIGS. 3C and 3D shows that
the plunger can be fully depressed while holding syringe 200 is a
single position.
[0076] To appreciate the importance of not altering the position in
which the syringe is held, it is necessary to understand the manner
in which such syringes are typically held and used. The grip shown
being utilized in FIGS. 2C and 3C wherein the proximal pushing end
of the plunger is pressed against the palm of the user's hand while
the user's fingertips pull the grasping handle of the barrel to
advance the plunger within the chamber is particularly useful in
dentistry. This grip enables the user to deliver the composition
contained in the chamber with a high degree of control. FIG. 2C
shows the fingertips of the index finger and thumb positioned on
grasping handle 126 while FIG. 3C shows a more secure grip. More
particularly, FIG. 3C shows the fingertips of the middle finger,
the index finger and the thumb holding grasping handle 226. Either
grip may be utilized although, as mentioned, the grip shown in FIG.
3C is more secure and it also enables the user to apply greater
pressure. In any event, these grips are useful in dentistry as they
enable a user to hold the syringe in such a manner the user may
maneuver the syringe as desired within the patient's mouth while
maintaining a high degree of control.
[0077] As mentioned above, it is often necessary to change the grip
used with a conventional syringe such as that shown in FIGS. 2C and
2D. As plunger 150 is pushed farther into chamber 125, the user
experiences increasing difficulty in pushing the plunger. More
particularly, when the fingers are extended they can more easily
push downward, however, as they draw closer to the palm with this
particular grip the fingers do not have adequate strength to press
grasping handle 126 toward the user's palm or toward pushing end
153 of barrel 120. The difficulty experienced makes it necessary
for a user to shift from the position shown in FIG. 2C to that
shown in FIG. 2D. This change in position may result in undesired
movement of the syringe. As the grasp of the user is altered, the
syringe may be inadvertently swung to the side away from the
intended delivery site. The movement may be slight, however, some
substances which may safely contact enamel or dentin can be
potentially harmful to soft tissues such as the gums.
[0078] In addition to undesired movement of the syringe as well as
the resulting interruption to a particular procedure, the
configuration of syringe 100 increases the hand fatigue which a
dental practitioner experiences. More particularly, many users
attempt to compress a plunger into a chamber until it is necessary
to regrasp the syringe due to the resistance experienced. Instead
of stopping while it is still easy to compress, users typically
strain to deliver the composition until the point is reached when
it becomes difficult for that particular hand grasp. When
frequently repeated, this exertion can cause hand fatigue.
[0079] The length of plunger 250 relative to that of chamber 220
enables the syringe to be grasped in one position and then to be
used to continuously deliver the composition in chamber 220 as
shown in FIGS. 3C and 3D. As indicated above, this is a significant
advantage as it eliminates the possibility of accidentally moving
the syringe due to altering one's grasp of the syringe. Not only is
it unnecessary to regrasp the syringe during the depression of
plunger 250 into chamber 220, the configuration of syringe 200 also
enables a user to exert less effort in delivering the composition.
Further, the configuration enables a user to exert essentially the
same amount of effort throughout the depression of the plunger
within the chamber of the barrel.
[0080] As indicated above, chamber 125 is designed to hold about
1.2 ml and the length of the chamber is about 5 cm while the length
of the plunger is about 6 cm. The ratio of the length of the
plunger 150 to the length of the chamber 25 is accordingly, as also
noted above, 1.2:1.
[0081] Plunger 250 is shown having a length which is about twice as
long as chamber as indicated above, so that the ratio of the length
of the plunger to the length of the chamber is about 2:1. More
particularly, when the chamber is designed to hold a composition
ranging from about 0.1 ml to about 0.7 ml, then the length of the
chamber is about 2 cm and the length of the plunger is about 6 cm.
The syringe shown at 200 depicts such a configuration. The length
of the chamber is most preferably 3.15 cm when the barrel is used
with a plunger having a length of about 6.2 cm; which yields a
ratio of 1.97:1. While the preferred ratio is about 2:1, the ratio
of the length of the plunger to the length of the chamber may also
be no less than about 1.8:1 and still enable a user to deliver the
entire content of the composition held in the chamber without
regrasping the syringe. The ratio may even be as low as no less
than about 1.5:1.
[0082] Chamber 225 can have any size and shape. However, chamber
225 is preferably sized to hold small quantities of a composition.
For example, as indicated above, chamber 225 of barrel 220 is
preferably configured to hold an amount of a composition ranging
from about 0.1 ml to about 0.7 ml. Chamber 225 is more preferably
configured to hold an amount of a composition ranging from about
0.25 ml to about 0.3 ml. By utilizing a barrel having a chamber
sized to hold such preferred volumes, the chamber and the plunger
may have the optimal length ratios discussed above, which enable a
user to easily deliver metered amounts as needed.
[0083] The preferred barrel volume corresponds with the amount
needed of most dental compositions for a single use when utilized
in particular procedures. While many compositions can be held in a
syringe and used at various times, many dental compositions which
are formed by mixing two parts cannot be used after a certain
period of time has expired as the compositions may set or harden.
In such instances, it is particularly desirable that the chamber
hold no more than is necessary for the single use as any more will
be wasted. Accordingly, limiting chamber 225 to holding small
quantities of a composition enables syringe 200 to be used for a
single application without leaving any excess composition to be
wasted. Since loading a syringe for unidosing requires less
composition, the result is a less expensive procedure. Such
unidoses are also sized approximately for laboratory uses in dental
schools as the dental students typically need only very small
quantities.
[0084] FIGS. 6A-6D depict a set of syringes 200a-f held in an
assembled rack 10'. Syringes 200a-f are all configured such that
the ratio of the length of the plunger to the length of the chamber
is about 2:1 as it is for syringe 200. Accordingly, assembled rack
10' holds a set of syringes that are all configured such that each
syringe delivers small quantities of a composition. Such a set of
syringes is ideal for completing an entire dental procedure such as
restoring a tooth with a dental composite material by delivering a
sequence of materials as outlined above. Since only small amounts
are needed, the entire system can be disposed of after the
procedure is completed.
[0085] The parts of assembled rack 10' are identified with the same
numeral as those of assembled rack 10 where the parts are the same
and a prime symbol is used to denote those that are similar yet
slightly different. Assembled rack 10' has less cradles 20 than
does assembled rack 10. It is assembled by interlocking rack
segment 10y' and 10z', as best seen in FIG. 6E. Note also that the
spacing elements 30' of assembled rack 10' are larger than those of
assembled rack 10 to prevent any overlap of the grasping handles
226. Note however that this configuration requires the use of more
plastic than the compact configuration of assembled rack 10.
Syringes such as syringe 200 may be used with an assembled rack
such as assembled rack 10' as shown in FIGS. 6A-6D or with an
assembled rack such as assembled rack 10. Similarly, conventional
syringes such as syringe 100 may be used with an assembled rack
such as assembled rack 10 as shown in FIGS. 1A-1D or with assembled
rack 10'.
[0086] Like assembled rack 10, the spacing elements 30' of
assembled rack 10' are not all identical. Note that terminal
spacing elements 30a' and 30b' at opposite ends of assembled rack
10' are narrower than the spacing elements 30' in the interior of
assembled rack 10'. This is a result of the individual segmented
rack portions each having half-width terminal spacing elements.
This is illustrated in FIG. 6E.
[0087] This differs from assembled rack 10 illustrated in FIG. 1A
in that the spacing elements 30 of the small rack segments that
make up assembled rack 10 are all identical widths. When the rack
segments are interlocked, this results in wider spacing elements
where the rack segments interlock, as seen in FIG. 1A. Spacing
elements of any width can be used, although preferably the width of
each of the spacing elements of the assembled rack is at least
about as wide as the distance that the grasping handles extend from
the syringe barrels, as discussed above. For a compact assembled
rack, it is preferable to use rack segments where the internal
spacing elements have a width equal to or slightly greater than the
distance that the grasping handles extend from the syringe barrels,
and for terminal spacing elements to have a width that is half (or
slightly greater than half) the distance that the grasping handles
extend from the syringe barrels. When the rack segments are
interlocked, this results in a spacing element between rack
segments that is equal to or slightly wider than the distance that
the grasping handles extend from the syringe barrels.
[0088] FIG. 6B depicts the bottom view of assembled rack 10' to
show the hollow interior. Like assembled rack 10, the assembled
rack 10' can be hollow as shown or solid. When assembled rack 10'
is hollow, as shown, the bottom side of each cradle 20 appears as a
rounded swell 40 and the bottom side of each spacing element 30'
appears as a flat surface 42'. Note that flat surfaces 41a and 41b
are respective back sides of terminal spacing elements 30a' and
30b'. Also visible in FIG. 6B at terminal ends are prongs 54 for
interlocking and recesses 52 for receiving said prongs.
[0089] In FIGS. 6A-6B it can be clearly seen that the length of
each cradle 20 of assembled rack 10' is just slightly less than the
length of each barrel 220. Since barrel 220 is shorter than barrel
120, the ratio of the length of cradle 20 with respect to the ratio
of barrel 220 is much closer than it is for barrel 120. More
particularly, each cradle 20 has a length that is at least about
2/3 the length of barrel 220. Since each barrel 220 is only
slightly longer than each cradle 20, barrel 220 is more tightly
held than barrel 120 of syringe 100.
[0090] FIG. 6C shows that platform portion 34 has a thickness
between each bottom surface 24 of each cradle 20 and base surface
36 that is about the same as or greater than the length that
grasping handle 226 extends from each syringe barrel 220. As
indicated with respect to assembled rack 10, this configuration
prevents the syringes 200 from being pivoted out of the cradles
when assembled rack 10' is placed on a flat surface. As also
indicated with respect to assembled rack 10, this configuration is
beneficial for stacked assembled racks as shown in FIG. 6D as it
prevents the grasping handles 226 of the syringes in one set from
becoming encumbered by the grasping handles 226 of the syringes of
the adjacent set.
[0091] As with assembled rack 10, assembled rack 10' and assembled
rack 10a' have optional stacking prongs 32' as best seen in FIGS.
6C and 6D. The optional stacking prongs 32' are shown extending
from the terminal spacing elements 30a' and 30b' and from the
center spacing elements 30' where the segmented racks interlock.
However, the stacking prongs may extend from any of the spacing
elements. Note that the stacking prongs 32' are rectangular while
the stacking prongs 32 are frustoconical. These stacking prongs are
examples of means for stacking another rack on the rack in a manner
that is secure yet detachable.
[0092] As indicated above, FIG. 6D depicts assembled rack 10'
positioned on assembled rack 10a'. More assembled racks can of
course be stacked on assembled rack 10' as needed. FIGS. 6A and 6D
depict assembled rack 10' holding six syringes 200a-f. Syringes
200a-f may hold compositions like those described in reference to
syringes 100a-f FIGS. 6B-6C depict four syringes identified in the
drawings as 200a, 200c', 200c" and 200d which may respectively hold
an etchant, a bonding primer, a bonding resin and a flowable
composite. The configuration of syringes 200c' and 200c" is not
different from that of syringe 200c, however, the prime symbols are
used to indicate that while 200c may hold a bonding agent syringes
200c' and 200c" may respectively hold a bonding primer and a
bonding resin.
[0093] The present invention may be embodied in other specific
forms without departing from its spirit or essential
characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in
all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of
the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims
rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come
within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be
embraced within their scope.
* * * * *