U.S. patent application number 10/723832 was filed with the patent office on 2004-06-03 for versatile system for manipulation of dental appliances.
Invention is credited to Dryer, Jeffrey.
Application Number | 20040106084 10/723832 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 29582297 |
Filed Date | 2004-06-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040106084 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Dryer, Jeffrey |
June 3, 2004 |
Versatile system for manipulation of dental appliances
Abstract
A versatile system for the manipulation of dental appliances is
described that includes a grasping assembly coupled to an actuating
assembly. Members of the grasping assembly are shaped to
approximate contour of the dental appliance. An apical seating
member is disposed upon the grasping assembly to facilitate the
application of seating pressure. The grasping assembly may be
removably or permanently coupled to the actuating assembly.
Portions of the actuating assembly, the grasping assembly, or both
the actuating and grasping assemblies may be shaped to facilitate
distal, mesial, or both distal and mesial manipulation of the
dental appliance.
Inventors: |
Dryer, Jeffrey; (Allen,
TX) |
Correspondence
Address: |
RONALD W. BURNS, P.C.
P.O. BOX 262347
PLANO
TX
75026
US
|
Family ID: |
29582297 |
Appl. No.: |
10/723832 |
Filed: |
November 26, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10723832 |
Nov 26, 2003 |
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10156596 |
May 28, 2002 |
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6699039 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
433/159 ;
433/153 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61C 5/85 20170201; A61C
3/10 20130101; A61C 3/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
433/159 ;
433/153 |
International
Class: |
A61C 003/16 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A dental instrument comprising: an actuating assembly; and a
grasping assembly, coupled to the actuating assembly, adapted to
conform to the contour of a dental appliance; wherein a member of
the actuating assembly or the grasping assembly is adapted to
facilitate distal, mesial, or both distal and mesial manipulation
of the dental appliance.
2. The instrument of claim 1, wherein the grasping assembly
comprises a plurality of members, each having a grasping
surface.
3. The instrument of claim 2, wherein the members are angled to
approximate the contour of the dental appliance.
4. The instrument of claim 2, wherein the members are curved to
approximate the contour of the dental appliance.
5. The instrument of claim 4, wherein the members are curved
concavely.
6. The instrument of claim 4, wherein the members are curved
convexly.
7. The instrument of claim 2, wherein a first of the members
comprises an apical seat near the top of its grasping surface.
8. The instrument of claim 2, wherein one of the members comprises
a traction feature disposed upon its grasping surface.
9. The instrument of claim 1, wherein the grasping assembly is
removably coupled to the actuating assembly.
10. The instrument of claim 1, wherein the grasping assembly is
permanently coupled to the actuating assembly.
11. The instrument of claim 1, wherein the grasping assembly is
formed as part of the actuating assembly.
12. The instrument of claim 2, wherein a portion of the actuating
assembly is angled to facilitate exclusively distal manipulation of
the dental appliance.
13. The instrument of claim 2, wherein a portion of the actuating
assembly is curved to facilitate exclusively mesial manipulation of
the dental appliance.
14. The instrument of claim 2, wherein a portion of the grasping
assembly is angled to facilitate exclusively distal manipulation of
the dental appliance.
15. The instrument of claim 2, wherein a portion of the grasping
assembly is curved to facilitate exclusively distal manipulation of
the dental appliance.
16. The instrument of claim 1, wherein the actuating assembly is a
bifurcated actuating assembly.
17. The instrument of claim 1, further comprising a locking
assembly disposed along the actuating assembly.
18. The instrument of claim 2, wherein a portion of the actuating
assembly is formed to selectively facilitate mesial or distal
manipulation of the dental appliance.
19. A dental instrument, adapted to facilitate distal, mesial, or
both distal and mesial manipulation of a dental appliance,
comprising: a grasping assembly, having a grasping surface shaped
to approximate contour of the dental appliance, and having an
apical seating member disposed near the top of the grasping
surface; and an actuating assembly, operatively coupled to the
grasping assembly.
20. A matrix band placement apparatus, adapted to facilitate
distal, mesial, or both distal and mesial matrix band manipulation,
comprising: a first grasping member, having a first surface shaped
to approximate curvature of a matrix band, having an apical seating
member disposed along an upper edge of the first surface; a second
grasping member, having a first surface shaped to approximate
curvature of a matrix band and shaped to cooperatively engage with
the first surface of the first grasping member; and a compound
actuating assembly, operatively coupled to the first and second
grasping members, adapted to cooperatively engage the first and
second grasping members, having a locking assembly disposed and
adapted to secure engagement of the first and second grasping
members.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The invention relates generally to dentistry tools and, more
specifically, to a versatile and ergonomic system for manipulation
of dental appliances.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Dentistry, particularly restorative dentistry, is a
demanding craft--requiring a skillful blend of structural
engineering and aesthetics. Dentists must artfully construct and
shape what are often very complicated restorative structures while
working within the confined space of a patient's mouth. Further
complicating this already challenging task are safety and sanitary
requirements, ergonomic problems, and concerns about patient
comfort. At its best, such work might be considered tedious. At its
worst, such work might be considered nearly impossible.
[0003] As a result, a number of devices and methodologies have been
developed to aid dentists in performing routine procedures.
Specialized handpieces, powered tools, shielding and grasping
devices are continually developed to assist in nearly every aspect
of routine dentistry. Often times, however, the development of one
aid may simplify a particular aspect of a procedure while
complicating other aspects of the same procedure. Furthermore,
there are a number of routine procedures, for which no specialized
tools exist, that require dentists to utilize existing devices in
an unintended fashion. Thus, restorative dentistry often relies on
both specialization and improvisation.
[0004] Consider, for example, the tools and procedures involved in
filling interproximal cavities. Depending upon the location and
size of the filling needed, a dentist may have a very difficult
time forming a filling of proper structural integrity that provides
a desired aesthetic appearance and proper interproximal contact. A
relatively popular method of interproximal filling relies on the
use of matrix bands.
[0005] Matrix bands are small appliances that serve, essentially,
as a form for interproximal fillings (especially bonded fillings)
when some portion of the external tooth structure is missing or has
been removed. The bands are used to restore the tooth structure to
its natural contour, without having to dispose excessive bonding
material to the area surrounding the filling. Matrix bands are
generally formed of aluminum or some other similar semi-rigid
material, and typically come in a number of sizes to match tooth
and filling sizes. The bands usually have some degree of concavity,
in addition to multiple degrees of curvature, to match the often
asymmetrical, quasi-spherical contour of a tooth. After proper
placement and seating, the matrix bands are usually held in place
by some sort of matrix retainer (e.g., wedge, bi-tine ring).
[0006] Thus, once a matrix band is in place, the filling procedure
is significantly simplified. The proper placement and seating of a
matrix band is, however, no trivial task. It is, in fact, a task
that appears to be widely recognized as difficult and involved--and
one for which conventional apparatus and methods are not properly
adapted.
[0007] Conventionally, matrix bands have been placed using only the
dentist's fingers, or placed by simple tweezers, straight pliers,
or even cotton pliers. These conventional methods share a number of
common problems and challenges, and each individual method presents
its own unique problems and concerns.
[0008] One primary concern is maintaining the integrity of the
matrix band itself. Until properly placed, the band is highly
susceptible to bending and crimping. This can lead to unacceptable
deformities in the band, requiring removal and placement of a new
band, or acceptance of a structurally or aesthetically inferior
filling.
[0009] Even the most nimble of dentists, with the daintiest of
fingers, may have difficulty working within the limited space of a
patient's mouth to properly place a matrix band without deforming
the band. The location of the required filling can further
complicate the procedure. The further posterior the required
filling is (e.g., between molars), or if the filling is on the
mesial surface of a tooth, the more difficult it is to manually
place the small, flexible matrix bands. Furthermore, placement by
finger may be much more difficult for dentists with larger
hands.
[0010] Conventional placement methods typically require a great
deal of manipulation at ergonomically awkward angles for a dentist.
That ergonomically improper manipulation might, over time, lead to
degenerative neuromuscular problems. Furthermore, if there is
strong interproximal contact between the teeth, the dentist must
either ply the teeth apart, such that the instrument used to ply
the teeth apart does not impede the placement of the band, or break
interproximal contact, in order to place the band without deforming
it. Breaking interproximal contact may require removal of an
excessive (i.e., unacceptable) amount of tooth structure, however,
especially where only a small filling is required.
[0011] Although some conventional methods of matrix band placement
utilize conventional, general-purpose instruments (e.g.,
conventional tweezers and pliers)--thereby reducing some of the
problems associated with working in the confined space of a
patient's mouth--extensive instrument manipulations, ergonomic
challenges, and increased potential for damage to the band remain
problematic. Using such conventional instruments may still be
difficult for posterior placements. Furthermore, such
general-purpose instruments are typically unsuitable for firmly
grasping and manipulating the curved matrix bands without
deformation. Most such instruments have flat, planar grasping
surfaces that can bend or damage a matrix band. The grasping
surfaces themselves are generally not arcuate in nature, and thus
will not tightly grasp a significant cross section of a matrix band
without deformation. Finally, most such conventional instruments
are not curved or angled to provide reliable matrix band
disposition in both distal and mesial orientations. Thus, placement
with such conventional instruments is often tedious,
time-consuming, and not possible with existing instruments.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] Thus, a system that provides easy and reliable placement and
removal of specially contoured dental appliances, such as matrix
bands, in an ergonomically proper manner, readily usable for both
distal and mesial manipulations, is now needed. This system should
provide dentists with a tool that simplifies restorative procedures
without deforming or damaging the appliances being placed. The
system should thus provide relief from problems associated with
conventional methods and apparatus.
[0013] Comprehending this, the present invention provides a
versatile system for the efficient manipulation of specially
contoured dental appliances, especially matrix bands. The present
invention provides a shaped grasping member assembly for grasping
the dental appliance. The grasping members may be angled or curved
in either a convex or concave orientation, such that their
angulation or curvature closely approximates the contour of the
appliance(s) to be placed, and such that the angulation or
curvature may be employed to facilitate manipulations in distal,
mesial, or both mesial and distal orientations. The member, or
members, on one side of the assembly may include an apical seat
disposed along an upper edge, to secure the appliance in place and
assist in applying seating pressure to the appliance.
[0014] The present invention also provides an actuating assembly,
to which the grasping member assembly may be permanently or
temporarily attached, such that the attachment may further
facilitate placements in distal, mesial, or both mesial and distal
orientations.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] For a more complete understanding of the present invention,
including its features and advantages, reference is made to the
following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the
following drawing figures. Corresponding numerals and symbols in
the different figures refer to corresponding parts unless otherwise
indicated:
[0016] FIGS. 1a-1c illustrate an embodiment of a grasping member
assembly according to the present invention;
[0017] FIGS. 2a-2c illustrate another embodiment of a grasping
member assembly according to the present invention;
[0018] FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of an actuating assembly
according to the present invention;
[0019] FIG. 4 illustrates another embodiment of an actuating
assembly according to the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 5 illustrates another embodiment of an actuating
assembly according to the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 6 illustrates another embodiment of an actuating
assembly according to the present invention;
[0022] FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment of an actuating
assembly according to the present invention; and
[0023] FIGS. 8a and 8b illustrates another embodiment of an
actuating assembly according to the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0024] It should be apparent to those of skill in the art, upon
reference to this disclosure, that the system and teachings of the
present invention are applicable to a number of dental appliances.
For purposes of explanation and illustration, however, the present
invention is hereafter described in reference to the handling and
placement of matrix bands for use in an interproximal filling. The
principles and teachings disclosed herein, however, are applicable
to a wide range of dental instruments and appliances.
[0025] The present invention defines a system, comprising various
structures and methods, for placing and removing matrix bands
without excessive manipulation and without deforming or damaging
the bands. The present invention provides a grasping member
assembly, shaped in either a convex or concave orientation, to
closely approximate the curvature of the matrix bands and to
facilitate placement in distal, mesial, or both orientations.
Certain grasping members include an apical seat disposed along an
upper edge, and the grasping member assembly may be permanently or
temporarily attached to a number of actuating assemblies.
[0026] The present invention is now described in greater detail
with reference now to FIGS. 1a-1c. FIG. 1a provides a side-view,
cross-sectional representation of one embodiment of a grasping
member assembly 100 according to the present invention. Assembly
100 comprises first member 102 and second member 104. A matrix band
is grasped between surface 106 of member 102 and surface 108 of
member 104. Members 102 and 104 are formed with a matching convex
longitudinal curvature. This curvature can be optimized to match
the curvature of one particular size and style of matrix band, or
can be generalized to closely approximate the curvatures of a
number sizes and styles of matrix bands. Alternatively, members 102
and 104 may be angled, one or more times, to approximate the
desired curvature(s). Surface 106 may, optionally, incorporate a
traction feature 110 (e.g., scoring, small serrations, rubber
padding) disposed upon, or embedded within, surface 106.
Alternatively, surface 108 may incorporate feature 110. If feature
110 is utilized, it should be formed or disposed so as not to
deform the matrix band during contact therewith, and should be made
of a material suitable for assembly 100 (suitable materials
discussed hereinafter).
[0027] Member 102 further comprises an apical seating member 112,
usually disposed along the upper perimeter of surface 106.
Alternatively, member 112 may be disposed further down along
surface 106, or adjustably disposed along surface 106, in order to,
for example, facilitate grasping matrix bands of various sizes.
Generally, however, member 112 will be disposed somewhere near the
top of member 102. An upper edge of a matrix band is seated against
member 112, to provide stabilization during placement (or removal)
and to provide a bearing point for the application of force when
placing the band. As depicted in FIG. 1, member 112 comprises a
contiguous appendage along member 102, forming an elongated recess
114 between member 112 and surface 106. Thus, the upper edge of the
matrix band would seat within recess 114 while held by assembly
100. Alternatively, member 112 may comprise an intermittent series
of short appendages forming similar recesses, or one or more simple
flat shelves, or one or more post or semi-spherical protuberances,
disposed or formed to provide the required stabilization and
bearing point(s). In this embodiment, because of the curvature of
members 102 and 104, member 112 is disposed along the outermost
member of assembly 100. Thus, the member farthest from the tooth
being filled applies bearing pressure. Member 104 may be formed
with a deviation 116 to receive or accommodate member 112 while
members 102 and 104 are brought together. Surface 108 is formed of
a longitudinal size comparable to, but somewhat smaller than,
surface 106 to allow for clearance of seating member 112 when
members 102 and 104 are closed tightly together.
[0028] Members 102 and 104 further comprise attachment members 118
and 120, respectively, disposed along the upper portions thereof.
Depending upon the desired actuating assembly to which members 102
and 104 will be coupled, and upon whether such coupling is intended
to be permanent or temporary (i.e., removable), members 118 and 120
may be implemented in a number of ways. For example, if attachment
is intended to be removable, members 118 and 120 may comprise a
snap-lock or screw-on mechanism. If attachment is intended to be
permanent, members 118 and 120 may comprise welds, or some or
similar adjoinment, to an actuating member. Alternatively, members
102 and 104 may be formed as a contiguous, integral part of an
actuating assembly, such that members 118 and 120 comprise only a
transition area indistinguishable from surrounding structure.
[0029] Referring now to FIG. 1b, a top view representation of
assembly 100 is depicted. Members 102 and 104 are additionally
formed with a matching convex lateral curvature. This curvature can
be optimized to match the curvature of one particular size and
style of matrix band, or can be generalized to closely approximate
the curvatures of a number sizes and styles of matrix bands.
Alternatively, once again, the same effect may be achieved using
one or more angulations. Although depicted as laterally larger,
member 102 may be laterally larger, similar, or smaller than member
104, depending upon the desired support and manipulation
characteristics of assembly 100.
[0030] Furthermore, depending upon the desired actuating assembly
and the relative sizes, members 102 and 104 may comprise multiple
lateral attachment members 122 and 124, respectively, in addition
to or instead of members 118 and 120. Members 122 and 124 are
disposed or formed so as to provide greater lateral stability
across the breadth of members 102 and 104, if those members
comprise a single piece. If members 102 and 104 themselves comprise
multiple sub-members, then members 122 and 124 may provide
individual attachment for each of the sub-members.
[0031] As illustrated in FIG. 1c, in a front-view representation,
member 102 may comprise a single, contiguous structure.
Alternatively, one or more partial aperture(s) 126 may be formed in
member 102 so as to render multiple tines 128 in the lower portion
of member 102. Another alternative embodiment would render member
102 as set of multiple, physically separated, polygonal or tine
sub-members formed or disposed in accordance with the teachings
above. All such embodiments provide a broader base of contact with
the matrix band than conventional instruments (e.g., cotton
pliers)--enabling a dentist to apply rotational force along the
horizontal axes of the band. Although not depicted, all of these
embodiments may also be implemented with member 104, and members
102 and 104 can be formed to have matching implementations, or any
combination of the above-referenced embodiments.
[0032] Another embodiment of the present invention is now described
with reference to FIGS. 2a-2c. FIG. 2a provides a side-view,
cross-sectional representation of a grasping member assembly 200
according to the present invention. Assembly 200 and its
constituent members are essentially identical to assembly 100 and
its members, with the exception of curvatures (or angulations) and
related orientation considerations. Members 202 and 204, which
correspond to members 102 and 104, respectively, are formed with a
matching concave longitudinal curvature. Again, this curvature can
be optimized to match the curvature of one particular size and
style of matrix band, or can be generalized to closely approximate
the curvatures of a number sizes and styles of matrix bands. Apical
seating member 212 is disposed along member 202, which is the
innermost member of assembly 200. Thus, in this embodiment, the
member closest to the tooth being filled applies bearing
pressure.
[0033] Referring now to FIG. 2b, a top view representation of
assembly 200 is depicted. Members 202 and 204 are additionally
formed with a matching concave lateral curvature. This curvature
can be optimized to match the curvature of one particular size and
style of matrix band, or can be generalized to closely approximate
the curvatures of a number sizes and styles of matrix bands.
Although depicted as laterally smaller, member 202 may be laterally
larger, similar, or smaller than member 204, depending upon the
desired support and manipulation characteristics of assembly
200.
[0034] As illustrated in FIG. 2c, member 202 may comprise a single
contiguous structure, a tined structured, or multiple sub-member
structures (not depicted). Again, all of these embodiments are also
possible with member 204, and members 202 and 204 can be formed to
have matching implementations, or any combination of the
above-referenced embodiments.
[0035] Although assemblies 100 and 200 have been depicted and
described as comprising multiple members, other embodiments thereof
may comprise only a single member. For example, it is possible that
only member 102 of assembly 100 may be disposed upon some simple
actuating member (e.g., a handpiece). While such an embodiment
would still provide advantages over conventional methods and
apparatus, it would not provide the dentist with the same ability
to secure (i.e., by grasping) a matrix band for manipulation and
proper placement as the multiple member embodiments do.
[0036] With the exception of the single member embodiment above,
the grasping member assemblies 100 and 200 of the present invention
should be coupled to, or formed as part of, some compound actuating
assembly. According to the present invention, a compound actuating
assembly may comprise either a bifurcated assembly (e.g., tweezers,
forceps, pliers), or a stylus assembly (e.g., specialized
handpiece, pneumatic drill piece), adapted to meet the requirements
of the present invention. Although an almost limitless range of
actuating assembly implementations are possible, the present
invention requires that an actuating assembly be of a profile and
length that allows adequate access to all teeth for the grasping
assembly without requiring excessive manipulation by the dentist.
The actuating assembly should provide sufficient pressure between
the members of the grasping assembly to securely hold a matrix
band. Preferably, the actuating assembly should provide the dentist
with the ability to selectively adjust the grasping pressure
applied.
[0037] Referring now to FIG. 3, assembly 300 illustrates one
embodiment of a bifurcated actuating assembly according to the
present invention. Assembly 300 comprises first body member 302 and
second body member 304, counter-rotationally coupled together about
hinge 306. As depicted, assembly 300 comprises a scissor-style
forceps assembly, having finger retainers 308 and 310 coupled to
members 302 and 304, respectively, at handling end 312 of the
assembly. End 312 is the end of assembly 300 that a dentist will
grasp while using and manipulating it. Alternatively, members 302
and 304 may just have flat, unfinished terminations at end 312, or
may have some other devices disposed in place of retainers 308 and
310 to provide grasping assistance (e.g., scored surfaces, rubber
pads). Optionally, assembly 300 may further comprise a locking
assembly 314 to, at a minimum, secure closure of assembly 300 and,
further optionally, to provide a progression of locking pressures.
As depicted in FIG. 3, assembly 314 comprises two counterposed,
ratcheting hasps disposed upon members 302 and 304 that lock
together progressively tighter as closing pressure is applied to
members 302 and 304, and release from one another when a slight
orthogonal force is applied thereto. Alternatively, assembly 314
may comprise a simple latch, a screw-type apparatus, a spring
apparatus, or any other contrivance that provides the desired
locking and pressure characteristics.
[0038] The other end of assembly 300 is actuating end 316. At end
316, members 302 and 304 terminate in actuating portions 318 and
320, respectively. Members of a grasping assembly may couple to, or
be formed as part of, the open ends of portions 318 and 320.
Portions 318 and 320 are angled or curved with respect to members
302 and 304 to provide an attached grasping assembly proper access
to either distal or mesial surfaces, or both. The angles or
curvatures of portions 318 and 320 are matched and aligned to
provide proper closure and alignment of grasping assembly members.
The curvature or angling of portions 318 and 320 enables a dentist
to place a matrix band in the desired location without manipulating
the entire actuating assembly to some extreme angle within a
patient's mouth. Depending on whether the coupling of grasping
assembly members to portions 318 and 320 is permanent or temporary,
and on whether assembly 300 is intended to be used for only mesial,
only distal, or both mesial and distal orientations, portions 318
and 320 may be formed with a specific or a general curvature or
angling.
[0039] In one embodiment, for example, separate tools for mesial
and distal orientations might be desired. Thus, two actuating
assemblies are formed. Each may have grasping assemblies
permanently attached thereto. The tool intended for use in mesial
orientations would comprise actuating portions having a greater
degree of curvature or angling than the actuating portions of the
tool intended for distal orientations. Alternatively, a single tool
for use in either orientation may be desired. Such a tool might
have actuating portions of a generalized curvature or angle, and
might rely on temporary attachment of, for example, grasping
assembly 100 for mesial orientation and grasping assembly 200 for
distal orientation. In still another alternative embodiment, a tool
may comprise actuating portions of adjustable or deformable
curvature or angling, allowing a dentist to select his own
orientation based on the procedure to be completed.
[0040] Finally, hinge 306 may be disposed along members 302 and 304
in a position generally biased toward end 316. This renders members
302 and 304 as relatively long lever arms, requiring minimal
application of force and minimal separation of members 302 and 304
at end 312 to provide sufficient actuation of portions 318 and
320.
[0041] Referring now to FIG. 4, another embodiment of a bifurcated
actuating assembly 400 is illustrated. Assembly 400 comprises first
body member 402 and second body member 404, conjoined together as a
single unit at closed end 406. The other end of assembly 400 is
actuating end 408. At end 408, members 402 and 404 terminate in
actuating portions 410 and 412, respectively. Members of a grasping
assembly may be coupled to, or formed as part of, the open ends of
portions 410 and 412.
[0042] As depicted, assembly 400 comprises a specialized
tweezer-style assembly--one that brings actuating portions 410 and
412, and grasping assembly members coupled thereto, together at
rest. Assembly 400 comprises a fulcrum member 414 disposed between
members 402 and 404. Member 414 is disposed is a position biased
towards end 408, and portions 410 and 412 are formed, such that
grasping assembly members coupled to portions 410 and 412 are
brought together and engaged (i.e., clamped) with maximum force
when assembly 400 is not actuated. Assembly 400 is actuated by
applying pressure to areas 416 along members 402 and 404, between
fulcrum 414 and end 406--separating portions 410 and 412 and
releasing the grasp of the grasping assembly.
[0043] Optionally, members 402 and 404 may have some devices
disposed thereon, proximal to end 406, to provide grasping
assistance (e.g., scored surfaces, rubber pads). Furthermore,
assembly 400 may optionally comprise a locking assembly (not
depicted) to, at a minimum, secure the resting closure of assembly
400. The locking assembly may comprise a latch, a hasp, a spring
apparatus, or any other contrivance that provides the desired
locking characteristic.
[0044] At end 408, the grasping assembly members may couple to, or
be formed as part of, the open ends of portions 410 and 412.
Portions 410 and 412 are angled or curved with respect to members
402 and 404 to provide an attached grasping assembly proper access
to either distal or mesial surfaces, or both. The angles or
curvatures of portions 410 and 412 are matched and aligned to
provide proper closure and alignment of grasping assembly members.
Again, the curvature or angling of portions 410 and 412 enables a
dentist to place a matrix band in the desired location without
manipulating the entire actuating assembly to some extreme angle
within a patient's mouth. Depending on whether the coupling of
grasping assembly members to portions 410 and 412 is permanent or
temporary, and on whether assembly 400 is intended to be used for
only mesial, only distal, or both mesial and distal orientations,
portions 410 and 412 may be formed with a specific or a general
curvature or angling.
[0045] In one embodiment, for example, separate tools for mesial
and distal orientations might be desired. Thus, two actuating
assemblies are formed. Each may have grasping assemblies
permanently attached thereto. The tool intended for use in mesial
orientations would comprise actuating portions having a greater
degree of curvature or angling than the actuating portions of the
tool intended for distal orientations. Alternatively, a single tool
for use in either orientation may be desired. Such a tool might
have actuating portions of a generalized curvature or angle, and
might rely on temporary attachment of, for example, grasping
assembly 100 for mesial orientation and grasping assembly 200 for
distal orientation. In still another alternative embodiment, a tool
may comprise actuating portions of adjustable or deformable
curvature or angling, allowing a dentist to select his own
orientation based on the procedure to be completed.
[0046] Referring now to FIG. 5, another embodiment of a bifurcated
actuating assembly 500 is illustrated. Assembly 500 comprises first
body member 502 and second body member 504, joined together as a
single unit at closed end 506. The other end of assembly 500 is
actuating end 508. At end 508, members 502 and 504 terminate in
actuating portions 510 and 512, respectively. Members of a grasping
assembly may be coupled to, or formed as part of, the open ends of
portions 510 and 512.
[0047] As depicted, end 506 of assembly 500 comprises a
conventional tweezer-style assembly--one that requires the
application of closing pressure 514 somewhere along members 502 and
504 in order to bring actuating portions 510 and 512, and grasping
assembly members coupled thereto, together. Thus, grasping assembly
members coupled to portions 510 and 512 are brought together and
engaged (i.e., clamped) with increasing force as the pressure 514
applied to assembly 500 is increased. Removing pressure 514 from
assembly 500 separates portions 510 and 512 and releases the grasp
of the grasping assembly. Optionally, members 502 and 504 may have
some devices disposed thereon, proximal to end 506, to provide
grasping assistance (e.g., scored surfaces, rubber pads).
[0048] Furthermore, assembly 500 may optionally comprise a locking
assembly 516 to, at a minimum, secure closure of assembly 500 and,
further optionally, to provide a progressive locking pressure. As
depicted in FIG. 5, assembly 516 comprises a sliding bar member 518
disposed within apertures 520 and 522, themselves disposed within
members 502 and 504, respectively. Sliding member 518 may be
positioned and anchored within apertures 520 and 522 such that as
it moved in the direction of end 508, members 502 and 504 are
forced closer together--providing or matching pressure 514. Thus, a
dentist may lock assembly 500 at a desired grasping pressure after
applying closing pressure directly to members 502 and 504, or
assembly 516 may be used to indirectly close assembly 500 to a
desired grasping pressure before locking it in place. Pressure
between grasping assembly members may be increased by moving member
518 further in the direction of end 508. Alternatively, assembly
516 may comprise a thumbwheel-type assembly that enables a dentist
to indirectly close, lock, and increase the grasping pressure for,
assembly 500 by turning the thumbwheel. In other embodiments,
assembly 516 may comprise a simple latch, a screw-type apparatus, a
spring apparatus, or any other contrivance that provides the
desired locking and pressure characteristics.
[0049] At end 508, the grasping assembly members may be coupled to,
or formed as part of, the open ends of portions 510 and 512.
Portions 510 and 512 are angled or curved with respect to members
502 and 504 to provide an attached grasping assembly proper access
to either distal or mesial surfaces, or both. The angles or
curvatures of portions 510 and 512 are matched and aligned to
provide proper closure and alignment of grasping assembly members.
Again, the curvature or angling of portions 510 and 512 enables a
dentist to place a matrix band in the desired location without
manipulating the entire actuating assembly to some extreme angle
within a patient's mouth. Depending on whether the coupling of
grasping assembly members to portions 510 and 512 is permanent or
temporary, and on whether assembly 500 is intended to be used for
only mesial, only distal, or both mesial and distal orientations,
portions 510 and 512 may be formed with a specific or a general
curvature or angling.
[0050] In one embodiment, for example, separate tools for mesial
and distal orientations might be desired. Thus, two actuating
assemblies are formed. Each may have grasping assemblies
permanently attached thereto. The tool intended for use in mesial
orientations would comprise actuating portions having a greater
degree of curvature or angling than the actuating portions of the
tool intended for distal orientations. Alternatively, a single tool
for use in either orientation may be desired. Such a tool might
have actuating portions of a generalized curvature or angle, and
rely on temporary attachment of, for example, grasping assembly 100
for mesial orientation and grasping assembly 200 for distal
orientation. In still another alternative embodiment, a tool may
comprise actuating portions of adjustable or deformable curvature
or angling, allowing a dentist to select his own orientation based
on the procedure to be completed.
[0051] Referring now to FIG. 6, assembly 600 illustrates another
embodiment of a bifurcated actuating assembly according to the
present invention. Assembly 600 comprises first body member 602 and
second body member 604, conjoined together as a single unit at
closed end 606. The other end of assembly 600 is actuating end 608.
Assembly 600 further comprises hinge 610, disposed along members
602 and 604 proximal to end 608, and about which members 602 and
604 are counter-rotationally coupled together. At end 608, members
602 and 604 terminate in actuating portions 612 and 614,
respectively. Members of a grasping assembly may be coupled to, or
formed as part of, the open ends of portions 612 and 614.
[0052] As depicted, assembly 600 comprises a specialized
scissor-style assembly--one that brings actuating portions 612 and
614, and grasping assembly members coupled thereto, together at
rest. Assembly 600 is configured, and portions 612 and 614 are
formed, such that grasping assembly members coupled to portions 612
and 614 are brought together and engaged (i.e., clamped) with
maximum force when assembly 600 is not actuated. Assembly 600 is
actuated by applying pressure to areas 616 along members 602 and
604, between hinge 610 and end 606--separating portions 612 and 614
and releasing the grasp of the grasping assembly.
[0053] Optionally, members 602 and 604 may have some devices
disposed thereon, proximal to end 606, to provide grasping
assistance (e.g., scored surfaces, rubber pads). Furthermore,
assembly 600 may optionally comprise a locking assembly (not
depicted) to, at a minimum, secure the resting closure of assembly
600. The locking assembly may comprise a latch, a hasp, a spring
apparatus, or any other contrivance that provides the desired
locking characteristic.
[0054] At end 608, the grasping assembly members may couple to, or
be formed as part of, the open ends of portions 612 and 614.
Portions 612 and 614 are angled or curved with respect to members
602 and 604 to provide an attached grasping assembly proper access
to either distal or mesial surfaces, or both. The angles or
curvatures of portions 612 and 614 are matched and aligned to
provide proper closure and alignment of grasping assembly members.
Again, the curvature or angling of portions 612 and 614 enables a
dentist to place a matrix band in the desired location without
manipulating the entire actuating assembly to some extreme angle
within a patient's mouth. Depending on whether the coupling of
grasping assembly members to portions 612 and 614 is permanent or
temporary, and on whether assembly 600 is intended to be used for
only mesial, only distal, or both mesial and distal orientations,
portions 612 and 614 may be formed with a specific or a general
curvature or angling.
[0055] In one embodiment, for example, separate tools for mesial
and distal orientations might be desired. Thus, two actuating
assemblies are formed. Each may have grasping assemblies
permanently attached thereto. The tool intended for use in mesial
orientations would comprise actuating portions having a greater
degree of curvature or angling than the actuating portions of the
tool intended for distal orientations. Alternatively, a single tool
for use in either orientation may be desired. Such a tool might
have actuating portions of a generalized curvature or angle, and
might rely on temporary attachment of, for example, grasping
assembly 100 for mesial orientation and grasping assembly 200 for
distal orientation. In still another alternative embodiment, a tool
may comprise actuating portions of adjustable or deformable
curvature or angling, allowing a dentist to select his own
orientation based on the procedure to be completed.
[0056] As an alternative to the bifurcated assemblies described
above, the compound actuating assembly of the present invention may
be implemented in a variety of stylus-type embodiments. Referring
now to FIG. 7, assembly 700 illustrates one embodiment of a stylus
actuating assembly according to the present invention. Assembly 700
comprises a first body member 702 and second body member 704.
Member 704 may be coupled, either internally or externally, to
member 702, within a recessed portion 706 of member 702 by a hinge
assembly 708. A closure mechanism 710 within member 702 is
operatively associated with member 704.
[0057] Member 704 is coupled to member 702 close to actuating end
712 of assembly 700. At end 712, member 702 terminates in actuating
portion 714. Members of a grasping assembly may be coupled to, or
formed as part of, the open ends of member 704 and portion 714.
[0058] As depicted, activation of mechanism 710 will cause member
704 to rotate about hinge 708, bringing actuating portion 714 and
member 704, and grasping assembly members coupled thereto,
together. Thus, grasping assembly members coupled to portion 714
and member 704 are brought together and engaged (i.e., clamped)
with increasing force as the force applied by mechanism 710 is
increased. Mechanism 710 may comprise a simple, finger-activated,
mechanical trigger assembly, an electromechanical solenoid, a
pneumatically activated solenoid, or any other similar contrivance
enabling a dentist to apply a fixed or progressive range of closing
pressures to member 704. Removing or reversing the closing pressure
applied to member 704 will separate member 704 from portion 714,
releasing the grasp of the grasping assembly. Assembly 700 may,
optionally, comprise a locking apparatus or assembly of the types
previously described, such that mechanism 710, member 704, or both
may be locked into a desired position.
[0059] At end 712, grasping assembly members may couple to, or be
formed as part of, the open ends of portion 714 and member 704.
Portion 714 and member 704 are angled or curved with respect to
member 702 to provide an attached grasping assembly proper access
to either distal or mesial surfaces, or both. The angles or
curvatures of portion 714 and member 704 are matched and aligned to
provide proper closure and alignment of grasping assembly members.
Again, the curvature or angling of portion 714 and member 704
enables a dentist to place a matrix band in the desired location
without manipulating the entire actuating assembly to some extreme
angle within a patient's mouth. Depending on whether the coupling
of grasping assembly members to portion 714 and member 704 is
permanent or temporary, and on whether assembly 700 is intended to
be used for only mesial, only distal, or both mesial and distal
orientations, portion 714 and member 704 may be formed with a
specific or a general curvature or angling.
[0060] In one embodiment, for example, separate tools for mesial
and distal orientations might be desired. Thus, two actuating
assemblies are formed. Each may have grasping assemblies
permanently attached thereto. The tool intended for use in mesial
orientations would comprise portion 714 and member 704 having a
greater degree of curvature or angling than portion 714 and member
704 of the tool intended for distal orientations. Alternatively, a
single tool for use in either orientation may be desired. Such a
tool might have portion 714 and member 704 of a generalized
curvature or angle, and might rely on temporary attachment of, for
example, grasping assembly 100 for mesial orientation and grasping
assembly 200 for distal orientation. In still another alternative
embodiment, a tool may comprise portion 714 and member 704 of
adjustable or deformable curvature or angling, allowing a dentist
to select his own orientation based on the procedure to be
completed.
[0061] Referring now to FIG. 8a, another embodiment of a stylus
assembly 800 is illustrated. Assembly 800 comprises a first body
member 802 and second body member 804. Members 802 and 804 are
inter-connectively coupled together by intermediary member 806.
Actuating members 808 are disposed upon or within member 804, and
are adapted to couple with and actuate members of a grasping
assembly (not shown). Members of a grasping assembly may be coupled
to, or formed as part of, the open ends of members 808. Member 806
may provide a conduit from member 802 to member 804 through which a
closure mechanism (not shown) may be operatively coupled to members
808. Such a closure mechanism may comprise any suitable mechanical,
electro-mechanical, or pneumatic contrivance (e.g., pneumatic
solenoid) operable to allow a dentist, while handling member 802,
to engage and disengage members 808 as desired. Thus, grasping
assembly members coupled to members 808 are brought together and
engaged (i.e., clamped) with increasing force as the force applied
by the closure mechanism is increased. Removing or reversing the
force applied will separate members 808, releasing the grasp of the
grasping assembly.
[0062] In addition or alternatively to serving as a conduit, member
806 may serve as a pivot, about which member 804 may be rotated or
otherwise translated, with respect to member 802, to provide an
attached grasping assembly proper access to either distal or mesial
surfaces, or both. This is illustrated in FIG. 8b, where the
rotation of member 804 changes the angle of members 808 with
respect to member 802. In this example, the orientation of FIG. 8a
might be preferable for mesial procedures and the orientation of
FIG. 8b might be preferable for distal procedures. Alternatively,
or in addition to its rotation, member 804 may be formed with an
asymmetry (e.g., quasi-pyramidal or quasi-spherical) such that the
rotation of member 804 further enhances bias of assembly 800 to
either distal or mesial orientations. In other alternative
embodiments, certain members (e.g., member 806) may be adjustable
or deformable with respect to other members to achieve the desired
effect. In still other alternative embodiments, multiple rotational
and pivotal members of parallel and orthogonal orientation may be
utilized to render the desired result. All such embodiments are
configured to enable a dentist to place a matrix band in a desired
location without manipulating the entire actuating assembly to some
extreme angle within a patient's mouth.
[0063] For all embodiments, selection of materials for formation of
the assemblies will depend on a number of factors. In all cases,
materials selected must be durable enough to withstand the
pressures (e.g., grasping, closing, pulling) applied throughout the
system during a procedure. Furthermore, the materials utilized
should be malleable enough to be formed into the desired shapes and
orientations. If an embodiment requires a deformable member, the
material used to form that member should be flexible enough to
provide the desired deformation while remaining durable enough to
withstand the pressures applied. If an assembly or a sub-portion
thereof is intended to be of a disposable, one-use nature, then a
reliable but inexpensive material (e.g., plastic) may be used in
production. If an assembly or a member is intended to be of a
re-usable nature, then a durable material (e.g., stainless steel),
capable of withstanding repeated sterilization procedures, should
be used in production.
[0064] While the invention has been described in reference to
illustrative embodiments, the description is not intended to be
construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications and
combinations of the illustrative embodiments, as well as other
embodiments of the invention, will be apparent to persons skilled
in the art upon reference to the description. It is therefore
intended that the appended claims encompass any such modifications
or embodiments.
* * * * *