Enhanced Dental Tool Manufacturing System
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
An advanced system for manufacturing dental tools, incorporating a probe-based orientation and position identification mechanism, enabling precise cutting end region formation and quality control verification.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent, 'Manufacture of a dental tool', describes a method for manufacturing dental tools, but lacks efficient and accurate flute orientation and position identification, leading to potential inaccuracies in the cutting end region. The new inventive concept addresses this limitation by integrating a probe-based system, ensuring precise flute identification and cutting end region formation.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The enhanced dental tool manufacturing system consists of a machine configured to receive a pre-fluted blank, and a probe for identifying the orientation and/or position of a flute on the pre-fluted blank. The machine is further configured to form a cutting end region on the flute based on the identified orientation and/or position. Additionally, the system may include a quality control module for verifying the accuracy of the formed cutting end region. The method of manufacturing a dental tool using this system involves positioning a pre-fluted blank within the machine, using the probe to identify the flute's orientation and/or position, and forming the cutting end region accordingly.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept's novelty lies in the integration of a probe-based orientation and position identification mechanism, enabling precise flute identification and cutting end region formation. This inventive step addresses the limitations of the original patent, providing a more accurate and efficient manufacturing process.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include varying probe designs, such as optical or tactile probes, or incorporating additional features, like automated flute cleaning or surface treatment. Variations may also involve adapting the system for manufacturing other types of medical tools or implants.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced dental tool manufacturing system has significant commercial potential in the dental industry, offering improved accuracy, efficiency, and quality control. The system can be marketed to dental laboratories, manufacturers, and suppliers, providing a competitive advantage in the production of high-precision dental tools.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61C13/0022 |
| A | A61 | A61C3/02 |
| B | B23 | B23C3/32 |
| B | B23 | B23C5/1009 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00526 |
| B | B23 | B23C2210/40 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Dental tool manufacturing and precision machining, involving advanced manufacturing techniques for medical and dental instrumentation, with expertise in CNC machining, probe-based measurement, and tool geometry optimization
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A skilled manufacturing engineer with expertise in precision machining, CAD/CAM technologies, metrology, and dental tool fabrication, possessing knowledge of advanced manufacturing techniques and measurement technologies
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill would recognize that integrating probe-based orientation identification with existing dental tool manufacturing processes represents a predictable technological advancement. The PTD's core innovation of using a probe to precisely locate and orient flutes during manufacturing is a logical extension of existing tool production methodologies. The combination of known measurement techniques with established manufacturing processes would be considered an obvious improvement by a skilled practitioner in the field.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,386 |
|---|---|
| Title | Manufacture of a dental tool |
| Assignee(s) | PRIMA DENTAL MANUFACTURING, LTD |