Note : Les descriptions sont présentées dans la langue officielle dans laquelle elles ont été soumises.
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ADJUSTABLE DENTAL X-RAY IMAGE MEDIA HOLDER
[0001]
Technical Field
[0002] The present invention is related to dental x-ray image media holders.
More
particularly the invention relates to a device for securing a dental x-ray
image media
including film, phosphor plates, digital sensors and the like, and holding it
in place
relative to the x-ray target during the x-ray procedure. Specifically the
invention relates
to a holder that can be selectively used to take a plurality of different x-
rays using a
plurality of different sizes, shapes or configurations of image media. The
inventive
device has a bite block moveably affixed to an image media backing plate. The
backing
plate may be provided with flexible straps to secure an image media to the
backing
plate.
Background of the Invention
[0003] Dental professionals have employed x-ray imaging for many years. A
traditional dental x-ray procedure includes exposing an x-ray film to x-ray
energy after it
has passed through the target site. The film is developed and an image of the
target site
is achieved. It has also long been known that in order to obtain a useful
image, the
dental x-ray film must be positioned relative to the target site in a
predetermined and
secure manner. Many numbers of x-ray film holders and positioning devices have
been
developed, including for example, that shown in U.S. Pat No. 3,473,026.
[0004] More recently, many dental professionals have used digital x-ray
sensors in
place of traditional x-ray films. An example of such a sensor is shown for
example in
U.S. Pat. No. 6,652,141. As with x-ray films, it is necessary for the x-ray
sensor to be
secured in a predetermined position during the x-ray imaging procedure. In a
manner
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similar to the use of x-ray films, holding and positioning devices have been
developed for
x-ray sensors. Digital sensors often have attached electrical connection cords
such that
the digital sensor transfers data to a storage or display device such as a
computer.
[0005] Another type of image media common in the dental industry is a phosphor
imaging plate. The x-ray shot is stored onto the imaging plate which is later
read by a
scanning machine or the like and the data is transferred to a storage or
display device,
such as a computer.
[0006] These and other type of devices that receive dental x-rays for dental
purposes
are herein collectively referred to as dental x-ray imaging media, sensors,
imagers or the
like. Any such devices that are sensitive to such x-rays is within the scope
of the
invention. It will be appreciated from the above discussion that the different
image
media holders while all accomplishing similar purposes, that is, dental
diagnostics and
the like, all operate in different manners. It is also the fact that the image
media
themselves are different in shape, size and configuration. For example,
traditional x-ray
films are often manufactured inside an envelope before being used with a
patient.
Phosphor imaging plates are often very thin, not much thicker than a sheet of
paper or
two and are placed into a barrier envelope before being used in an x-ray
procedure.
Digital sensors tend to be fairly thick in respective comparison due to the
internal energy
sensing components required for such devices. It is envisioned that in the
future, other
type of dental imaging media will be developed using similar or perhaps
completely
different technologies. These all have at least some commonality in that they
generally
must fit within the oral cavity and they must be securely held in a desired
location during
the x-ray procedure.
[0007] Adding to the complexity of using different imaging media is that even
within a
common type of media different manufacturers often provide media products that
while
they accomplish the same task as other media, are of a different size, shape
or
configuration.
[0008] Of course, it is also known that different set-ups must often be used
for taking
an x-ray image of different parts of the oral cavity. For example,
conventionally dental x-
rays taken in the oral cavity include anterior vertical periapical, anterior
horizontal
periapical, posterior horizontal periapical, posterior vertical periapical,
horizontal bite-
wing, vertical bite-wing, left and right images and other similar x-ray
positions.
[0009] It will be appreciated that given the large number of different imaging
media of
different sizes, shapes and configurations, and given that many different x-
ray
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procedures may be required in the oral cavity which require varied positioning
of the
imaging media relative to the tooth or other target site, the imaging media
holder will
have a different configuration for each possible combination. This requires
the dental
practitioner to normally stock a large number of imaging media holders in
order to be
reasonably certain that a proper holder is available at any given time for an
x-ray
procedure. It takes time and effort to match holders to specific imaging
media.
[0010] A need exists therefore for a universal dental x-ray imaging media
holder that
will securely affix different shapes, sizes and configurations of such imaging
media. It
would also be desirable if the same holder could be used to hold such
different media
in a selected location during an x-ray procedure and which can be used to take
more
than one type of x-ray by being positioned at different locations in the oral
cavity. The
present invention provides an adjustable holder that meets these desires.
Summary of the Invention
[0011] In one aspect, the present invention is directed to a dental x-ray
image media
holder comprising: a backing plate affixed to a bite block, the backing plate
including:
a least one channel for receiving a post affixed to the bite block, such that
the bite
block can be selectively moved within the channels to orient the bite block in
a
predetermined position relative to the backing plate; and a plurality of
indicia, such
that at least one of the indicia is used to indicate a first position of the
bite block
relative to the backing plate, the first position being associated with a
predetermined
first dental imaging procedure; and a locking member configured to prevent
rotational
movement of the bite block along a post axis upon engagement of the locking
member.
[0011a] Another aspect is a dental x-ray image media holder comprising a
backing
plate affixed to a bite block, the backing plate including: a least one
channel for
receiving a post affixed to the bite block, such that the bite block can be
selectively
moved within the at least one channel to orient the bite block in a
predetermined
position relative to the backing plate; and a plurality of indicia, such that
at least one
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of the indicia is used to indicate a first position of the bite block relative
to the backing
plate, the first position being associated with a predetermined first dental
imaging
procedure; and a locking member comprising a first locking member of the
backing
plate and a corresponding second locking member of the bite block such that
upon
engagement of the first locking member and the corresponding second locking
member, rotational movement of the bite block about the post axis is prevented
while
permitting substantially parallel movement of the bite block within the at
least one
channel relative to a first side of the backing plate.
[0012] In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a dental x-ray
image
media holder comprising: a backing plate affixed to a bite block, the backing
plate
including: a first side; a perimeter edge extending along the perimeter of the
first side;
at least one channel extending at least partially through the first side of
the backing
plate for receiving a post affixed to the bite block, such that the bite block
can be
selectively moved within the channel to orient the bite block in a
predetermined
position relative to the backing plate; and a plurality of indicia, such that
at least one
of the indicia is used to indicate a first position of the bite block relative
to the backing
plate, the first position being associated with a predetermined first dental
imaging
procedure; and a baseplate joining the post to the bite block, the baseplate
extending
along the first side of the baseplate so that in the first position, the bite
block is
positioned outward of the perimeter edge of the backing plate.
[0012a] Another aspect is a dental x-ray image media holder comprising a
backing
plate affixed to a bite block, the backing plate including: a first side; a
perimeter edge
extending along the perimeter of the first side; at least one channel
extending at least
partially through the first side of the backing plate for receiving a post
affixed to the
bite block, such that the bite block can be selectively moved within the at
least one
channel to orient the bite block in a predetermined position relative to the
backing
plate; and a plurality of indicia, such that at least one of the indicia is
used to indicate
a first position of the bite block relative to the backing plate, the first
position being
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associated with a predetermined first dental imaging procedure; and a
baseplate
joining the post to the bite block, the baseplate extending along the first
side of the
backing plate so that in the first position, the bite block is positioned
outward of the
perimeter edge of the backing plate.
[0013] In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a dental x-ray
image
media holder comprising: a backing plate affixed to a bite block, the backing
plate
including a first side; a second side; a perimeter edge extending between the
first
side and the second side along the perimeter of the backing plate; a plurality
of
channels extending at least partially through the first side of the backing
plate for
receiving a post affixed to the bite block, such that the bite block can be
selectively
moved within the channels to orient the bite block in a predetermined position
relative
to the backing plate; and a plurality of indicia, such that a first indicia is
used to
indicate a first position of the bite block relative to the backing plate, the
first position
being associated with a predetermined first dental imaging procedure, and a
second
indicia is used to indicate a second position of the bite block relative to
the backing
plate, the second position being associated with a predetermined second dental
imaging procedure; and a first locking member; and a baseplate joining the
post to
the bite block, the baseplate having a corresponding second locking member for
engaging the first locking member of the backing plate so that upon
engagement,
rotational movement of the bite block about a post axis is prevented.
[0013a] Another aspect is a dental x-ray image media holder comprising a
backing
plate affixed to a bite block, the backing plate including: a first side; a
second side; a
perimeter edge extending between the first side and the second side along the
perimeter of the backing plate; a plurality of channels extending at least
partially
.. through the first side of the backing plate for receiving a post affixed to
the bite block,
such that the bite block can be selectively moved within the plurality of
channels to
orient the bite block in a predetermined position relative to the backing
plate; and a
plurality of indicia, such that a first indicia is used to indicate a first
position of the bite
block relative to the backing plate, the first position being associated with
a
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predetermined first dental imaging procedure, and a second indicia is used to
indicate
a second position of the bite block relative to the backing plate, the second
position
being associated with a predetermined second dental imaging procedure; and a
first
locking member; and a baseplate joining the post to the bite block, the
baseplate
having a corresponding second locking member for engaging the first locking
member of the backing plate so that upon engagement, rotational movement of
the
bite block about a post axis is prevented while permitting substantially
parallel
movement of the bite block within one of the plurality of channels relative to
the first
side of the backing plate.
[0014] In another aspect of the present invention, it is contemplated that the
dental x-
ray image media holder has one or any combination of the following features: a
baseplate joining the post to the bite block, the baseplate extending along a
first side
of the baseplate so that in the first position, the bite block is positioned
outward of a
perimeter edge of the backing plate; the baseplate includes a proximal end
portion
affixed to the post and a distal end affixed to the bite block, the bite block
having a
contact surface extending generally perpendicularly to the first side of the
backing
plate; a plurality of straps are secured to a second side of the backing plate
such that
after an image media is placed into physical contact with the second side of
the
backing plate, the straps can be wrapped to physically impinge upon the image
media thereby securing it in position relative to the backing plate, and
wherein the
straps include perforations for removing the backing plate after securement to
the
image media; the post has base such that when positioned within at least one
of the
channels, a portion of the backing plate is received between the base and the
baseplate with the post extending between and connecting the base and the
baseplate; the backing plate is provided with at least two intersecting the
channels,
the channels include a t-shaped configuration made up of
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a primary channel intersecting a secondary channel at a midpoint of each the
primary
and secondary channels; the baseplate includes a proximal end portion affixed
to the
post and a distal end affixed to the bite block, the bite block having a
contact surface
extending generally perpendicularly to the first side of the backing plate; a
locking
member configured to prevent rotational movement of the bite block along a
post axis
upon engagement of the locking member; the locking member includes a first
locking
member having at least one groove and a corresponding second locking member
having
at least one rib, such that upon engagement of the rib within the groove,
rotational
movement of the bite block along the post axis is prevented; the backing plate
includes a
first locking member and the baseplate includes a corresponding second locking
member such that upon engagement of the first locking member and the
corresponding
second locking member, rotational movement of the bite block about the post
axis is
prevented while permitting generally parallel movement of the bite block
within the
channel relative to the first side of the blacking plate; the backing plate is
provided with
at least two intersecting the channels, the channels include a t-shaped
configuration
made up of a primary channel intersecting a secondary channel at a midpoint of
each
the primary and secondary channels; a plurality of straps are secured to a
second side
of the backing plate such that after an image media is placed into physical
contact with
the second side of the backing plate, the strap can be wrapped to physically
impinge
upon the image media thereby securing it in position relative to the backing
plate; the
first locking member includes at least one longitudinally extending groove and
at least
one transversely extending groove along the first side of the backing plate
and the
corresponding second locking member includes at least one rib such that upon
engagement of the first locking member and the corresponding locking member,
the at
least one rib is received within at least one of the at least one
longitudinally extending
groove and the at least one transversely extending groove; the baseplate
extends along
the first side of the baseplate so that in the first position, the bite block
is positioned
outward of the perimeter edge of the backing plate; the post has base such
that when
positioned within at least one of the channels, a portion of the backing plate
is received
between the base and the baseplate with the post extending between and
connecting
the base and the baseplate; or any combination thereof.
Brief Description of the Drawings
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[0015] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a dental image media holder embodying
the
concepts of the present invention.
[0016] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a portion of the image media holder of
Fig. 1,
showing a bite block in a position where adjustment thereof relative to a
backing plate
can take place.
[0017] Fig. 3 shows the image media holder of Fig. 2 with the bite block in
still another
position.
[0018] Fig. 4 Fig. is a perspective view of the image media holder as in Fig.
1,
showing a bite block adjusted to a different position.
[0019] Fig. 5 is a partially exploded view of an image media holder as in Fig.
2 shown
for environmental purposes in conjunction with a phosphor imaging plate and a
barrier
envelope for the phosphor plate.
[0020] Fig. 6 is a top perspective view of an image media holder as in claim
1, shown
for environmental purposes holding a digital dental sensor having an attached
cord
(partially shown).
[0021] Fig. 7 is a top perspective view of the image media holder of Fig. 6,
showing a
means of affixing an image media to the image media holder.
[0022] Fig. 8 is a bottom perspective view of the image media holder of Fig.
7.
[0023] Fig. 9 is a partially exploded view of the image media holder of Fig.
6, showing
for further environmental purposes a cover sleeve for the image media.
[0024] Fig 10 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of an imaging
media
holder according to the present invention, and shown with an attached arm and
aiming
ring.
[0025] Fig. Ills a top plan view of the holder of Fig. 10.
[0026] Fig. 12 is a front elevational view of the bite block component of the
holder of
Fig. 1.
[0027] Fig. 13 is a perspective view of an alternative bite block useful with
the present
invention.
[0028] Fig. 14 is a perspective view of an exemplary aiming ring and image
media
receptor shown in an exploded view with the media holder and bite block of the
invention.
[0029] Fig. 15 is a perspective view as in Fig. 14 shown assembled.
[0030] Fig. 16 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the
present
invention, shown with an exemplary dental x-ray sensor for environmental
purposes.
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[0031] Fig. 17 is a side, plan view of the alternative embodiment shown in
Fig. 16
[0032] Fig. 18 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the
present
invention.
[0033] Fig. 19 is a perspective view of the alternative embodiment shown in
Fig. 18
with the bite block component shown in an alternate position.
[0034] Fig. 20 is a top view of embodiment shown in Fig. 19.
[0035] Fig. 21 is a perspective view of the bite block component shown in Fig.
18.
[0036] Fig. 22 is a perspective view of the alternative embodiment shown in
Fig. 18
with the bite block component shown in an alternate position.
[0037] Fig. 23 is side view of the alternative embodiment shown in Fig. 19.
[0038] Fig. 24 is a cross-sectional side view of the alternative embodiment
shown in
Fig. 18, shown with an exemplary dental x-ray sensor for environmental
purposes.
[0039] Fig. 25 is a close-up cross-sectional side view of a portion the
alternative
embodiment shown in Fig. 24, shown with an exemplary dental x-ray sensor for
environmental purposes.
[0040] Fig. 26 is a bottom perspective view of the alternative embodiment
shown in
Fig. 24 shown with an exemplary dental x-ray sensor for environmental
purposes.
[0041] Fig. 27 is a top perspective view of the alternative embodiment shown
in Fig.
24 shown with an exemplary dental x-ray sensor for environmental purposes.
Detailed Description
[0042] An image media holder embodying the concepts of the present invention
is
generally designated on the attached drawings by the number 10. Image media
holder
has a backing plate 11 configured to have a first side 11a, a second side lib
and a
perimeter edge 11 c. In one embodiment, the perimeter edge 11c extends between
the
first side and the second side along the perimeter of the backing plate. While
backing
plate 11 may be of any size or shape, it has been found that a generally
rectangularand
flat plate is conducive to physically contacting and supporting a dental x-ray
image
media in a manner to be hereinafter described. Of course, any size, shape or
configuration is within the scope of the invention although it will be
exemplified and is
preferred to be of the flat plate design as shown on the drawings.
[0043] Image media holder 11 is also provided with a bite block 12. It will be
understood by those skilled in the art that a "bite block" used with a dental
x-ray image
media holder is intended to be physically impinged between the teeth, gums or
other
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patient dentition during x-ray procedures. As is convention, the image media
holder will
be positioned in a patient's oral cavity (not shown) and the patient will be
instructed to
bite upon the block. This locates the affixed or supported x-ray image media
during the
ensuing dental imaging procedure. Bite block 12 of the invention is of any
suitable and
conventional design, shape or configuration except for the unique inventive
aspects to
be described hereinbelow.
[0044] In one embodiment, bite block 12 may be generally flat and rectangular,
and
may be provided with at least one contact surface (e.g., two opposing contact
surfaces)
having optional gripping ridges 13 as is typically conventional. The bite
block 12 may be
provided with a baseplate 20 at one end thereof, preferably at one of the ends
12a (e.g.,
shorter ends) of its rectangular body if a rectangular design is chosen.
Baseplate 20 is
configured to be generally smooth such that intimate physical contact between
it and first
side 11a of backing plate 11 can be made. Preferably, that physical contact
may be
such that baseplate 20 can slide across the surface of first side 11a of
backing plate 11
for purposes that will become clear from the following discussion. It is
appreciated that
the baseplate 20 may be a separate component attached to the bite block 12 or
integrally formed therewith.
[0045] Extending from bite block 12, and more preferably from baseplate 20,
may be a
positioning post 21 (Fig. 12) that will cooperatively interact with backing
plate 11 in a
manner to now be described. The positioning post extending along an axis PA.
It is
appreciated that the positioning post 21 may be integrally formed with or
attached to the
bite block 12, the baseplate 20, or a combination of both.
[0046] In a preferred embodiment, bite block 12 may be provided with a
baseplate 20a
at one end thereof (Figs. 18-27). Baseplate 20a may be generally flat and
rectangular
(or otherwise shaped), and may include a proximal end 22, a distal end 23, a
first side
24, and a second side 25. Typically, the baseplate 20a may extend generally
transversely (e.g., perpendicularly) to bite block 12, though not required
(e.g., such as
extends diagonally or otherwise therefrom). For example, in one embodiment,
the bite
block 12 extends generally perpendicularly from the baseplate 20a (e.g., the
first side
24) at the distal end 24 thereof. It is appreciated that the baseplate 20a
(e.g., second
side 25) may be positioned along the backing plate 15 (e.g., first side 11a)
in an adjacent
manner such that the distal end 23 extends beyond the perimeter edge 11c of
the
backing plate. As such, the extended base plate 20a provides for an offset of
the bite
block 12, which is located at the distal end 23 thereof so that the bite block
12 (e.g., the
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entire bite block 12) may also be positioned outward of the perimeter edge 11c
of the
packing plate.
[0047] In this arrangement, the positioning post 21 may be located at the
proximal end
22 of the baseplate 20a (e.g., extending from the bottom surface 24) so that
the bite
block 12 may be positioned in a spaced apart (e.g., offset) arrangement
relative to a post
axis PA of the positioning post 21 (Fig. 24). For example, as shown in Figure
24, the
distal end 23 is extended outward from (e.g., beyond) the perimeter edge 11c
of bite
block 12 so that the bite block 12 may be positioned outward (e.g., offset)
from the
backing plate 11. The offset of bite block 12 allows for the image media
holder 10 to
accommodate different size sensors (e.g., size 1 sensor, size 2 sensor, or
otherwise
sized sensors) so that the backing plate may be generally centered about the
active area
of the sensor, which may be desirable for increased positioning range.
[0048] In order to allow bite block 12 to be positioned in more than one
position
relative to the backing plate, there is preferably provided in backing plate
at least one
and preferably a plurality of slots or channels. For example, in one
embodiment with
reference to Fig. 3, the backing plate 11 may be provided with channels 31-33.
In
another embodiment, for example with reference to Fig. 17, the backing plate
may be
provided with channels 31a and 32a. In yet another embodiment, for example in
another
embodiment, with reference to Fig. 18, the backing plate 15 may be provided
with
channels 31b and 32b. The channels may be of any design or configuration and
may
extend completely through backing plate from first side 11a to second side
11b.
Alternatively, the channels may extend only partially through from first side
11a and not
all the way to second side 11b.
[0049] Post 21 affixed to the bite block and/or the baseplate may be
configured such
that it can be received within channels. By sliding within a selected one of
channels to
any preselected position therein, it will be appreciated that bite block can
be so
positioned wherever it is desired. Furthermore, the post 21 may be provided in
any
shape (e.g., square, rectangular, circular or otherwise) and/or size. As such,
the media
image holder 10 may further include a locking means for limiting and/or
substantially
preventing rotation of the baseplate relative to the backing plate upon
engagement
thereof. In one embodiment, post 21 may be provided in a generally square-
shape so
that rotation of the bite block 12 may be limited or substantially prevented
along one or
more portions of the respective channel (such as a locking means comprising
one or
more channel walls or otherwise that prevent rotation of the square post),
though not
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required. It is appreciated that when rotation is limited or substantially
prevented along a
channel, the channels may be configured to allow rotation of the bite block 12
at an
intersection therebetween (Figs. 2 and 18) having an expanded area 60 as
discussed
herein.
[0050] In a preferred embodiment, post 21 may be provided in a generally
circular-
shape to allow rotation of the baseplate along one or more portions of the
channel. The
locking means may include one or more locking members that upon engagement of
the
one or more locking members, movement of the bite block 12 is limited or
substantially
prevented in at least one direction within the respective channel or channels.
Preferably,
upon engagement of the locking member rotational movement of the bite block 12
about
=
the post axis PA may be prevented. More particularly, it is appreciated that
upon
engagement of the locking members, rotation of the bite block may be prevented
while
the bite block may be free to selectively move within the channels in one or
more other
directions relative to the backing plate (e.g., forward and backwards, left
and right, or
otherwise). In one embodiment, the locking member includes a first locking
member and
a corresponding second locking member each configured to engage the other to
limit or
substantially prevent movement of the bite block in at least one direction
within a
channel. It is appreciated that the locking members (e.g., the first locking
member, the
corresponding second locking member, and/or otherwise may be of any size,
shape or
configuration is within the scope of the invention although it will be
exemplified and are
preferred to have interlocking features (e.g., mating) so that movement by one
locking
member relative to the other locking member in at least one direction may be
limited or
substantially prevented.
[0051] Typically, the backing plate may be provided with either the first
locking
member or the corresponding second locking member and the bite block (e.g.,
baseplate) may be provided with the other, though not required. For example
the
locking member includes a first locking member having one or more grooves 27
(e.g.,
provided along the first side 11a) and a corresponding second locking member
having
one or more ribs 26 (e.g., provided along the second side 25 of the baseplate
20a), to
engage one another (e.g., mate, interact, intersect, or otherwise) so that
rotation of the
bite block 12 about the post axis PA may be limited or substantially prevented
(Fig 25).
In one specific example, the backing plate includes the first locking member
having a
pair of longitudinal grooves and a pair of transverse grooves formed in the
first side 11a
of the backing plate. Each pair of grooves 27 include two generally parallel
grooves
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having a spacing therebetween similar to the other pair of grooves. In doing
so, as
shown in Fig. 20 the longitudinal grooves intersect the transverse grooves
thereby
forming four intersections thereabout. Furthermore, the baseplate 20a includes
a pair of
ribs 26 generally formed along the second side 25 of the baseplate 20a, each
rib being
generally parallel to the other and having a similar spacing to that of each
pair of the
grooves 27. In this arrangement, upon engagement such that the ribs 26 are
received
within the grooves 27, rotation of the bite block about the post axis is
substantially
prevented while movement forward and backwards (e.g., bite block 12 being
generally
positioned within the pair of longitudinal grooves) or right to left (e.g.,
bite block 12 being
generally positioned within the pair of transverse grooves) relative to the
backing plate
15 may be permitted.
[0052] However, it is appreciated that, upon removing the ribs from the
corresponding
arrangement within the grooves 27 as shown in Fig. 22 (e.g., in an offset,
generally non
parallel, or otherwise arrangement), the bite block may generally, freely
rotate relative to
the backing plate. Removal of the ribs 22 from grooves 27 may be aided by
additional
force applied to the bite block in a twisting motion (e.g., rotating about the
post PA)
and/or by providing sloped edges in one or both of the ribs 26 or grooves 27,
and/or
otherwise. Once the ribs 22 are repositioned within the grooves (e.g.,
generally parallel
thereto) the locking member is engaged and rotation about the post axis PA is
again
prevented. It is contemplated that the locking means may be provided as one
integral
component or several components and/or the locking means may be provided in
various
locations along one or more of the baseplate, backing plate, or otherwise. To
allow
positioning of the baseplate (e.g., bite block 12) relative to the backing
plate and to
accommodate at least the taking of dental x-rays to include anterior vertical
periapical,
anterior horizontal periapical, posterior horizontal periapical, posterior
vertical periapical,
horizontal bite-wing, vertical bite-wing or others, it is preferred to have at
least a primary
channel 31b and a secondary channel 32b, although of course, any number of
channels
of any design, shape or intersection is within the scope of the invention.
[0053] In one embodiment of the invention, channels 31-33 are substantially
linear
although any shape is within the scope of the invention. In this embodiment,
primary
channel 31 may intersect secondary channel 32 at some midpoint of the
respective
channels. By midpoint it is simply meant at some point between their
respective ends.
In a preferred configuration, the intersection 40 of primary channel 31 and
secondary
channel 32 is at the approximate center of secondary channel 32 and somewhat
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removed from the center of primary channel 31 such that the two from a "t".
Tertiary
channels 33 may intersect any other channels, but for the sake of the drawings
a
preferred embodiment is shown where each tertiary channel 33 at one of its own
ends
intersects an end of secondary channel 32.
[0054] In another embodiment of the invention, channels 31b-32b (Fig 18) are
also
substantially linear although any shape is within the scope of the invention.
In this
embodiment, primary channel 31b may intersect secondary channel 32b at some
midpoint of the respective channels. By midpoint it is simply meant at some
point
between their respective ends. In a preferred configuration, the intersection
40 of
primary channel 31b and secondary channel 32b is at the approximate center of
secondary channel 32b such that the two from a "T".
[0055] As stated above, the exact design, dimensions or other characteristics
of the
channels can be varied but they should be such that they can receive and guide
post 21
and hence, bite block 12 (being attached to the baseplate). It will be
appreciated that by
sliding bite block 12 over the surface of backing plate, such sliding being
guided by the
physical contact of post 21 within a selected channel, bite block 12 can be
positioned
relative to backing plate in any desired location. It will be further
appreciated that bite
block can be moved from one channel such as primary channel to another channel
such
as secondary channel by moving post 21 (and hence the attached bite block 12)
within
the channel to the intersection thereof such as intersection 40 and thereby
continue to
move the post 21 to the other channel. Post 21 thus moves within a channel 31-
33, 31a
and 32a, or 31b and 32b in a sliding manner.
[0056] It is also preferred to provide a base 50 at an end of post 21 and
provide
channels that completely pass through backing plate 11 between its two sides
11a and
11 b, such that the channels are open slots. Post 21 thereby extends between
and
connects the bite block or the baseplate if employed, and base 50. By
configuring base
50 to be wider than the channels, and by configuring post 21 to be of suitable
dimension,
the backing plate can be caused to be physically received between base 50 and
bite
block 12. This physically affixes the bite block to the backing plate in an
otherwise
adjustable manner by use of the channels as already described. Again it will
be
appreciated that bite block 12 while being held to backing plate may be free
to be
positioned anywhere within the channels and may even be rotated on an axis or
rotation
provided by post 21, thereby accommodating any or all of the numerous x-ray
positions
required by a dental practitioner.
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[0057] In a preferred embodiment, the bite block 12 is rotated on post 21 with
post 21
acting as an axle or rather its axis acts as an axis of rotation. In a further
embodiment,
post 21 and channels 31-33 are configured and dimensioned in shape or size
such that
bite block 12 can be rotated only at an intersection of at least two channels
31-33,
although this is not necessarily required. In yet a further embodiment, post
21 and the
channels 31b and 32b may be configured and dimensioned in shape or size such
that
bite block 12 can be rotated along any portion of two channels 31b and 32b,
however,
rotation may be limited or substantially prevented while the locking means is
engaged.
For example, as discussed above, the locking means may be engaged when the
first
locking member and the corresponding second locking member interconnect (e.g.,
the
grooves and ribs are in general alignment). Thereafter, the locking means may
be
disengaged to allow rotation by removing the first locking member from the
corresponding second locking member (e.g., the grooves and ribs are not in
general
alignment). This may be accomplished by applying sufficient pressure to at
least one of
the bite block or baseplate while generally maintaining the other in place.
[0058] A larger opening or expanded area 60 may be provided in one or more
channels, of such size as to pass base 50 to aid assembly of the image media
holder 10
component parts. Expanded area may also provide an area where post 21 can be
more
easily rotated therein. In one embodiment, the expanded area may include one
or more
passing portions 62 (e.g., angled, sloped, flanged or otherwise portions) to
aid in passing
the base 50 through the expanded area 60 for assembling (e.g., fixedly or
removably
securing) the bite block to the baseplate. Optionally, the passing portions 62
(and/or one
or more separate withdrawal portions, not shown) may also aid in limiting or
substantially
preventing withdrawal of the bite block from the baseplate, once assembled.
[0059] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, image media holder 10 is
fabricated from any suitable material usable in the oral cavity. More
preferred image
media holder 10 is fabricated from a plastic material and the image media
holder 10 is
disposable.
[0060] There is also provided according to the invention some means of
securing or
affixing, preferably in a removable manner, an image media such as imaging
plate 70
and digital sensor 71 to the second side 11b of the backing plate. Two
preferred
methods include a releasable or pressure-sensitive adhesive (not shown) and
one or
more straps 80, which may be used separately or in combination with each
other.
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[0061] Any adhesive suitable for use in the oral cavity is within the scope of
the
invention, and the specific adhesive chosen is not necessarily a limitation of
the
invention. One preferred adhesive is a latex-free, pressure-sensitive adhesive
which is
coated onto second side 11b of the backing plate in any conventional manner. A
release strip (not shown) may be employed to cover the adhesive until used. As
shown
for example, in Fig. 4 and Fig. 24, an image media such as plate 70 or sensor
71 can be
physically pressed onto second side 11b of the backing plate and held in place
by the
pressure-sensitive or other adhesive employed.
[0062] If a strap 80 is employed and at least two are preferred, it may be
affixed to the
backing plate and is preferably flexible in one direction yet rigid in
another. Once the
image media such as plate 70 or sensor 71 is caused to physically contact the
backing
plate, strap 80 (or straps 80 if more than one are used) may be partially or
completely
wrapped around plate 70 (or any other imaging media as may be employed) in a
manner
allowed by the flexibility of strap 80, to thereby hold the imaging media to
the backing
plate 11 (Figs. 7, 8, 24, 26, and 27). For example, Figs 24, 26, and 27
provide a first
pair of straps 80a that generally (e.g., completely) wrap around the sensor 71
(e.g.,
transversely about the sensor from two different sides of the backing plate as
shown)
and a second pair of straps 80b that at least partially wrap around sensor 71
(e.g.,
= longitudinally about the sensor from the same side of the backing plate
as shown).
When included, the second pair of straps 80b, may provide additional
securennent of the
holder 10 to the sensor 71 (e.g., to limit or substantial prevent longitudinal
movement of
the sensor). The straps 80b may also aid in limiting or substantially
preventing
movement of the connecting wire 72, though not required.
[0063] Straps 80 may also be provided with a suitable adhesive or they may be
provided with any other conventional means to affix them in the securing
position. By all
such manner or combinations thereof, straps 80 and/or the adhesive positively
secure
and otherwise affix (preferably in a removable manner) an imaging media to
holder 10.
[0064] Furthermore, one or more of the straps 80 may also be provided with at
least
one perforation 82 that can be ruptured (e.g., torn) to aid in the removal of
the image
media holder 10. In one particular embodiment, straps 80 include
transverse
perforations 82 that generally correspond to and extend along an edge portion
of the
sensor 71 (Fig. 27), though it is contemplated that perforations may be
provide
anywhere along the straps 80 and about the sensor 71 respectively. It is
appreciated
that by applying a force to the image media holder 10 (e.g., bite block) in a
force
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direction FD generally opposing and/or away from the sensor 71 (e.g.,
generally along
the direction of the perforations), the perforation 82 may be ruptured so that
at least a
portion of the media holder or the entire media holder may be removed from the
sensor.
It is appreciated that the perforations 82, aids in improving releasability of
the image
holder from the sensor.
[0065] It will be appreciated that by suitably designing straps 80, any of a
large
number of image media designs such as for example, plate 70 or digital sensor
71 can
be held by image media holder 10. Just as a belt may be adjusted to secure
items of
different size or shape, strap 80 may also accommodate different imaging media
due to
the length or other dimensions of strap 80. The design can accommodate
different
image media such as plate 70, relatively thicker image media such as digital
sensor 71,
and even other items such as connecting wire 72 for digital sensor 71 or
conventional
protective sleeves or barriers 73 (Figs. 5, 9, 26, and 27) for such image
media. Although
not depicted, a conventional dental x-ray film packet or indeed any other
dental image
media can be held by the inventive image media holder 10. It is even
contemplated that
the present invention can secure and hold such imaging media as may be
developed in
the future.
[0066] It is known in the dental x-ray art to provide aiming rings mounted
upon arms or
other structures to in turn, effectively connect the aiming ring to an imaging
media
holder. The present invention can be so configured as is shown in Figs. 10 and
11. Any
means of affixing an arm and aiming ring to holder 10 is within the scope of
the
invention. One preferred means is to provide an arm 90 having a fixing member
91
provided with a slot 92. Slot 92 may be configured and sized to physically
receive and
frictionally hold an edge of bite block 12 therein. At location distal to
fixing member 91 is
a support post 93 which is configured to receive or otherwise adjustably
secure an
aiming ring 94 thereto. For example, post 93 may have a certain shape such as
the
cross-shape depicted in the drawings and a complementary shaped aperture 95
may be
provided at some location in aiming ring 94, such that post 93 is placed
through aperture
95 in use. Aiming ring 94 is free to slide along post 93 to any desired
position and is
frictionally held in place by its physical contact with post 93.
[0067] In an alternative embodiment of the invention (Figs. 10, 11, and 20), a
backing
plate may be provided with indicia 102 which separately indicate a different
position for a
specific x-ray procedure. Indicia 102
may be colors, numbers, letters, symbols,
protrusions, detents, striations, or any other physical or visual indicators
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limitation, or even combinations thereof. For example, the backing plate may
be
provided with more than one distinct indicia 102 (e.g., first indicia 102a,
second indicia
102b, etc...), which might indicate for example, by different colors the
position to which
bite block 12 should be moved to take a left bitewing or a right bitewing
respectively.
Further still, if holder 10 is of the type wherein bite block 12 can be
rotated on post 21 as
an axis of rotation and only at a certain point such as the intersection of
certain channels
31-33 or generally anywhere along channels 31b and 32b so long as the locking
member is not engaged. In specific embodiments where rotation may be available
at a
certain point such as an intersection, further indicia such as indicia arrows
110 may be
provided at the intersection or other area where such rotation is permitted.
[0068] lndicia 102 and 110 may be provided on a separate layer of material,
such as a
plastic sheet 120 which can be positioned in a juxtaposed physically
contacting
relationship with second side 11b of backing plate 11. In a preferred
embodiment,
straps 80 and integrally formed with and from the same material as sheet 120.
In this
configuration, it may be advantageous to provide a backing plate which is at
least
partially transparent, such that indicia 102 placed upon sheet 120 may be
viewed
therethrough. While it will be appreciated that a transparent or at least
partially
transparent backing plate will facilitate viewing the indicia 102 or 110
therethrough when
sheet 120 is employed, it is also possible to simply provide large enough
openings 121
in bite block 100 so as to view indicia 102 or 110 therethrough. Further
still, channels
31-33, 31a and 32a, or 31b and 32b may themselves be suitably positioned such
that
the indicia 102 and/or 110 may be viewable therethrough.
[0069] In one embodiment, the backing plate may include indicia 102 having a
plurality
of indices (e.g., 102a, 102b, etc...), each corresponding to at least one
position for one
or more dental x-ray procedures (and optionally corresponding to indicia 102
and/or 92a'
of the aiming ring). For example, a first indicia may be associated with a
first position
for taking a first x-ray procedure and optionally a second position for taking
a second
ray procedure. It is appreciated that various positions and/or orientations
about indicia
102 may be obtained by way of rotating the bite block, moving the bite block
along a
channel, or both. In one particular embodiment as shown in Fig 23, the backing
plate 15
may include a first indicia 103 having a first position 103a that may be
associated with
performing a first dental x-ray procedure and a second position 103b that may
be
associated with performing a second dental x-ray procedure. The backing plate
15 may
further include and a second indicia 104 having a first position 104a that may
be
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associated with performing a third dental x-ray procedure and a second
position 104b
that may be associated with performing a fourth x-ray procedure. In this
configuration,
the first position 103a may be located at one position along the primary
channel (e.g.,
generally positioned at an end portion of the primary channel) and the second
position
103b may be located at another location along the primary channel (e.g.,
generally
positioned at the intersection of the primary and secondary channels).
Furthermore, the
first position 104a may be located at one position along the secondary channel
(e.g.,
generally positioned at an end portion of the secondary channel) and the
second
position 104b may be located at another location along the secondary channel
(e.g.,
generally positioned at an opposite end portion of the secondary channel).
[0070] An alternative embodiment of a bite block is designated by the number
130 on
the attached drawings, namely, Figs. 13-15. Bite block 130 is especially
configured to
be useful during endodontic or "root canal" procedures. As is known (but not
shown)
during the root canal procedure an endodontic file is used to remove the nerve
from the
tooth and cleanse the nerve tract within the root of the tooth. While the file
is in place in
the tooth, it is necessary to X-ray the tooth to assure that the endodontic
file has been
inserted deeply enough into the root of the tooth so that all of the nerve
tract will be
removed. This procedure must be done with the file in place and before it is
removed.
[0071] Bite block 130 is provided with a base 131 for operative connection
with
inventive holder 10 in the manner described above, and is provided with a
first and
second bite arms 132 and 133. Arms 132 and 133 are preferably arranged in a
spaced,
parallel and opposing relation as shown on the drawings. By being spaced,
there is
room for an endodontic file to remain in place in the root canal during the
taking of an x-
ray image. It will be appreciated that base 131 allows positioning of a sensor
such as
exemplary sensor 134 in multiple positions in the same inventive manner as
described
hereinabove with respect to holder 10.
[0072] Further, it is preferred although not required that bite block 130 be
provided
with means for being affixed or removably affixed to an aiming ring 135. For
example,
ring 135 may be provided with spaced, opposing parallel grooves 140 and bite
block 130
may be provided with complementary pins 141. Grooves 140 and pins 141 may be
configured such that grooves 140 may be frictionally fit over pins 141 by
sliding. The
friction between grooves 140 and pins 141 may be sufficient to hold ring 135
in place as
needed. It will be appreciated that any means of affixing bite block 130 to
ring 135 is
within the scope of the invention.
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[0073] An alternative configuration of channels are shown as channels 31a and
32a,
and an alternative intersection is shown as intersection 40a in drawings Figs.
16 and 17.
In addition, intermediate rotation permitting open areas 40b are provided at a
variety of
points such that bite block 12 may be rotated at a point away from
intersection 40a, if
desired. In addition, aiming ring 135a similar to aiming ring 135 may be
provided with a
plurality of supports 92a each capable of supporting arm 93. In a
preferred
configuration, each support 92a holds arm 93 in a preselected position
facilitating the
taking of a particular dental x-ray image. Further still, indicia 31a' and
32a' within
channels 31a and 32a respectively, and indicia 40a' in intersection 40a
correspond to
indicia located upon, adjacent or otherwise affiliated with a given support
92a. For
example, indicia 31a' might be a color such as the color yellow, which
corresponds to
yellow color indicia 92a' positioned close too and hence affiliated with or
otherwise
indicating support 92a. When bite block 12 is positioned within channel 32a,
as such
was described above, the user will place arm 93 within support 92a knowing
that the
assembled elements are now in the proper position for a given x-ray imaging
procedure.
As a further example, indicia 31a' and associated support 92a indicated to the
user by
indicia 92a', might be useful for the taking of a posterior image. lndicia
32a' and
associated support 92a" might be a second color such as red, and may indicate
the
proper position for the taking of a bitewing image. Other positions may be
proper for the
taking of an anterior image, and the like and for example, the setup depicted
in Fig. 16
happens to be useful for the taking of an anterior x-ray image. Of course, any
indicia
such as colors, numbers, verbiage, marks, scribes, bumps, voids, physical
structures or
the like applied in any manner are within the scope of the invention.
[0074] It will be appreciated therefore, that an image media holder 10 as
described is
capable of holding image media of different designs, shapes and configuration.
The
inventive image media holder is also capable of allowing the user to take
dental x-rays in
more than one position. All of these different uses can be accomplished with
one image
media holder according to the invention. The preferred embodiments for
carrying out the
invention have been described herein and shown on the attached drawings
without
attempting to show all variations that fall within the scope thereof.
Therefore, the scope
of the invention will be determined only by the attached claims.
18
