Development of a prototype simulator for dental education
10.4047/jkap.2023.61.4.257
- Author:
Mi-El KIM
1
;
Jaehoon SIM
;
Aein MON
;
Myung-Joo KIM
;
Young-Seok PARK
;
Ho-Beom KWON
;
Jaeheung PARK
Author Information
1. Department of Oral Anatomy, School of Dentistry, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Publication Type:ORIGINAL ARTICLE
- From:The Journal of Korean Academy of Prosthodontics
2023;61(4):257-267
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Purpose:. The purpose of the study was to fabricate a prototype robotic simulator for dental education, to test whether it could simulate mandibular movements, and to assess the possibility of the stimulator responding to stimuli during dental practice.
Materials and methods:. A virtual simulator model was developed based on segmentation of the hard tissues using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) data. The simulator frame was 3D printed using polylactic acid (PLA) material, and dentiforms and silicone face skin were also inserted. Servo actuators were used to control the movements of the simulator, and the simulator’s response to dental stimuli was created by pressure and water level sensors.A water level test was performed to determine the specific threshold of the water level sensor. The mandibular movements and mandibular range of motion of the simulator were tested through computer simulation and the actual model.
Results:. The prototype robotic simulator consisted of an operational unit, an upper body with an electric device, a head with a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and dentiforms. The TMJ of the simulator was capable of driving two degrees of freedom, implementing rotational and translational movements. In the water level test, the specific threshold of the water level sensor was 10.35 ml. The mandibular range of motion of the simulator was 50 mm in both computer simulation and the actual model.
Conclusion:. Although further advancements are still required to improve its efficiency and stability, the upper-body prototype simulator has the potential to be useful in dental practice education.
