WO2022056178A1

WO2022056178A1 - Evacuation dam frame

Info

Publication number: WO2022056178A1
Application number: PCT/US2021/049733
Authority: WO
Inventors: Abraham Montalvo; Jessica KIM; Joseph Caruso; Seth Myhre; Roberto SAVIGNANO
Original assignee: Loma Linda University
Priority date: 2020-09-09
Filing date: 2021-09-09
Publication date: 2022-03-17
Also published as: USD973882S1

Abstract

An evacuation dam apparatus including a frame having a top frame member, a bottom frame member, and two side frame members. A working area formed by the frame, a plurality of ports adjacent the working area, an outlet fluidly coupled with the plurality of ports. A fluid flow from at least a portion of the plurality of ports to the outlet forms a fluid flow path across the working area and at least a portion of the fluid flow path is formed within the frame.

Description

EVACUATION DAM FRAME

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority from U.S. Patent Appln. No. 17/016,181 filed on September 9, 2020, U.S. Design Patent Appln. No. 29/749,861 filed on September 9, 2020, and U.S. Design Patent Appln. No. 29/749,863 filed on September 9, 2020, the entirety of each is incorporated by reference herein for all purposes. This application also incorporates by reference U.S. Design Appln. No. 29/807,234 filed on September 9, 2021 titled Aerosol Evacuation Dam Frame.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention.

[0002] The present inventive concept relates generally to an evacuation frame for use in dental and/or medical applications.

2. Description of Related Art.

[0003] Dental procedures often generate aerosolized particle or droplets and may involve a rubber dam to isolate a procedure area and reduce contamination of the procedure site. However, particles including water droplets, saliva, dental compounds, and/or the like can be introduced into the immediate atmosphere and interfere with the procedure. A patient and/or a dental professional may be exposed to these particles including a patient’s germs and/or bodily fluids.

SUMMARY

[0004] An evacuation dam apparatus comprising a frame having a top frame member, a bottom frame member, and two side frame members. The frame forming a working area and a plurality of ports adjacent the working area with an outlet fluidly coupled with the plurality of ports. The evacuation dam is adapted to provide a fluid flow from at least a portion of the plurality of ports to the outlet to form a fluid flow path across the working area and at least a portion of the fluid flow path is formed within the frame. [0005] The plurality of ports can include at least one positive flow outlet port and at least one negative flow inlet port.

[0006] An inlet can be configured to receive a positive pressure flow, the inlet fluidly configured with the at least one positive flow outlet port, and the outlet configured to receive a negative pressure flow fluidly coupled with the at least one negative flow inlet port.

[0007] The fluid flow path can extend from plurality of positive flow outlet ports to the plurality of negative flow inlet ports.

[0008] The at least one positive flow outlet port can be directional and/or substantially aligned with the at least one negative flow port. The at least one negative flow port can include a convex collection area disposed around at least a portion thereof.

[0009] The frame can include a plurality of posts extending away from the working area. The plurality of posts can have a barb formed on a distal end.

[0010] The frame can have an eye protection coupler disposed thereon, the eye protection coupler can be configured to receive at least a portion of an eye protection apparatus. The top frame member can be slidingly engaged with the side frame members. The outlet can be slidingly engaged with the bottom frame member.

[0011] An evacuation dam system can include an evacuation dam having a frame including a top frame member, a bottom frame member, and two side frame members. A working area defined by the frame; positive flow inlet port configured to receive a positive pressure airflow therein; a positive flow outlet port adjacent the working area and fluidly coupled with the positive flow inlet port. A negative flow inlet port adjacent the working area; a negative flow outlet port configured to receive negative pressure airflow therein, the negative flow outlet port fluidly couple with the negative flow inlet port. The evacuation dam system is configured to provide a fluid flow from at least the positive flow outlet port to the negative flow inlet port to form a fluid flow path across the working area. At least a portion of the fluid flow path is formed within an interior of the frame. [0012] A positive pressure fluid flow path can be formed in the top frame member. A negative pressure fluid flow path can be formed in the bottom frame member.

[0013] The at least one negative flow port can include a convex collection area disposed around at least a portion thereof.

[0014] The convex collection area can be coupled with the bottom frame member and can be vertically displaceable relative to the bottom frame member.

[0015] An eye protection coupler can be configured to receive at least a portion of an eye protection apparatus, the eye protection coupler disposed on at least a portion of the frame.

[0016] A saliva suction holder can be coupled with a side frame member. The saliva suction holder can be displaceable along a longitudinal length of the side frame member.

[0017] The top frame member can be slidingly displaceable along a longitudinal length of the side frame member, wherein changing a longitudinal length of the working area.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] The novel features of the disclosure are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present inventive concept will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative examples, in which the principles of the disclosure are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which:

[0019] FIG. 1 is a front, bottom, right-side perspective view of an evacuation dam, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] FIG. 2 is a front view of the evacuation dam from FIG. 1 shown in a negative flow configuration;

[0021] FIG. 3 is a front view of an evacuation dam in a negative and positive flow configuration, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention; [0022] FIG. 4 is a front view of an evacuation dam in a turbulent negative and positive flow configuration, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] FIG. 5 is a front view of an evacuation dam in a laminar negative and positive flow configuration, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] FIG. 6 is a front view of an evacuation dam system, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] FIG. 7 is a top view of the evacuation dam system shown in FIG. 6;

[0026] FIG. 8 is a broken front view of a suction port from the evacuation dam system of FIG. 6;

[0027] FIG. 9 is a right-side view of the evacuation dam system shown in FIG. 6;

[0028] FIG. 10 is a front, top, right-side view of an evacuation dam system, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] FIG. 11 is a front view of the evacuation dam system from FIG. 10;

[0030] FIG. 12 is a top view of the evacuation dam system from FIG. 10;

[0031] FIG. 13 is a right-side view of the evacuation dam system from FIG. 10;

[0032] FIG. 14 is a broken sectional front view of the evacuation dam system from FIG. 11 ;

[0033] FIG. 15 is a front view of an evacuation dam system, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] FIG. 16 is a front, bottom, left-side perspective view of an adjustable evacuation dam system, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] FIG. 17 is a right-side view of a suction port from the adjustable evacuation dam system shown in FIG. 16;

[0036] FIG. 18 is a broken rear, top, right-side perspective view of an eye protection system operably engaged with an evacuation dam, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention; and [0037] FIG. 19 is a front view of the eye protection system shown in FIG. 18.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] Examples and various features and advantageous details thereof are explained more fully with reference to the exemplary, and therefore non-limiting, examples illustrated in the accompanying drawings and detailed in the following description. Descriptions of known starting materials and processes can be omitted so as not to unnecessarily obscure the disclosure in detail. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description and the specific examples, while indicating the preferred examples, are given by way of illustration only and not by way of limitation. Various substitutions, modifications, additions and/or rearrangements within the spirit and/or scope of the underlying inventive concept will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure.

I. TERMINOLOGY

[0039] As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” “including,” “has,” “having” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, product, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limited only those elements but can include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, process, article, or apparatus. Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” refers to an inclusive or and not to an exclusive or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

[0040] The term substantially, as used herein, is defined to be essentially conforming to the particular dimension, shape or other word that substantially modifies, such that the component need not be exact. For example, substantially cylindrical means that the object resembles a cylinder, but can have one or more deviations from a true cylinder.

[0041] Additionally, any examples or illustrations given herein are not to be regarded in any way as restrictions on, limits to, or express definitions of, any term or terms with which they are utilized. Instead these examples or illustrations are to be regarded as being described with respect to one particular example and as illustrative only. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that any term or terms with which these examples or illustrations are utilized encompass other examples as well as implementations and adaptations thereof which can or cannot be given therewith or elsewhere in the specification and all such examples are intended to be included within the scope of that term or terms. Language designating such non-limiting examples and illustrations includes, but is not limited to: “for example,” “embodiment,” “for instance,” “e.g.,” “in some examples,” and the like.

[0042] Although the terms first, second, etc. can be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the present inventive concept.

II. GENERAL ARCHITECTURE

[0043] The systems and methods disclosed herein relate to evacuation dams. While the present disclosure illustrates an evacuation dam drawn to dental applications, it is within the scope of the present disclosure to encompass medical procedures and/or medical settings that would benefit from a controlled field with laminar flow and evacuation. The evacuation dam can be positioned over a portion of dental patient’s face and provide a directional flow to reduce and/or eliminate particulate distribution during a dental procedure. The evacuation dam and/or evacuation dam frame of the present disclosure can be formed via additive manufacturing (e.g., 3-D printing), injection molded, cast, extruded, and/or other process. The evacuation dam and/or evacuation dam frame can be formed of metals, alloys, plastics, rubber, resins, fiber boards, combinations thereof, and/or similar materials having suitable rigidity to maintain the evacuation dam and/or evacuation dam frame. In some embodiments, the evacuation dam and/or evacuation dam frame can be constructed with hydrophilic materials to, for example, help attract water molecules and charged particles. However, in some embodiments, the evacuation dam and/or evacuation dam frame can be constructed with hydrophobic materials to, for example, help water molecules and charged particles flow easier along the frame. Furthermore, the evacuation dam and/or evacuation dam frame can be constructed with both hydrophilic and hydrophilic materials.

[0044] The evacuation dam and/or evacuation dam frame can be disposable for each patient and/or the evacuation dam and/or evacuation dam frame can be reusable and sterilized between patients using one or more of cleaning solutions and/or ultraviolet light sources.

[0045] The presently disclosed technology may be implemented in dental, medical, and/or other related field and can further be implemented with or without a rubber dam. The presently disclosed technology may be implemented to improve patient experience, improve working area cleanliness for medical professionals, and/or maintain a sanitary environment.

[0046] FIG. 1 illustrates an environmental view of an evacuation dam 100, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The evacuation dam 100 can be positioned or arranged over a portion of a patient 200. While the evacuation dam 100 of the present disclosure is described with respect to dental procedures, and thus positionable over the mouth of the patient 200, it is within the scope of the present disclosure to implement the evacuation dam 100 with other medical procedures in which the evacuation dam 100 can be positioned over other portions of the patient 200.

[0047] The evacuation dam 100 can be sized relative to the patient 200 including, but not limited to, having fixed sizing determined based on one or more features of the patient 200 or customized and/or adjusted in one or more directions to accommodate one or more physical features of the patient. At least one instance of a customizable and/or adjustable evacuation dam system is described with respect to FIG. 16. [0048] The evacuation dam 100 can have a frame 102 formed around and at least substantially encompassing a working area 104. The frame 102 can allow fluid flow through at least a portion thereof, thereby allowing evacuation across the working area 104. The frame 102 can have a plurality of ports 106 disposed thereon, and operable to receive positive pressure and/or negative pressure flow. The plurality of ports 106 can be operably arranged within the frame 102 adjacent to the working area 104 and operable to form a fluid flow path across the working area 104 either via positive pressure (e.g. forced air), negative pressure (e.g. vacuum), and/or combinations thereof.

[0049] The evacuation dam 100 can also include a plurality of posts 108 extending from the frame 102 away from the working area 104. The plurality of posts 108 can be operable to receive a rubber dam (not shown) and secure the rubber dam to the frame 102. The plurality of posts 108 can be uniformly shaped cylinders, squares, hexagons, and/or other shapes. In at least one embodiment, the plurality of posts 108 includes a barb 109 at the distal end 110. The barb 109 can prevent the rubber dam from becoming incidentally decoupled from the frame 102.

[0050] The frame 102 can be formed from one or more individual elements including, but not limited to, a top frame member 112, a bottom frame members 114, and/or side frame members 116, 118. The top frame member 112, bottom frame member 114, and the side frame members 116, 118 can collectively form and define the working area 104. The plurality of ports 106 and/or the plurality of posts 108 can be formed on any one or combination of the top frame member 112, bottom frame member 114, and/or the side frame members 116, 118.

[0051] FIG. 2 illustrates the evacuation dam 100 in a negative flow configuration, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. An evacuation dam can have a frame operably defining a working area 104. The evacuation dam 100 can be operably arranged for a negative pressure flow, generating an evacuation and/or vacuum across the working area 104, thus reducing particles generated during a procedure. The particles can include, but are not limited to, water droplets, saliva, tooth fragments, blood, and/or the like. [0052] The frame can have one or more outlet ports and one or more inlet ports 208. The side frame members 116, 118 may include one or more outlet ports 120, which can be coupled with an evacuation (vacuum) line (not shown). In at least one embodiment, the evacuation line can be a standard suction line integrated with a dental chair. The one or more ports 106 may be inlet ports and can be fluidly coupled (through an interior of the frame 102) with the one or more outlet ports 120. The one or more inlet ports 106 are operably arranged to pull a negative flow across the working area 104, thereby evacuating the working area 104. In at least one embodiment, the one or more inlet ports 106 can distribute the negative pressure flow generated by the one or more outlet ports 120.

[0053] As can be appreciated in FIG. 2, the one or more inlet ports 106 can be substantially evenly distributed along the frame 102 adjacent to the working area 104. While FIG. 2 illustrates the top frame member 112 and the bottom frame member 114 each having four inlet ports 106 and each side frame member 116, 118 having four inlet ports 106, it is within the scope of this disclosure to implement any number of inlet ports 106 on the frame 102 to provide sufficient evacuation. The one or more inlet ports 106 can generate a substantially turbulent evacuation flow 150 across the working area 104 depending on the negative pressure flow connected to the one or more outlets 120.

[0054] The flow path generated by the evacuation dam 100 can travel from the one or more inlets 106 through at least a portion of the frame 102 and to a corresponding one of the one or more outlets 120. Depending on the arrangement of the one or more outlets 120, the one or more inlets 106, and the frame 102, the frame 102 can have one or more flow paths therein and can include solid portions providing flow therethrough. The solid portions can provide structural rigidity to the frame 102 and/or direct fluid flow through the frame 102.

[0055] FIG. 3 illustrates a dual flow evacuation dam 300, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The evacuation dam 300 can have a frame 302 operably defining a working area 304. The evacuation dam 300 can be operably arranged for a directional flow across the working area 304 utilizing a combination of positive and negative flows, thereby generating an evacuation and/or vacuum across the working area 304.

[0056] The frame 304 can have a positive flow inlet port 306 and one or more positive flow outlet ports 308. The positive flow inlet port 306 can be operable to receive a positive pressure airflow connection therein and distribute the positive pressure airflow across the one or more positive flow outlet ports 308. The one or more positive flow outlet ports 308 can be arranged along at least one side of the frame 302 and adjacent to the working area 304. The positive flow inlet port 306 can be fluidly coupled (through an interior of the frame 302) with the one or more positive flow outlet ports 308.

[0057] The evacuation dam 300 can include one or more negative flow inlet ports 310 operably arranged along at least one side of the frame 302 and adjacent to the working area 304. At least one negative flow outlet ports 312 can be operable to couple with an evacuation (e.g. vacuum) line and be fluidly coupled with the one or more negative flow inlet ports 310. The one or more negative flow inlet ports 310 can be fluidly coupled (through an interior of the frame 302) with the at least one negative flow outlet ports 312. In at least one embodiment, the evacuation line can be a standard suction line integrated with a dental chair.

[0058] The one or more positive flow outlet ports 308 and the one or more negative flow inlet ports 310 collectively induce an evacuation across the working area 304. The one or more inlet ports 310 are operably arranged to pull a negative flow across the working area 304 while the one or more positive flow outlet ports 308 are operably to push a positive flow across the working area 304.

[0059] As can be appreciated in FIG. 3, the one or more positive flow outlet ports 308 can be substantially evenly distributed along a top frame member 314 and adjacent to the working area 304, while the one or more negative flow inlet ports 310 can be substantially evenly distributed along a bottom frame member 316 and adjacent to the working area 304. While FIG. 3 illustrates a top frame member 314 and a bottom frame member 316 having the one or more positive flow outlet ports 308 and the one or more negative flow inlet ports 314, respectively, it is within the scope of this disclosure to implement the one or more positive flow outlet ports 308 and the one or more negative flow inlet ports 314 on any portion of the frame 302 including the top frame member 314, the bottom frame member 316, and/or the side frame members 318, 320. Further, it is within the scope of this disclosure to implement any number of positive flow outlet ports 308 and/or negative flow inlet ports 310 on the frame 302 to provide sufficient evacuation.

[0060] FIG. 4 illustrates a dual flow evacuation dam 400 having a directional positive flow and a dished negative flow inlet, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The evacuation dam 400 has a frame 402 defining a working area 404 with one or more positive flow outlet ports 406 operably disposed on the frame 402 and arranged adjacent to the working area 404. The one or more positive flow outlet ports 406 can be positioned directionally to substantially align with one or more negative flow inlet ports 408. As can be appreciated in FIG. 4, the one or more negative flow inlet ports 408 can include an outwardly convex or dished collection area 410 to increase the capturing of particles within the working area 404.

[0061] The substantially directionally aligned one or more positive flow outlet ports 406 and the convex collection area 410 of the one or more negative flow inlet ports 408 can produce a substantially laminar flow path 450 across the working area 404, thereby increasing the capturing of particles within the working area 404.

[0062] FIG. 5 illustrates a dual flow evacuation dam 500 having a splashguard 506 and a centralized evacuation connection 508, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The evacuation dam 500 can include the splashguard 506 coupled with a frame 502. The splashguard 506 can extend a predetermined distance into a working area 504 to prevent particles, moisture, and/or saliva that are not captured by the evacuation dam 500 from contacting a patient’s face or skin.

[0063] The evacuation dam 500 can also include the central evacuation connection 508 operable to align the central evacuation connection 508 with one or more negative flow inlet ports 510. Alignment between the central evacuation connection 508 and the one or more negative flow inlet ports 510 creates an aligned flow path 550 which can reduce noise and improve performance. An outwardly convex collection area 512 and the central evacuation connection 508 can be coupled with the frame 502, thus eliminating the flow path of the negative flow through frame which can increase the ability for sanitization and/or cleaning. In at least one embodiment, the convex collection area 512 and/or the central evacuation connection 508 can be pivoted relative to the frame to adjust the flow path 550 and maximize evacuation of the evacuation dam 500.

[0064] FIGS. 6-9 illustrate a dual flow evacuation dam system 600, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The evacuation dam system 600 can include an evacuation dam frame 602 defining a working area 604. The evacuation dam frame 602 can be operable to receive with a positive flow at least one positive flow inlet 605, and be operable to couple with a negative flow at a negative flow outlet 610.

[0065] The evacuation dam frame 602 can have one or more positive flow outlets 606 directed toward the working area 604 and one or more negative flow inlets 608 directed toward the working area 604 and substantially aligned with the one or more positive flow outlets 606, thereby defining a flow path 650 across the working area 604. The evacuation dam frame 602 may also include a plurality of posts 626 similar to the plurality of posts 108 described above with respect to the evacuation dam system 100.

[0066] The evacuation dam system 600 can be further operable to couple with one or more saliva suction holders 612. The one or more saliva suction holders 612 can be operable to receive and/or couple with a saliva suction apparatus. The one or more saliva suction holders 612 can be positioned and/or arranged along at least a portion of the evacuation dam frame 602 to align the saliva suction apparatus with the working area 604 without interfering with the evacuation.

[0067] The evacuation dam system 600 can further include an eye protection coupler 614 operable to receive and/or couple with an eye protection (shown in FIGS. 18 and 19).

[0068] As can be appreciated in FIGS. 7-9, the one or more negative flow inlets 610 can be coupled with an outwardly convex collection area 616 and/or the central evacuation connection 618. The convex collection area 616 can be shaped or formed to direct the negative flow across the working area 604 and receive the positive flow from the one or more positive flow outlets 606.

[0069] As can be appreciated in FIG. 7, a top frame member 620 and/or a bottom frame member 622 can be arc-shaped, curved, or otherwise shaped to conform generally to a patient’s face. While FIG. 7 illustrates a substantially arc-shaped top frame member 620 and/or bottom frame member 622 configured to conform to a face, it is within the scope of the present disclosure to shape and/or conform any of the top frame member 620, bottom frame member 622, and/or the side frame members 624 to a corresponding body part or other feature for implementation of the evacuation dam system 600.

[0070] As can be appreciated in FIG. 8, the convex collection area 616 and/or the central evacuation connection 618 can be arranged adjacent to the bottom frame member 622. The central evacuation connection 618 can allow for a single point connection between a negative pressure flow (e.g. vacuum) and the evacuation dam system 600. In at least one embodiment, the central evacuation connection 618 can be substantially centered along the bottom frame member 622. In other embodiments, the central evacuation connection 618 can be disposed at any location along the bottom frame member 622. While the present disclosure illustrates the central evacuation connection 618 coupled with the bottom frame member 622, it is within the scope of this disclosure to couple the central evacuation connection 618 with any of the top frame member 620, bottom frame member 622, the side frame members 624 or combinations thereof.

[0071] The central evacuation connection 618 can be angled relative to a vertical axis to reduce actuation and/or pivotation of the evacuation dam system 600 on a patient’s face. In at least one embodiment, the central evacuation connection 618 can be angled at approximately 45 degrees. In other embodiments, the central evacuation connection 618 can be flexible and/or adjustable to any desirable angle based on the patient, the hose arrangements, and/or the procedure. As can be further appreciated in FIG. 9, the side frame members 624, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, can form no part of the flow path for the positive flow and/or the negative flow. Therefore, the side frame members 624 can be solid, hollow, and/or have ports formed thereon to reduce weight and/or aid in manufacturing.

[0072] The evacuation dam system 600 can be formed via additive manufacturing (e.g., 3-D printing), injection molded, cast, extruded, and/or other process. In some embodiments, the evacuation dam system 600 can be disposable for each patient. In other embodiments, the evacuation dam system 600 can be reusable and sterilized between patients using one or more of cleaning solutions and/or ultraviolet light sources.

[0073] FIGS. 10-14 illustrate a dual flow evacuation dam system 700, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The evacuation dam system 700 can include an evacuation dam frame 702 defining a working area 704. The evacuation dam frame 702 can be operable to receive with a positive flow at least one positive flow inlet

705, and be operable to couple with a negative flow at a negative flow outlet 710. The evacuation dam system 700 can have one or more positive flow outlets 706 directed toward the working area 704 and one or more negative flow inlets 708 directed toward the working area 704 and substantially aligned with the one or more positive flow outlets

706, thereby defining a flow path 750 across the working area 704.

[0074] The evacuation dam frame 702 can include a top frame member 720, a bottom frame member, and side frame members 724 collectively defining the working area 704. As can be appreciated in FIGS. 10 and 12, the top frame member 720 and the bottom frame member 722 can be arc-shaped, curved, or otherwise shaped to conform generally to a patient’s face. While FIGS. 10 and 12 illustrate a substantially arc-shaped top frame member 720 and bottom frame member 722 configured to conform to a patient’s face, it is within the scope of the present disclosure to shape and/or conform any of the top frame member 720, bottom frame member 722, and the side frame members 724 to a corresponding body part or other feature for implementation of the evacuation dam system 700. The evacuation dam frame 702 may also include a plurality of posts 726 similar to the plurality of posts 108 described above with respect to the evacuation dam system 100. [0075] The at least one positive flow inlet 705 can be fluidically connected to the one or more positive flow outlets 706 via one or more positive flow conduits 734 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The one or more positive flow conduits 734 may be partially integral with the top frame member 720 of the evacuation dam frame 702 forming at least a common portion thereof. As can be seen in FIGS. 10-13, the one or more flow conduits 734 may be coaxial with the top frame member 720 adjacent the at least one positive flow inlet 705. As the one or more flow conduits 734 approaches the one or more positive flow outlets 706, the one or more flow conduits 734 separates from the top frame member 720 and bends around the top- and back-side of the top frame member 720 and then arches back around toward the front- and bottom-side of the top frame member 720 and connects to the one or more positive flow outlets 706. Such flow pathway is longer than the arc length of the top frame member 720 between the at least one positive flow inlet 705 and the one or more positive flow outlets 706. In addition, the flow path defined by the one or more flow conduits 734 has a gentler curve toward the one or more positive flow outlets 706 than it otherwise would have if it were to pass through only the top frame member 720. Thus, the flow pathway through the one or more fluid conduits 734 helps with laminar flow.

[0076] According to an embodiment of the present invention, evacuation dam frame 702 can be solid or have a hollow interior. As shown in FIG. 13, the top frame member 720 is hollow except for blockages 732 that isolate the flow conduit 734 from portions of the top frame member. In addition, neither the side frame members 724 nor the bottom frame member 722 can form a part of the flow pathway for the positive flow or the negative flow. Therefore, the side frame members 724 and the bottom frame member 722 can be solid, hollow, and/or have ports formed therein to reduce weight and/or aid in manufacturing.

[0077] As depicted in FIGS. 10 and 14, according to an embodiment of the invention, the one or more positive flow outlets 706 may include one or more vertically aligned fins 728 defining a plurality of channels 730 in cooperation with the outer wall or walls of the one or more positive flow outlets 706. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 10 and 14, the one or more positive flow outlets 706 includes a single positive flow outlet 706 having seven vertically aligned fins 728 cooperating to define eight channels 730. In other embodiments not shown, the one or more positive flow outlets 706 may have more or less than eight channels. The one or more vertically aligned fins 728 may extend inwardly away from the opening of the one or more positive flow outlets 706. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 14, the vertically aligned fins 728 located at or toward the middle of the one or more positive flow outlets 706 may extend further inward than the vertically aligned fins 728 located at or toward the outer ends of the one or more positive flow outlets 706. In other embodiments, the one or more positive flow outlets 706 may extend substantially the same distance inward into the one or more positive flow outlets 706.

[0078] It had been found during testing that under various conditions, that having a plurality of channels 730 helped the flow out of the one or more positive flow outlets 706 remained laminar. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 10 and 14, the distances between the plurality of channels 730 is substantially the same. However, in other embodiments, the distances may be varied. Indeed, by changing the relative distances between the plurality of channels 730 and the depth of the one or more vertically aligned fins 728, the surface area parallel to the flow can be varied, resulting in changing the flow resistance in the plurality of channels 730. Thus, not only can the one or more positive flow outlets 706 be configured to maintain a laminar flow for a given flow rate, the volumetric flow can be configured to be evenly distributed, if so desired, out of and along the one or more positive flow outlets 706. Although not shown, the one or more positive flow outlets 706 may include one or more horizontally oriented fins or other geometrically shaped channels 730. A skilled artisan may appreciate that the one or more fins 728 may also help to prevent objects from becoming dislodged inside the one or more positive flow outlets 706 while not in use, such as during storage or cleaning.

[0079] As can be appreciated in FIG. 10-13, the one or more negative flow inlets 722 can be coupled with an outwardly convex collection area 716 and/or the central evacuation connection 718. The convex collection area 716 can be shaped or formed to direct the negative flow across the working area 704 and receive the positive flow from the one or more positive flow outlets 706. As illustrated in FIG. 13, the one or more positive flow outlets 706 may have axis A extending through the center of the flow path out of the one or more positive flow outlets 706. The side frame members 724 may extend between the top and bottom frame members 720 and 722, respectively, in a direction parallel to a direction C. Also the convex collection area 716 may have an opening perimeter that lies substantially in a plane B. An angle a represents the angle between the axis A and the direction C and an angle p represents the angle between the plane B and the direction C. In some embodiments, the angle a is between about 0 and 30 degrees, between about 5 and 25 degrees, between about 10 and 20 degrees, or preferably about 15 degrees. Also, in some embodiments, the angle p is between about 80 and 110 degrees, between about 85 and 105 degrees, between about 90 and 100 degrees, or preferably about 95 degrees. Without reference to the direction C, an angle a + p represents the angle between the axis A and the plane B. In the exemplary embodiment, the angle a + p is between about 95 and 125 degrees, between about 100 and 120 degrees, between about 105 and 115 degrees, or preferably about 110 degrees.

[0080] As can be appreciated in FIG. 11 , the convex collection area 716 and/or the central evacuation connection 718 can be arranged adjacent to the bottom frame member 722. The central evacuation connection 718 can allow for a single point connection between a negative pressure flow (vacuum) and the evacuation dam system 700. In at least one embodiment, the central evacuation connection 718 can be substantially centered along the bottom frame member 722. In other embodiments, the central evacuation connection 718 can be disposed at any location along the bottom frame member 722. While the present disclosure illustrates the central evacuation connection 718 coupled with the bottom frame member 722, it is within the scope of this disclosure to couple the central evacuation connection 718 with any of the top frame member 720, bottom frame member 722, the side frame members 724 or combinations thereof.

[0081] The central evacuation connection 718 can be angled relative to a vertical axis to reduce translational and rotational movement of the evacuation dam system 700 on a patient’s face. In at least one embodiment, the central evacuation connection 718 can be angled at approximately 45 degrees. In other embodiments, the central evacuation connection 718 can be flexible and/or adjustable to any desirable angle based on the patient, the hose arrangements, and/or the procedure.

[0082] The evacuation dam system 700 can be formed via additive manufacturing (e.g., 3-D printing), injection molded, cast, extruded, and/or other process. In some embodiments, the evacuation dam system 700 can be disposable for each patient. In other embodiments, the evacuation dam system 700 can be reusable and sterilized between patients using one or more of cleaning solutions and/or ultraviolet light sources.

[0083] The evacuation dam system 700 can further include an eye protection coupler (not shown) similar to the eye protection coupler 614 shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 and operable to receive and/or couple with an eye protection system 1200 (shown in FIGS. and 19).

[0084] FIG. 15 is a front view of an evacuation dam system 800, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention. The evacuation dam system 800 is similar to the evacuation dam system 700 discussed above except that it also includes one or more saliva suction holders 812. The one or more saliva suction holders 812 are similar to the one or more saliva suction holders 612 discussed above with respect to the evacuation dam system 600. For example, the one or more saliva suction holders 812 can be operable to receive and/or couple with a saliva suction apparatus. The one or more saliva suction holders 812 can be positioned and/or arranged along at least a portion of the evacuation dam frame 802 to align the saliva suction apparatus with the working area 804 without interfering with the evacuation.

[0085] As illustrated in Fig. 15, the evacuation dam system 800 includes an evacuation dam frame 802, a working area 804, one or more positive flow outlets 806, a negative flow outlet 810, a convex collection area 816, a central evacuation connection 818, a top frame member 820, a bottom frame member 822, side frame members 824, a plurality of posts 826 one or more flow conduits 834, and a flow path 850 substantially corresponds to the evacuation dam frame 702, the working area 704, the one or more positive flow outlets 706, the negative flow outlet 710, the convex collection area 716, the central evacuation connection 718, the top frame member 720, the bottom frame member 722, the side frame members 724, the plurality of posts 726, the one or more flow conduits 734, and the flow path 750, respectively, as described above with respect to the evacuation dam system 700.

[0086] FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of an adjustable evacuation dam system 1000, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The adjustable evacuation dam system 1000 can be implemented to customize the fit and function for each individual patient. A evacuation dam frame 1002 can form a working area 1004 with the evacuation dam frame 1002 operable to have one or more dimension adjustable, thereby adjusting the working area 1004. The evacuation dam system 1000 can include one or more positive flow outlets 1006 and one or more negative flow inlets 1008, as discussed above with respect to FIGS. 1-15.

[0087] The evacuation dam frame 1002 can include a top frame member 1010 a bottom frame member 1012, and side frame members 1014, 1016. The side frame members 1014, 1016 can be operable to slidingly couple with a portion of the top frame member 1010. The top frame member 1010 can slidingly engage with the side frame members 1014, 1016, thereby allowing a longitudinal length of the working area 1004 to be increased and/or shrunk depending on an individual patient’s face and/or the procedure requirements. Further, one or more salvia suction holders 1018 can be slidingly engaged with one or more of the side frame members 1014, 1016 and disposed between the top frame member 1010 and the bottom frame member 1012. As can be appreciated in FIG. 16, the top frame member 1010 can be displaced along the side frame members 1014, 1016 toward the bottom frame member 1012 to reduce the working area 1004. While FIG. 16 illustrates the bottom frame member 1012 fixed relative to the side frame members 1014, 1016, it is within the scope of the present disclosure to have a slidingly engaged bottom frame member 1012 and/or a slidingly engaged top frame member

1010. [0088] FIG. 17 illustrates an adjustable collection area 1020 of the adjustable evacuation dam system 1000, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The evacuation collection area 1020 can be slidingly coupled with the bottom frame member 1012 of the adjustable evacuation dam system 1000. The bottom frame member 1012 can have one or more adjustment posts 1022 extending vertically therefrom. The evacuation collection area 1020 can have one or more corresponding post couplers 1024 operable to receive the one or more adjustment posts 1022 therein. The evacuation collection area 1020 can then be slidingly adjusted in a vertical direction toward and/or away from the working area 1004 depending on the patient, procedure, and/or preference. In at least one embodiment, the evacuation collection area 1020 can pivot a predetermined number of degrees relative to the bottom frame member 1012 toward or away from the working area 1004.

[0089] FIG. 18 illustrates a perspective view of an eye protection system 1200 operatively engaged with an evacuation dam system, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 19 illustrates a front view of the eye protection system, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0090] The eye protection system 1200 can be coupled with any of the evacuation dams of the present disclosure. The eye protection system 1200 can provide a patient with additional protection from the environment prior to, during, and/or after a procedure. The eye protection 1200 can engage with an eye protection coupler 1214 (as similarly shown in FIGS. 6 and 16). In at least one embodiment, the eye protection system 1200 can be slidingly engaged with the eye protection coupler 1214 to adjust to an individual patient’s face, body type, and/or respective procedure.

[0091] The eye protection 1200 can include one or more lens couplers 1202 operable to engage a lens (not shown). The one or more lens couplers 1202 can allow the lens to be replaced between patients and/or during a procedure, while allowing the eye protection system 1200 to be sterilized and reused. In at least one embodiment, the eye protection system 1200 can be implement with any number of lenses within varying shades of tint depending on the procedure and/or a patient’s light sensitivity. The patient can have the opportunity to select a desired lens, which can then be coupled with the eye protection system 1200.

[0092] While preferred examples of the present inventive concept have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such examples are illustrative only. Further, it is within the scope of the present disclosure to combine one or more features of the illustrative examples disclose herein without deviating from the present disclosure. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the disclosure. It should be understood that various alternatives to the examples of the disclosure described herein can be employed in practicing the disclosure. It is intended that the following claims define the scope of the disclosure and that methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered thereby.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. An evacuation dam apparatus comprising: a frame having a top frame member, a bottom frame member, and two side frame members, the frame forming a working area; a plurality of ports adjacent the working area; an outlet fluidly coupled with the plurality of ports, wherein the evacuation dam is adapted to provide a fluid flow from at least a portion of the plurality of ports to the outlet to form a fluid flow path across the working area, wherein at least a portion of the fluid flow path is formed within the frame.

2. The evacuation dam apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of ports includes at least one positive flow outlet port and at least one negative flow inlet port.

3. The evacuation dam apparatus of claim 2, further comprising an inlet configured to receive a positive pressure flow, the inlet fluidly configured with the at least one positive flow outlet port, and the outlet configured to receive a negative pressure flow fluidly coupled with the at least one negative flow inlet port.

4. The evacuation dam apparatus of claim 3, wherein the fluid flow path extends from plurality of positive flow outlet ports to the plurality of negative flow inlet ports.

5. The evacuation dam apparatus of claim 2, wherein the at least one positive flow outlet port is directional and substantially aligned with the at least one negative flow port.

6. The evacuation dam apparatus of claim 2, wherein the at least one negative flow port includes a convex collection area disposed around at least a portion thereof.

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7. The evacuation dam apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the frame includes a plurality of posts extending away from the working area.

8. The evacuation dam apparatus of claim 7, wherein the plurality of posts have a barb formed on a distal end.

9. The evacuation dam apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the frame has an eye protection coupler disposed thereon, the eye protection coupler configured to receive at least a portion of an eye protection apparatus.

10. The evacuation dam apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of ports includes at least one positive flow outlet port that includes one or more vertically aligned fines defining a channel.

11 . The evacuation dam apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the outlet is slidingly engaged with the bottom frame member.

12. An evacuation dam system, comprising: an evacuation dam having a frame including a top frame member, a bottom frame member, and two side frame members; a working area defined by the frame; a positive flow inlet port configured to receive a positive pressure airflow therein; a positive flow outlet port with a plurality of channels, the outlet port adjacent the working area and fluidly coupled with the positive flow inlet port; a negative flow inlet port adjacent the working area; a negative flow outlet port configured to receive negative pressure airflow therein, the negative flow outlet port fluidly couple with the negative flow inlet port; wherein the evacuation dam system is configured to provide a fluid flow from at least the positive flow outlet port to the negative flow inlet port to form a fluid flow path across the working area, wherein at least a portion of the fluid flow path is formed within an interior of the frame.

13. The evacuation dam system of claim 12, wherein a positive pressure fluid flow path is formed in the top frame member, and wherein one or more of the plurality of channels are adapted to facilitate the direction of flue flow.

14. The evacuation dam system of claim 12, wherein a negative pressure fluid flow path is formed in the bottom frame member.

15. The evacuation dam system of claim 12, where the at least one negative flow port includes a convex collection area disposed around at least a portion thereof.

16. The evacuation dam system of claim 15, wherein the convex collection area is coupled with the bottom frame member and is vertically displaceable relative to the bottom frame member.

17. The evacuation dam system of claim 12, further comprising an eye protection coupler configured to receive at least a portion of an eye protection apparatus, the eye protection coupler disposed on at least a portion of the frame.

18. The evacuation dam system of claim 12, further comprising a saliva suction holder coupled with a side frame member.

19. The evacuation dam system of claim 18, wherein the saliva suction holder is displaceable along a longitudinal length of the side frame member.

20. The evacuation dam system of claim 12, wherein the top frame member is slidingly displaceable along a longitudinal length of the side frame member, wherein changing a longitudinal length of the working area.