Kerr v. Ultradent Products

SCHEPER KIM & HARRIS LLP MARC S. HARRIS (State Bar No. 136647) [email protected] ALEXANDER H.
COTE (State Bar No. 211558) 3 [email protected] 601 West Fifth Street, 12th Floor Los Angeles CA 90071-2025 4 Telephone: 213) 613-4655 5 Facsimile: 213) 613-4656 6 Attorneys for Plaintiff KERR CORPORATION 7 8 9 10 11 KERR CORPORATION, a Delaware corporation, 12. Plaintiff, 13 14
V.
FILED CER)U.pLSTRIr rn
FEB 1 8 2014
CENTRAL DiSTRICT OF CALIFORMA
nc1,11TV
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT CENTRAL DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN DIVISION
CASE NOSA(Vi Li")-3(v - Cit-- (F i\b)

COMPLAINT FOR DAMAGES AND INJUNCTIVE RELIEF 1. PATENT INFRINGEMENT OF UNITED STATES PATENT NO. 6,692,251 UNDER 35 U.S.C. 271 2. PATENT INFRINGEMENT OF UNITED STATES PATENT NO. 7,066,733 UNDER 35 U.S.C. 271 3. PATENT INFRINGEMENT OF UNITED STATES PATENT NO. 7,210,930 UNDER 35 U.S.C. 271 DEMAND FOR JURY TRIAL
15 ULTRADENT PRODUCTS, INC., a Utah corporation, 16 Defendant. 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

26
28
COMPLAINT FOR DAMAGES AND INJUNCTIVE RELIEF; DEMAND FOR JURY TRIAL
Plaintiff Kerr Corporation ("Plaintiff" or "Kerr") hereby complains and
2 alleges against Defendant Ultradent Products, Inc. ("Defendant" or "Ultradent") as 3 follows: 4 5
NATURE OF THE ACTION

1. This is an action for patent infringement and arises under the Patent
6 Laws of the United States, codified in Title 35 of the United States Code. 7
2.
On information and belief, Ultradent has infringed and continues to
8 infringe, under 35 U.S.C. 271(a), and has actively induced others to infringe and 9 continues to actively induce others to infringe, under 35 U.S.C. 271(b), Kerr's 10 United States patents, including U.S. Patent Nos. 6,692,251 ("the '251 patent"), 11 7,066,733 ("the '733 patent"), and 7,210,930 ("the '930 patent") ("Kerr's Asserted 12 Patents"). 13 14
THE PARTIES
3. Kerr is a corporation organized and existing under the laws of the State
15 of Delaware, and has its principal place of business at 1717 West Collins Ave., 16 Orange, CA 92867. 17
4.
Upon information and belief, Ultradent is a corporation organized and
18 existing under the laws of the State of Utah, and has its principal place of business at 19 505 West 10200 South, South Jordan, UT 84095. 20 21
JURISDICTION AND VENUE

5. This Court has subject matter jurisdiction under 28 U.S.C. 1331 and
22 28 U.S.C. 1338(a). 23
6.
This Court has personal jurisdiction over Ultradent because, on
24 information and belief, Ultradent has committed acts of patent infringement 25 throughout the State of California, and within this judicial district. 26
7.
Venue in this judicial district is appropriate based on 28 U.S.C.
27 1391(b)-(c), and 1400(b). 28
1
1 2
BACKGROUND FACTS
8. Kerr designs, develops, manufactures, and sells various products for
3 use in the dental industry, including, but not limited to dental curing lights. 4
9.
Kerr has sought legal protection for its technological innovations,
5 which has resulted in numerous issued patents, including the patents identified as 6 Kerr's Asserted Patents in paragraph 2 above. 7
10.
On February 17, 2004, the United States Patent and Trademark Office
8 ("USPTO") duly and legally issued the '251 patent, entitled "Apparatus and Method 9 for Curing Materials with Light Radiation." A copy of the '251 patent is attached 10 hereto as Exhibit A. Kerr is the owner by assignment of all right, title, and interest in 11 and to the '251 patent, and has owned the '251 patent throughout the period of 12 Ultradent's infringing acts complained of herein. 13
11.
On June 27, 2006, the USPTO duly and legally issued the '733 patent,
14 entitled "Apparatus and Method for Curing Materials with Light Radiation." A copy 15 of the '733 patent is attached hereto as Exhibit B. Kerr is the owner by assignment 16 of all right, title, and interest in and to the '733 patent, and has owned the '733 17 patent throughout the period of Ultradent's infringing acts complained of herein. 18
12.
On May 1, 2007, the USPTO duly and legally issued the '930 patent,
19 entitled "Apparatus and Method for Curing Materials with Radiation." A copy of the 20 '930 patent is attached hereto as Exhibit C. Kerr is the owner by assignment of all 21 right, title, and interest in and to the '930 patent, and has owned the '930 patent 22 throughout the period of Ultradent's infringing acts complained of herein. 23
13.
Upon information and belief, Ultradent had knowledge of each of
24 Kerr's Asserted Patents prior to the filing of this Complaint. In addition, Kerr has 25 marked certain of its products with the '251 patent number in accordance with 35 26 U.S.C. 287. Moreover, Kerr's service of this Complaint constitutes notice of its 27 infringement claims as to each of Kerr's Asserted Patents to Ultradent, under 35 28 U.S.C. 287.
2
14.
On information and belief, Ultradent manufactures and sells various
2 products for use in the dental industry, including, but not limited to dental curing 3 lights. Among the dental curing light products that Ultradent markets and sells, or 4 has marketed and sold, are its Valo and UltraLume dental curing light products, 5 which use light emitting diodes ("LEDs") ("Accused Products"). 6
15. On information and belief, Ultradent operates and maintains an internet
7 website, www.ultradent.com , through which Ultradent markets and sells, or has 8 marketed and sold, its products, including the Accused Products, to customers 9 worldwide. Ultradent's website includes, or has included, information and 10 instructions regarding the design and operation of the Accused Products. 11 12 13 15
16.
COUNT I PATENT INFRINGEMENT (Infringement of '251 patent)

Kerr realleges and incorporates by reference the allegations of
14 paragraphs 1-15 above as though fully set forth herein.

17. Ultradent has directly infringed and continues to directly infringe the
16 '251 patent by making, using, selling, offering for sale, and/or importing in the 17 United States the Accused Products without Kerr's authorization to do so. 18
18. On information and belief, Ultradent's acts of direct infringement
19 alleged above were conducted with knowledge of Kerr's Asserted Patents and 20 therefore constitute willful patent infringement. 21
19. On information and belief, Ultradent also has indirectly infringed and
22 continues to indirectly infringe the '251 patent, by aiding and abetting the acts of 23 others that constitute infringement of the '251 patent, without Kerr's authorization 24 to do so. With knowledge of the '251 patent, Ultradent intends, and has intended, to 25 induce others to infringe the '251 patent by instructing them to use the Accused 26 Products in a manner that Ultradent knows constitutes infringement. 27
20. As a result of Ultradent's actions, Kerr has suffered and continues to
28 suffer substantial injury, including irreparable injury and monetary damage,

3
1 including but not limited to the loss of sales and profits, which Kerr would have 2 made but for the acts of infringement by Ultradent. On information and belief, such 3 injury and damage incurred by Kerr will continue unless Ultradent is enjoined by 4 this Court from further acts of infringement. 5 6 7 9
21.
COUNT II PATENT INFRINGEMENT
(Infringement of '733 patent)


22 suffer substantial injury, including irreparable injury and monetary damage, 23 including but not limited to the loss of sales and profits, which Kerr would have 24 made but for the acts of infringement by Ultradent. On information and belief, such 25 injury and damage incurred by Kerr will continue unless Ultradent is enjoined by 26 this Court from further acts of infringement. 27 28
4
1 2 3 5
26.
COUNT III PATENT INFRINGEMENT (Infringement of '930 patent)


18 suffer substantial injury, including irreparable injury and monetary damage, 19 including but not limited to the loss of sales and profits, which Kerr would have 20 made but for the acts of infringement by Ultradent. On information and belief, such 21 injury and damage incurred by Kerr will continue unless Ultradent is enjoined by 22 this Court from further acts of infringement. 23 24 25 27
A.
PRAYER FOR RELIEF

WHEREFORE, Kerr prays for the following relief against Ultradent: That judgment be entered against Ultradent, that Ultradent has
26 infringed and induced others to infringe each of Kerr's Asserted Patents;

B. That Ultradent, its agents, sales representatives, servants and
28 employees, associates, attorneys, parents, successors and assigns, and any and all
5
1 persons or entities acting at, through, under or in active concert or participation with 2 any or all of them, be preliminarily and permanently enjoined and restrained from 3 further infringement of each of Kerr's Asserted Patents; 4
C.
That judgment be entered requiring Ultradent to pay to Kerr monetary
5 damages sustained by Kerr due to Ultradent's acts of infringement, including lost 6 profits or reasonable royalty under 35 U.S.C. 284; 7
D.
That judgment be entered trebling such monetary damages that
8 Ultradent is required to pay Kerr for willful infringement under 35 U.S.C. 284; 9
E.
That this case be adjudged and decreed exceptional under 35 U.S.C.
10 285, and that Kerr be awarded its reasonable attorney fees; 11 12
F. G.
That Kerr be awarded its costs and interest on all damages; and That Kerr be awarded such other and further relief as the Court deems
13 just and proper. 14 15 16 17 18 DATED: February 18, 2014 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 By

:
JURY DEMAND Kerr hereby demands and requests trial by jury of all issues raised that are triable by jury. SCHEPER KIM & HARRIS LLP MARC S. HARRIS ALEXANDER H. COTE
Alexander H. Cote Attorneys for Plaintiff KERR CORPORATION
(2644.
116t
6
Exhibit A
11111111111111101111111111191191111111111 111 11111111111 11101 11

US006692251B1
(12) (12)
United States States Patent Patent

al. Logan et al.
(16) Patent No.: N68 B1 (to) US 6,692,251 B1 (45) Date of of Patent: Patent: (45) *Feb. 17, 2004
EP EP 0 320 080 0 672 435 8/1993 9/1995
APPARATUS AND (54) APPARATUS AND METHOD METHOD FOR CURING

MATERIALS WITH LIGHT RADIATION RADIATION MATERIALS WITH LIGHT
(75) Inventors: Inventors: Joseph Joseph N. N. Logan, Logan, Trumbull, Trumbull, CT CT (US); (US); (75) Raymond L. Knox, Knox, Bethel, CT (US) (US)
(73) Assignee: Assignee; Kerr Kerr Corporation, Corporation, Orange, Orange, CA CA (US) (Us) (73)
(* *) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the the term term of ofthis this extended or or adjusted adjusted under under 35 35 patent is extended U_S,C, 154(b) 154(b) by by 208 208 days. days, U.S.C.
This patent patent is subject subject to to aa terminal terminal disdis This claimer.
(List (Llst continued Con?rmed on on next next page.) page)
PUBLICATIONS OTHER PUBLICATIONS

Schlager, Kenneth J., J ., Ignatius, Ignatius, Ronald RonaldW., W., An An LEDArray LEDArray Light Source Source for for Medical Medical Therapy, Therapy, SPIE vol. 1892 1892 Medical Light Lasers and and Systems Systems II H (1993) (1993) p. P- 26-35. 2635 Tarle, Z. et al., al., The The Effect E?rect of ofthe the Photopolymerization Tarle, Z. et Photopolymerization on the the Quality Quality of ofComposite CompositeResin ResinSamples, Samples, J. of Method on Rehab. 25: 25: 436-442, 436442, 1998. 1998. Oral Rehab. O. et et al., al.,An Evaluation of ofFour Burgess, John 0. An Evaluation Four LightCuring LightCuring Units Comparing Comparing Soft and Hard Curing, Curing, Pract. Periodont Periodont Units 11(1), 125-132, 125132, 1999. 1999. Aesthet. Dent. 11(1), Kanca, III, III, John John and and Suh, Sub, Byoung Byoung I., 1., Pulse Activation: Activation: Kanca,
_ (21) (21) Appl. Appl' No.: NO" 09/632,260 09/632260 (22) Filed: Filed; Aug 4, 2000 2000 (22) Aug. 4,
Related U.S. Application Data U.S. Appllcatlon (63) (63)
Continuation-in-part of application No. 09/009,205, filed gontizrbualtigogninpartpof aIIiIplic6z1t2igr6III;409/009,205, ?ledon on Jan. 20, 1998, now Pat. No. 6,200,134. an now at 0' '
Reducing ResinBased ResinBased Composite Composite Contraction Contraction Stresses Stresses at at Reducing the the Enamel Enamel Cavosurface Cavosurface Margins, Margins, Am. Am. J. J. of ofDentistry, Dentistry,
12(3), 107-112, 107112, 1999. 1999. (List Continued on on next next page.) page) (List continued
Primary ExaminerRalph Examiner_Ra1ph A. A_ Lewis Lewis 74 Attorney, Attorney, Agent, A gent, or orFirmWood, FirmWood, Herron Herron & & Evans, Evans, (74)
Int. C1.7 cl? ................................................ .. A61C A61C 3/00 3/00 (51) Int. (52) U.S. U.S.Cl. 433/29; 362/800 (52) Cl. ........................................ .. 433/29; Of Search Search ..................... .. 433/29, 215; 606/1, 606/1, (58) Field of
LLP (57) (57)

ABSTRACT
606/13, 16; 607/80; 607/80; 362/800 362/800 (56) (56)

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An instrument instrument and and method method for forcuring curinglight-curable light-curablecomcom mouth of of a a patient, patient, the the instrument instrument comprising comprising pounds in the mouth a housing housing and and aa plurality plurality of ofsolid solidstate, state, light-emitting light-emitting elements on a substrate substrate supported supported by by the thehousing. housing. The The elements on a elements form a a collective collective array array on on the thesubstrate substrateoperable operable elements light having having wavelengths Wavelengths within Within aa for collectively emitting light narroW band of of wavelengths. Wavelengths. narrow
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An An optical optical focusing focusing device device is is positioned positioned to to intercept interceptthe the light light emitted emitted by by the the array array of of elements elements and andincludes includesaanon-imaging non-imaging optical optical device device which is is operable operable for for collimating collimating the the light light array into into a a beam beam to to be be directed directedonto ontoaacompound compound from the array for curing curing the the compound. compound. A A disposable disposable sleeve sleeve covers covers the the for housing and and array array and and may may incorporate incorporate the theoptical opticalfocusing focusing device. The The sleeve is is removed removed and and discarded discarded after after use useto to device. eliminate the the need need to to autoclave autoclave the the instrument. instrument. eliminate
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* cited by examiner eXarniner *
U.S. Patent
US 6,692,251 B1
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U.S. Patent
Feb. 17, 17, 2004
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US 6,692,251 6,692,251 B1 B1
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APPARATUS CURING APPARATUS AND AND METHOD METHOD FOR CURING MATERIALS LIGHT RADIATION RADIATION MATERIALS WITH LIGHT
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cavities Will require a a greater greater amount amount of ofradiated radiated power poWer cavities will require the tooth tooth surface surface for for proper propercuring. curing. directed onto the compounds have have shown shoWn very very benefibene? While light-curable compounds ?eld, existing techniques techniques and and dental dental cial results in the dental field, utiliZed to to deliver deliver the the light light to tothe thetooth tooth curing light devices utilized surface have have various various drawbacks. draWbacks. For For example, example, existing existing surface devices require require specific speci?c filtering ?ltering mechanisms. mechanisms. dental curing devices done for for several several reasons. reasons. First, First,it itis isknown knoWn Filtering must be done Wavelengths of of blue blue light lightare areharmful harmfulto tohuman human that certain wavelengths attempts are are made made to to direct directthe the light lightbeam beamonly only tissue. While attempts on to to the the tooth tooth surface, surface, aa certain certain amount amount of oforal oraltissue tissue on light is is inevitable. inevitable. Therefore, Therefore, harmful harrnfulwaveWave exposure to the light lengths must rnust be be filtered. ?ltered. Additionally, Additionally, light-curable light-curable comcorn lengths pounds are are usually usually sensitive sensitive to light light having having aasomewhat somewhat pounds speci?c Wavelength, such as as a a specific speci?c blue blue light light wavelength Wavelength specific wavelength, such With currently currently available available dental dental compounds. cornpounds. Therefore, Therefore, aa with ?ltering device is tuned tuned to to emit emit light light at at dental curing light filtering Wavelengths for both both patient patient safety safety and and proper proper the proper wavelengths curing. conventional dental dental curing curing lights lights use use broad broad Many existing conventional larnp elements, elements, such such as ashalogen halogenbulbs. bulbs.As Asaaresult, result, spectrum lamp dental curing lights lights must rnust utilize utiliZe special special and andcomplicated complicated dental ?ltering devices or filters ?lters which Which receive receive the the broad broad spectrum spectrum filtering light from from the the lamp lamp element, element, and and then then filter ?lter the the light lightto to light the light light at at the thedesirable desirable wavelengths. Wavelengths. AvailAvail provide only the able lamp larnp elements elernents deliver deliver a a wide wide spectrum spectrum of ofradiation, radiation, able including visible UV light, light, and and infra-red infra-red light. light. including visible light, light, UV art curing techniques techniques and and light light devices devices have have Therefore, prior art generally been very inefficient, inef?cient, because a large large amount amount of of generally poWer is is lost lost simply simply due due to to filtering ?ltering of ofaa the radiated light power signi?cant part of the light spectrum. spectrum. For For example, example, the the input input significant poWer to a a conventional conventional halogen halogen bulb bulb may rnay typically typically be be power Whereas the the output output power power from from the thedental dental around 80 Watts, whereas light device device of light light at at the thedesired desiredblue bluewavelength, Wavelength, for for light 400500 nanometers, nanorneters, is is typically typically less less than than one-half one-half example 400-500 (0.5) Watt. Watt. efficiency of the the prior prior art art dental dentalcuring curing Additionally, the efficiency further degraded degraded by by power poWer losses losses due due to tothe theangle angle lights is further the radiated radiated light light upon upon the the filtering ?ltering element. elernent. of incidence of the many prior prior art art curing curinglights lightsutilize utiliZereflective re?ective For example, many ?lters which Which reflect re?ect only only the the light light at atthe thedesirable desirable filters Wavelengths, such as blue light, light, onto onto the the tooth tooth surface surface and and wavelengths, cornpound. Light Light at at the the undesirable undesirable wavelengths Wavelengths is is dental compound. passed through through the filter ?lter to to aalight lightabsorbing absorbingcomponent cornponent passed Where it is dissipated. dissipated. If the the angle angle of of incidence incidence of of the the light light where halogen bulb bulb varies varies significantly signi?cantly from from the thedesired desired from the halogen angle of incidence incidence for for the thefiltering ?ltering element elementsurface surface(e.g., (e.g., angle a reduced reduced amount amountof ofthe thedesirable desirablelight lightis isreflected re?ected 45), then a onto the tooth tooth surface. surface. This This further further decreases decreases the the amount amountof of poWer which Which is is available availablefor forcuring curingthe thedental dental desirable light power cornpound. Conversely, Conversely, a amount of light light at at undeunde compound. a higher higher amount sirable wavelengths Wavelengths may also be reflected re?ected onto onto the the tooth tooth sirable may also than being being transmitted transmittedthrough throughthe thefiltering ?ltering surface, rather than be dissipated. dissipated. element to be draWback with With prior prior art art curing curinglights lightsis isthat that Still another drawback they generate generate significant signi?cant amounts amounts of heat heat and and therefore therefore they require complicated cornplicated cooling systems to to operate operate within Within the the require temperature range. range. The The significant signi?cant amount amount of oflight light proper temperature the undesirable undesirable wavelengths, Wavelengths, which Which is isgenerated generated energy at the by the halogen bulb, bulb, must must be be filtered ?ltered or or otherwise otherWise captured. captured. captured or or filtered ?ltered energy energy is is then then dissipated dissipatedin inthe theform form The captured of heat. heat. Therefore, Therefore, power poWer absorbing absorbing and andheat heatdissipating dissipating elements are are required required within Within conventional conventional curing curing light light elements devices. Therrnal shields shields are are often often utilized utiliZed in inconjunction conjunction with With Thermal re?ective ?lters to absorb absorb and and dissipate dissipate the theunreflected, unre?ected, reflective filters to
RELATED APPLICATIONS
is a a continuation-in-part continuation-in-partof ofU.S. US.Ser. Ser.No. No. This application is 09/009,205, entitled Apparatus and and Method Method for for Curing Curing 09/009,205, entitled "Apparatus Materials With Radiation and filed ?led on Jan. 20, 20, 1998 1998 now now Materials with Radiation" US. Pat. No. 6,200,134 6,200,134 Bl, B1, which Which application application is isincorpoincorpo U.S. by reference reference in inits itsentirety. entirety. rated herein by
FIELD OF THE INVENTION INVENTION FIELD
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the curing curing of of materials materials with With This application is related to the and, more specifically, speci?cally, to to curing curing dental dentalcoating coatingand and radiation and, ?lling compounds with light. light. filling
BACKGROUND INVENTION BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
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and bonding bonding or or filling ?lling comcorn Curable adhesive compounds and pounds are widely Widely used used for for structurally structurally connecting connecting object object pounds ?lling gaps, openings and and cavities cavities in in surfaces together or for filling an object surface. surface. Such Such curable curable compounds compounds are aregenerally generally manipulated and object surface surface in in aa manipulated and positioned positioned on on the the object serni-solid state and are are then then hardened hardened or or cured cured in in position position semi-solid The curing curing or or hardening hardening to a more solid and permanent permanent state. The applicable compounds compounds is generally generally a a chemical chemical process process of applicable Which is promoted and and driven driven by by one one or or more more curing curing which is promoted factors. For For example, example, the the curing curingprocess processmay may conditions or factors. be driven driven by by exposure exposure of ofthe thesemi-solid serni-solid compound compound and and be components thereof by exposure exposure of of such such aacomcorn components thereof to to air or by and its its components componentsto to an an energy energysource, source,such suchas asaaheat heat pound and source. source. Other curable adhesive and and filling ?lling compounds compounds are are cured cured Other exposure to radiated radiated energy, energy, such such as as visible visible and and nonnon by exposure energy. Such Such compounds, cornpounds, referred referred to to as aslightlight visible light energy. curable compounds, compounds, are manipulated manipulated in in aa semi-solid serni-solid form form curable into an area area or or onto onto aa work Worksurface. surface. Light Lightradiation, radiation, prefpref into form of of a a light light beam beam at ataaspecific speci?cwavelength Wavelength erably in the form onto the the compound. compound. or band of Wavelengths, wavelengths, is then directed onto The compound compound includes includes light-sensitive light-sensitive chemical chernical compocompo The Which, when When exposed exposed to to the the light lightat atthe the specific speci?c nents therein which, Wavelength, promote hardening of of the the comcorn wavelength, promote the the curing or hardening the desired desired position position on on the the work Worksurface surface to tobond, bond, pound in the ?ll, or coat the the surface. surface. fill, As an an example, example, light-curable light-curable filling ?lling and and adhesive adhesive comcorn Widely used used in in dental dental procedures. procedures. Dentists Dentists use use pounds are widely dental compounds compounds for for coating coatingand andsealing sealingtooth tooth light-curable dental ?lling caries and and other other cavities cavities in inthe the tooth toothsurface, surface, surfaces, filling and securing crowns croWns and and various various other other dental dentalstructures structuresto toaa Conventionally, dental dental compounds compounds are are cured cured tooth surface. Conventionally, light in in the the blue blue range range of ofthe thespectrum. spectrum.Once Once by exposure to light cured, the dental dental compound cornpound reduces reduces further furthertooth toothdecay, decay, cured, dental structure, structure, and/or and/or provides provides additional additionalstrucstruc bonds the dental compounds ture to a tooth. Therefore, it is important that the compounds are completely cured. cured. More specifically, speci?cally, for for curing curing light-curable light-curable dental dental More cornpounds, visible and particularly particularly a a blue blue light light compounds, visible blue light, and beam from a hand-held curing light light device, device, is is directed directed onto onto a tooth surface containing containing the the desired desired compound compoundlayer. layer.The The blue light penetrates into into the the compound compound layer layer on on the the tooth tooth curing. The The duration duration of ofthe the exposure exposureto to surface for complete curing. blue light for proper curing of of the compound compound layer layer is is dictated dictated and the the thickness thickness of ofthe the compound compound by the type of compound and layer, as well Well as as the the power poWer level level and andcharacteristics characteristics of ofthe the layer, curing light light device. device. For For example, example, a a thin thin blue light from the curing tooth surface surface coating coating or veneer veneer will Will require require less less radiated radiated tooth While thicker, deeper deeper fillings ?llings for for caries cariesand andother other light poWer, power, while
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US 6,692,251 6,692,251 B1 B1
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unused light light energy energy in the the form form of of heat. heat. The The high highpower power Work surface, such such as as a a tooth tooth surface, surface, once once the the light lighthas hasbeen been unused work halogen bulb bulb to to produce produce the thedesired desired generated by element or or bulb. bulb. The The light lightisisgenerated generated output required for the halogen generated by the element light power poWer level level for for curing, curing, creates creates aasignificantly signi?cantly high high light Within the main housing housing of the the curing curing light, light, and and must must be be within The shields shields must must then then be be cooled. cooled. thermal load on the shields. The of the the housing. housing. Existing Existing dental dental transmitted to an output end of Generally, fan elements are are used used in in the the dental dentallight lightdevice deviceto to 5 curing curing lights utilize utiliZe elongated light guides guides to to deliver deliver light light provide convective convective cooling cooling to the the shields. shields. The The additional additional provide generating elements elements inside inside the the housing housingto tothe the from the light generating cooling elements elements increase increase the size siZe of of the the light lightdevice device and and cooling tooth. design. As will Will be be appreciated, appreciated, it itis isdesirable desirable complicate its design. comprised of of a a large large number number of of Light guides are usually comprised to keep keep the the light light device device as as small small and andmaneuverable maneuverable as as to optical fibers ?bers fused together together into into an an elongated elongated guide. guide. The The possible, since it is hand-held and used in a patient's patientsmouth. mouth. 10 optical air/glass interfaces interfaces between betWeen the the generating generating elements elementsand andthe the Additionally, also placed placed on on the the reflecre?ec 10 air/glass Additionally, a a thermal load is also light guide and the output end of the light input end of the light guide and the output end of the light ?lter element, which Which must then then also also be be cooled, cooled, such such as as tive filter guide and the the inside inside of of the the mouth mouthare areinefficient inef?cient and and may may guide heat sinks sinks and and fans. fans. The The absorption absorption devices devices and and heat heat by heat approximately 10% loss in poWer per interface. produce approximately a 10% loss in power per interface. dissipating systems not only complicate the operation and dissipating systems only complicate the operation and prior art art devices devices may may utilize utiliZeaaconverging converginglens lens light device, device, but but also also make make it itmore moreexpensive expensive 15 Furthermore, prior design of the light tofocus focuslight light into into the theinput input end end of ofthe thelight lightguide. guide. This This 15 to to produce, and and more more subject subject to to operational operational failure. failure. provides another lossy interface interface encountered encountered by by the the light. light. provides Another drawback draWback of of prior prior art art dental dental curing curing light lightdevices devices Such inefficiencies inef?ciencies further increase the cure time that that is is Such further increase the cure time limited operational life of the the lamp lamp element, element, such such as as is the limited necessary, and/or the need need for for higher higher power poWer (and (and necessary, and/or create create the a halogen bulb. The bulbs frequently burn out out and and must must be be the necessary necessary curing curinglight lightinteninten associated heat) to provide the replaced. Furthermore, Furthermore, the generated inside inside the the light light 20 replaced. the heat generated 20 sity. device, which Which is is usually usually enclosed, enclosed, shortens shortens the theeffective effective device, Another concern concern with With dental dental curing curing lights lights is is that thatsuch such Another of the the bulb. bulb. operational lifespan of are medical/dental medical/dental instruments, instruments, and and a a portion portion of ofthe the lights are Attempts have been made made in in the the prior priorart artto toaddress addresssome some instrument is introduced introduced into into a cavity cavity of of the the body, body, i.e. i.e. the the instrument draWbacks. For For example, example, Japanese JapanesePatent PatentApplicaApplica of these drawbacks. mouth. Since Since the same same curing curing light light will Will be be utilized utiliZed with With tions No. 6-30275, 6-285508, 7-163863, and and 8-194786; U.S. US. 25 mouth. differentpatients, patients,cross-contamination cross-contaminationbetween betWeenpatents patentsmust must Pat. Nos. 5,420,768 5,420,768 and and 5,634,711; 5,634,711; and and U.K. UK. patent patentappliappli 25 different Pat. avoided. Accordingly, sterilization steriliZation of of the the curing curing light, light,or or be avoided. all disclose disclose various various devices devices using using cation No. GB 2,329,756, all portion thereof, thereof, has has been been necessary necessary with Withconventional conventional a portion packaged, conventional conventional light-emitting light-emitting diodes LEDs, to to packaged, diodes or LEDs, devices. Sterilization, SteriliZation, often often referred referred to to as asautoclaving, autoclaving, devices. source with With light light in in the the desirable desirable blue blue provide a curing light source additional equipment equipment which Whichmust mustbe bepurchased purchasedand and range. While speci?c blue is provided provided by by the the LEDs LEDs 30 requires additional range. While specific blue light is maintained by the dentist or other physician. SteriliZation maintained the dentist or other physician. Sterilization Without signi?cant ?ltering, various of these devices require without significant filtering, of these devices require extra step step in in between betWeen curing curing procedures. procedures. also introduces an extra internal designs designs for for focusing focusingof ofthe thecuring curinglight, light, complicated internal Furthermore, the high heat heat required required for forsterilization steriliZationmay, may, Furthermore, the high or require require specific speci?c electronic electronic control control of of the theLEDs. LEDs. or over time, time, damage damage components components of the the curing curing light. light. over numbers of of conventional conventionalLEDs LEDsare arenecnec Furthermore, large numbers conventional curing curing lights lights must must be be designed designedto to of those those applications, applications,the the 35 Accordingly, conventional essary. As illustrated in the Figures of Withstand sterilization steriliZation and and the the high high temperatures temperaturesassociated associated withstand are spread out out over over a a circuit circuit board board solid state LED elements are thereWith of to otherwise otherWise address address the the sterilization steriliZation issue. issue. therewith other support support structure structure and and require require aasomewhat someWhatlarge large or other an objective objective of ofthe the present presentinvention inventionto to Accordingly, it is an contain all all of of the the conventional conventional LEDs LEDsnecessary necessary housing to contain a simple, simple, durable durable curing curing light light device devicefor forhardening hardening provide a generating the intensity intensity of light light which Which is isrequired requiredfor for for generating curing light-curable light-curable compounds. compounds. Particularly, Particularly, it is is an an practical curing curing uses. uses. Therefore, Therefore, it has has been beendifficult dif?cult to to 40 or curing practical objective to provide such a a curing curing light light device device for for curing curing objective to provide provide a suitable suitable curing curing light light using usingconventional conventional LEDs, LEDs, provide for dental dental fillings ?llings and and coatings. coatings. dental compounds used for Which will Will generate sufficient suf?cient curing small and and which curing poWer power in a small design. complete design. is another another objective objective to to provide provide aa curing curing light lightutilizing utiliZing It is light elements. elements. Using traditional traditional packaged disclosed in the the Using packaged LEDs, LEDs, as as disclosed solid state light above-cited art, has has specifically speci?cally presented presented difficulties difficulties assoasso 45 objective to to provide provide a a curing curing light light which Whichhas has It is another objective ciated with With generating generating sufficient suf?cient curing curing power poWer within Within aa ciated compact and and simple simple design design and and which Which is is capable capable of of a compact reasonably sized siZed device which Which may may be be adequately adequately cooled. cooled. reasonably providing a light power poWer density density that that is is useful useful for for practical practical providing With such devices devices have have resulted resulted from from Further complications with applications. curing applications. attempts to concentrate the light from the the large large grouping grouping of of of the the present present invention invention to to cure cure It is still another objective of a small small area area and and at at aasufficient sufficient power poWer 50 traditional LEDs into a compounds with With curing curing lights lights utilizing utiliZing less less power poWer and and 50 compounds density so as to be useful for curing. Such dif?culties in density so as to be useful for curing. Such difficulties in having greater greater efficiency ef?ciency to reduce the the amount amount of ofheat heat having to reduce light device device utilizing utiliZing the the existing existing providing a suitable curing light energy generated generated by device and and thus thus reduce reduce the theheat heat energy by the device traditional packaged LED technology is highlighted highlighted by the the Which must be dissipated. Furthermore, Furthermore,it itis is desirable desirable energy which Well-received and andwidely-utilized Widely-utilized dental dental curing curing lack of aa well-received provide more more efficient ef?cient cooling cooling of ofthe thelight-generating light-generating to provide light on the the market market which Which utilizes utiliZes such such technology. technology. 55 devices. devices. 55 Alternatively, technology disclosed disclosed in in Alternatively, the the devices devices and technology It is still another another objective objective of ofthe the invention inventionto toeliminate eliminatethe the US. patent application application Ser. Ser. No. No. 09/009,205, 09/009,205, noted noted above, above, U.S. of reflective re?ective filters ?lters and and other other filter ?lter elements elements within Within necessity of With solid solid state, state, light-emitting light-emitting have provided a curing device with a light device device for for curing curinglight-curable light-curablecompounds. compounds. components which Which generate generate sufficient sufficient curing power poWer densidensi components It is still another objective to address the need needfor forsterility sterility another objective to address the ties in in aareasonably-sized reasonably-siZed device device that that may may be beproperly properly 60 ties Within a curing light. within a curing light. cooled. Further the inventors inventors of of the the present present cooled. Further efforts efforts by by the a further further objective objective to to provide provide aablue bluelight lightdevice device It is still a application are continuing to to improve improve the the existing existingtechnoltechnol Which operates within Within a a small small space space and and is is easily easily manipumanipu which that earlier earlier application application and and to toprovide providethe the ogy disclosed in that Within the the mouth mouth of of aadental dentalpatient. patient. lated within poWer density, density, size siZe and and thermal thermal charactercharacter desirable curing power a successful successful commercial commercial curing curing device. device. 65 istics required for a objectives and and various various other other objectives objectiveswill Willbecome become These objectives Still another another drawback draWback associated associated with With prior prior art art curing curing more readily apparent apparent from from the the Description Descriptionof ofthe theInvention Invention Still beloW. lights is their their inefficiency inef?ciency in transmitting transmitting the light light to to the the lights below.
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US 6,692,251 6,692,251 B1 B1
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SUMMARY OF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An instrument and and method method for forcuring curinglight-curable light-curable An instrument compounds, such compounds in the mouth mouth of of aa compounds, such as as dental compounds patient, comprises a housing housing which Which supports supports aa plurality plurality of of patient, solid state, light-emitting light-emitting elements. elements. The The elements elements are are prefpref of a a semiconductor semiconductor matemate erably light-emitting dies formed of are mounted mounted on on a a substrate substrate supported supported by by rial. The elements are a collective array array which Which is is operable operable for for the housing to form a collectively emitting Wavelength within Within a a collectively emitting light light having having a wavelength narroW band Wavelengths. In one one embodiment embodiment of of the the narrow band of wavelengths. invention, the narrow narroW band of wavelengths Wavelengths includes that of of invention, the blue blue wavelength. Wavelength. However, HoWever, other other wavelengths Wavelengths might might the also utiliZed, depending upon the light light sensitivity sensitivity of of the the also be utilized, compound utilized. utiliZed. curable compound One suitable suitable housing housing for the the invention invention includes includes a a gungun One shaped housing handle portion portion and and aa barrel barrel shaped housing Which which has has a handle portion. The handle portion is held held by by an an operator operator and andthe the portion. directed toward toWard a a work Work surface, surface, such such as as aa barrel portion is directed tooth. A portable poWer supply may be utilized utiliZed within Within the the tooth. portable power the instrument instrument is is aa hand-held hand-held instrument instrument housing such that the Which is completely completely portable. portable. In In one one embodiment embodiment of of the the which array of of light-emitting light-emitting elements elementsis ispositioned positioned invention, the array of the the barrel barrel portion portion of ofthe thehousing housingwhich Which on the distal end of placed Within mouth of a a patient patient so so that that the the light light is is is placed within the mouth delivered directly Work surface, surface, such such as as a a tooth. tooth. In In an an delivered directly to to a work alternative embodiment, the array array of of elements elements may may be be posiposi housing such such that that the the generated generated light light must mustbe be tioned in the housing end, such such as as by by an an optical optical fiber ?ber light light transmitted to the distal end, guide. In accordance With one aspect of of the present invention, invention, an an optical focusing focusing device device is positioned positioned to to intercept intercept the the light light optical emitted by the array array of ofelements. elements. The The optical opticalfocusing focusing emitted by the optical device device which Which is is operable operable for for device is a non-imaging optical collimating the beam to to be be collimating the light light from from the the array array into into a beam directed on to a a compound compound for for curing curing the the compound. compound. The The directed non-imaging device efficiently ef?ciently collimates collimates and and transmits transmitsthe the array to to a a work Work surface surface without Withoutinefficiencies inef?ciencies light from the array associated with With imaging lenses lenses in in the the prior priorart. art. A Areflective re?ective positioned between betWeenthe thearray arrayand andthe theoptical optical element may be positioned focusing device for for further further efficiently efficiently directing directing light light from from focusing into the the optical optical focusing focusing device device to tobe becollimated collimated the array into and a work Work surface. surface. and delivered to a In accordance accordance with With another another aspect aspect of of the the present present In invention, the array of dies is is arranged arranged on on a a substrate substrate in in aa invention, the array density Which operable for for emitting emitting a a power poWer density density of of density which is operable light in the the range range of of 200-1400 2001400 mW/cm mW/cm2. Such a a density density light 2. Such poWer to to the the work Work surface surface for foraa provides a desirable curing power cooling such such an an array array and andthe thesubstrate substrateon on suitable cure. For cooling Which the the elements elements are are mounted, mounted, the the present presentinvention invention which utiliZes conductive cooling wherein Wherein a a heat heat tube tube containing containing a a utilizes heat-conductive liquid is thermally coupled coupled to to the the substrate substrate heat-conductive generated by the the array array of of for conductively transferring heat generated aWay from from the the substrate. substrate. In Inone oneembodiment embodimentof of the elements away the sink is is thermally thermally coupled coupled to to the thesubstrate substrate invention, the heat sink and the heat tube is then then thermally thermally coupled coupled to to the the heat heatsink. sink. Way, heat is is conductively conductively transferred transferred away aWay from from the the In that way, substrate and elements. A heat exchanger exchanger is is coupled coupled to to the the substrate heat tube tube for for convectively convectively transferring transferringheat heat other end of the heat air, such such as as with With the the utilization utiliZation of of aa fan. fan. to the air, In another another aspect aspect of of the the present present invention, invention, aa sleeve sleeve is is In utiliZed over portion of of the the housing housing during during the thecuring curing utilized over a portion process. After curing process, process, the the sleeve sleeve may may be be process. After each each curing removed and discarded or or autoclaved, autoclaved, thus thus eliminating eliminating the the removed of autoclaving autoclaving the the entire entire curing curinginstrument instrumentafter after requirement of each use and and prior to to the the next neXt use. use. To To that that end, end, the the sleeve sleeve each could be completely completely disposable disposable to be be discarded discarded after after one one could
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one embodiment embodiment of of the the invention, invention, the the non-imaging non-imaging use. In one such as as a a non-imaging non-imaging lens, lens, and andaareflective re?ective optical device, such are coupled coupled to to an an end end of of the the sleeve. sleeve. When When the the sleeve sleeve element are positioned over a a portion portion of ofthe thehousing, housing, the thereflective re?ective is positioned are aligned aligned coaxially coaXially with With the the array array collicolli 5 element and lens are the array. array. In In a a disposable disposable embodiment embodiment of of mating light from the the non-imaging non-imaging lens lensand andreflective re?ectiveelement element the sleeve, both the are discarded discarded with With the the sleeve sleeve after after each each are disposable and are use. use. 10 Which comprises comprises a a plurality plurality of ofdies diespositioned positioned The array, which a flat ?at substrate, substrate, generally generally emits emits light light within Within aa range range of of on a 0180. When When the the array array is is located located at at the the distal distal end endof ofthe the 0-180. housing, the non-imaging non-imaging lens and and reflective re?ective element element are are housing, capable of capturing capturing the the light light within Within the the 180 180 range rangeand and capable 15 effectively effectively and andefficiently efficiently collimating collimating the the light light into into aa beam beam 15 Work surface. surface. When When the the array array is ispositioned positioned directed to the work Within the housing, away aWay from from the the distal distal end end of ofthe the further within aWay from from the the work Work surface, surface, the the non-imaging non-imaging housing, and away operable for for collimating collimating light light within Within the the 180 180 range range lens is operable intoa abeam beamwhich Whichdoes doesnot notdiverge divergesignificantly signi?cantly from from an an 20 into angle of of an an optical optical fiber ?ber light lightguide. guide.In Inthat thatway, Way, acceptance angle light is is efficiently ef?ciently directed directed through through the the light light guide guide and and light housing to distal end end of of the the housing housing whereupon Whereupon it it is is housing to the distal a work Work surface, surface, such suchas asaatooth. tooth.Preferably, Preferably,the the emitted onto a 25 array array is ismounted mounted onto onto the the distal distal end end of ofthe thehousing housing for for 25 light to to the the work Work surface. surface. In Inthat thatway, Way,an an directly delivering light ?ber light guide, which Which has has multiple multiple lossy lossy air/glass air/glass optical fiber interfaces, may be eliminated eliminated for for efficient efficient transmission transmission of of interfaces, light. 30 One embodiment of the the invention invention utilizes utiliZes aa single singlenonnon One for the the array array of ofelements. elements. imaging optical focusing device for the elements elements might mightrange rangein insub-groups sub-groupson onthe the Alternatively, the array and and multiple, multiple, non-imaging non-imaging optical optical devices devices may may be be array utiliZed. utilized.
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DESCRIPTION OF OF THE THE DRAWINGS DRAWINGS BRIEF DESCRIPTION
accompanying drawings, draWings, which Which are are incorporated incorporatedin in The accompanying and constitute a a part part of of this this specification, speci?cation, illustrate illustrate embodiembodi mentsof ofthe theinvention inventionand, and,together togetherwith Withaageneral generaldescripdescrip 40 ments tion of of the the invention invention given given below, beloW, serve serve to to explain eXplain the the tion of the the invention. invention. principles of FIG. 1 is is aaside sideview vieWin inpartial partialcross-section cross-section of of one one FIG. embodiment of a a curing curing light light device device in in accordance accordancewith Withthe the of the the invention. invention. 45 principles of vieW, in partial cross-section, of of a a portion portion FIG. 2 is a side view, embodiment of of the the invention invention illustrated illustrated in inFIG. FIG.1. 1. of the embodiment FIG. 2A is a a side side view, vieW, in inpartial partial cross-section, cross-section, of a a FIG. another embodiment embodiment of of the the invention. invention. portion of another 5 a plane view vieW of ofan an array array of ofdies diesin inaccordance accordance FIG. 2B is a With an an embodiment embodiment of of the the present present invention. invention. with vieW, in partial cross-section, of of a a portion portion FIG. 3 is a side view, another embodiment embodiment of of the the invention. invention. of another vieW, in partial cross-section, of of a a portion portion FIG. 4 is a side view, 55 another embodiment embodiment of ofthe the present presentinvention. invention. of another
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DETAILED INVENTION FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment embodiment of of a a curing curing light light device device light for for curing curing light-curable light-curable compounds compounds such suchas as or curing light dental compounds compounds in accordance With aspects of of the the dental in accordance with the aspects invention. In In FIG. FIG. 1, 1, device device 10 10 includes includesaa housing housing12 12 present invention. Which is is to to be be manipulated manipulated for for curing. curing. Housing Housing 12 12 is is which and includes includes a a handle handle portion portion14 14and and generally gun-shaped and a barrel portion portion 16. 16. The The operator, operator, such such as as aadentist, dentist,grips grips housing 12 around around the the handle handle portion portion 14 14 and anddirects directsthe the housing
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US 6,692,251 6,692,251 B1 B1
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portion 16 in the direction direction of the the tooth tooth surface surface (or (or to the the array array 32 and conductively transfers transfers barrel portion thermally coupled to by the the array array to to aaheat heatexchanger exchanger 26, which Which is Work surface) and and compound compound to to be becured cured(not (notshown). shoWn). other work heat generated by ?lling and coating compounds, the the dentist dentist For curing dental filling convectively cooled. cooled. An An appropriate appropriate fan fan 28 with With motor then convectively Would generally position position at at least least part part of ofthe the barrel barrelportion portionin in would Within the the housing housing 12, as 29 and blade 30 may be mounted within With a a radiating radiating end end 17 of the barrel 5 shown the mouth of a patient with shoWn in FIG. FIG. 1 to assist assist convective convective cooling. cooling. portion pointing pointing at a a particular particular tooth tooth or orteeth. teeth.The Thehandle handle portion More specifically, speci?cally, referring referring to to FIG. FIG. 2, the illustrated illustrated More portion 14 includes an operational operational trigger trigger switch sWitch 1 8 Which which embodiment of utiliZes a plurality of embodiment the present invention utilizes a plurality of operably coupled coupled to a a power poWer supply supply 20 and/or control control is operably Which are mounted to to form form individual light-emitting dies 30 which operating the the device device and andsupplying supplying circuit 24 for selectively operating array 32 on a substrate 34. The dies 30 are small, poWer to to light-emitting light-emitting elements elements 32 to generate a a curing curing 10 a collective array power to generate baresemiconductor semiconductor junctions junctions and and are are constructed constructed using using a a as discussed discussed further further below. beloW. The The power poWersupply supply 20 10 bare light beam, as generating semiconductor material. The dies light generating semiconductor material. The dies 30 are shoWn located located in in handle handle portion portion 14, but might also also be be is shown separately or or individually individually packaged packaged or orothoth preferably not separately elseWhere in in the the housing. housing. located elsewhere erWise mounted with With individual individual integral integral lenses lenses as asare areconcon erwise invention, the the power poWer supply supply is is In one embodiment of the invention, ventional light-emitting diodes or LEDs. Conventional portable and incorporates incorporates batteries batteries 22. The batteries could could be be 15 ventional light-emitting diodes or LEDs. Conventional LEDs used used in inthe theprior priorart art have integraland and individual 15 LEDs have integral individual any suitable type (e.g. (eg lithium lithium batteries), batteries), and and may may be be disdis any suitable packages, usually usually including including a a reflector re?ector and and an anintegrally integrally packages, posable or rechargeable. To that end, housing 12 may posable rechargeable. To that end, housing dies of of the the invention invention might mightbe be formed individual lens. The dies include a port port 23 for coupling an an external external charger charger (not (not include for coupling With additional additional components, components, such suchas asaaclear clearprotective protective used with shoWn) to the poWer supply 20 to charge rechargeable shown) to the power supply to charge rechargeable Which applied over the dies on substrate an external external power poWer supply, supply, such such as as 20 coating 40, which is applied over the dies on substrate 34, or batteries 22. Alternatively, an otheradded addedcomponents. components.However, HoWever, the the dies diesas asmounted mounted are are 20 other one poWered by an AC outlet, may be coupled to poWer one powered an AC outlet, may be coupled to power semiconductor junctions, Without prepack essentially bare semiconductor junctions, without prepackpoWer necessary necessary to to operate operate device device supply 20 to provide the power aged individual individual and integral integral reflectors re?ectors and lenses, lenses, as as are are aged 10. in conventional conventional LEDs. LEDs. found in A control circuit 24 is mounted within Within housing 12 and is above, the dies 30 are not individually lensed, as as poWer supply supply 20, trigger switch sWitch 1 8 25 As noted above, operably coupled to the power are conventional conventional LEDs. However, HoWever, they they might might be becovered covered are and the other components components of ofdevice device 10, such as array 32, for With a a clear clear protective protective layer layer or or coating coating 40 of plastic plastic to to with operating and controlling controlling the the components. components. Control Controlcircuit circuit operating durability of of the the array array 32. improve the durability for example, example, may may include include various various electrical electrical circuit circuit 24, for substrate 34 is an an electrically electrically insulated insulated substrate substrate The substrate components mounted circuit board board and and arranged arranged in inaa components mounted on on a circuit Which has heat conductive properties. properties. In In one one embodiment embodimentof of Way determined determined by a person of ordinary ordinary skill skill in in the the art art for for 30 which way substrate 34 may be a a sapphire sapphire substrate substrate or or a a the invention, substrate providing the desired power poWer and and control control of of device device 10. For providing diamond which Which has has electrically electrically insulative insulative properties, properties, but but diamond Will usually include include convenconven example, the control circuit 24 will Which also conducts conducts heat heat away aWay from from the the die die array array 32. For the which tional control curing light device, device, such as as a a tional control circuits circuits for for a curing uniform light light generation generation within Within aabeam beamhaving having purposes of uniform timer, for for timing timing the the operational operational radiation radiation cycle cycle for for the the timer, generally circular circular cross-section, cross-section, the the dies dies of ofarray array 30 are When the trigger trigger switch sWitch is is engaged. engaged. A Amicroprocessor device when microprocessor 35 a generally preferably arranged a circular circular pattern. pattern. U.S. U.S. patent patent preferably arranged in in a be utilized utiliZed for for such such control, control, rather ratherthan thandiscrete discrete may also be 09/009,205, illustrates illustrates several severalcircular circular application, Ser. No. 09/009,205, components. It Will be readily readily understood understood that that the the control control components. It will of dies and and light light generating generating elements elementssuitable suitablefor foran an patterns of circuit may may be be configured con?gured in in various various different different ways Ways to to circuit the present present invention. invention. embodiment of the properly operate curing curing light light 10. In one one embodiment, embodiment, the the properly sink 36, formed of of a a microprocessor control regulate the the lamp lamp voltage voltage to to 40 The substrate 34 is bonded to a heat sink microprocessor control Will will regulate conductive material, material, such suchas ascopper. copper. Heat Heat embodiments, the the micromicro produce a constant output. In other embodiments, suitable thermally conductive Welded or or soldered soldered to to one one end end of ofaaliquidliquid be utilized utiliZed to to ramp ramp the the power poWerup upor or processor control might be sink 36 is then welded ?lled heat tube or or pipe pipe 38 for conductively transferring transferring heat heat doWn in a a selected selected fashion fashion for for proper proper curing. curing. down filled generated by the dies dies 30 away aWay from from the the heat heat sink sink 36, generated by the formed and and may may include include Barrel portion 16 is appropriately formed array 32. A heat heat conductive conductive liquid liquid 39 an angled distal or radiating radiating end end 17 to direct a a curing curing light light 45 45 substrate 34 and array side of of heat heat sink sink 36, opposite substrate substrate 34 contacts the back side a tooth tooth surface surface or or other other beam 21 out of the housing and onto a FIG. 2), and thermally pulls heat heat from from the the and array 32 (see FIG. Work surface. It will Will be be understood understood by by aa person personof ofordinary ordinary work sink. Therefore, Therefore, the die die array arrayis iseffectively effectivelyconductively conductively sink. art that that the the shape shape of of housing housing 12 may also vary. vary. skill in the art cooled using the the heat heat tube tube 38 and the intermediate elements elements the Figures; Figures; however, hoWever, Barrel portion 16 is shoWn shown as solid in the Which includes includes a a heat heat conductive conductive liquid liquid might also also be bevented ventedfor forheat heat dissipationpurposes. purposes. 50 it might dissipation 50 34, 36. Heat tube 38, which therein, such as as saline, saline, is iscommercially commerciallyavailable available from from 39 therein, barrel portion portion 16 might be separate separate from from Furthermore, the barrel Thermal Technologies. Technologies. Aavid Thermal and removably removably secured securedto to the the housing housing the rest of the housing and as is is known knoWn in in the the art. art. For Forexample, example, by any suitable method as aspect of of the the present present invention invention is is One particularly unique aspect screW-mounted to to the the housing housing the barrel portion 16 might be screw-mounted that the array array 32 is conductively cooled to to provide adequate adequate 12. Still further, the poWer positioned in in line line 55 power supply might be positioned 55 heat transfer transfer from from the the light-generating light-generating dies dies 30. Prior Prior art art With the barrel barrel portion portion to to reduce reduce or oreliminate eliminate the thehandle handle with structures have traditionally traditionally relied relied upon uponconvective convectivecooling cooling portion and and thereby thereby streamline streamline the as for for a a portion the design, design, such such as Which a a heat heat sink sinkand andother otherheat heat dissipatingdevices devices in which dissipating small, pocket curing light. light. The The housing housing 12 is formed formed of a a small, thermally coupled to the the light-generating light-generating elements elements are are concon light-Weight plastic material such such as as polysulphone. polysulphone. suitable light-weight vectively air cooled, such as by by aa fan. fan.One Oneparticular particular vectively air cooled, such as FIG. 1 illustrates embodiment of of the the present present inveninven 60 problem problem With art devices devices has has been been the the dissipation dissipation of of illustrates one embodiment with prior art tion in which Which a a beam beam of of radiation radiation or or light light 21 utiliZed for heat which Which is generated generated by the the LEDs LEDs or or other otherlightlight tion utilized for heat generating elements therein. In the the present present curing purposes purposes is is generated generated by by an an array array 32 of light-emitting generating elements utiliZed utilized therein. the radiating radiating end end 17 of the the heat tube tube 38 rapidly conductively draws draWs heat heat elements positioned proximate the invention, the heat barrel portion portion 16. Heat generated by the the array array 32 is transtrans aWay from from array array 32 and and dies dies 30 for improved improved cooling cooling away characteristics. This alloWs a a sufficient suf?cient amount amount of of curing curing mitted from the the radiating radiating end end 17, or distal end, back to a a 65 characteristics. mitted This allows proximal end end 19 of the barrel barrel portion, portion, where Where it it is is further further light power poWer to be be generated generated for for proper proper curing curingwhile Whilemainmain dissipated. In the embodiment embodiment of of FIG. FIG. 1, a heat tube tube 38 is taining an an array array which Which does does not not overheat. overheat. The The present present dissipated. taining
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US 6,692,251 6,692,251 B1 B1 9
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invention therefore therefore provides provides improved improved heat heat transfer transfer and and illustrated, structure structure 43 is is appropriately appropriately formed formed to toreceive receive invention illustrated, of lens lens 44 44 to to position position the the lens lens in incoaxial coaXial With respect to to the the prior prior art. art. dissipation capabilities with the input end 45 of alignment With array 32 32 and and surface surface 42 42 about aboutaxis aXis51. 51. alignment with the array Referring again FIG. 1 1 and and the the embodiment embodiment of of the the Referring again to to FIG. the lens lens and andsurface surface42 42preferably preferablyhave havegenerally generally Each of the Which utilizes the array array 32 located located at at the the distal, distal, or or invention which cross sections sectionsfor forefficient ef?cienttransfer transferof ofthe the radiating end barrel portion portion 16, 16, the the opposite, opposite, or or 5 circular transverse cross radiating end 17 17 of barrel aXis 51. 51. One One suitable suitable combination combinationof ofaareflective re?ective light along axis heat tube tube 38 38 is is thermally thermally coupled coupled to to aa proximal, end of the heat surface and optical optical focusing focusing device, device, which Which are are operably operably surface eXchanger 36, which Which is then convectively convectively cooled cooled by by fan fan heat exchanger available from from Teledyne, Teledyne, of of Hawthorne, HaWthorne, Which may be soldered soldered to to the the heat heat coupled together, is available 28. The heat exchanger, which Calif. tube 38, 38, has has fins, ?ns, as as shown, shoWn, over over which Which air airisisdirected. directed. tube Therefore, the array 32 32 is is conductively conductively cooled cooled by by the the 10 Therefore, the die array The embodiment embodiment of the the invention invention illustrated illustrated in in FIG. FIG. 2 2 The 10 heat tube 38 and and a a liquid liquid therein, therein, and and the the heat heat tube tube is isthen then shoWs a single single non-imaging non-imaging optical optical focusing focusing device device 44 44 for for shows air, such as as by by a a convectively cooled at the opposite end by air, accordance with With another anotheraspect aspectof ofthe the the array 32 of dies. In accordance fan. anticipated that that multiple multiple non-imaging non-imaging present invention, it is anticipated optical focusing focusing devices devices might might be be utilized. utiliZed. For For example, eXample, collimating the beam beam 21 21 generated generated by by For directing and collimating optical array 32, the embodiment embodiment of of the the invention inventionillustrated illustratedin inFIG. FIG. is referring to FIG. FIG. 2A, 2A, substrate substrate 34a 34a may mayinclude includemultiple multiple 15 referring utiliZes a a reflective re?ective surface surface 42, 42, and and an an optical optical focusing focusing of dies, 30a, 30a, 30b, 30b, which Which are are arranged arrangedon onthe thesubstrate substrate 2 utilizes groups of light from from the the array array 32 32 into into aa beam beamto to to operate operate as as separate separate groups groups of oflight-generating light-generating eleele device 44 to collimate light 34a to directed into into the the mouth mouth of of the the patient patientfor forcuring curingcomcom ments. To that end, end, aa non-imaging non-imaging optical opticalfocusing focusingdevice device be directed ments. or to to be be directed directedto to some someother otherwork Worksurface. surface. may be be associated associated with With one one group group of of dies dies 34a, 34a,while While pound therein or 44a may another non-imaging non-imaging optical optical focusing device device 44b 44b may may be be shoWn, the the array array 32, 32, reflective re?ective surface surface 42 42 and andoptical optical 20 another As shown, are all all positioned positioned at at the the distal distalend endof ofthe the associated With of the the other othergroup. group. Of Ofcourse, course, focusing device 44 are associated with dies dies 30b of Thereby, the the light light is is directly directlyradiated radiatedonto ontothe the greater numbers numbers of of non-imaging non-imaging optical optical focusing focusingdevices devices barrel portion. Thereby, greater utiliZed for for other other discrete discrete groups groupsof ofdies. dies.Generally, Generally, Work surface and and compound. compound. Therefore, Therefore, the the embodiment embodimentof of work may be utilized FIGS. 1 and and 22eliminates eliminatesvarious variousair-to-object air-to-object interfaces interfaces hoWever, there a substantially substantially smaller smaller number number of of FIGS. however, there Will will be a non-imaging optical optical focusing focusing devices than than there there are are indiindi Which tend to to be be lossy. lossy. As such, such, the the present present invention inventionmore more 25 which 25 non-imaging vidual dies. dies. That is, is, in in the the embodiments embodiments of of the the invention invention ef?ciently delivers power poWer from the the light light generating generatingelements elements efficiently vidual Generally, the the radiating radiating or or distal distal end end17 17 and 2A, 2A, a a single single non-imaging non-imaging optical optical to the Work work surface. Generally, illustrated in FIGS. 2 and Will serve serve a a multiple multiple number number of ofindividual individual Will be positioned positioned in the the mouth mouth of of the the patient patient to to radiate radiate aa will focusing device will beam of light light directly directly onto onto a a work Work surface surface with With aalightlight devices will Will coopcoop beam light-emitting dies. The multiple focusing devices erate to transmit transmit light light along along axis aXis 51. 51. Prior art art devices devices using using light lighttransmitting transmitting 30 crate curable compound. Prior With multiple lossy lossy interfaces interfaces often often have have difficulty dif?culty in in devices with In accordance accordance with With another another aspect aspect of of the thepresent present In generating sufficient suf?cient light poWer densities densities for for curing. curing. The The generating light power the barrel barrel portion portion 16 16 of ofthe thedevice device10, 10,particularly particularly invention, the addresses this this issue issue by by eliminating eliminating various various present invention addresses radiating end end 17 17 of of the the barrel barrel portion, portion,is isinserted inserted the distal or radiating interfaces. lossy interfaces. mouth of of the the patient patient for forcuring curingcompound compoundtherein. therein. into the mouth Accordingly, before the next neXt patient, patient, it it will Will be be To focus the light from from array array 32, 32, the the curing curinglight lightdevice device 35 Accordingly, To before use use With with the 10 uses a a reflective re?ective surface surface or or reflector re?ector 42 42 which Whichencircles encircles that the the device device would Wouldhave haveto tobe besterilized. steriliZed.Prior Prior appreciated that art devices devices must must be be completely completely sterilized, steriliZed, such such as as by by shoWn in FIG. 2. In In the the illustrated illustrated embodiment, embodiment, the array as shown art the reflective re?ective surface surface 42 is is formed formed by byan an appropriately above, which Which further furthercomplicates complicates the appropriately autoclaving, as mentioned above, and delays delays the the curing curing procedure. procedure. The The present presentinvention invention shaped plastic ring ring structure structure 43, 43,which Whichcircumferentially circumferentially shaped and a unique construction construction which Which eliminates eliminates the the requirerequire outer edge edge of of array array 32 32 defined de?ned by bysubstrate substrate34. 34. 40 provides a surrounds the outer steriliZation of of the the entire entire device device or or of ofaasterilization steriliZation Re?ective surface 42 is generally generally parabolic parabolic in in shape shape and andis is Reflective ment of sterilization 42 of of plastic plastic structure structure 43 43 with With process altogether altogether and thereby thereby makes makes the the curing curing process process formed by coating the surface 42 process and more more cost-effective. cost-effective. a reflective re?ective coating for the the purpose purpose of ofefficient ef?cient reflection. re?ection. A A simpler, quicker, and mylar coating, coating, available available from 3M, has has proven proven to to have have mylar from 3M, To that end, end, the the invention invention utilizes utiliZes aa removable removable sleeve sleeve To suitable properties that purpose purpose and and has has an an approxiapproXi 45 which suitable properties for for that Which may may be be separately separately autoclaved. autoclaved. Alternatively, Alternatively, as as mately 99% 99% reflective re?ective efficiency ef?ciency for the purposes purposes of ofthe the mately for the mentioned, the sleeve may may be be disposable disposable to to be bediscarded discarded mentioned, the sleeve embodiment of of the the invention invention illustrated illustratedin inFIG. FIG. 2. 2. As As present embodiment Speci?cally, in in the the embodiment embodiment of ofthe theinveninven after one use. Specifically, shoWn in FIG. 2, the the plastic plastic ring ring structure structure 43 43 forms forms the the shown in FIG. tion illustrated illustrated in FIGS. 1 and and 2, 2, the thering ringstructure structure 43 43 tion in FIGS. re?ective surface surface 42 42 around around array array 32 32 for for generally parabolic reflective re?ective surface surface 42 42 and and the theadjacent adjacentnon-imaging non-imaging forming reflective directing the aWay from the dies 30 and and into into an an input input 50 lens 44 are directing the light away are mounted mounted and and secured secured within Within a a sleeve sleeve 50. 50. The The of the the optical optical focusing focusing device device 44. 44. end 45 of sleeve 50 could could be be made made of of aasuitable suitable disposable disposable plastic, plastic, sleeve such as PVC, PVC, or or an an autoclavable autoclavable plastic, plastic, and and the the sleeve sleeve is is The optical optical focusing focusing device, device, in in accordance accordance with With one one The con?gured for being positioned positioned over over at at least leastaasection sectionof ofthe the invention, is is a a non-imaging non-imaging device. device. One One embodiment of the invention, configured barrel portion 16 16 of of the the device device 10. 10. Preferably, Preferably, the the sleeve sleeve is is suitable non-imaging non suitable non-imaging optical optical focusing focusing device device is is a non55 configured con?guredto toextend eXtendover over signi?cant section the barrel imaging lens 44 having a generally truncated conical shape, 55 aa significant section ofof the barrel portion 16, 16, and and at at least least over over the the part partof ofthe thebarrel barrelportion portion16 16 as illustrated in FIG. 2. A non-imaging lens, such as as lens lens 44, 44, eXposed to the mouth mouth of of aapatient. patient. In Inthe the embodiment light from from array array 32 32 at at an an input input end end 45 45 and and directs directs receives the light exposed to the embodiment and concentrates the the light light from from array array 32 32 into into aafocused focusedbeam beam illustrated in 2, the the sleeve sleeve 50 50 is isconfigured con?gured to to be be illustrated in FIG. FIG. 2, over the the heat heat tube tube 38 38 and and array array32. 32. The The sleeve sleeve50 50 at the output end 47 47 of of the the non-imaging non-imaging lens lens 44. 44. However, HoWever, positioned over con?gured to position the the lens lens 44 44 and andreflective re?ective surface surface the non-imaging lens does does not not form form an an optical opticalimage, image,which Which 60 is configured coaXially With array 32. 32. In In one one embodiment embodiment of of the the inef?cient. A non-imaging optical focusing focusing device deviceas asused used is inefficient. coaxially with the the array in the present invention invention efficiently ef?ciently collimates collimates light light so so that thataa invention, once device has been been used used for for curing, curing, the the invention, once the the device poWer density density is is achieved achieved at at the the work Work surface, surface, and non-imaging non-imaging lens lens 44, 44, may may desirable light power sleeve 50, ring structure 43, and then be removed removed from from the the heat heattube tube and andaway aWayfrom fromthe thearray array such as a surface of of a a tooth. The The light light power poWerdensity densityfrom fromthe the array 32 is not reduced by the formation formation of of an an image image as as with With 65 32 of light-emitting light-emitting dies. dies. The The sleeve, sleeve, including includingthe thelens lensand and re?ective structure could then then be be discarded discarded with With the the traditional optical lenses. One One suitable, suitable, non-imaging non-imaging lens lens is is reflective structure 43 43 could sleeve and and lens lensand andreflective re?ective formed of aa transparent transparent polycarbonate polycarbonate material. material. As As formed sleeve 50. Alternatively, the sleeve
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US 6,692,251 6,692,251 B1 B1
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and autoclaved autoclaved and and then then placed placed structure could be removed and position. back in position. an alternative alternative embodiment, embodiment, only the sleeve sleeve might might be be In an autoclavable disposable. The The lens lens 44 and ring structure structure autoclavable or disposable. Would then remain with With the the array array 32 or could be separately separately would positioned With array apart apart from from sleeve sleeve 50. In such a a positioned with the array sleeve would Would be be discarded discarded or orautoclaved. autoclaved. case, only the sleeve The device and and the the component component parts, parts, including including the the heat heat The tube 38, heat sink 36, substrate 34, and dies 32, are not been exposed to to a a patient patient because because they theyare arecovered coveredby bythe the directly exposed sleeve. In the embodiment embodiment where Where the the lens lens and andstructure structure 43 sleeve. are separate from the sleeve, those parts will Will be be isolated isolated as as are separate Well. Therefore, the isolated isolated or or covered covered components components do do not not well. steriliZed or or autoclaved autoclaved as as required required with With prior prior art art have to be sterilized Thereafter, a a new neW or or sterilized steriliZed sleeve, sleeve, devices and methods. Thereafter, including a a new neW or or sterilized steriliZedreflective re?ectivestructure structure 43 possibly including and inserted onto onto the the heat heat tube tube 38 and and lens 44, is inserted and barrel With the array of of dies 32 for the next portion 16 and aligned with invention therefore therefore reduces reduces the the possibility possibility use. The present invention contamination between betWeen dental dental patients patients and and further further of contamination method by eliminating eliminating the the sterilization steriliZation enhances the curing method process completely completely or only requiring requiring that that the the sleeve sleeve be be process or only autoclaved. result, the curing curing process is is simpler simpler and and autoclaved. As As a a result, ef?cient. With the process process is isalso also more efficient. With a disposable sleeve, the equipment does does not not have have more cost effective, as autoclaving equipment and operated operated to to sterilize steriliZe the thecuring curinglight. light. to be purchased and The present present invention invention as as illustrated illustrated in in FIG. FIG. 2 also The improves upon delivering a beam beam of of light light improves upon the the prior prior art by delivering from a source source close close to to the the work Worksurface surface (e.g., (e.g.,a atooth). tooth). from Speci?cally, the or radiating radiating end end 17 of the the barrel barrel Specifically, the distal distal or positioned at or or proximate proximate a a tooth tooth surface surface portion 16 is positioned containing the curable curable compound. compound. With With the the light light delivered delivered containing directly from the array array 32 to surface through through only only the the directly to the surface interfaces are are non-imaging lens 44, numerous lossy air/glass interfaces betWeen the die die array array 32 and the output output surface surface eliminated between the device device 10. Conventionally, light generating generating 49 of the Conventionally, the light positioned away aWay from from the thework Worksurface surface elements have been positioned and inside the housing such that a a fiber ?ber optic light guide was Was necessary to transmit the light to to the the work Worksurface. surface. necessary to transmit the light With such light light guides, guides, it it is isoften oftennecessary necessaryto to Furthermore, with converging optical optical lens lens before before the the light light guide guide so so that that use a converging may be be efficiently ef?ciently focused into into the the input input the generated light may the light light guide. guide. Light Light guides guides and and converging converging lenses lenses end of the present lossy air/glass interfaces interfaces to the the light light beam. beam. It Ithas has present estimated that air/glass air/glass interfaces interfaces may may produce produce light light been estimated poWer losses in in the the range range of ofapproximately approximately10% 10%per perinterinter power face. By eliminating the interfaces interfaces between betWeen the the dies dies 30 and face. present invention invention light light transmits transmits light light the tooth surface, the present ef?cient, collimated form with With less less of of the the power poWer loss loss in an efficient, at the various various interfaces interfaces that are are required required in in the the prior prior art. art. present invention invention provides providesefficient ef?cient transmistransmis Therefore, the present a collimated collimated light light beam to to the the work Work surface surface of of the the sion of a and curable curable compound compound thereon. thereon. With Withmore moreefficient ef?cient tooth and number of of dies dies 30 in the array 32 transfer of light, a smaller number While still still providing providing aa sufficient suf?cient light light intensity intensity may be used while poWer density density at at the the output outputsurface surface 49 of the lens. lens. or light power curing power poWer In that Way, way, the invention may provide suitable curing compact and and easily easily manipulated manipulateddevice. device. levels in a generally compact Furthermore, With at the the interface, interface, less heat heat is is Furthermore, with less less loss loss at generated, further improving on the the prior prior art. art. generated, of the the invention, invention, the the dies dies 30 In the preferred embodiment of are positioned in the the array array 32 with With a a density density sufficient suf?cient to to are positioned provide a light light power poWer output output density density at atthe thedesired desiredwaveWave provide length in the range of approximately 200-1400 2001400 mW/cm mW/cm2. 2 . In one embodiment embodiment of the invention, invention, the the dies dies are are generally generally one square in shape, and are are 0.010 0.010 inches inches per per side. side. The The dies dies are are Welded to the the substrate substrate and and specifically speci?cally to to leads leads (not (not spot welded
12
shoWn), which Which are are electrically electrically coupled coupledto toaacontrol controlcircuit circuit 24 shown), poWer supply supply 20. The die substrate substrate is is preferably preferably is is and/or power circular, having having a a diameter diameter of ofapproximately approximately 0.19 0.19 inches inches circular, (approximately 4.8 4.8 millimeters). millimeters). 5 number of of dies dies are are positioned positionedon onsubstrate substrate 34 A suitable number light and and power poWer density density at at the the output output to generate the desired light the non-imaging non-imaging optical optical focusing focusingdevice device 44. surface 49 of the Generally, in 3060 dies dies Generally, in one one embodiment embodiment of the invention, 30-60 are suitable suitable for for generating generating desirable desirable curing curing light light power poWer are 10 densities. densities.Of Ofcourse, course,aagreater greateror orlesser lessernumber numberof ofdies diesmay may 10 be utilized utiliZed in in other other embodiments embodiments of ofthe theinvention. invention. Because of of the unique cooling cooling arrangement arrangementof ofthe thepresent present invention utilizing utiliZing conductive conductive cooling, cooling, the the reduction reduction of of invention lossy interfaces and and the the overall overall configuration con?guration of ofthe the embodiembodi 15 ment the invention invention disclosed disclosed herein, herein, the dies dies may may be be ment of the driven at a a sufficient sufficient power poWer level to to yield yield the the desired desired light light poWer output or or light light density, density, in in the the range range of ofapproximately approximately power 2001400 mW/cm2 mW/cm2.. Generally, the dies may be driven driven by by12 12 200-1400 in series series sets sets of of 3 3 dies. dies. volts DC in 20 2 example, one embodiment embodiment could be be a a 34 die lamp lamp For example, Which may be operated operated at at 8.13 8.13 Watts Watts (8.7 (8.7 V V and and 0.935 0.935A). A). which proved efficient ef?cient and and performed performed aa suitable suitable job job Such a design proved embodiment might might use use 60 60 die die for for a a higher higher of curing. Another embodiment poWer output (e.g. (eg a a 67% 67% increase increase in inpower). poWer). power 25 2 5 of the invention, invention, series series groups groups of ofthree three In one embodiment of connected in in series series to to aa12 12Volt Volt DC DC source sourcethrough through dies are connected current-limiting resistor. each die die is is then then a current-limiting resistor. To To that that end, end, each driven with With approximately approximately 4 volts volts DC. DC. Furthermore, Furthermore, by by driven utiliZing a 12 source, the fan may also also be driven driven by by that that 30 utilizing a 12 Volt be readily readily understood understood that that other other arrangearrange DC source. It may be ments of dies dies may may be be utilized, utiliZed, driven driven by by sources sources having having ments different power poWer or or voltage voltage output outputlevels. levels. various different dies 30 are positioned in the the array array 32 in a Preferably, the dies suf?cient density curing light light which Which has has aa 3 5 sufficient density to to provide provide a a curing 35 poWer output output for for proper proper curing, curing, but butwhich Whichdoes does suitable light power not overheat tissues tissues surrounding surrounding the the work Worksurface, surface,such suchas asaa lamp will Will provide provide less less heat heat to to the the tissue tissue tooth. The inventive lamp than a halogen halogen lamp. lamp. For For example, example, an an embodiment embodimentwith With34 34 dieas asdescribed describedabove aboveyielded yieldedaaradiometer radiometerreading reading of of200 200 40 40 die mW/cm2, while While a a comparable comparable cure cure with With a a 52 52 Watt Watt halogen halogen around 600 600 mW/cm mW/cm2. of the the lamp yielded readings around 2 . Because of much lower loWer radiometer radiometer readings, readings, tissue tissue damage damage should shouldnot not be as as significant signi?cant an an issue issue with With the the invention invention as with With a a be light. 45 45 halogen light. applications, it it is is desirable desirable to to utilize utiliZe With current dental applications, array 32 which Which generates blue light light in in aawavelength Wavelength a die array range of of approximately approximately to to 47020 470120nanometers nanometers because because range are sensitive sensitive to to blue blue light. light. Current Currentfil?l current compounds are nanometer so 400-500 nanometer 50 tered halogen lamps produce light in the 400500 range. While light is is suitable suitable for for current current dental dental range. While such blue light present invention inventionis isnot notlimited limitedto toonly onlyblue blue applications, the present Wavelengths for curing curing purposes. purposes. Rather, Rather, the the present present light wavelengths invention may be utilized utiliZed with With compounds compounds that that may maycure cure invention utiliZing light at at other other various various wavelengths. Wavelengths. 55 utilizing non-imaging optical optical focusing focusing device device 44 Furthermore, the non-imaging siZed appropriately appropriately depending depending upon upon the the application. application. may be sized For example, a a lens lens having having an an 8 8millimeter millimetercross-sectional cross-sectional at the the output output surface surface 49 may be utilized utiliZed for for small small diameter at 60 curing applications, whereas Whereas a a lens lens having having aacross-sectional cross-sectional diameter of of 11 11 millimeters millimetersat atsurface surface 49 might be utilized utiliZed for for diameter larger curing applications. applications. As As may may be be appreciated, appreciated,to toensure ensure ef?cient transfer the work Work surface, surface, it itis is efficient transfer of of curing curing light to the desirable that a a majority, majority, if if not not all, all, of of the the light light generated generatedby by the dies dies of of array array 32 is transmitted transmitted into and out out of of the the 65 the into and non-imaging optical focusing focusing device device 44. To To that end, end, the the non-imaging re?ective surface surface 32 is shaped and and configured con?gured in in diameter diameterto to reflective
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US 6,692,251 6,692,251 B1 B1
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beam is is collected collected and and reflected re?ected into into the the ensure that the light beam input end end 45 of the the optical optical focusing focusing device device 44. In the the input illustrated embodiment, embodiment, the output output end end 51 of the reflective re?ective illustrated Which interfaces interfaces with With the the input inputend end 45 of the optical surface which in diameter diameter than than the the input input end end 45. focusing device is smaller in Way, the the light light reflected re?ected by by surface surface 42 is captured by In that way, the optical optical focusing focusing device device 44. The non-imaging optical optical the The non-imaging device 44 is not restricted restricted by a a focal focal length, length, since since focusing device it is is aanon-imaging non-imaging device. device. In In that that way, Way, the thedevice device 44 it captures and collimates collimates the the light light beam beam for forefficient ef?cient transtrans captures mission to Work surface, surface, such such as as aatooth. tooth.Therefore, Therefore, the the mission to a work is not not particularly particularlysensitive sensitiveto tothe thedistance distance present invention is Which the the output output end end 49 is maintained maintained from from the the tooth tooth which surface. Of course, it it is is generally generally desirable desirable to to position position the the surface. output end 49 as close close to the the tooth tooth surface surface as as possible possible for for ef?cient curing. curing. efficient In accordance accordance with With another another aspect aspect of of the the invention, invention, the the arranged on on substrate substrate 34 to form a dies 30 might be evenly arranged generally circular illustrated in several of of the the generally circular array, array, as as illustrated in several embodiments disclosed in U.S. US. Pat. Pat. No. No. 6,200,134B1. 6,200,134B1. The The embodiments also be be mounted mounted in in various various groupings, groupings, such such as as dies might also subgroups of four or or some some other other number, number, and and then then such such subgroups of four subgroups Would substrate. That That is, is, sub sub subgroups would be mounted on the substrate. could be be individually individually mounted mounted and and groups of multiple dies could electrically coupled together, and subsequently subsequently the the subsub electrically coupled together, groups could could be mounted on the the substrate substrate with With other other subsub groups groups. As such, the the invention invention would Would not not be be limited limited to to groups. As such, individual mounting of all all of of the the dies. dies. individual another embodiment embodiment of the the invention invention FIG. 3 illustrates illustrates another Wherein the die array array is is also also positioned positioned proximate proximate the the distal, distal, wherein end 17 of the barrel portion portion 16 of the housing. housing. or radiating end the alternative alternative embodiment, embodiment, the the structure structure is is somewhat someWhat In the Within FIGS. 1, 2, and 2A, similar to the device 10 illustrated within 1,2, With a different construction at at the the distal distal or or radial radial end end 17, as with illustrated in FIG. FIG. 3. Specifically, Speci?cally, the alternative embodiembodi illustrated the alternative ment utilizes utiliZes an array array of of dies dies 60 mounted mounted on a a substrate substrate ment could be be sapphire sapphire or ordiamond diamond layer 62. The substrate layer could Which has suitable suitable thermally thermally conductive conductive properties properties for for heat heat which While remaining electrically electrically insulated. insulated. Substrate Substrate dissipation while 62 is then bonded to a a heat heat sink sink 64 which Which may be made of a suitable material, such such as as copper. copper. The The die die array array 60 and the assembly including the substrate 62 and heat sink 64 are then Welded or soldered onto an an end end of of aa liquid-filled liquid-?lled heat heat tube tube welded 66, which Which conductively conductively transfers transfers heat away aWay from from the the heat heat sink. In that that way, Way, the the alternative alternative embodiment embodiment of ofthe theinveninven sink. above-discussed tion utiliZes utilizes the advantages provided by the above-discussed conductive cooling cooling of of the the substrate substrate embodiment, due to the conductive and die array. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the opposite end end of of the the tube 66 is coupled to the the heat heat exchanger exchanger 26 which Which is heat tube convectively cooled, such as by by a a fan fan 28. convectively To focus light from the die die array array 60 in an efficient ef?cient manner manner To and focused focused light light beam, beam, the the embodiment embodimentof of into a collimated and the invention invention shown shoWn in in FIG. FIG. 3 utilizes utiliZes a a total total internal internal the re?ection, or or TIR lens. TIR lenses are known knoWn (e.g., U.S. US. Pat. Pat. reflection, No. No. 4,337,759) 4,337,759) and are are commercially commercially available, available, such such as as of Teledyne. Teledyne. TIR lenses from TIR Technologies, a division of are more efficient ef?cient than typical Fresnel lenses, and and provide provide aa of light light generated generated by by the the die diearray array 60. The collimated beam of TIR lens structure 68, shoWn FIG. 3, utilizes utiliZes a series of shown in FIG. saW-tooth surfaces surfaces 69 for collimating light light from from the the array array 60 saw-tooth at various different angles into a a beam of of light light 70 focused in a direction generally perpendicular perpendicular to to the the plane planeof ofthe thearray, array, as illustrated illustrated by by reference reference numeral numeral 70. In that that way, Way, light light from the array array may may be be efficiently ef?ciently delivered delivered to to aacurable curable from compound on a a work Work surface. surface. Preferably, Preferably, the the TIR lens is a a The lens lens 68 is approappro non-imaging optical focusing device. The priately arranged arranged to to be be generally generally coaxially coaxially aligned aligned with With priately array 60 for efficient ef?cient light transmission. transmission.
14
accordance with With one one aspect aspect of ofthe thepresent presentinvention, invention, In accordance of aa suitable suitable polycarbonate. polycarbonate. As As the TIR lens 68 is formed of above, lens lens 68 may be incorporated incorporated with With a a disdis discussed above, sleeve 72 positioned around around the the heat heat pipe pipe 66. When posable sleeve application is complete, complete, the the sleeve sleeve 72 and TIR lens 69 an application and discarded, discarded, thus thus eliminating eliminatingthe theneed needto to may be removed and further sterilize steriliZe or or autoclave autoclave the the device device 10. Alternatively, further positioned with With respect respect to to sleeve sleeve lens 68 may be separately positioned discarded or or to to remain remain with With the thearray array 60. 72 to be separately discarded The embodiment embodiment illustrated illustrated in in FIG. FIG. 3 further provides provides The ef?cient delivery of of light light from from the the die die array array to to a a work Worksurface surface efficient because the die and and lens lens are are positioned positioned at at the the radiating radiating or or because end 17 of the barrel portion portion to to be be directly directly adjacent adjacentto to distal end Work surface. In In that that way, Way, various various air/glass air/glassinterfaces interfacesare are the work eliminated to reduce power poWer losses losses associated associated with With such such eliminated to reduce as discussed discussed above. above. interfaces, as The array 60 of LEDs might be arranged arranged and and dimensioned dimensioned above with With respect respect to to the the embodiment embodiment similarly as discussed above illustrated in FIG. 2. 2. The The TIR lens 68 will Will generally have have a a cross-sectional diameter diameter significantly signi?cantly greater greaterthan than circular cross-sectional the circular cross-sectional cross-sectional diameter diameter of ofthe the array array in in order orderfor for to capture capture light light which Which is is generated generated by by the the array array at at the lens to very small angles angles with With respect respect to to the the plane plane of ofthe the array array 60. the embodiment embodiment illustrated illustrated in in FIG. FIG. 3, a reflector re?ector is not not In the utiliZed between betWeen the the die die array array 60 and the lens 68. Therefore, utilized must be be sized siZed appropriately appropriately to to capture capture low loW angle angle the lens must as that that illustrated illustrated by by reference reference line line 73. light, such as an alternative alternative embodiment embodimentof ofthe theinveninven FIG. 4 illustrates an tion in in which Which the the die diearray arrayisis positionedmore morecentrally centrally tion positioned Within the housing housing and and spaced spaced rearwardly rearWardly from from the the barrel barrel within portion. Specifically, Speci?cally, a assembly, similar similar to to that that illusillus portion. a die assembly, trated in FIG. 2, 2, is is mounted mounted in in the the housing housing proximate proximate the the trated end 19 of the the barrel barrel portion. portion. The The substrate substrate 34 is proximal end directly to to the the heat heatexchanger exchanger 26, which Which may may then coupled directly convectively cooled, a fan fan 28. The barrel barrel be convectively cooled, such such as as by a heat tube, tube, houses houses a a light light portion 16, rather than housing a heat or light light guide guide 76. Such light guides guides are are commercially commercially pipe or in a a variety variety of ofdifferent different sizes. siZes. Generally, Generally, available and come in are formed formed of of aaplurality plurality of ofoptical opticalfibers ?bers such light pipes are example, approximately approximately 5,000 5,000 fibers ?bers which Which are arefused fused (for example, single light light pipe pipe structure). structure). The The beam beam of of light light transtrans into a single input end end 77 located at the proximal proximal end end 19 mitted into the input through the the light light pipe pipe of the barrel portion 16, is transmitted through transmission end end 78 of the pipe at at the the and is directed out the transmission end 17 of the the barrel barrel portion portion 16. The light pipe may may distal end maintain uniform diameter from from the the input input end end 77 to the the maintain uniform diameter output or or transmission transmission end end 78, or may may taper taper from from one one output diameter to a a smaller smaller diameter diameter at at the the transmission transmission end end 78. diameter Preferably, the to follow folloW the the bent bent barrel barrel Preferably, the light light pipe pipe is bent to in FIG. FIG. 4, so that the beam of of light light is is portion 16, illustrated in directed downwardly, doWnWardly, such as as into into the the mouth mouthof ofthe thepatient. patient. light pipe pipe itself itselfmay may form form part partof ofthe the barrel barrel Alternatively, the light portion and may may be be attached attached to to the thehousing housing 12, such as by screWed into into the the housing. housing. being screwed focusing device, device, such such as as aa nonnon The non-imaging optical focusing lens 44, is used to to focus focus the the light light into into the the imaging optical lens input end end 77 of the light pipe is is dimensioned dimensioned light pipe. The input so that that light light is is efficiently ef?ciently delivered delivered through throughthe the appropriately so device 44 to the the light light pipe pipe 76. To To that end, end, the the focusing device device 44 collimates collimates the so that it it does does not not focusing device the light light so input end end 77 of the the light light pipe. pipe. diverge beyond the input Generally, light pipes have a a defined de?ned angle angle of ofacceptance acceptance input end end 77, such as 40. Light Light directed directed outside outside of of at their input that acceptance acceptance angle is not captured captured by by the the light light pipe pipe and and transferred to to the the work Worksurface. surface.The Thereflective re?ectivesurface surface 42 and transferred non-imaging optical optical focusing focusing device device 44 utilized utiliZed in the the non-imaging FIG. 4 are designed to generate a a beam beam of of embodiment in FIG.
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US 6,692,251 6,692,251 B1 B1
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conductively transferring transferring heat heatgenerated generatedby bythe the Which does not not diverge diverge more more the the acceptance acceptance angle angle of of light which substrate for conductively aWay from from the the substrate. substrate. the light pipe. pipe. In In that thatway, Way, energy energyis isefficiently ef?ciently translated translated the die away 0 angle. The instrument instrument of claim claim 6 6 wherein Wherein said saidthermally thermally Which outputs light in generally generally a a 180 180 from the array which 7. The comprises aa heat heattube. tube. Therefore, the present invention invention utilizes utilizes aanon-imaging non-imaging Therefore, the present conductive element comprises The instrument instrument of claim claim 1 1 further further comprising comprising aa heat heat Which collimates light from from a a 180 180 5 optical focusing device which 8. The to a a column column which Which does does not notdiverge divergemore more exchanger Which thermally coupled coupled to to the the substrate substrate for for light output source to exchanger which is thermally the die. die. angle of of the the light light pipe pipe to to which Which the the light light than the acceptance angle dissipating heat generated by the 9. The The instrument instrument of claim 1 1 further further comprising comprising a a heat heat is input. 9. the substrate substrate for for absorbing absorbing heat heat sink thermally coupled to the In still a a further further embodiment embodiment of of the the invention, invention, the the die die In 10 generated by the the die, die, and and aaheat heattube tubethermally thermallycoupled coupledto to array and the TIR lens structure structure similar similarto to that thatshown shoWnin inFIG. FIG. 10 conductively transferring transferring heat heatgenerated generatedby by the heat sink for conductively utiliZed within Within the housing as as shown shoWn in FIG. FIG. 4. 4. 3 might be utilized aWay from from the the heat heat sink sink and and the the substrate. substrate. the die away To that end, the die array array 60, 60, substrate substrate 62, 62, and and heat heat sink sink 64 64 To 10. The The instrument instrument of claim claim 1 1 wherein Wherein said said housing housing 10. are coupled to the appropriate appropriate heat heat exchanger, exchanger, which Whichis isthen then portion having having a a distal distalend endconfigured con?guredto to comprises a barrel portion convectively cooled, such fan. In In such such an an convectively cooled, suchas asby by a a fan. placed in the the mouth mouth of of aa patient, patient, the the die die array array being being embodiment, as as in in the the embodiment embodiment illustrated illustrated in in 15 be placed embodiment, as Well well as said distal distal end end for forbeing beingpositioned positioned supported proximate to said FIG. 4, device device 10 10 would Would generally generally have have to to be be sterilized steriliZedor or FIG. mouth of of a a patient patient to to cure cure aacompound. compound. in the mouth autoclaved after each use. However, HoWever, since since the the die diearray arrayand and 11. The The instrument instrument of claim claim 1 1 wherein Wherein said said housing housing 11. optical focusing focusing devices are are positioned positioned inside inside the the handle handle optical comprises a barrel barrel portion portion having having aa proximal proximal end end spaced spaced comprises portion of the the housing, housing, they they would Would be be protected protected from from the the portion 20 from from a a distal distal end end of ofthe thebarrel barrelportion, portion,the thedistal distalend endbeing being 20 associated with With such such sterilization. steriliZation. high temperatures associated con?gured to be placed proximate proximate to to the the mouth mouthof ofaapatient, patient, configured Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 4, 4, a a disposable disposable sleeve sleeve operably coupled coupled with With the the a light transmitting element being operably utiliZed with With the the embodiment embodiment to to cover cover the the light light 82 might be utilized re?ective device for for transmitting transmitting the the light lightthrough through optically reflective sleeve 82 82 may may be be discarded discarded with Witheach each pipe. The disposable sleeve distal end. end. the housing distal use, thus thus effectively effectively eliminating eliminating the the required required autoclaving autoclaving use, instrument of of claim claim 11 11 wherein Wherein said said light lighttranstrans 25 12. The instrument step. a plurality plurality of offiber ?ber optic optic elements elements mitting device comprises a While invention has been been illustrated illustrated by by the the While the present invention together for for directing directingsaid saidbeam. beam. operably coupled together description of the embodiments embodiments thereof, thereof, and and while While the the description of the 13. The instrument of claim claim 11 11 wherein Wherein said said light lighttranstrans 13. described in in considerable considerable detail, detail, it it embodiments have been described has an an acceptance acceptance angle, angle,said saidoptically opticallyreflecre?ec mitting device has is not the intention of the applicant applicant to restrict restrict or or in in any any way Way 30 operable for for generating generating aa beam beam of oflight lightwhich Which tive element is operable limit the the scope scope of of the the appended appended claims claims to to such such detail. detail. limit diverge significantly signi?cantly from from said saidacceptance acceptanceangle. angle. does not diverge Additional advantages advantages and and modifications modi?cations will Will readily readily appear appear 14. The The instrument instrument of claim claim 13 13 wherein Wherein said said lightlight 14. to those those skilled skilled in the the art. art. Therefore, Therefore, the the invention invention in in its its to emitting die in the range range of of 0-180 0180 and and said said emitting die emits emits light light in broader aspects is not not limited limited to to the thespecific speci?cdetails detailsreprerepre re?ective element is is operable operable for forcollimating collimatingthe the optically reflective sentative apparatus and and method, method, and and illustrative illustrative examples examples 35 light into a beam which sentative Which does does not not diverge diverge significantly signi?cantly from from shoWn and described. Accordingly, departures may be made shown departures may be made acceptance angle. angle. said acceptance Without departure departure from from the the spirit spiritor orscope scope from such details without 15. The instrument of of claim claim 1 1 further further comprising comprisingaasleeve sleeve 15. of applicant's applicants general general inventive inventive concept. concept. Which is removably removably mounted mounted with With respect respect to to the thehousing. housing. which What is claimed claimed is: is: 16. The The instrument instrument of claim claim 15 15 wherein Wherein said said optically optically 16. 1. An instrument instrument for for curing curing light-curable light-curable compounds compounds 40 reflective 1. re?ective element is is coupled coupled with With the thesleeve. sleeve. Which are curable in the the mouth mouth of of a a patient, patient, the the instrument instrument which 17. The The instrument instrument of claim claim 16 16 wherein Wherein said saidhousing housing 17. comprising: comprises a barrel portion portion having having a distal distal end end which Which is is comprises a barrel a housing; con?gured to be placed placed in in the the mouth mouthof ofaapatient, patient,the thesleeve sleeve configured state, light-emitting light-emitting die, the the die die each each a plurality of solid state, optically reflective re?ective element coupled coupled at at one one end end having the optically a semiconductor semiconductor junction junction individually individually mounted mounted 45 thereof being a thereof and and configured con?gured for being being attached attached to to the thebarrel barrel substrate to to form form an an array arrayoperable operable for foremitting emitting on a substrate portion such that that the the optically optically reflective re?ective element element is isposiposi portion light having having wavelengths Wavelengths Within narroW band band of of light within a a narrow distal end end to to deliver deliver aa light lightbeam beaminto into tioned proximate said distal Wavelengths; wavelengths; the mouth of of the the patient. patient. 18. The The instrument instrument of claim claim 15 15 wherein Wherein said said sleeve sleeve is is an optically optically reflective re?ective element element coupled coupled to to surround surround an an an 18. a disposable disposable material material to to be be discarded discarded after afterone one use. use. outer edge edge of the the substrate substrate and and the the array array of oflight light 50 made of a outer 19. The The instrument instrument of claim claim 15 15 wherein Wherein said said sleeve sleeve is is re?ecting the the light light emitted emittedcollectively collectively emitting die for reflecting 19. made of of an an autoclavable autoclavable material material to to be be sterilized steriliZedafter afteraause. use. from the die array array and and directing directing it it toward toWard a a compound compound The instrument instrument of claim claim 1 1 further further comprising comprising aa the compound. compound. for curing the 20. The 2. The instrument instrument of claim claim 1 1 further further comprising comprising a a nonnon portable power poWer supply supply positioned positioned within Within said said housing housing for for 2. The portable 55 portable portable operation operation of of the the instrument. instrument. optically 55 imaging lens for receiving the light captured by the optically 21. The instrument of claim claim 1 1 wherein Wherein said said instrument instrument is is re?ective element direct it it toward toWard aa compound. compound. reflective element to further direct 3. comprising a a disposdispos a power poWer density density of of light light in in the the range range of of 3. The instrument of claim 2 further comprising operable for emitting a able sleeve Which With respect respect to to the the 1400 mW/cm mW/cm2. which is removably mounted with 200 to 1400 2. The instrument instrument of claim claim 1 1 further further comprising comprising aa housing, the optically optically reflective re?ective element element and and non-imaging non-imaging housing, 22. The 60 plurality of optically lens being coupled to to the the disposable disposable sleeve. sleeve. optically reflective re?ective elements elements positioned positioned to to capcap 4. The instrument of claim 1 1 wherein Wherein said said substrate substrate is is light emitted emitted by by the the array array of ofdie. die. 4. The instrument ture the light 23. The The instrument instrument of claim 22 22 wherein Wherein there there are are a a formed of one of of diamond diamond and and sapphire. sapphire. formed of claim 5. The The instrument instrument of claim 1 1 further further comprising comprising a a heat heat number of of optically optically reflective re?ective elements elements 5. substantially smaller number sink thermally thermally coupled coupled to the the substrate substrate for for absorbing absorbing heat heat than light-emitting light-emitting die, such such that that each eachoptically opticallyreflective re?ective collimates the the light light from from multiple multiple light-emitting light-emittingdie. die. the die. die. generated by the 65 element collimates 6. The The instrument instrument of claim 1 1 further further comprising comprising a a therther 24. The The instrument instrument of claim claim 1 1 further further comprising comprising aa 6. Which is is thermally thermally coupled coupled to to the the internal reflection re?ection (TIR) (TIR) lens lensfor forreceiving receiving mally conductive element which collimating total internal
20
US 6,692,251 6,692,251 B1 B1
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the light light captured captured by by the the optically optically reflective re?ective element element to to the toward a a compound. compound. further direct it toward 25. method for for curing curing light-curable light-curable compounds, compounds, the the 25. A method comprising: method comprising: having wavelengths Wavelengthswithin Withinaa narrow narroWband band generating light having Wavelengths using plurality of solid solid state, state, lightlight of wavelengths using a plurality emitting die die which Which each each includes includes aasemiconductor semiconductor emitting junction individually individually mounted mounted on on a a substrate substrate to to form form an an array, emitting the the light; light; array, operable operable for emitting capturing the the die die array array with With an an capturing the light light emitted emitted by by the optically reflective re?ective element coupled to surround surround an an optically element coupled outer edge edge of the the substrate substrate and and the the array array of oflight light outer re?ecting the the light light emitted emittedcollectively collectively emitting die for reflecting and directing directing it it toward toWard a a compound compound from the die array and the compound. compound. for curing the 26. 26. The method of claim 25 further comprising thermally coupling a heat sink sink to to the the substrate substrate for for absorbing absorbing heat heat coupling a heat the die die array. array. generated by the 27. claim 25 further comprising coupling coupling 27. The method of claim thermally conductive conductive element elementand andconducconduc to the substrate a thermally generated by by the the die dieaway aWayfrom fromthe the tively transferring heat generated substrate. 28. claim 25 further comprising positionposition 28. The method of claim proximate a distal end of a a barrel barrel portion portion of of a a ing said die proximate the mouth mouth housing and positioning the distal end proximate the to cure cure a a compound. compound. of a patient to 29. 29. The method of claim 25 further comprising supporting the die in in aa housing housing and andcoupling coupling the theoptically opticallyreflective re?ective the element With sleeve, the the sleeve sleeve being being configured con?gured to to be be element with a sleeve, removably mounted with With respect to to the the housing. housing. removably 30. claim 25 further comprising emitting emitting 30. The The method of claim a poWer density density of light in in the the range range of of 200 200 to to 1400 1400 a power of light mW/cm2. 31. claim 25 further comprising positionposition 31. The method of claim focusing device device with With the the optically optically ing a non-imaging optical focusing re?ective element for further further reflecting re?ecting light light from fromthe theeleele reflective directing it it onto onto aa compound compound for fordirecting directinglight light ment and directing array into into the the optical optical device. device. from the array 32. The method of of claim claim 31 wherein Wherein said non-imaging non-imaging 32. The is a a collimating collimating total total internal internalreflecre?ec optical focusing device is tion (TIR) lens. 33. 33. The method of claim 25 further comprising supporting a removable sleeve sleeve with With the die in a housing and positioning a the housing. housing. respect to the 34. of claim 33 wherein Wherein the removable sleeve 34. The method of is made of of a a disposable disposable material. material. 35. of claim 33 wherein Wherein the removable sleeve 35. The method of is made of of an an autoclavable autoclavable material material to to be be sterilized steriliZed after after aa use. use. 36. intercept 36. The method of claim 25 further-comprising interceptthe array array of of die die with With aa plurality plurality of of ing the light emitted by the optically reflective re?ective elements. elements. 37. claim 36 wherein Wherein said light-emitting light-emitting 37. The The method of claim die emits emits light in the the range range of of 0-180 0180 and andsaid saidoptically optically die re?ective element a beam beam which Which reflective element collimating collimating the the light into a does not diverge diverge significantly signi?cantly from from said saidacceptance acceptanceangle. angle. 38. claim 25 further comprising directing directing 38. The method of claim light from the die into a a light light transmitting transmitting device device having having an an acceptance angle, and and collimating collimating the the light light with With the the optically optically re?ective element beam which Which does does not notdiverge diverge reflective element into into a beam signi?cantly from acceptance angle angle prior prior to to directing directing significantly from said acceptance the light into the the light light transmitting transmitting device. device. 39. instrument for for curing curing light-curable light-curable compounds compounds 39. An instrument Which are curable in the the mouth mouth of of a a patient, patient, the the instrument instrument which comprising:
18
solid state, state, light-emitting light-emitting die, die, the the die die each each a plurality of solid a semiconductor semiconductor junction junction individually individually mounted mounted being a on a a substrate substrate and and free free of of an an integral integral reflector re?ector to to form form on emitting light light having having wavelengths Wavelengths an array operable for emitting Within a a narrow narroW band band of ofwavelengths; Wavelengths; within non-?ber reflective re?ective element element coupled coupled to to surround surround an an a non-fiber outer edge edge of the the substrate substrate and and the the array array of oflight light outer for reflecting re?ecting the the light light emitted emittedcollectively collectively emitting die for array and and directing directing it it toward toWard aa compound compound from the die array the compound. compound. for curing the instrument for for curing curing light-curable light-curable compounds compounds 40. An instrument Which are curable curable in in the the mouth mouth of of aa patient, patient, the the instrument instrument which comprising: plurality of of solid solid state, state, light-emitting light-emitting die die forming forming an an a plurality array, each die being being aa semiconductor semiconductor junction junction array, each of the die mounted on a a substrate substrate without Without individual individual packaging, packaging, of die die operable operable for for collectively collectivelyemitting emittinglight light the array of having wavelengths Wavelengths Within narroW band band of ofwaveWave having within a narrow lengths; an optically optically reflective re?ective element element coupled coupled to to surround surround an an the array array of of light light emitting emittingdie diefor forreflectre?ect outer edge of the light emitted emitted collectively collectively from from the the array arrayof ofdie die ing the light and directing directing it toward toWard a a compound compound for for curing curing the the and compound. instrument for for curing curing light-curable light-curable compounds compounds 41. An instrument Which are curable in in the the mouth mouth of of aa patient, patient, the the instrument instrument which comprising: a barrel barrel portion portion having having aaproximal proximal a housing comprising a end and and a a distal distal end, end, the the distal distal end end configured con?gured to to be be end the mouth mouth of ofaapatient; patient; positioned proximate to the solid state, state, light-emitting light-emitting die, die, the the die die each each a plurality of solid a semiconductor semiconductor junction junction individually individually mounted mounted being a a substrate substrate to to form form an an array arrayoperable operable for foremitting emitting on a light having having wavelengths Wavelengths Within narroW band band of of light within a a narrow Wavelengths; wavelengths; optically reflective re?ective element element coupled coupled to to surround surround an an an optically outer edge edge of the the substrate substrate and and the the array array of oflight light outer for reflecting re?ecting the the light light emitted emittedcollectively collectively emitting die for die array; array; from the die die array array and and optically opticallyreflective re?ectivedevice device the light-emitting die proximate the distal distal end end of of the the barrel barrel being mounted proximate re?ective element element operable operable for for directing directing portion and the reflective of the the distal distal end end and and toward toWardaacompound compoundfor for light out of compound. curing the compound. instrument for for curing curing light-curable light-curable compounds compounds 42. An instrument Which are curable curable in in the the mouth mouth of of aa patient, patient, the the instrument instrument which comprising: solid state, state, light-emitting light-emitting die, die, the the die die each each a plurality of solid being a a semiconductor semiconductor junction junction individually individually mounted mounted a substrate substrate to to form form an an array arrayoperable operable for foremitting emitting on a light having having wavelengths Wavelengths Within narroW band band of of light within a a narrow Wavelengths; wavelengths; optically reflective re?ective element element coupled coupled to to surround surround an an an optically outer edge edge of the the substrate substrate and and the the array array of oflight light outer for reflecting re?ecting the the light light emitted emittedcollectively collectively emitting die for from the die die array; array; the optically reflective re?ective element element being being configured con?gured to to couple couple With an an end of of a a light directing directing device device which Whichdirects directsthe the with re?ected light from the optically optically reflective re?ective element element in in aa reflected toWard a a compound compound for for curing curing the the compound. compound. beam toward
* * * * *
10
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55
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21
UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE
CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION CORRECTION

PATENT NO. : 6,692,251 PATENT NO. : 6,692,251 B1 B1 DATED :: February 17, 2004 INVENTOR(S) INVENTOR(S) : :Joseph JosephN. N.Logan Loganand andRaymond Raymond L. L. Knox Knox Page 1 1 of 1 1
It is certified that error appears in in the above-identified above-identi?ed patent patent and and that that said said Letters Letters Patent Patentis is hereby corrected as as shown shown below: below:
Column 5, 5 In accordance With one Line 31, reads "In one aspect aspect of of the the present present invention, invention, an...." an...."and and should read -- In accordance with With one one aspect aspect of of the the present present invention, invention, an.... an.... --. Column 15, 15 Line 51, reads "...emitting "...emitting die die for reflecting re?ecting the the light light emitted emitted collectively..." collectively..."and and should read -- ...emitting die for capturing capturing the the light light emitted emitted collectively... collectively... --. Column 17, 17 Line 13, reads "...emitting "...emitting die die for reflecting re?ecting the the light light emitted emitted collectively..." collectively..."and and should read -- ...emitting die for capturing capturing the the light light emitted emitted collectively... collectively...--. Column 18, 18 Line 9, reads "...emitting "...emitting die die for reflecting re?ecting the the light light emitted emittedcollectively..." collectively..."and and should read -- ...emitting die for capturing the light emitted collectively... --. Lines should21-22, read --read ...emitting "...outer die edge for of capturing the array the oflight lightemitted emitting collectively... die for re?ecting the Lines 21-22, read "...outer edge of the array of light emitting die for reflecting the light emitted collectively from the array array of of die..." die..." and and should should read read--- ...outer ...outeredge edge of the array of light emitting die die for for capturing capturing the the light light emitted emittedcollectively collectivelyfrom from the array of die... --. Lines 41 and 58, reads "...emitting "...emitting die die for for reflecting re?ecting the the light light emitted emitted collectively..." and should read -- ... emitting emitting die die for for capturing capturingthe thelight lightemitted emitted collectively.... collectively... --. Line 62, reads "...reflected "...re?ected light light from from the the optically optically reflective re?ective element elementin ina..." a..."and and should read read -should - ... captured light from the optically optically reflective re?ective element element in ina.... a.... --.
Signed and Sealed this Second Day of of August, 2005 2005
m. Wgaw
JON W. DUDAS
Director the United Director of ofthe United States States Patent Patent and and Trademark TrademarkOffice O?ice
22
Exhibit B
11111111111111101111111111!11111116111 1111111111111111111111 1101111 11

US007066733B2
(12)
(12) United States States Patent Patent

Logan et al. al.
APPARATUS AND AND METHOD METHOD FOR CURING APPARATUS
(10) Patent No.: US 7,066,733 B2 (10) Patent N0.: B2 (45) Date of Jun. 27, 2006 of Patent: Patent:
4,114,946 4,114,946 A A 4,149,086 4,149,086 A A 4,184,196 4,184,196 A A 4,185,891 4,185,891 A A 9/1978 4/1979 1/1980 1/1980 Hoffmeister Hoifmeister et et al. 31. Nath Moret et et al. a1. ................ .. 433/29 Kaestner Kaestner ................... .. 350/167
(54)
MATERIALS WITH LIGHT LIGHT RADIATION RADIATION MATERIALS

(75) Inventors: Inventors: Joseph JosephN. N.Logan, Logan,Trumbull, Trumbull, CT CT(US); (US); Raymond L. L. Knox, Knox, Bethel, Bethel, CT CT (US) (US)
(Continued) (Continued) Assignee: Kerr KerrCorporation, Corporation,Orange, Orange,CA CA(US) (US) (73) Assignee:
PATENT DOCUMENTS FOREIGN PATENT

DE
(*)
Notice:
Subject to any disclaimer, disclaimer, the the term term of ofthis this patent is extended patent extended or or adjusted adjusted under under 35 35 U.S.C. 154(b) USC 154(b) by 0 0 days. days.
11 233 233 42 11
1/1992
(Continued) (Continued)
N0.: 10/655,781 10/655,781 (21) Appl. No.:

Burgess, John 0. Four Light-Curing O. et et al., al., An Evaluation of ofFour Light-Curing Units Units Comparing Comparing Soft and Hard Curing, Curing, Pract. Periodont Periodont Aesthet. Dent. Dent. 11(1), 11(1), 125-132, 125-132, 1999. 1999. (Continued) (Continued)
(22) Filed:
(65)
Sep. 5, 5, 2003 2003
Prior Publication Publication Data Data

Al US 2005/0003322 A1
Jan. 6, 6, 2005 2005
Related U.S. US. Application Data Data (63) of application Continuation of applicationNo. No.09/632,260, 09/ 632,260, filed ?led on on (63) Continuation Aug. 4, which is Aug. 4, 2000, 2000, now noW Pat. Pat. No. No. 6,692,251, 6,692,251, Which is a a continuation-in-part continuation-in-part of application application No. No. 09/009,205, 09/009,205, filed ?led on Jan. Jan. 20, 1998, 1998, now noW Pat. Pat. No. No. 6,200,134. 6,200,134. (51) (51)
Primary Examiner Ralph A. Lewis ExamineriRalph LeWis (74) Attorney, Wood, Herron & Attorney, Agent, Agent, or or Firm FirmiWood, & Evans, Evans, L.L.P.
(57) ABSTRACT
Cl. Int. Cl. A61C A61C 1/00 1/00 A61C A61C 3/00 3/00
(2006.01) (2006.01)
(52) US. Cl. Cl. ....................................... .. 433/29; 433/29;362/119 362/119 (52) U.S. (58) Classification Fieldof of Classi?cation Search Search ................ .. 433/29, 433/29, (58) Field 433/215; 433/215; 606/1, 606/1, 13, 13, 16; 16; 607/88; 607/88; 362/119, 362/119, 362/800, 804 804 See See application file ?le for for complete complete search search history. history. (56) References Cited
An instrument instrument and and method method for forcuring curinglight-curable light-curable comcom pounds in in the mouth mouth of ofa a patient, patient, the theinstrument instrumentcomprising comprising a housing housing and and aaplurality plurality of ofsolid solidstate, state,light-emitting light-emitting elements on a elements on a substrate substrate supported supported by by the the housing. housing. The The elements elements form a a collective collective array array on on the thesubstrate substrateoperable operable for collectively emitting emitting light light having having wavelengths Wavelengths within Within a a narrow narroW band of ofwavelengths. Wavelengths. An optical focusing focusing device device is is positioned positionedto to intercept interceptthe thelight light emitted by the array of of elements elements and and includes includes a a non-imaging non-imaging optical optical device device which Which is is operable operable for for collimating collimating the the light light from the array into into a a beam beam to to be be directed directedonto ontoaacompound compound for curing curing the the compound. compound. A A disposable disposable sleeve sleeve covers covers the the housing and and array array and and may may incorporate incorporate the theoptical opticalfocusing focusing device. device. The The sleeve sleeve is is removed removed and and discarded discarded after after use use to to eliminate the need to to autoclave autoclave the the instrument. instrument. 18 18 Claims, 3 3 Drawing Drawing Sheets Sheets
//
U.S. PATENT PATENT DOCUMENTS

3,638,013 A 3,638,013 3,712,984 A 3,712,984 3,733,481 A 3,733,481 3,868,513 A 3,868,513 A 3,970,856 A 3,970,856 4,048,490 A 4,048,490 A 4,114,274 A 4,114,274 1/1972 1/1972 Keller Keller ................... .. 240/41.15 240/41.15 1/1973 1/1973 Lienhard Lienhard 5/1973 Kuyt 5/1973 Kuyt 2/1975 2/1975 Gonser Gonser ..................... .. 250/504 250/504 7/1976 250/493 7/1976 Mahaffey Mahaifey et et al. a1. 250/493 9/1977 9/1977 Troue Troue .................... .. 240/41.35 240/4135 9/1978 9/1978 Jones Jones
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US 7,066,733 7,066,733 B2
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US. PATENT DOCUMENTS U.S. PATENT
4,186,748 A 4,186,748 A 4,209,907 A 4,229,658 A , , 4,230,453 A 4,230,453 4,233,649 A 4,233,649 A 4,280,273 A 2,523,332 A 4,298,806 A , , 4,337,759 A 4,337,759 4,385,344 A 4,385,344 A 4,391,588 A 4,391,588 A 4,398,885 A 4,398,885 A 4,412,134 A 4,412,134 A 4,445,858 4,445,858 A 4,450,139 4,450,139 A 4,610,630 A 4,666,406 4,666,406 A 4,673,353 A 4,716,296 4,716,296 A 4,729,076 4,729,076 A A 4,757,381 A 4,792,692 4,792,692 A 4,810,194 A 4,810,194 A 4,826,431 4,826,431 A A 4,836,782 A 4,839,566 A 4,839,566 A 4,846,546 4,846,546 A 4,888,489 A 4,935,665 A 4,935,665 A 4,936,808 A 4,948,215 4,948,215 A 4,963,798 4,963,798 A 4,999,310 4,999,310 A 5,003,434 A 5,003,434 5,007,837 A 5,017,140 A A 5,017,140 5,029,957 A A 5,029,957 5,115,761 A 5,115,761 A 5,147,204 A 5,147,204 5,150,016 A 5,150,016 5,161,879 A 5,161,879 5,162,696 A 5,162,696 5,173,810 A A 5,173,810 5,198,678 A 5,201,655 A 5,201,655 5,233,283 5,233,283 A 5,242,602 A A 5,242,602 5,265,792 5,265,792 A 5,278,629 5,278,629 A 5,283,425 5,283,425 A 5,290,169 5,290,169 A 5,302,124 5,302,124 A 5,312,249 5,312,249 A 5,316,473 5,316,473 A 5,328,368 5,328,368 A 5,371,826 5,371,826 A 5,373,114 5,373,114 A A 5,420,768 5,420,768 A 5,457,611 5,457,611 A A 5,471,129 5,471,129 A 5,487,662 5,487,662 A 5,521,392 5,521,392 A 5,530,632 5,530,632 A 5,535,230 5,535,230 A 5,616,141 5,616,141 A 5,617,492 5,617,492 A 5,634,711 5,634,711 A A 5,660,461 5,660,461 A 5,664,042 5,664,042 A 5,698,866 5,698,866 A 5,707,139 5,707,139 A 5,711,665 5,711,665 A A
Egg/2(5); A
2/1980 2/1980 Schlager Schlager ................... .. 128/736 128/736 7/1980 Tsukada et al. 10/1980 Gonser onser 10/1980 Reimers .................... .. 433/29 11/1980 Scheer 11/1980 S0heer et et al. a1. 7/1981 Vincent $132; Emil 250/504 11/1981 Herold ero ..................... .. 250/504 7/1982 Popovich et et al. a1. . . 126/438 5/1983 Gonser Gonser ...................... .. 362/32 5/1983 362/32 M983 Matsui 7/1983 Matsui 8/1983 et al. a1. ............... .. 433/126 8/1983 Loge Loge et 433/126 10/1983 Herold et et al. a1. 5/1984 Johnson 5/1984 Bussiere et et al. a1. ....... .. 422/186.3 9/1986 Betush 5/1987 Kanoa,111 Kanca, III ................ .. 433/229 6/1987 Nevin 12/1987 Bussiere et et al. a1. a1. ........... .. 362/235 3/1988 Masarni Masami et al. 362/235 et al. a1 7/1988 Cooper Cooper et l2/l988 31 12/1988 Herold et al. 3/1989 Snedden snedden ...... .. . 433/91 3/1989 5/1989 Fnjimnra a1. ........... .. 433/29 Fujimura et al. 6/1989 Gonser Gonser 6/1989 Herold et al. 31 6/1989 Herold et 7/1989 Cuda Cuda ..................... .. 350/96.24 7/1989 12/1989 Bryan 250/504 6/1990 Murata 6/1990 313/500 6/1990 Lee 445/24 8/1990 8/1990 Friedman 10/1990 McDermott. 315/312 10/1990 McDermott 3/1991 Kim ............ .. 437/51 a1. .............. .. 362/32 3/1991 Gonser et al. 4/1991 werly Werly 5/l99l 5/1991 Ascher 7/1991 Hood 350/96.2 7/1991 Hood ...................... .. 350/96.2 5/1992 Hood ....................... .. 118/641 5/1992 Hood 118/641 9/1992 Patten et al. a1. 433/229 a1. ............ .. 315/294 9/1992 Sawase et al. 11/1992 McDermott ............... .. 362/206 11/1992 McDermott 362/206 11/1992 Goodrioh Goodrich .................. .. 313/511 l2/l992 Yamakawa 12/1992 Yamakawa 3/1993 Oppawsky 4/1993 Friedman ................... .. 433/29 8/1993 Kennedy 8/1993 Kennedy ................... .. 320/13 9/1993 Riohardson et al. a1. ...... .. 210/745 9/1993 Richardson et 210/745 11/1993 Harrah et al. a1. ........... .. 228/6.2 1/1994 Schlager et al. a1. .......... .. 356/313 2/1994 2/1994 Imamura Imamnra ............... .. 250/208.1 3/1994 Friedman et et al. a1. ........... .. 433/29 4/1994 Lansing et al. a1. 5/1994 Kennedy 5/1994 Kennedy 5/1994 Hare ......................... .. 433/29 7/1994 Lansing et al. a1. 12/1994 Friedman .................. .. 385/115 Kondo et al. 12/1994 Kondo a1. . 174/268 5/1995 Kennedy .................. .. 362/119 10/1995 Verderber 11/1995 Mann ........................ .. 320/21 1/1996 Kipke et al. a1. ................ .. 433/37 5/1996 Kennedy et al. a1. ....... .. 250/492.1 6/1996 Shikano Shikano et al. a1. 7/1996 7/1996 Abe Abe .......................... .. 372/43 4/1997 Cipolla 4/1997 Beach et al. a1. ................ .. 385/33 6/1997 Kennedy et al. a1. .......... .. 362/119 8/1997 Ignatius et al. a1. ........... .. 362/241 9/1997 9/1997 Kennedy Kennedy ..... .. . 385/136 12/1997 Doiron et al. a1. .............. .. 257/99 1/1998 Haitz ....................... .. 362/231 1/1998 Adam et al. a1. ................. .. 433/9
132328 sukada et a1~
5,747,363 5,747,363 A A 5,759,032 A A 5,803,729 A 5,857,767 A 5,912,470 A A 5,928,220 A 5,975,895 A A 5,975,895 6,008,264 6,008,264 A A 6,033,223 A ggigiig A 6,045,240 A 6,046,460 6,046,460 A A 6,065,965 6,065,965 A A 6,068,474 6,068,474 A A 6,077,073 6,077,073 A A 6,086,367 6,086,367 A A 6,095,812 A 6,102,696 6,102,696 A A 6,123,545 A 6,155,823 6,155,823 A A 6,159,005 6,159,005 A A 6,161,937 A A 6,168,431 6,168,431 B1 B1 6,171,105 6,171,105 B1 B1 6,186,786 6,186,786 B1 B1 6,193,510 B1 6,200,134 6,200,134 B1 B1 6,208,788 6,208,788 B1 B1 6,220,722 B1 6,280,187 6,280,187 B1 B1 6,280,188 B1 6,331,111 6,331,111 B1 B1 6,345,982 6,345,982 B1 B1 6,379,149 6,379,149 B1 B1 6,419,483 6,419,483 B1 B1 6,439,888 B1 6,468,077 6,468,077 B1 B1 6,692,251 Bl* 6,692,251 131* 2001/0007739 2001/0007739 Al A1 2001/0046652 2001/0046652 Al A1 2002/0014864 2002/0014864 Al A1 2002/0051367 2002/0051367 Al A1 2002/0133970 2002/0133970 Al A1 2003/0015667 2003/0015667 Al A1 2003/0036031 Al 2003/0219693 2003/0219693 Al A1
5,857,767 A
5/1998 6/1998 3233: 9/1998 1/1999 6/1999 32333 7/1999 H999 11/1999 12/1999 12/1999 3/2000 32888 4/2000 4/2000 4/2000 5/2000 5/2000 5/2000 5/2000 6/2000 6/2000 7/2000 7/2000 8/2000 8/2000 8/2000 9/2000 12/2000 12/2000 12/2000 12/2000 12/2000 1/2001 1/2001 1/2001 V2001 2/2001 2/2001 2/2001 3/2001 3/2001 3/2001 3/2001 4/2001 8/2001 8/2001 8/2001 12/2001 12/2001 2/2002 2/2002 4/2002 4/2002 7/2002 7/2002 8/2002 10/2002 10/2002 2/2004 2/2004 7/2001 7/2001 11/2001 11/2001 2/2002 2/2002 5/2002 5/2002 9/2002 9/2002 1/2003 1/2003 2/2003 11/2003 11/2003
1/1999 Hochstein
Wei et et al. a1. .................... .. 438/5 Bartel Eg?rman Tsimerman Hochstein Eibofner et al. Shimoji et 31' Sullivan Sullivan Ostler Ostler et et al. a1. ................. .. 522/4 522/4 Narusawa et al. etal' Hochstein . Mertins Menins Rechmann Rechmann Senn Sen et et al. a1~ Jacob Jacob Levy Levy Senn et al. Osterwalder Osterwalder et et al. a1~ Eggler et al. Nagel Nagel Herold al. Herold et eta1~ Rosenstatter Rosenstatter Narusawa Narusawa et et al. a1. Sarmadi Sarmadi Trushkowsky TYPShkOWSkY Tsimerman Tslmerman Kovac Kovac et et al. a1. ............... .. 433/29 433/29 Nosov NOSOV Begemann Slone sione Ross Cao cao Meyer Meyer _ Franetzki Franetzkl Adam Adam et et al. a1~ Boutoussov B0u-t0uss0v et et al. a1. Melikechi Mel1kech1 et et al. a1. Logan et al. Logan eta1~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~ 433/29 433/29 Eibofner Eibofner et et al. a1~ Ostler Os?er et et al. a1~ Gemunder Gemunder et et al. a1~ Hooker Hooker et et al. a1~ Gordon Gordon et et al. a1~ MacDougald MacDougald et et al. a1. Lieb et al. Cao C30
FOREIGN FOREIGN PATENT PATENT DOCUMENTS DOCUMENTS

DE EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP 295 295 11 11 927 927 0 116 116 405 405 0 266 266 038 038 0 568 568 666 666 0 320 320 080 080 0 672 672 435 435 0 678 678 282 282 0 709 709 698 698 0 755 755 662 662 0 736 736 307 307 0 780 780 101 101 0 780 780 103 103 0 830 830 850 850 0 879 879 582 582 0 880 880 945 945 0 884 884 025 025 0 885 885 025 025 0 998 998 880 880 1 1 031 031 326 326 1 090 607 1090 607 1 1 090 608 608 1 1 093 765 765 1 1 103 103 232 232 1 1 112 112 721 721 1 1 138 138 276 276 2/1997 8/1984 10/1991 11/1992 8/1993 9/1995 10/1995 5/1996 7/1996 10/1996 6/1997 6/1997 3/1998 11/1998 12/1998 12/1998 12/1998 5/2000 8/2000 4/2001 4/2001 4/2001 5/2001 7/2001 10/2001
24
US 7,066,733 7,066,733 B2
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EP EP EP EP EP EP GB GB JP JP JP JP JP JP JP WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO
1 138 138 349 349 1 0 830 830 851 851 0 830 830 852 852 1 206 923 923 1 1 228 738 738 1 0 740 567 567 2 212 010 010 2 329 756 756 6-30275 8-141001 9-10238 9010238 8-194786 410033573 2 080 522 522 83/01311 WO 83/01311 WO 84/04463 84/04463 WO 92/02275 92/02275 WO 93/09847 93/09847 WO 93/21842 93/21842 WO 95/07731 95/07731 WO95/19810 W095/19810 WO 95/26217 95/26217 WO/97/36552 WO 97/37722 97/37722 WO 97/46279 97/46279 WO 97/46280 97/46280 WO 98/03131 98/03131 WO 98/04317 98/04317 WO 99/09071 99/09071 99/11324 WO 99/11324 WO 99/16136 99/16136 WO 99/20346 99/20346 WO 99/35995 99/35995 WO 00/01464 00/01464 WO 00/02491 00/02491 WO 00/13608 00/13608 WO 00/15296 00/15296 WO 00/41726 00/41726 WO 00/41767 00/41767 WO 00/41768 00/41768 WO 00/43067 00/43067 WO 00/43068 00/43068 WO 00/43069 00/43069 WO 00/45733 00/45733 WO 00/67048 00/67048 WO 00/67660 00/67660 WO 01/03770 01/03770 WO 00/14012 00/14012 WO 01/19280 01/19280 WO 01/24724 01/24724 WO 01/54770 01/54770 WO 01/60280 01/60280 WO 01/64129 01/64129 WO 01/68035 01/68035 WO 01/69691 01/69691 WO 02/06723 02/06723 WO 02/09610 02/09610 WO 02/11640 02/11640 WO 02/32505 02/32505 WO 02/33312 02/33312 WO 02/49721 02/49721 WO 02/056787 02/056787 WO 02/069839 02/069839 WO 02/080808 02/080808
10/2001 5/2002 5/2002 5/2002 8/2002 11/2002 7/1989 3/1999 9/1995 6/1996 1/1997 * 1/1997 2/1997 2/1998 11/1999 4/1983 11/1984 2/1992 5/1993 11/1993 3/1995 7/1995 10/1995 10/1997 10/1997 12/1997 12/1997 1/1998 2/1998 2/1999 3/1999 4/1999 4/1999 7/1999 1/2000 1/2000 3/2000 3/2000 7/2000 7/2000 7/2000 7/2000 7/2000 7/2000 8/2000 11/2000 11/2000 1/2001 3/2001 3/2001 4/2001 8/2001 8/2001 9/2001 9/2001 9/2001 1/2002 2/2002 2/2002 4/2002 4/2002 6/2002 7/2002 9/2002 10/2002
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ization Shrinkage and Restoration-Cavity Interand Integrity Integrity of ofRestoration-Cavity Inter face, Eur. Eur. J. Oral Sciences, Sciences, 103: 103: 322-326, 322-326, 1995. 1995. Kanca, III, John Kanca, III, John and and Suh, Suh, Byoung Byoung I., 1., Pulse Activation: Activation: Reducing Resin-Based Composite Composite Contraction Contraction Stresses Stresses at at the the Enamel Enamel Cavosurface Cavosuryace Margins, Margins, Am. Am. J. J. of ofDentistry, Dentistry,
12(3), 107-112, 107-112, 1999. 1999. Kato, Hiromasa, Relationship PolyRelationship Between Betweenthe theVelocity Velocityof of Poly merization and Lightand Adaptation to to Dentin Dentin Cavity CavityWall Wallof ofLight Cured Composite, Composite, Dental Materials J. 6(1): 6(1): 32-37, 32-37, 1987. 1987. Koran, Koran, Peter Peter and and Kurschner, Kurschner, Ralf, Ralf, Effect E?nect of ofSequential Sequential versus Continuous Irradiation a Light-Cured Irradiation of ofa Light-Cured Resin Resin ComCom
posite on on Shsrinkage, Shsrinkage, Viscosity, VISCOSIZJ), Adhesion, Adhesion, and and Degree Degree of of Polymerization, Am. J. of ofDentistry, Dentistry, 11, 11, No. No. 1, 1, 17-22, 17-22, 1998. 1998. LumiLeds LumiLeds Lighting Lighting LLC, LLC, Concept Concept Evaluation Evaluation Data Data Lwceon Luxeon TM Star Star 5-Watt, 5- Watt, LuxeonTM 5-Watt 5-Watt Prelminary Prelminary Target Target
Data Sheet, Publication Publication No. JP10 JP10 (Jan. (Jan. 2002). 2002). LumiLeds LumiLeds Lighting Lighting LLC, LLC, LED Application Application Note Note Dental Dental Light Light Curing, Curing, LumiLeds Lighting Publication Publication No. No. XXX(03. XXX(03. 01), Copyright Copyright@ 2000. 2000. LumiLeds LumiLeds Lighting Lighting LLC, LLC, Application Bulletin Bulletin AB ABXXX, XXX, Luxeon TMData DataSheet, Sheet, Publication Publication No. xxxx-xxxx. LuxeonTM XXXX-XXXX. LumiLeds Lighting LLC, of LLC, Lwceon Luxeon TM Power Light Sources of the Future, Jan. 2001 Mike Holt. Jan. 2001iMike Holt. LumiLeds LumiLeds Lighting Lighting LLC,Lumen LLC,Lumen Maintenance Maintenance of ofWhite White L uxeon TMPower Power Light Sources, LuxeonTM Sources, Application Brief Brief AB07, AB07, LumiLeds Lighting, US US LLC. LLC. LumiLeds Lighting LLC, LLC, Application Application Note Note 1149-5, 1149-5, SecondSecond
ary for Super ary Optics Optics Design Design Considerations Considerations for Super Flux Flux LEDs, LEDs,
Copyright Copyright 2000 LumiLeds LumiLeds Lighting, Lighting, Obsoletes Obsoletes PublicaPublica tion No. No. 5968-1215E, 5968-1215E, Publication PublicationNo. No.ANO6 AN06 (Mar. (Mar. 2000). 2000). Luxeon Dental Dental Technical Technical Data, Data, Power Light Light Source, Source, Apr. 2002. Mayes, Joe H., H., Curing Lights: An An Overview, Overview, Unknown, p. 15-17. Mehl, A. et al., Properties and and Gap GapFormation Formation of al., Physical Physical Properties of
Light-Cured Composites Composites With With and and Without WithoutSoftstart-PolyrSoftstart-Poly merization', merization, J. of of Dentistry, Dentistry, 25, 25, 321-330, 321-330, 1997. 1997. Sakaguchi, Sakaguchi, Ronald L. and and Berge, Berge, Hong Hong Xu, Xu, Reduced Reduced Light Light Energy Energy Density Density Decreases Decreases Post-Gel Post-Gel Contraction Contraction While While Maintaining Maintaining Degree Degree of ofConversion Conversion in inComposites, Composites, J. J. of of
Dentistry, 26, 695-700, 695-700, 1998. 1998. Schlager, Schlager, Kenneth J., J ., Ignatius, Ignatius, Ronald Ronald W., W., An LED-Array LED-Array Light for Medical Light Source Sourcefor MedicalTherapy, Therapy, SPIE vol. V01. 1892 1892 Medical Medical Lasers and Systems Systems II II (1993) (1993) p. p. 26-35. 26-35. Swift SWift Jr., Jr., Edward J. et al., al., Ed., Ed., Contemporary Photocuring Issues, Issues, Part II, J. Esthetic Dentistry, Dentistry, 12 12 (1), (1), 50-57, 50-57, 2000. 2000. Tarle, Z. et al., the Photopolymerization Tarle, Z. al., The The Effect E?dect of of the Photopolymerization Method on Composite Samples, on the the Quality Qualityof of CompositeResin Resin Samples, J. J. of Oral Rehab. 25: 436-442, 436-442, 1998. 1998. TIR Technologies, Technologies, Inc., Inc., Miniaturized TIR TIR lenses lenses for for Light Light Emitting Emitting Diodes, Diodes, TIR Technical Publication, pp. pp. 1-14. 1-14. Uno, Shigeru Adaptation of Shigeru and and Asmussen, Asmussen, Erik, Erik, Marginal Adaptation a Restorative Resin Polymerized Polymerized at atReduced ReducedRate, Rate, Scand J. J. Dent. Res. 1991; 1991; 99: 99: 440-4. 440-4. * * cited by examiner examiner
25
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1
APPARATUS AND AND METHOD METHOD FOR FOR CURING APPARATUS MATERIALS WITH LIGHT LIGHT RADIATION RADIATION MATERIALS RELATED APPLICATIONS
5
2
layer, layer, as as well Well as as the the power poWer level level and and characteristics characteristics of ofthe the blue light from from the the curing curing light light device. device. For For example, example, a a thin thin tooth tooth surface surface coating coating or or veneer veneer will Will require require less less radiated radiated light power, poWer, while While thicker, deeper deeper fillings ?llings for for caries and and other other cavities will require cavities Will require a a greater greater amount amount of ofradiated radiated power poWer directed onto the tooth tooth surface surface for for proper propercuring. curing.
While light-curable light-curable compounds compounds have have shown shoWnvery verybenefibene? cial results in in the the dental dental field, ?eld, existing existing techniques techniques and anddental dental curing light devices utilized utiliZed to to deliver deliver the the light light to to the thetooth tooth surface surface have have various various drawbacks. drawbacks. For For example, example, existing existing dental curing devices devices require require specific speci?c filtering ?ltering mechanisms. mechanisms. Filtering must be done for for several several reasons. reasons. First, First, it it is is known knoWn that certain wavelengths Wavelengths of ofblue blue light light are areharmful harmfulto tohuman human attempts are are made made to to direct direct the the light light beam beam only only FIELD OF THE INVENTION INVENTION FIELD 15 tissue. While attempts on on to to the the tooth tooth surface, surface, a a certain certain amount amount of oforal oral tissue tissue This application is related to the curing This curing of of materials materials with With exposure to the light light is is inevitable. inevitable. Therefore, Therefore,harmful harmfulwaveWave radiation and, and, more more specifically, speci?cally, to curing dental dental coating coating and and lengths lengths must be be filtered. ?ltered. Additionally, Additionally, light-curable light-curable comcom filling ?lling compounds with With light. light. pounds pounds are are usually usually sensitive sensitive to light light having having aasomewhat someWhat 20 specific wavelength, such speci?c Wavelength, such as as a a specific speci?c blue blue light light wavelength Wavelength BACKGROUND OF THE THE INVENTION INVENTION BACKGROUND with With currently currently available available dental dental compounds. compounds. Therefore, Therefore, aa dental dental curing light filtering ?ltering device is tuned tuned to to emit emit light light at at Curable adhesive compounds and and bonding bonding or or filling ?lling comcom the proper proper wavelengths Wavelengths for for both both patient patient safety safety and andproper proper pounds are widely pounds Widely used used for forstructurally structurally connecting connecting object object curing. curing. surfaces together or or for for filling ?lling gaps, openings openings and and cavities cavities in in 25 Many existing conventional conventional dental dental curing curing lights lights use use broad broad an object object surface. surface. Such Such curable curable compounds compounds are aregenerally generally spectrum lamp elements, such as halogen bulbs. As a result, such as halogen bulbs. As a result, manipulated and and positioned positioned on on the the object manipulated object surface surface in in aa dental dental curing curing lights lights must must utilize utiliZe special special and and complicated complicated semi-solid semi-solid state state and are then then hardened hardened or or cured cured in inposition position filtering ?ltering devices or or filters ?lters which Which receive receive the thebroad broadspectrum spectrum to a more solid and permanent permanent state. state. The The curing curing or orhardening hardening light from from the lamp lamp element, element, and and then then filter ?lter the the light light to to of applicable applicable compounds compounds is is generally generally aa chemical chemical process process 30 light provide only only the the light light at at the thedesirable desirablewavelengths. Wavelengths. AvailAvail which is is promoted and driven Which promoted and driven by by one one or or more more curing curing able lamp lamp elements elements deliver deliver a a wide Wide spectrum spectrumof ofradiation, radiation, conditions conditions or factors. factors. For For example, example, the the curing curingprocess processmay may including visible light, light, UV UV light, light, and and infra-red infra-redlight. light. ThereThere be driven driven by by exposure exposure of of the thesemi-solid semi-solid compound compound and and fore, fore, prior art art curing curing techniques techniques and and light light devices devices have have components thereof to to air air or by components thereof by exposure exposure of of such such a a comcom generally been very very inefficient, ine?icient, because a a large large amount amount of of pound and and its components components to to an an energy energy source, source, such suchas as a a heat heat 35 generally the radiated light power poWer is lost lost simply simply due due to to filtering ?ltering of of a a source. source. significant signi?cant part of of the light spectrum. spectrum. For Forexample, example, the theinput input Other curable adhesive and and filling ?lling compounds compounds are are cured cured power poWer to a a conventional conventional halogen halogen bulb bulb may may typically typically be be by exposure exposure to radiated radiated energy, energy, such such as as visible visible and and nonnon around 80 Watts, whereas the output power from the 80 Whereas output poWer from the dental dental visible light energy. energy. Such compounds, compounds, referred to as as lightlight light device device of light light at at the the desired desired blue bluewavelength, Wavelength, for for curable curable compounds, compounds, are manipulated manipulated in a a semi-solid semi-solid form form 40 light example 400-500 nanometers, is typically less than 4004500 nanometers, is typically less thanone-half one-half into into an area area or or onto onto a a work Worksurface. surface. Light Light radiation, radiation, prefpref (0.5) Watt. Watt. erably in the form form of of a a light light beam beam at ataaspecific speci?c wavelength Wavelength Additionally, Additionally, the efficiency e?iciency of of the prior prior art art dental dental curing curing or band of of wavelengths, Wavelengths, is is then then directed directed onto onto the the compound. compound. lights is further further degraded degraded by by power poWer losses losses due due to tothe theangle angle The The compound compound includes includes light-sensitive light-sensitive chemical chemical compocompo of incidence of of the the radiated radiatedlight lightupon uponthe thefiltering ?lteringelement. element. nents therein therein which, Which, when When exposed exposedto tothe thelight lightat atthe thespecific speci?c 45 of For example, example, many many prior prior art art curing curinglights lightsutilize utiliZereflective re?ective wavelength, promote promote the curing Wavelength, curing or or hardening hardening of ofthe thecomcom filters which reflect only the light ?lters Which re?ect only light at at the thedesirable desirable waveWave pound in the the desired desired position position on on the the work Worksurface surfaceto tobond, bond, lengths, such such as as blue blue light, light, onto onto the the tooth toothsurface surfaceand anddental dental fill, ?ll, or coat coat the the surface. surface. compound. compound. Light at the the undesirable undesirable wavelengths Wavelengths is is passed passed As an an example, example, light-curable light-curable filling ?lling and and adhesive adhesive comcom ?lter to a light light absorbing absorbing component component where Where it it is is pounds are widely pounds Widely used in in dental dental procedures. procedures. Dentists Dentists use use so 50 through the filter dissipated. dissipated. If the angle angle of of incidence incidence of of the the light light from fromthe the light-curable dental compounds compounds for for coating coating and and sealing sealing tooth tooth halogen bulb varies significantly signi?cantly from the desired desired angle of of surfaces, filling ?lling caries and and other other cavities cavities in inthe thetooth toothsurface, surface, incidence for the the filtering ?ltering element element surface surface (e.g., (e.g., 45), 45),then thenaa and securing crowns croWns and and various various other other dental dental structures structures to to aa reduced amount of the the desirable desirable light light is is reflected re?ected onto onto the the tooth surface. surface. Conventionally, Conventionally, dental dental compounds compounds are are cured cured surface. This This further further decreases decreases the the amount amountof ofdesirable desirable by exposure to light in the blue range of of the spectrum. spectrum. Once 55 55 tooth surface. light light power poWer which Which is is available available for for curing curing the the dental dental comcom cured, cured, the dental dental compound compound reduces reduces further further tooth toothdecay, decay, pound. Conversely, Conversely, a higher higher amount amount of oflight lightat atundesirable undesirable bonds the dental dental structure, structure, and/or and/or provides provides additional additional strucstruc wavelengths Wavelengths may also be be reflected re?ected onto onto the the tooth toothsurface, surface, ture to a tooth. Therefore, it it is is important important that that the the compounds compounds rather rather than being being transmitted transmitted through throughthe the filtering ?ltering element elementto to are completely cured. cured. dissipated. More specifically, More speci?cally, for curing curing light-curable light-curable dental dental comcom 60 be dissipated. Still another drawback drawback with With prior prior art art curing curing lights lights is isthat that pounds, visible blue light, light, and and particularly particularly a a blue blue light light beam beam from a hand-held curing light they they generate generate significant signi?cant amounts amounts of of heat heat and andtherefore therefore light device, device, is is directed directed onto onto a a tooth tooth surface require complicated surface containing containing the desired desired compound compound layer. layer. The The blue blue complicated cooling cooling systems systems to to operate operate within Withinthe the light penetrates into the compound proper temperature range. compound layer layer on on the the tooth tooth surface surface range. The The significant signi?cant amount amount of of light light for complete energy at the the undesirable undesirable wavelengths, Wavelengths, which Which is is generated generated complete curing. curing. The duration duration of of the the exposure exposure to to blue blue 65 energy light for proper curing by the halogen bulb, curing of of the the compound compound layer layer is is dictated dictatedby by bulb, must must be be filtered ?ltered or or otherwise otherWise captured. captured. The captured the type of of compound compound and and the the thickness thickness of of the the compound compound captured or or filtered ?ltered energy energy is is then then dissipated dissipated in in the the form form entitled "Apparatus Apparatus and Method for Curing Curing Materials Materials with With Light Radiation, Radiation," which, Which, in turn, is a continuation-in-part of of U.S. Ser. US. Ser. No. 09/009,205, now U.S. US. Pat. No. 6,200,134, filed ?led 10 on on Jan. Jan. 20, 20, 1998 1998 and and issued issued on on Mar. Mar. 13, 13, 2001, 2001, which Which application and patent are are incorporated incorporated herein herein by by reference reference entireties. in their entireties.
This application is a continuation continuation of ofU.S. US. Ser. Ser. No. 09/632, 09/ 632, 260, filed Aug. 4, ?led on onAug. 4, 2000, now U.S. US. Pat. Pat. No. No. 6,692,251 6,692,251 and and
29
US 7,066,733 7,066,733 B2 B2 3 4
of heat. ogy disclosed in that earlier earlier application application and and to to provide provide the the heat. Therefore, Therefore, power power absorbing absorbing and and heat heatdissipating dissipating elements desirable curing power elements are are required required within Within conventional conventional curing curing light light poWer density, density, size size and and thermal thermal charactercharacter devices. istics required for a a successful successful commercial commercial curing curing device. device. Thermal shields Still Still another another drawback draWback associated associated with With prior prior art artcuring curing Thermal shields are are often often utilized utilized in in conjunction conjunction with With reflective ?lters filters to absorb lights is their their inefficiency inef?ciency in transmitting transmitting the light light to to the the re?ective absorb and and dissipate dissipate the theunreflected, unre?ected, 5 lights unused light work unused light energy energy in the the form form of ofheat. heat. The The high highpower poWer Work surface, surface, such such as as a a tooth tooth surface, surface, once oncethe thelight lighthas hasbeen been output required for the halogen generated by the element generated by element or or bulb. bulb. The The light lightis isgenerated generated halogen bulb bulb to to produce produce the the desired desired light within Within the main housing housing of of the the curing curing light, light, and and must must be be light power poWer level level for for curing, curing, creates creates aasignificantly signi?cantly high high thermal load load on on the the shields. shields. The The shields shields must mustthen thenbe becooled. cooled. transmitted to an an output output end end of ofthe thehousing. housing. Existing Existingdental dental Generally, fan elements elementsare areused usedin inthe the dental light device curing lights lights utilize elongated Generally, fan dental light device toto 10 curing elongated light light guides guides to todeliver deliverlight light provide convective cooling to the from the light generating provide convective cooling the shields. shields. The The additional additional generating elements elements inside inside the the housing housing to to the the cooling increase the the size of tooth. cooling elements elements increase of the the light light device device and and complicate its design. As will Light guides are usually Will be be appreciated, appreciated, it it is is desirable desirable usually comprised comprised of of a a large large number number of of to keep optical to keep the the light light device device as assmall smalland andmaneuverable maneuverable as as optical fibers ?bers fused together into into an an elongated elongated guide. guide. The The used in in a a patients patient's mouth. mouth. 15 air/glass air/ glassinterfaces interfacesbetween betWeenthe thegenerating generatingelements elementsand andthe the possible, since it is hand-held and used Additionally, a thermal thermal load is also input end of Additionally, a also placed placed on on the the reflecre?ec of the light light guide guide and and the the output output end end of ofthe thelight light guide guide and the the inside inside of ofthe themouth mouthare areinefficient inef?cient and andmay may tive filter ?lter element, which Which must then also also be be cooled, cooled, such such as as produce approximately by heat heat sinks sinks and and fans. fans. The The absorption absorption devices devices and and heat heat approximately a 10% 10% loss loss in in power poWerper perinterface. interface. dissipating systems not only complicate Furthermore, prior dissipating systems complicate the operation operation and and prior art art devices devices may may utilize utilize a a converging converging lens lens design the light light device, device,but butalso alsomake make more expensive20 20to to focus focus light light into guide. This into the input input end end of ofthe thelight light guide. This design of the ititmore expensive provides provides another lossy lossy interface interface encountered encountered by by the thelight. light. to produce, and and more more subject subject to to operational operational failure. failure. Such inefficiencies inefficiencies further time that that is is Another drawback Such further increase increase the the cure time draWback of of prior prior art art dental dental curing curing light light devices devices is necessary, and/or create create the the need is the limited limited operational operational life of of the the lamp lamp element, element, such such as as necessary, and/or need for for higher higher power poWer (and (and a halogen bulb. The bulbs frequently associated heat) to provide frequently burn out out and and must must be be provide the the necessary necessary curing curing light lightinteninten replaced. Furthermore, the heat generated replaced. Furthermore, the generated inside inside the the light light 25 sity. device, Another Another concern concern with With dental dental curing curing lights lights is is that that such such device, which Which is is usually usually enclosed, enclosed, shortens shortens the theeffective effective operational lights are medical/dental operational lifespan of of the the bulb. bulb. medical/dental instruments, instruments, and and a a portion portion of ofthe the Attempts have been made instrument is introduced into a instrument is a cavity cavity of ofthe the body, body, i.e. i.e. the the made in in the the prior prior art art to to address address some some of these drawbacks. mouth. mouth. Since Since the same same curing curing light light will Will be be utilized utilized with With draWbacks. For For example, example, Japanese Japanese Patent PatentApplicaApplica tions No. 6-30275, 6-285508, cross-contamination between betWeen patents patents must must 6-285508, 7-163863, 7-163863, and and 8-194786; 8-194786; U.S. US. 30 different patients, cross-contamination Pat. be avoided. avoided. Accordingly, sterilization of of the the curing curing light, light, or or Pat. Nos. Nos. 5,420,768 5,420,768 and 5,634,711; 5,634,711; and and U.K. UK. patent patent appliappli cation No. GB 2,329,756, all disclose a portion disclose various various devices devices using using portion thereof, thereof, has has been beennecessary necessarywith Withconventional conventional packaged, conventional devices. often referred packaged, conventional light-emitting light-emitting diodes diodes or LEDs, LEDs, to to devices. Sterilization, Sterilization, often referred to to as asautoclaving, autoclaving, requires additional provide a curing light source source with With light light in in the the desirable desirable blue blue additional equipment equipment which Which must must be be purchased purchasedand and range. While blue light is maintained by the the dentist dentist or orother otherphysician. physician.Sterilization Sterilization range. While specific speci?c blue is provided provided by by the the LEDs LEDs 35 maintained without significant also introduces an Without signi?cant filtering, ?ltering, various various of ofthese these devices devicesrequire require an extra extra step step in inbetween betWeencuring curingprocedures. procedures. complicated internal designs Furthermore, designs for for focusing focusing of ofthe the curing curing light, light, Furthermore, the high high heat heat required required for forsterilization sterilizationmay, may, or require specific over time, damage speci?c electronic electronic control control of ofthe theLEDs. LEDs.FurtherFurther damage components components of ofthe the curing curinglight. light.AccordAccord more, large ingly, ingly, conventional curing lights must be be designed designed to to withWith more, large numbers numbers of ofconventional conventional LEDs LEDs are arenecessary. necessary. As illustrated in the Figures Figures of of those those applications, applications, the the solid solid 40 stand stand sterilization sterilization and the the high hightemperatures temperatures associated associated state LED elements are spread out over therewith thereWith of of to to otherwise otherWise address address the the sterilization sterilizationissue. issue. state LED elements are over a a circuit circuit board board or or other support structure Accordingly, it is an structure and and require require a a somewhat someWhat large large houshous an objective objective of ofthe the present present invention inventionto to ing provide a ing to contain contain all all of ofthe the conventional conventional LEDs LEDs necessary necessary for for a simple, simple, durable durable curing curing light light device devicefor forhardening hardening generating the intensity of or curing it is curing light-curable light-curable compounds. compounds. Particularly, Particularly, it is an an of light light which Which is is required requiredfor forpracprac objective to provide such such a a curing curing light light device device for forcuring curing tical curing uses. uses. Therefore, Therefore, it it has has been beendifficult dif?cult to toprovide provide 45 objective a suitable curing light using conventional dental compounds compounds used used for for dental dental fillings ?llings and andcoatings. coatings. conventional LEDs, LEDs, which Which will Will generate curing poWer power in aa small It is is another another objective objective to to provide provide aa curing curinglight lightutilizing utilizing generate sufficient suf?cient curing smallincomplete incomplete design. solid state light light elements. elements. Using packaged LEDs, LEDs, as as disclosed It is another objective objective to provide provide a a curing curing light light which Which has has Using traditional traditional packaged disclosed in in the the above-cited art, has 50 aacompact has specifically speci?cally presented presented difficulties di?iculties assoasso so compact and and simple simple design design and and which Which is is capable capable of of ciated providing ciated with With generating generating sufficient suf?cient curing curing power poWer within Within aa providing a light light power poWer density density that that is is useful useful for forpractical practical reasonably sized device curing applications. reasonably device which Which may may be beadequately adequatelycooled. cooled. applications. Further complications with It is still another With such such devices devices have resulted resulted from from another objective objective of ofthe the present presentinvention inventionto tocure cure attempts compounds with curing attempts to concentrate the light from from the the large large grouping grouping of of compounds With curing lights lights utilizing utilizing less less power poWer and and traditional LEDs LEDsinto intoaasmall smallarea area and sufficient power having greateref?ciency efficiency to reduce reduce the the amount 5555 traditional and atat aa su?icient poWer having greater to amount of ofheat heat density so as to energy by the device density so to be be useful useful for forcuring. curing. Such Suchdifficulties dif?culties in in energy generated generated by device and and thus thus reduce reduce the the heat heat energy which providing a suitable curing light device utilizing the the existing existing Which must must be dissipated. dissipated. Furthermore, Furthermore,it itis isdesirable desirable to provide provide more more efficient efficient cooling cooling of ofthe thelight-generating light-generating traditional packaged LED technology is is highlighted highlighted by by the the lack devices. lack of of a a well-received Well-received and and widely-utilized Widely-utilized dental dental curing curing light on the 60 It is still another objective objective of of the invention invention to to eliminate eliminate the the the market market which Which utilizes utilizes such suchtechnology. technology. Alternatively, the devices necessity of of reflective re?ective filters ?lters and and other otherfilter ?lterelements elementswithin Within Alternatively, the devices and and technology technology disclosed disclosed in in U.S. patent application a light light device device for for curing curinglight-curable light-curablecompounds. compounds. US. application Ser. Ser. No. No. 09/009,205, 09/009,205, noted notedabove, above, It is still another another objective objective to to address address the the need need for for sterility sterility have provided a curing device with With solid state, light-emitting light-emitting components within Within a a curing curing light. light. components which Which generate generate sufficient su?icient curing curing power poWer densidensi ties in It is still still a a further further objective objective to to provide provide a a blue blue light lightdevice device ties in aareasonably-sized reasonably-sized device device that that may may be beproperly properly 65 cooled. Further efforts efforts by by the inventors which cooled. Further inventors of of the the present present Which operates within Within a a small small space space and and is is easily easilymanipumanipu application are continuing to improve lated within Within the mouth mouth of ofaadental dentalpatient. patient. improve the the existing existing technoltechnol
30
US 7,066,733 7,066,733 B2 B2
5
These objectives and and various various other other objectives objectives will Will become become more readily apparent apparent from from the the Description Description of ofthe theInvention Invention
sleeve may be removed and and discarded, discarded, thus thus eliminating eliminating the the requirement of of autoclaving autoclaving the the curing curing instrument instrument after aftereach each below. use and and prior prior to to the the next next use. use. In Inone oneembodiment embodiment of of the the use invention, the non-imaging optical device, device, such invention, the non-imaging optical such as a a nonnon SUMMARY SUMMARY OF OF THE INVENTION 5 imaging lens, and and a a reflective re?ective element element are are coupled coupled to to an anend end of of the disposable sleeve. sleeve. When When the the sleeve sleeve is is positioned positionedover over An instrument and and method method for for curing curing light-curable light-curable comcom a portion of of the the housing, housing, the the reflective re?ective element element and andlens lensare are pounds, such such as as dental dental compounds compounds in inthe themouth mouthof ofaapatient, patient, aligned coaxially with With the array array collimating collimating light light from from the the comprises a housing housing which Which supports supports a a plurality plurality of ofsolid solidstate, state, array. array. In such such an an embodiment, embodiment, both both the the non-imaging non-imaging lens lens light-emitting elements. The The elements elements are arepreferably preferablylightlight 10 and reflective element are disposable and are discarded with and re?ective element are disposable and are discarded With emitting emitting dies dies formed formed of of aasemiconductor semiconductor material. material. The The sleeve after after each each use. use. the sleeve elements are mounted elements are mounted on on a a substrate substrate supported supported by by the the The array, which Which comprises comprises a a plurality plurality of ofdies dies positioned positioned housing to to form housing form a a collective collective array array which Which is is operable operable for for on a flat ?at substrate, substrate, generally generally emits emits light light within Within a a range range of of collectively emitting light light having having a wavelength collectively emitting Wavelength within Within a a 0-180. 0*180. When When the array array is is located located at at the the distal distal end end of ofthe the narroW band of of wavelengths. Wavelengths. In In one one embodiment embodiment of ofthe the15 housing, narrow band non-imaging reflective housing,the the non-imaginglens lensand and re?ectiveelement elementare are 0 range invention, invention, the narrow narroW band of of wavelengths Wavelengths includes includes that of of capable capable of capturing capturing the light light within Within the the 180 180 range and and the blue blue wavelength. Wavelength. However, HoWever, other other wavelengths Wavelengths might might effectively effectively and efficiently e?iciently collimating the light into into a a beam beam also be utilized, utiliZed, depending upon the light light sensitivity sensitivity of of the the directed to the work Work surface. surface. When When the the array array is ispositioned positioned curable compound compound utilized. utiliZed. further within Within the housing, away aWay from from the the distal distal end end of ofthe the One suitable housing housing for for the the invention inventionincludes includesaagungun 2020 One suitable housing, and away from the work surface, the non-imaging housing, and aWay from the Work surface, the non-imaging shaped housing Which which has has a handle shaped housing handle portion portion and and a a barrel barrel lens is operable operable for for collimating collimating light light within Within the the 180 180 range range portion. The The handle portion. handle portion is held by an an operator operator and and the the into into a a beam beam which Which does does not not diverge diverge significantly signi?cantly from from an an barrel portion is directed directed toward toWard a a work Work surface, surface, such such as as aa acceptance angle angle of of an an optical optical fiber ?ber light light guide. guide. In Inthat thatway, Way, tooth. A portable power tooth. poWer supply supply may may be be utilized utiliZed within Within the the light light is is efficiently e?iciently directed directed through through the light light guide guide and and housing housing such such that that the the instrument instrumentis isaa hand-held hand-heldinstrument instrument 25 25 housing housing to to the distal distal end end of ofthe thehousing housingwhereupon Whereuponititisis which is completely Which completely portable. portable. In In one one embodiment embodiment of of the the emitted onto a a work Work surface, surface, such such as as aatooth. tooth.Preferably, Preferably, the the invention, the array array of of light-emitting light-emitting elements elements is is positioned positioned array array is is mounted mounted onto onto the distal distal end end of of the the housing housing for for on the distal end of of the barrel barrel portion of of the the housing housing which Which directly delivering light to the the work Work surface. surface. In In that thatway, Way, an an is is placed within Within the mouth of of a a patient patient so so that that the the light lightis is optical optical fiber ?ber light guide, guide, which Which has has multiple multiple lossy lossy air/glass air/glass delivered directly to to a work delivered directly Work surface, surface, such such as as a a tooth. tooth. In Inan an 30 interfaces, interfaces, may be eliminated eliminated for for efficient e?icient transmission transmission of of alternative embodiment, the array array of of elements elements may may be be posiposi light. light. tioned in the housing housing such such that that the the generated generated light light must mustbe be One embodiment embodiment of the invention invention utilizes utilizes a a single single nonnon transmitted to the transmitted the distal distal end, end, such suchas as by byan anoptical opticalfiber ?berlight light imaging imaging optical optical focusing device device for for the the array array of ofelements. elements. guide. Alternatively, the elements might might range range in in sub-groups sub-groups on on the the In accordance with With one aspect aspect of of the the present present invention, invention, an an 35 array array and and multiple, multiple, non-imaging non-imaging optical optical devices devices may may be be optical optical focusing focusing device is positioned positioned to to intercept intercept the the light light utilized. utiliZed. emitted by the emitted by the array array of ofelements. elements. The Theoptical opticalfocusing focusing device is a non-imaging optical device BRIEF DESCRIPTION DESCRIPTION OF OF THE THE DRAWINGS DRAWINGS device which Which is is operable operable for for collimating the light light from from the the array array into into a a beam collimating the beam to to be be directed The accompanying directed on to a a compound compound for for curing curing the the compound. compound. The The 40 accompanying drawings, draWings, which Which are are incorporated incorporated in in and constitute a a part part of ofthis this specification, speci?cation, illustrate illustrate embodiembodi non-imaging device device efficiently e?iciently collimates collimates and and transmits transmits the the light from the array ments of array to to a a work Worksurface surfacewithout Withoutinefficiencies ine?iciencies of the invention invention and, and, together together with With aa general general descripdescrip associated with tion With imaging imaging lenses lenses in in the the prior priorart. art. A Areflective re?ective tion of of the the invention invention given given below, beloW, serve serve to to explain explain the the element may be positioned principles of of the the invention. invention. positioned between betWeen the the array array and and the the optical optical focusing FIG. FIG. 1 1 is is aaside sideview vieWin inpartial partialcross-section cross-section of of one one focusing device for for further further efficiently e?iciently directing directing light light from from45 45 embodiment of of a a curing curing light light device device in in accordance accordance with Withthe the the array into into the the optical optical focusing focusing device device to to be becollimated collimated and delivered to a principles of a work Work surface. surface. of the the invention. invention. FIG. 2 is a side In accordance with With another another aspect aspect of ofthe thepresent presentinveninven side view, vieW, in in partial partial cross-section, cross-section, of ofaaportion portion of the embodiment embodiment of of the the invention invention illustrated illustrated in in FIG. FIG. 1. 1. tion, the array of of dies dies is is arranged arranged on on a a substrate substrate in inaadensity density FIG. which is operable for FIG. 2A is is a a side side view, vieW, in inpartial partialcross-section, cross-section, of of aa Which for emitting emitting a a power poWer density density of oflight light in in the the 50 portion of of another another embodiment embodiment of ofthe the invention. invention. range of 2 . Such range of 200-1400 200*1400 mW/cm mW/cm2. Such a a density density provides provides a a FIG. FIG. 2B 2B is a a top top view vieW of ofan an array array of ofdies dies in inaccordance accordance desirable curing poWer power to to the desirable curing the work Work surface surface for for aasuitable suitable with With one one embodiment embodiment of of the the invention. invention. cure. cure. For cooling such such an an array array and and the the substrate substrate on onwhich Which the elements FIG. 3 is a side the elements are are mounted, mounted, the the present present invention invention utilizes utiliZes side view, vieW, in in partial partial cross-section, cross-section, of ofaaportion portion conductive cooling Wherein wherein a heat tube containing another embodiment the invention. of another embodimentof of the invention. conductive cooling containing a a heatheat 55 55 of conductive liquid is thermally conductive liquid thermally coupled to the the substrate substrate for for FIG. 4 is a side side view, vieW, in in partial partial cross-section, cross-section, of ofaaportion portion conductively transferring heat heat generated generated by by the array conductively transferring array of of of of another another embodiment embodiment of ofthe the present presentinvention. invention. elements away aWay from from the substrate. substrate. In In one one embodiment embodimentof ofthe the invention, the heat sink DETAILED DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF OF THE THE sink is is thermally thermally coupled coupled to to the the substrate substrate and the heat tube is INVENTION is then then thermally thermally coupled coupled to to the the heat heatsink. sink. 60 In that way, Way, heat is is conductively conductively transferred transferred away aWay from from the the substrate substrate and elements. elements. A heat exchanger is is coupled coupled to to the the FIG. 1 illustrates one one embodiment embodiment of ofa a curing curing light lightdevice device other end of of the heat heat tube tube for for convectively convectively transferring transferring heat heat or curing curing light light for for curing curing light-curable light-curable compounds compounds such suchas as to the air, air, such such as as with With the the utilization utiliZation of of a a fan. fan. dental in accordance with the aspects dental compounds compounds in accordance With aspects of of the the present invention. invention. In In FIG. FIG. 1, 1, device device10 10 includes includesaahousing housing12 12 In another aspect aspect of of the the present present invention, invention, aadisposable disposable 65 present sleeve is utilized which sleeve is utiliZed over a portion portion of of the the housing housing during during the the Which is is to to be bemanipulated manipulated for for curing. curing. Housing Housing 12 12 is is curing generally gun-shaped and and includes includes a a handle handle portion portion 14 14 and and curing process. process. After each each curing curing process, process, the thedisposable disposable
31
US 7,066,733 7,066,733 B2 B2
a barrel The operator, proximal proximal end end 19 of the barrel barrel portion, portion, where Where it it is is further further barrel portion portion 16. The operator, such such as a a dentist, dentist, grips grips around the handle dissipated. housing 12 around handle portion portion 14 and directs directs the the dissipated. In the the embodiment embodiment of ofFIG. FIG. 1, a heat heat tube tube 38 is thermally barrel portion portion 16 in the direction direction of of the the tooth tooth surface surface (or (or thermally coupled coupled to to the the array array 32 and conductively conductively transfers transfers other Work work surface) heat generated generated by by the the array array to to a a heat heat exchanger exchanger 26, which Which is surface) and and compound compound to to be be cured cured (not (not shown). shoWn). For curing dental filling convectively cooled. cooled. An An appropriate appropriate fan fan 28 with With motor ?lling and and coating coating compounds, compounds, the thedentist dentist 5 then convectively would generally position 29 and blade 30 may be mounted Would position at at least least part part of ofthe the barrel barrel portion portion in in mounted within Within the the housing housing 12, as shown shoWn in FIG. FIG. 1 to assist assist convective convective cooling. cooling. the mouth of of a patient patient with With a a radiating radiating end end 17 of the barrel barrel portion pointing More portion pointing at a a particular particular tooth tooth or or teeth. teeth. The The handle handle More specifically, speci?cally, referring referring to FIG. FIG. 2, the illustrated illustrated embodiment embodiment of the present invention invention utilizes utiliZes a a plurality plurality of of portion 14 includes includes an operational operational trigger trigger switch sWitch 18 which Which is individuallight-emitting light-emittingdies dies 30 which Which are mounted mounted to form form is operably operably coupled coupled to a a power poWer supply supply 20 and/or control control 10 individual circuit 24 for selectively operating the device a collective array device and and supplying supplying array 32 on a substrate substrate 34. The dies 30 are small, power to bare semiconductor semiconductor junctions and and are are constructed constructed using using aa poWer to light-emitting light-emitting elements elements 32 to to generate generate a a curing curing light beam, as discussed light light generating generating semiconductor semiconductor material. material. The The dies dies 30 are discussed further further below. beloW. The The power poWer supply supply 20 is preferably is shown shoWn located located in in handle handle portion portion 14, but but might also be be preferably not separately separately or or individually individually packaged packaged or or othoth 15 erwise located elsewhere erWise mounted with With individual individual integral integral lenses lenses as as are are concon elseWhere in in the the housing. housing. ventional ventional light-emitting light-emitting diodes diodes or or LEDs. LEDs.Conventional Conventional In one embodiment of of the invention, invention, the power poWer supply supply is is LEDs LEDs used used in the the prior prior art arthave haveintegral integraland andindividual individual portable and incorporates batteries batteries 22. The batteries could could be any packages, packages, usually usually including including a a reflector re?ector and and an anintegrally integrally any suitable suitable type (e.g. (eg lithium lithium batteries), batteries), and and may may be be disdis posable or rechargeable. formed individual lens. The dies of individual lens. of the the invention invention might might be be posable rechargeable. To To that that end, end, housing housing 12 may include 2020 used with additional components, such as aa clear protective used With additional components, such as clear protective include a port port 23 for coupling coupling an anexternal externalcharger charger(not (not shown) to the coating 40, which Which is applied applied over over the the dies dies on on substrate substrate 34, or shoWn) to the power poWer supply supply 20 to charge charge rechargeable rechargeable other added components. batteries 22. Alternatively, an an external external power poWersupply, supply, such suchas as components. However, HoWever, the the dies dies as as mounted mounted are are one by an AC outlet, essentially bare semiconductor semiconductor junctions, junctions, without Without prepackprepack one powered poWered by outlet, may may be be coupled coupled to to power poWer supply 20 to provide the power aged aged individual individual and integral integral reflectors re?ectors and lenses, lenses, as as are are poWer necessary necessary to to operate operate device device 25 found found in in conventional conventional LEDs. LEDs. 10. 25 A control circuit As noted circuit 24 is mounted within Within housing 12 and is noted above, above, the the dies dies 30 are not individually individually lensed, lensed, as as operably coupled to the power are conventional poWer supply supply 20, trigger switch sWitch 18 conventional LEDs. LEDs. However, HoWever, they they might might be be covered covered and the other components with With a a clear clear protective protective layer layer or orcoating coating 40 of plastic plastic to to components of ofdevice device 10, such as array 32, for operating improve the durability operating and controlling controlling the the components. components. Control Control circuit circuit durability of of the the array array 32. 24, for for example, The substrate substrate 34 is is an an electrically electrically insulated insulated substrate substrate example, may may include include various various electrical electrical circuit circuit 30 components mounted on on a circuit which Which has heat conductive properties. In In one one embodiment embodiment of of components mounted circuit board and and arranged arranged in in a a way determined by a person of the invention, substrate Way of ordinary ordinary skill skill in in the the art art for for substrate 34 may be a a sapphire sapphire substrate substrate or or a a providing the desired diamond diamond which Which has has electrically electrically insulative insulative properties, properties, but but providing desired power poWer and and control control of ofdevice device 10. For example, the control which control circuit circuit 24 will Will usually include include convenconven Which also conducts conducts heat heat away aWayfrom fromthe thedie diearray array 32. For the tional control circuits for for a curing of uniform uniform light light generation generation within Within aabeam beamhaving having tional control circuits curing light light device, device, such such as as a a 35 purposes of timer, for a generally timer, for timing timing the the operational operational radiation radiation cycle cycle for for the the generally circular circular cross-section, cross-section, the dies dies of ofarray array 30 are device when preferably arranged When the trigger trigger switch sWitch is is engaged. engaged. A A microprocessor microprocessor arranged in in a a circular circularpattern. pattern. U.S. U.S.patent patentappliappli may also be cation Ser. be utilized utiliZed for for such such control, control, rather ratherthan thandiscrete discrete Ser. No. 09/009,205, 09/009,205, illustrates illustrates several several circular circular patpat components. terns terns of of dies dies and and light light generating generating elements elements suitable suitable for for an an components. It will Will be be readily readily understood understood that that the the control control circuit of the the present present invention. invention. circuit may may be be configured con?gured in in various various different different ways Ways to to 40 embodiment of properly operate curing The substrate substrate 34 is bonded to a heat sink sink 36, formed of of a a properly curing light light 10. In one one embodiment, embodiment, the the microprocessor control control Will will regulate regulate the the lamp suitable thermally conductive microprocessor lamp voltage voltage to to conductive material, material, such suchas ascopper. copper.Heat Heat sink 36 is then welded Welded or soldered soldered to one one end end of ofa a liquidliquid produce a constant output. output. In In other other embodiments, embodiments, the themicromicro processor control might be utilized filled ?lled heat tube or pipe 38 for conductively transferring transferring heat heat utiliZed to to ramp ramp the the power poWer up up or or down 45 generated by the doWn in a a selected selected fashion fashion for for proper propercuring. curing. generated by the dies dies 30 away aWay from from the the heat heat sink sink 36, Barrel portion 16 is appropriately appropriately formed substrate 34 and array array 32. A heat heat conductive conductive liquid liquid 39 formed and and may may include include an angled distal or contacts the back side side of of heat heat sink sink 36, opposite substrate substrate 34 or radiating radiating end end 17 to direct a a curing curing light light and array 32 (see FIG. 2), and thermally pulls beam 21 out of of the housing and and onto onto a a tooth tooth surface surface or orother other pulls heat heat from from the the work surface. It will sink. Work Will be be understood understood by by a a person personof ofordinary ordinary sink. Therefore, Therefore, the die die array arrayisiseffectively effectivelyconductively conductively skill 50 cooled cooledusing usingthe theheat heat tube tube 38 and the intermediate intermediate elements elements skill in the art art that that the the shape shape of ofhousing housing 12 may may also also vary. vary. so Barrel portion 16 is shown 34, 36. Heat tube 38, which Which includes a a heat conductive conductive liquid liquid shoWn as solid solid in in the the Figures; Figures; however, hoWever, it might also 39 therein, also be be vented vented for for heat heat dissipation dissipation purposes. purposes. FurFur therein, such such as as saline, saline, is is commercially commercially available available from from Aavid Thermal Thermal Technologies. Technologies. thermore, the barrel barrel portion portion 16 might be separate separate from from the the One particularly unique aspect rest of of the housing and removably removably secured secured to to the the housing housing by by aspect of of the the present present invention invention is is any suitable method as as is is knoWn known in in the the art. art. For For example, example,the the 55 55 that thatthe thearray array 32 is conductively cooled cooled to to provide provide adequate adequate heat transfer transfer from from the thelight-generating light-generating dies dies 30. Prior art art barrel portion 16 might be screw-mounted screW-mounted to the housing housing 12. Still structures have traditionally relied relied upon upon convective convective cooling cooling Still further, further, the power poWer supply supply might might be be positioned positioned in in line line with the barrel in which With barrel portion portion to to reduce reduce or oreliminate eliminate the thehandle handle Which a a heat heat sink sink and andother otherheat heatdissipating dissipating devices devices portion and and thereby the design, design, such as for thermally coupled portion thereby streamline streamline the such as for a a coupled to to the the light-generating light-generatingelements elementsare areconcon small, air cooled, such as as by small, pocket curing light. light. The The housing housing 12 is formed of a a 60 vectively vectively air cooled, such by aa fan. fan.One Oneparticular particular suitable light-weight problem with prior art devices problem With devices has been been the the dissipation dissipation of of light-Weight plastic material material such such as as polysulphone. polysulphone. heat which FIG. 1 illustrates illustrates one embodiment embodiment of of the the present present inveninven Which is is generated generated by by the theLEDs LEDsor orother otherlight-generlight-gener ating elements utilized tion in which Which a a beam beam of of radiation radiation or or light light 21 utilized utiliZed for for utiliZed therein. therein. In In the the present present invention, invention, the the curing purposes is generated heat tube tube 38 rapidly rapidly conductively conductively draws draWs heat heat away aWay from from generated by by an an array array 32 of light-emitting elements elements positioned positioned proximate proximate the radiating radiating end end 17 of the 65 array 32 and dies dies 30 for improved improved cooling cooling characteristics. characteristics. This allows alloWs a a sufficient sufficient amount of of curing curing light light power poWer to to be be barrel portion portion 16. Heat generated by by the the array array 32 is transtrans generated mitted from the the radiating radiating end end 17, or distal distal end, end, back to a a generated for for proper proper curing curing while While maintaining maintaining an an array array
32
US 7,066,733 7,066,733 B2 B2
9
which does not Which not overheat. overheat. The The present present invention invention therefore therefore
10
formed formed of of a a transparent transparent polycarbonate polycarbonate material. material. As As illusillus trated, structure structure 43 is appropriately appropriately formed formed to to receive receive the the input input end end 45 of lens lens 44 to to position position the the lens lens in in coaxial coaxial alignment with With the the array array 32 and surface surface 42 about axis axis 51. 5 Each of of the the lens lens and and surface surface 42 preferably have have generally generally cross sections sections for forefficient e?icient transfer transferof ofthe the circular transverse cross light along axis axis 51. One suitable combination combination of ofa a reflective re?ective surface surface and optical optical focusing focusing device, device, which Which are areoperably operably coupled together, is is available available from from Teledyne, Teledyne, of ofHawthorne, HaWthome, 10 Calif. embodiment of the the invention invention illustrated illustrated in in FIG. FIG. 2 The embodiment shows shoWs a single single non-imaging non-imaging optical optical focusing focusing device device 44 for the array 32 of of dies. In accordance accordance with With another anotheraspect aspectof ofthe the present invention, it it is is anticipated anticipated that that multiple multiple non-imaging non-imaging 15 optical optical focusing focusing devices devices might might be be utilized. utiliZed. For For example, example, referring referring to FIG. FIG. 2A, 2A, substrate substrate 34a 3411 may include include multiple multiple groups of ofdies, dies, 30a, 30b, which Which are arranged arranged on on the the substrate substrate 34a to operate operate as as separate separate groups groups of oflight-generating light-generating eleele ments. To that end, a non-imaging optical focusing device ments. To end, a non-imaging optical focusing device 20 44a 4411 may be associated associated with With one one group group of ofdies dies 34a, 3411, while While another non-imaging non-imaging optical optical focusing focusing device device 44b may be be associated associated with With dies dies 30b of the the other other group. group. Of Ofcourse, course, greater greater numbers numbers of of non-imaging non-imaging optical optical focusing focusing devices devices may be utilized utiliZed for for other other discrete discrete groups groups of ofdies. dies. Generally, Generally, 25 however, there Will will be a hoWever, there a substantially substantially smaller smaller number number of of non-imaging optical focusing non-imaging optical focusing devices devices than there there are are indiindi vidual vidual dies. dies. That That is, is, in in the theembodiments embodiments of ofthe theinvention invention illustrated in FIGS. FIGS. 2 and and 2A, 2A, a a single single non-imaging non-imaging optical optical focusing device will Will serve serve a a multiple multiple number number of ofindividual individual 30 light-emitting dies. dies. The The multiple multiple focusing focusing devices devices will Will coopcoop erate to transmit transmit light light along along axis axis 51. In accordance accordance with With another another aspect aspect of ofthe thepresent presentinveninven tion, the barrel barrel portion portion 16 of of the device device 10, particularly the 35 or radiating radiating end end 17 of the barrel barrel portion, portion, is is inserted inserted 35 distal or into the mouth mouth of of the the patient patient for forcuring curingcompound compoundtherein. therein. Accordingly, beforeuse use With with the the next Accordingly, before next patient, patient, it will Will be be appreciated appreciated that that the the device device would Would have have to to be be sterilized. sterilized. Prior Prior art devices devices must must be be sterilized, steriliZed, such such as as by byautoclaving, autoclaving, as as 40 above, which Which further further complicates complicates and anddelays delaysthe the 40 mentioned above, curing procedure. The present present invention invention provides provides aa unique unique construction which eliminates construction Which eliminates the requirement requirement of of aasterilsteril ization iZation process and and thereby thereby makes makes the the curing curingprocess processsimsim pler, quicker, and and more more cost-effective. cost-effective. 45 To To that end, end, the the invention invention utilizes utiliZes aa removable removable sleeve sleeve which Which may may be be separately separatelyautoclaved. autoclaved.Alternatively, Alternatively,as asmenmen tioned, tioned, the sleeve sleeve may may be be disposable disposable to to be bediscarded discarded after after one use. Specifically, Speci?cally, in the the embodiment embodiment of of the the invention invention illustrated in in FIGS. FIGS. 1 and 2, 2, the the ring ring structure structure 43 forming so 50 reflective re?ective surface surface 42 and the adjacent adjacent non-imaging non-imaging lens lens 44 are mounted and and secured secured within Within a a disposable disposable sleeve sleeve 50. The sleeve 50 is made made of of a a suitable suitable disposable disposable plastic, plastic, such such as as PVC, and the sleeve sleeve is is configured con?gured for being positioned positioned over over at least a a section section of ofthe the barrel barrel portion portion 16 of the device device 10. 55 55 Preferably, Preferably, the the sleeve sleeve is is configured con?gured to to extend extendover overaasignifisigni? cant section section of of the barrel portion portion 16, and at least over over the the part part of of the barrel barrel portion portion 16 exposed to the mouth mouth of ofaapatient. patient. In the embodiment illustrated in in FIG. FIG. 2, 2, the the PVC PVC sleeve sleeve 50 is configured positioned over con?gured to be positioned over the the heat heat tube tube 38 and array 60 32. The sleeve sleeve 50 is configured con?gured to position position the the lens lens 44 and reflective re?ective surface surface coaxially coaxially with With the the array array 32. In one embodiembodi ment ment of the the invention, invention, once once the the device device has has been been used used for for curing, curing, the PVC PVC sleeve sleeve 50, ring structure structure 43, and nonnon imaging lens lens 44, may then be be removed removed from from the the heat heat tube tube 65 and and away aWay from from the the array array 32 of light-emitting light-emitting dies. dies. The The sleeve, including the lens and and reflective re?ective structure structure 43 are then discarded with With the the sleeve sleeve 50. Alternatively, Alternatively, the sleeve sleeve and and
provides improved heat transfer transfer and and dissipation dissipation capabilities capabilities
with respect to the With the prior prior art. art. Referring again again to FIG. Referring FIG. 1 and and the embodiment embodiment of the the invention which Which utilizes the the array array 32 located at the distal, or or radiating end the opposite, radiating end 17 of barrel barrel portion portion 16, the opposite, or or proximal, end of proximal, of the heat tube tube 38 is thermally coupled to a a which is then convectively cooled heat exchanger 36, Which cooled by fan fan 28. The heat exchanger, exchanger, which Which may be be soldered soldered to to the theheat heat tube 38, has has fins, ?ns, as as shown, shoWn, over over which Which air air is isdirected. directed. Therefore, Therefore, the die die array array 32 is conductively conductively cooled by the the heat tube tube 38 and a liquid liquid therein, therein, and and the the heat heat tube tube is is then then convectively cooled at the opposite opposite end end by by air, air, such suchas asby byaa fan. For directing and collimating collimating the beam beam 21 generated by array 32, the embodiment embodiment of of the the invention invention illustrated illustratedin inFIG. FIG. 2 utiliZes utilizes a a reflective re?ective surface surface 42, and an an optical optical focusing focusing device 44 to collimate light from the array array 32 into a beam to be directed directed into into the the mouth mouth of of the the patient patient for forcuring curingcomcom
pound therein or or to to be be directed directed to to some someother otherwork Worksurface. surface.
As shown, shoWn, the the array array 32, reflective re?ective surface surface 42 and optical optical focusing device 44 are all positioned at the distal distal end end of ofthe the barrel portion. Thereby, the light is directly directly radiated radiated onto onto the the work surface and Work and compound. compound. Therefore, Therefore, the the embodiment embodiment of of FIGS. 1 and 2 eliminates eliminates various air-to-object air-to-object interfaces interfaces which tend to be Which be lossy. lossy. As such, such, the the present present invention invention more more efficiently power from the light generating e?iciently delivers poWer generating elements elements to the work Work surface. Generally, Generally, the radiating radiating or or distal distal end end 17 will be positioned Will positioned in the mouth of of the the patient patient to to radiate radiate a a
beam of light beam light directly directly onto onto a a work Work surface surface with With a a lightlight curable compound. Prior art art devices devices using using light light transmitting transmitting devices with With multiple multiple lossy lossy interfaces interfaces often oftenhave havedifficulty di?iculty in in generating generating sufficient su?icient light power poWer densities densities for for curing. curing. The The present invention invention addresses addresses this this issue issue by by eliminating eliminatingvarious various lossy interfaces. interfaces. To focus focus the light from To from array array 32, the curing light light device device 10 uses a reflective re?ective surface surface or or reflector re?ector 42 which Which encircles encircles the array as shown shoWn in in FIG. FIG. 2. In the illustrated embodiment, embodiment, the reflective re?ective surface surface 42 is is formed formed by by an anappropriately appropriately shaped shaped plastic plastic ring ring structure structure 43, which Which circumferentially circumferentially surrounds the outer outer edge edge of ofarray array 32 defined de?ned by substrate 34. Reflective Re?ective surface surface 42 is is generally parabolic in shape shape and and is is formed by coating the surface surface 42 of plastic structure 43 with With a reflective efficient re?ective coating coating for for the the purpose purposeof of e?icientreflection. re?ection.A A mylar coating, from 3M, mylar coating, available available from 3M, has has proven proven to to have have suitable properties for for that that purpose suitable properties purpose and and has has an an approxiapproxi mately 99% for the mately 99% reflective re?ective efficiency e?iciency for the purposes purposes of ofthe the present embodiment embodiment of ofthe the invention inventionillustrated illustratedin inFIG. FIG. 2. As shown forms the shoWn in FIG. FIG. 2, the plastic plastic ring ring structure structure 43 forms the generally parabolic reflective re?ective surface surface 42 around array 32 for directing directing the light away aWay from from the the dies dies 30 and into an input input end 45 of the optical optical focusing focusing device device 44. The optical The optical focusing focusing device, device, in in accordance accordance with With one one embodiment of of the invention, invention, is is a a non-imaging non-imaging device. device. One One suitable non-imaging optical optical focusing focusing device device is is a suitable non-imaging a nonnon imaging lens lens 44 having a generally truncated truncated conical conical shape, shape, as illustrated in in FIG. FIG. 2. Anon-imaging A non-imaging lens, lens, such such as as lens lens 44, receives the light light from from array array 32 at an input end 45 and directs and concentrates the light light from from array array 32 into a focused beam at the output end However, end 47 of the non-imaging lens lens 44. HoWever, the non-imaging lens does does not not form form an an optical optical image, image, which Which is inefficient. non-imaging optical focusing device ine?icient. A non-imaging device as as used used in the present invention invention efficiently e?iciently collimates collimates light light so so that that aa desirable light power poWer density density is is achieved achieved at at the the work Worksurface, surface, such as a surface of of a tooth. The light power poWer density density from from the the array 32 is not reduced by the formation of of an image as as with With traditional optical lenses. One One suitable, suitable, non-imaging non-imaging lens lens is is
33
US 7,066,733 7,066,733 B2 B2
11
12
lens shown), lens and and reflective re?ective structure structure could could be be removed removed and andautoauto shoWn), which Which are are electrically electrically coupled coupledto toaacontrol controlcircuit circuit 24 claved and then placed and/or power placed back back in in position. position. poWer supply supply 20. The die substrate substrate is is preferably preferably is is circular, having a diameter circular, having diameter of ofapproximately approximately 0.19 0.19 inches inches In an alternative alternative embodiment, embodiment, only the the sleeve sleeve might might be be disposable. The lens 44 and ring structure would (approximately 4.8 Would then then remain remain 4.8 millimeters). millimeters). with the array 32 or could be separately A suitable suitable number of of dies dies are are positioned positionedon onsubstrate substrate 34 With separately positioned positioned with With the the 5 array apart from to generate the the desired desired light light and and power poWerdensity densityat atthe theoutput output from sleeve sleeve 50. In such a case, case, only only the the sleeve sleeve Would discarded or or autoclaved. autoclaved. would be discarded surface 49 of the the non-imaging non-imaging optical optical focusing focusing device device 44. Generally, The device and the the component component parts, parts, including including the the heat heat Generally, in one embodiment of the invention, 30-60 30*60 dies dies are are suitable suitable for for generating generating desirable desirable curing curing light light power poWer tube 38, heat sink 36, substrate 34, and dies 32, are not been directly exposed to to a patient patient because because they they are are covered covered by bythe the 10 densities. or lesser number of dies may densities.Of Ofcourse, course,aagreater greater or lesser number of dies may sleeve. In the embodiment embodiment where Where the the lens lens and andstructure structure 43 utiliZed in in other other embodiments embodiments of ofthe theinvention. invention. sleeve. be utilized are separate from the sleeve, Because of of the unique unique cooling cooling arrangement arrangement of ofthe the present present sleeve, those those parts parts will Will be be isolated isolated as as well. Therefore, the isolated invention utilizing conductive cooling, the the reduction invention utiliZing conductive cooling, reduction of of Well. isolated or or covered covered components components do do not not lossy interfaces and have to be sterilized steriliZed or or autoclaved autoclaved as as required required with With prior prior art art and the the overall overall configuration con?gurationof ofthe theembodiembodi devices and methods. Thereafter, a a neW new sleeve, ment of ofthe theinvention invention disclosed disclosed herein, herein, the the dies dies may maybe be devices and methods. Thereafter, sleeve, possibly possibly 15 ment including driven at a a sufficient su?icient power poWer level level to to yield yield the the desired desiredlight light including a new neW reflective re?ective structure structure 43 and and lens lens 44, is inserted power inserted onto onto the heat heat tube tube 38 and barrel barrel portion portion 16 and poWer output output or or light light density, density, in in the the range rangeof ofapproximately approximately aligned 200-1400 200*1400 mW/cm2 mW/cm2.. Generally, the dies may may be be driven drivenby by12 12 aligned with With the the array array of ofdies dies 32 for the next use. The present present in series series sets sets of of 3 3 dies. dies. invention therefore reduces the possibility volts DC in possibility of ofcontamination contamination between dental For example, could be be a 34 betWeen dental patients patients and and further further enhances enhances the the curing curing 20 example, one one embodiment embodiment could 34 die die lamp lamp which method by eliminating eliminating the the sterilization steriliZation process. process. As As aaresult, result, Which may be be operated operated at at 8.13 8.13 Watts Watts (8.7 (8.7 V V and and0.935 0.935 A). A). Such a design design proved proved efficient e?icient and and performed performedaasuitable suitablejob job the curing curing process process is is simpler simpler and andmore moreefficient e?icient because because aa sterilization step is not of of curing. Another embodiment might use 60 60 die die or or a a higher higher sterilization step not necessary necessary between betWeen patients. patients. The The power process is also more more cost cost effective effective as as autoclaving autoclavingequipment equipment poWer output output (e.g., (e.g., a a 67% 67% increase increase in inpower). poWer). does In one embodiment does not have to to be be purchased purchased and and operated operated to to sterilize steriliZethe the 25 embodiment of ofthe the invention, invention, series series groups groups of ofthree three curing dies are connected connected in in series series to to a a 12 12 Volt Volt DC DC source source through through curing light. light. The present a current-limiting resistor. To To that that end, The present invention invention as illustrated illustrated in in FIG. FIG. 2 also current-limiting resistor. end, each each die die is is then then improves upon the the prior art driven improves upon art by by delivering delivering a a beam beam of oflight light driven with With approximately approximately 4 volts volts DC. DC. Furthermore, Furthermore, by by from utilizing from a source source close close to to the the work Work surface surface (e.g., (e.g., aatooth). tooth). utiliZing a a 12 12 Volt Volt source, the fan fan may may also also be be driven drivenby bythat that Specifically, the distal distal or radiating Speci?cally, the radiating end end 17 of the the barrel barrel 30 DC source. source. It It may may be be readily readily understood understoodthat thatother otherarrangearrange ments portion 16 is is positioned positioned at or or proximate proximate a a tooth tooth surface surface ments of dies dies may may be be utilized, utiliZed, driven driven by bysources sources having having containing various different containing the curable curable compound. compound. With With the the light light delivered delivered different power poWer or or voltage voltage output outputlevels. levels. directly Preferably, the dies directly from the array array 32 to the surface surface through through only only the the dies 30 are positioned in in the the array array 32 in a sufficient densityto to provide provide a a curing su?icient density curing light light which Which has has aa non-imaging lens 44, numerous lossy air/glass air/glass interfaces interfaces are are eliminated between betWeen the die die array array 32 and the output output surface surface 35 suitable light power poWer output output for for proper propercuring, curing, but butwhich Whichdoes does 49 of the device the light not overheat tissues surrounding device 10. Conventionally, Conventionally, the light generating generating surrounding the the work Worksurface, surface, such suchas asaa elements have been positioned tooth. The inventive lamp lamp will Will provide provide less less heat heat to to the the tissue tissue positioned away aWay from from the the work Worksurface surface and inside the housing such than a halogen halogen lamp. lamp. For For example, example, an an embodiment embodimentwith With 34 such that that a a fiber ?ber optic optic light light guide guide was Was die as described described above above yielded yielded a a radiometer radiometer reading reading of of200 200 necessary to transmit the the light light to to the thework Worksurface. surface.FurtherFurther more, with mW/cm2, while While a comparable comparable cure cure with With a a 52 52 Watt Watt halogen halogen more, With such light guides, guides, it is is often often necessary necessary to to use use a a 40 mW/cm2, converging optical lens lens before before the light lamp yielded readings around 2 . Because of around 600 600 mW/cm mW/cm2. of the the converging optical light guide guide so so that that the the generated light may be efficiently much lower loWer radiometer radiometer readings, readings, tissue tissue damage damage should shouldnot not e?iciently focused into the input input end end of the be be as as significant signi?cant an an issue issue with With the the invention invention as as with With a a the light light guide. guide. Light Light guides guides and andconverging converging lenses lenses present lossy to the light halogen light. present lossy air/glass air/glass interfaces interfaces to light beam. beam. It It has has light. With current dental applications, it it is is desirable desirable to to utilize utiliZe been estimated estimated that that air/glass air/glass interfaces interfaces may may produce produce light light 45 power losses in the a die die array array 32 which Which generates generates blue light light in in a a wavelength Wavelength poWer the range range of ofapproximately approximately 10% 10% per per interinter face. range of face. By eliminating eliminating the the interfaces interfaces between betWeenthe thedies dies 30 and of approximately approximately 130 130 nanometers nanometers to to 470 470nanometers nanometers the tooth surface, because current current compounds compounds are are sensitive sensitive to to blue blue light. light. While While surface, the present present invention invention light light transmits transmits light light in an efficient, such blue light is suitable for for current current dental dental applications, applications, the the e?icient, collimated form with With less less of ofthe the power poWer loss loss at the various that are are required required in in the the prior prior art. art. so light wave50 present various interfaces interfaces that present invention invention is is not notlimited limitedto toonly onlyblue blue light Wave Therefore, the lengths the present present invention inventionprovides providesefficient e?icienttransmistransmis lengths for curing curing purposes. purposes. Rather, Rather, the the present presentinvention invention sion may be utiliZed utilized with sion of a collimated collimated light light beam beam to to the the work Work surface surface of ofthe the With compounds that may cure utilizing utiliZing light light at other tooth and and curable curable compound compound thereon. thereon. With With more moreefficient e?icient other various various wavelengths. Wavelengths. Furthermore, the non-imaging optical transfer of of light, light, a a smaller smaller number number of ofdies dies 30 in the array 32 optical focusing focusing device device 44 be sized appropriately the 55 may may be used while While still still providing a a sufficient sufficient light intensity 55 may be siZed appropriatelydepending dependingupon upon theapplication. application. or light power For example, a a lens lens having having an an 88millimeter millimetercross-sectional cross-sectional poWer density density at at the the output output surface surface 49 of the lens. lens. In that Way, way, the invention may provide diameter at the output output surface surface 49 may be utilized utiliZed for for small small provide suitable suitable curing curing power poWer levels in a generally compact curing applications, whereas Whereas a a lens lens having having a a cross-sectional cross-sectional compact and and easily easily manipulated manipulated device. device. Furthermore, with less less loss loss at diameter diameter of of 11 11 millimeters millimeters at at surface surface 49 might be utilized utiliZed for for Furthermore, With at the the interface, interface, less less heat heat is is generated, 60 larger curing applications. generated, further improving on the the prior prior art. art. applications. As As may may be be appreciated, appreciated, to to ensure ensure efficient transfer of of curing curing light light to the e?icient transfer the work Work surface, surface, it it is is In the preferred embodiment embodiment of ofthe the invention, invention, the thedies dies 30 are desirable that a majority, if are positioned positioned in the the array array 32 with With a a density density sufficient su?icient to to if not all, all, of of the the light light generated generated by by provide a light the into and and out the dies dies of of array array 32 is is transmitted transmitted into out of of the the provide light power poWer output output density density at at the the desired desiredwaveWave length in the range of approximately 200-1400 2 . In non-imaging 200*1400 mW/cm mW/cm2. non-imaging optical optical focusing focusing device device 44. To To that end, end, the the one re?ective surface surface 32 is shaped and and configured con?gured in in diameter diameter to to one embodiment embodiment of the invention, invention, the dies dies are are generally generally 65 reflective square in shape, ensure that the light light beam beam is is collected collected and and reflected re?ected into into the the shape, and are 0.010 inches inches per side. side. The The dies dies are are spot input input end end 45 of the the optical optical focusing focusing device device 44. In the the spot welded Welded to the the substrate substrate and and specifically speci?cally to to leads leads (not (not
34
US 7,066,733 7,066,733 B2 B2 13
illustrated embodiment, embodiment, the output output end end 51 of the reflective re?ective surface Which which interfaces with With the input input end end 45 of the optical focusing device is smaller in diameter diameter than than the input input end end 45. In that way, Way, the the light light reflected re?ected by by surface surface 42 is captured by the optical optical focusing focusing device device 44. The The non-imaging non-imaging optical optical focusing device device 44 is not restricted by a a focal focal length, length, since since it it is is aanon-imaging non-imaging device. device. In In that that way, Way, the the device device 44 captures captures and collimates collimates the the light light beam beamfor forefficient e?icienttranstrans mission to to a work mission Work surface, surface, such such as as a a tooth. tooth. Therefore, Therefore, the the present invention is is not not particularly particularly sensitive sensitive to to the thedistance distance which the is maintained Which the output output end end 49 is maintained from from the the tooth tooth surface. surface. Of course, course, it it is is generally generally desirable desirable to to position positionthe the output end end 49 as close to the the tooth tooth surface surface as as possible possible for for efficient e?icient curing. In accordance accordance with With another another aspect aspect of ofthe the invention, invention, the the dies 30 might be evenly arranged arranged on on substrate substrate 34 to form a a generally circular array, array, as as illustrated generally circular illustrated in several several of ofthe the embodiments embodiments disclosed in U.S. US. patent patent application application Ser. Ser. No. No. 09/009,205, and as illustrated 09/009,205, and illustrated in in FIG. FIG. 2B. The dies might might also be mounted in various groupings, groupings, such such as as subgroups subgroups of of four or some other number, and and then then such such subgroups subgroups would Would be mounted on the substrate. substrate. That That is, is, sub sub groups groups of ofmultiple multiple dies could be individually mounted and and electrically electrically coupled coupled together, and subsequently the subgroups subgroups could could be be mounted mounted on the substrate with With other other subgroups. subgroups. As As such, such, the the invention invention would not be limited Would limited to to individual individual mounting mounting of of all all of ofthe the dies. FIG. 3 illustrates illustrates another embodiment embodiment of of the the invention invention wherein the die Wherein die array array is is also also positioned positionedproximate proximatethe thedistal, distal, or radiating end end 17 of the barrel portion 16 of the housing. housing. In the the alternative alternative embodiment, embodiment, the the structure structure is issomewhat someWhat similar to the device 10 illustrated illustrated within Within FIGS. FIGS. 1, 2, and 2A, with a different construction at With at the distal distal or or radial radial end end 17, as illustrated the alternative illustrated in FIG. FIG. 3. Specifically, Speci?cally, the alternative embodiembodi ment utilizes ment utiliZes an array array of of dies dies 60 mounted mounted on a a substrate substrate layer 62. The substrate layer could be sapphire sapphire or or diamond diamond which has suitable Which suitable thermally conductive conductive properties properties for for heat heat dissipation while While remaining electrically electrically insulated. insulated. Substrate Substrate 62 is then bonded to a which may be made of a heat heat sink sink 64 Which of a suitable material, such such as as copper. copper. The The die die array array 60 and the assembly including the substrate 62 and heat sink 64 are then welded or soldered Welded soldered onto onto an an end end of ofaaliquid-filled liquid-?lled heat heat tube tube 66, which Which conductively conductively transfers transfers heat away aWay from from the the heat heat sink. sink. In that way, Way, the the alternative alternative embodiment embodiment of ofthe theinveninven tion utilizes utiliZes the advantages advantages provided provided by by the the above-discussed above-discussed embodiment, embodiment, due to the conductive conductive cooling cooling of of the the substrate substrate and die array. As illustrated illustrated in in FIG. FIG. 1, the opposite opposite end end of of the the which is heat tube 66 is coupled to the the heat heat exchanger exchanger 26 Which convectively cooled, such such as as by a convectively cooled, a fan fan 28. To focus light from the die To die array array 60 in an efficient e?icient manner into a collimated and focused light beam, the embodiment embodiment of of the invention utilizes a total the invention shown shoWn in in FIG. FIG. 3 utiliZes total internal internal reflection, or TIR lens. TIR lenses re?ection, lenses are are known knoWn (e.g., (e.g., U.S. US. Pat. Pat. No. 4,337,759) No. 4,337,759) and and are are commercially commercially available, available, such such as as from TIR Technologies, Technologies, a division of of Teledyne. Teledyne. TIR TIR lenses lenses are more efficient e?icient than typical Fresnel lenses, and and provide provide a a collimated beam of of light light generated generated by by the the die die array array 60. The TIR lens structure shown in FIG. structure 68, shoWn FIG. 3, utilizes utiliZes a series series of saw-tooth saW-tooth surfaces surfaces 69 for collimating light from from the array array 60 at various different different angles into into a a beam beam of oflight light 70 focused in a direction generally perpendicular perpendicular to to the the plane planeof ofthe thearray, array, as as illustrated illustrated by by reference reference numeral numeral 70. In that that way, Way, light light from from the array array may may be be efficiently e?iciently delivered delivered to to aacurable curable compound compound on a work Work surface. surface. Preferably, Preferably, the the TIR TIR lens lens is is aa non-imaging optical focusing device. device. The The lens lens 68 is approappro priately arranged to be priately arranged to be generally generally coaxially coaxially aligned aligned with With array 60 for efficient e?icient light transmission. transmission. In accordance accordance with With one aspect aspect of of the the present present invention, invention, the TIR lens lens 68 is formed formed of of a a suitable suitable polycarbonate. polycarbonate. As As
14
discussed above, above, lens lens 68 may be incorporated incorporated with With a a disdis posable sleeve sleeve 72 positioned around around the the heat heat pipe pipe 66. When an application application is is complete, complete, the the sleeve sleeve 72 and TIR TIR lens lens 69 may be removed removed and and discarded, discarded, thus thus eliminating eliminating the the need needto to further sterilize steriliZe or or autoclave autoclave the the device device 10. Alternatively, 5 further lens 68 may be separately separately positioned positioned with With respect respect to to sleeve sleeve 72 to be separately discarded discarded or or to to remain remain with With the the array array 60. The The embodiment embodiment illustrated illustrated in FIG. FIG. 3 further provides provides efficient e?icient delivery of of light light from from the the die die array array to to a a work Worksurface surface because because the die and and lens lens are are positioned positioned at at the the radiating radiating or or 10 distal end 17 of of the barrel portion portion to to be be directly directly adjacent adjacent to to the work Work surface. surface. In In that that way, Way, various air/glass air/glass interfaces interfaces are are eliminated to reduce eliminated to reduce power poWer losses losses associated associated with With such such interfaces, as as discussed discussed above. above. The array 60 of of LEDs might be arranged and dimensioned dimensioned 15 similarly similarlyas asdiscussed discussedabove abovewith Withrespect respectto tothe theembodiment embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2. 2. The The TIR TIR lens lens 68 will Will generally have have a a circular cross-sectional cross-sectional diameter diameter significantly signi?cantly greater greater than than the circular circular cross-sectional cross-sectional diameter diameterof ofthe thearray arrayin inorder orderfor for the lens lens to to capture capture light light which Which is is generated generated by by the thearray arrayat at 20 very small small angles with With respect respect to to the the plane plane of ofthe the array array 60. In the embodiment embodiment illustrated illustrated in in FIG. FIG. 3, a reflector re?ector is is not not utilized utiliZed between betWeen the the die die array array 60 and the lens 68. Therefore, the lens lens must must be be sized siZedappropriately appropriately to to capture capture low loWangle angle light, such as as that that illustrated illustrated by by reference reference line line 73. alternative embodiment embodiment of ofthe the inveninven FIG. 4 illustrates an alternative 25 tion tion in in which Which the the die die array arrayis ispositioned positionedmore morecentrally centrally within Within the housing housing and and spaced spaced rearwardly rearWardly from from the thebarrel barrel portion. a die assembly, portion. Specifically, Speci?cally, a assembly, similar similar to that that illusillus trated in FIG. FIG. 2, 2, is is mounted mounted in inthe thehousing housingproximate proximate the the end 19 of the the barrel barrel portion. portion. The The substrate substrate 34 1S is 30 proximal end then coupled directly directly to to the the heat heat exchanger exchanger 26, which Which may may be convectively cooled, such such as as by a convectively cooled, a fan fan 28. The barrel barrel portion 16, rather than housing housing a a heat heat tube, tube, houses houses aa light light pipe or or light light guide guide 76. Such light guides guides are are commercially commercially available and and come come in in a a variety varietyof ofdifferent differentsizes. siZes.Generally, Generally, 35 such light pipes are are formed formed of ofaaplurality pluralityof ofoptical opticalfibers ?bers (for example, example, approximately approximately 5,000 fibers ?bers which Which are are fused fused into into a single single light light pipe pipe structure). structure). The The beam beam of oflight light transtrans mitted into into the input input end end 77 located at the proximal proximal end end 19 of of the barrel portion portion 16, is transmitted through the light light pipe pipe 40 and 40 andis isdirected directedout outthe thetransmission transmission end end 78 of of the pipe at at the the distal end end 17 of the barrel barrel portion portion 16. The light pipe pipe may may maintain maintain uniform uniform diameter diameter from from the input input end end 77 to the the output output or or transmission transmission end end 78, or may may taper taper from from one one diameter to a a smaller smaller diameter diameter at at the the transmission transmission end end 78. 45 the light Preferably, the light pipe is bent bent to to follow folloW the the bent bent barrel barrel 45 Preferably, portion 16, illustrated in in FIG. FIG. 4, so that the beam of of light light is is directed downwardly, doWnWardly, such as as into into the the mouth mouth of ofthe thepatient. patient. Alternatively, the the light light pipe pipe itself itselfmay mayform formpart partof ofthe thebarrel barrel portion and may be attached attached to to the the housing housing 12, such as by by being screwed screWed into into the the housing. housing. 50 The non-imaging optical focusing focusing device, device, such such as as a a nonnon imaging optical optical lens lens 44, is used to focus focus the the light light into into the the light pipe. The input end end 77 of of the light pipe is is dimensioned dimensioned appropriately appropriately so so that that light light is is efficiently e?iciently delivered deliveredthrough throughthe the focusing device 44 to the light pipe 76. To that end, the device the light pipe To end, the 55 focusing device the light device 44 collimates collimates the light so that that it it does does not not diverge beyond the input input end end 77 of of the light light pipe. pipe. Generally, Generally, light pipes have a a defined de?ned angle angle of ofacceptance acceptance at their input input end end 77, such as 40. Light directed outside of of that acceptance acceptance angle is is not not captured captured by by the the light light pipe pipeand and 60 60 transferred to transferred tothe thework Worksurface. surface.The Thereflective re?ectivesurface surface 42 and non-imaging non-imaging optical optical focusing focusing device device 44 utilized utiliZed in the the embodiment in FIG. FIG. 4 are designed to generate generate a beam beam of of light which Which does not diverge diverge more more the the acceptance acceptance angle angle of of the light light pipe. pipe. In In that thatway, Way, energy energyis isefficiently efficiently translated translated 65 from the array which Which outputs outputs light light in in generally generallyaa180 180 angle. angle. Therefore, the present Therefore, the present invention invention utilizes utiliZes aanon-imaging non-imaging optical optical focusing device which Which collimates collimates light light from from a a 180 180
35
US 7,066,733 7,066,733 B2 B2 15
light output source to a column which Which does does not not diverge diverge more more than the acceptance angle of of the light light pipe to to which Which the the light light is input. input. In still still a a further further embodiment embodiment of of the the invention, invention, the the die die array and the TIR lens structure structure similar similar to to that that shown shoWn in in FIG. FIG. 3 3 might be utilized within Within the housing as shown shoWn in in FIG. FIG. 4. 4. To end, the die array 60, To that end, 60, substrate substrate 62, 62, and and heat heat sink sink 64 64 are coupled to the appropriate heat heat exchanger, exchanger, which Which is is then then convectively cooled, such as by a convectively cooled, a fan. fan. In In such suchan anembodiembodi ment, as well ment, Well as as in in the theembodiment embodiment illustrated illustrated in in FIG. FIG. 4, 4, device device 10 10 would Would generally generally have have to be be sterilized steriliZed or or autoauto claved claved after after each use. use. However, HoWever, since since the the die die array array and and optical optical focusing focusing devices devices are are positioned positioned inside inside the the handle handle portion of the housing, portion housing, they they would Would be be protected protected from from the the high temperatures associated associated with With such suchsterilization. sterilization. Alternatively, Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 4, a a disposable disposable sleeve sleeve 82 might be utilized utiliZed with With the the embodiment embodiment to to cover cover the the light light pipe. The disposable sleeve sleeve 82 82 may may be be discarded discarded with With each each use, thus use, thus effectively effectively eliminating eliminating the the required requiredautoclaving autoclaving step. While the present While present invention invention has has been been illustrated illustrated by by the the description of the description of the embodiments embodiments thereof, thereof, and and while While the the embodiments embodiments have been described described in in considerable considerable detail, detail, it it is not the intention of of the the applicant applicant to to restrict restrict or orin inany anyway Way limit limit the the scope scope of of the the appended appended claims claims to to such suchdetail. detail. Additional advantages and and modifications modi?cations will Will readily appear appear to those to those skilled skilled in in the the art. art. Therefore, Therefore, the the invention invention in in its its broader aspects aspects is not not limited limited to to the thespecific speci?cdetails detailsreprerepre sentative sentative apparatus apparatus and and method, method, and and illustrative illustrativeexamples examples shown shoWn and described. Accordingly, departures departures may maybe bemade made from such details without Without departure departure from from the the spirit spirit or or scope scope of applicant's applicants general general inventive inventive concept. concept.
16
exchange element thermally thermally coupled coupled to to the heat exchange element heat sink sink for for conductively transferring heat heat generated generated by by the array conductively transferring array of of elements. 7. The instrument of of claim 1 1 wherein Wherein said said housing housing comcom 5 prises a barrel portion portion having having a a proximal proximal end end spaced spacedfrom fromaa distal end of of the the barrel barrel portion, portion, the the distal distal end endbeing beingconfigcon?g ured ured to to be be placed placed in in the the mouth mouth of of a a patient, patient, the the array array of of light-emitting light-emitting elements elements being positioned positioned proximate proximate to to said said proximal proximal end, end, a a light light transmitting transmitting device device being being operably operably coupledto to said said array array for fortransmitting transmittingthe thelight lightbeam beamfrom fromthe the 10 coupled array to the the housing housing distal distal end. end. 8. The instrument of of claim claim 7 7 wherein Wherein said said light light transmittransmit ting ting device device comprises comprises a a plurality plurality of offiber ?beroptic opticelements elements operably coupled together together for for directing directing said saidbeam. beam. 15 instrument of of claim claim 7 7 wherein Wherein said said light light transmittransmit 9. The instrument ting device device has has an an acceptance acceptance angle, angle, said saidoptical optical focusing focusing device operable operable for generating generating a beam beam of of light light which Which does does not diverge diverge significantly signi?cantly from from said said acceptance acceptanceangle. angle. 10. The of claim The instrument instrument of claim 9 wherein Wherein said said array array of of 20 light-emitting light-emitting elements elements emits light in in the the range range of of0-180 0*l80o and said optical focusing focusing device device is is operable operable for for collimating collimating the light light into into a a beam beam which Whichdoes doesnot notdiverge divergesignificantly signi?cantly from said said acceptance acceptance angle. angle. 11. The The instrument instrument of claim claim 1 1 further further comprising comprising aa 25 2 5 portable portable power poWer supply supply positioned positioned within Within said said housing housing for for portable operation operation of of the the instrument. instrument. 12. The of claim The instrument instrument of claim 1 1 wherein Wherein said said array array of of elements has a density of of elements elements on on the the substrate substrate operable operable for collectively collectively emitting emitting a a power poWerdensity densityof oflight lightin inthe therange range 30 200 to to 1400 1400 mW/cm mW/cm2. of 200 2. 13. An instrument instrument for for curing curing light-curable light-curable dental dental comcom pounds, the the instrument instrument comprising: comprising: a light-emitting light-emitting element element having having a a plurality plurality of ofgenerally generally bare semiconductor semiconductor junctions junctions positioned positioned together together to to 35 form multiple light light emitting emitting surfaces surfaces on ona a substrate substrateand and operable operable for collectively collectively emitting emitting light light having having waveWave lengths lengths within Within a narrow narroW band band of ofwavelengths Wavelengths suitable suitable for curing curing dental dental compounds; compounds; 40 a generally clear clear protective protective layer layer simultaneously simultaneouslycovering covering the plurality of ofsemiconductor semiconductor junctions junctions for forprotecting protecting the junctions, the the light light generated generated by bythe thelight-emitting light-emitting element passing through through the the protective protective layer; layer; an optically optically reflective re?ective element element coupled coupled to to surround surround the the 45 light-emitting light-emitting element element and and protective protective layer layer and andoperoper able to capture the light light generated generated by by the the light-emitting light-emitting element and direct direct it it generally generallyforwardly. forWardly. 14. The instrument of of claim claim 13 13 further further comprising comprising a a light light transmitting device being being operably transmitting device operably coupled coupled to the the lightlight 50 emitting emitting element element for transmitting transmitting the light light emitted emitted by by the the element toward toWard a a curing curing site. site. 15. The The instrument instrument of claim claim 13 13 further further comprising comprising aa plurality plurality of of heat heat dissipating dissipating elements elements mounted mounted behind behind the the substrate holding the semiconductor junction for conducsubstrate holding the semiconductor junction for conduc 5 5 55 tively transferring transferring heat heat generated generated by bythe thejunction. junction. 16. An instrument instrument for for curing curing light-curable light-curable dental dental comcom pounds, the the instrument instrument comprising comprising a first ?rst plurality plurality of oflight-emitting light-emitting elements, elements, the the first ?rsteleele ments comprising comprising generally generally bare bare semiconductor semiconductor juncjunc 60 tions tions forming forming a a collective collective array array operable operable for forcolleccollec tively light having having Within within a narrow tively emitting emitting light narroW band of of wavelengths Wavelengths suitable for curing curing a a dental dental compound; compound; a second second plurality plurality of of light-emitting light-emitting elements, elements, the the second second 65 elements elements comprising comprising generally generally bare bare semiconductor semiconductor junctions forming forming a a collective collective array array operable operable for for colcol lectively emitting light within Within a a narrow narroW band band of ofwaveWave
The invention claimed claimed is: is:
1. An instrument instrument for for curing curing light-curable light-curable compounds compounds
which are curable in the Which the mouth mouth of ofa a patient, patient, the the instrument instrument comprising: a housing; a plurality plurality of of solid solid state, state, light-emitting light-emitting elements, elements, the the elements elements comprising comprising semiconductor semiconductor junctions junctions and and being mounted on a a substrate substrate supported supported by by the the housing housing to form a collective array on said said substrate, substrate, the the array array of of elements operable for for collectively collectively emitting emitting light light having having wavelengths Within within a narrow Wavelengths narroW band band of ofwavelengths; Wavelengths; a generally clear layer layer simultaneously simultaneously covering covering all all of ofthe the plurality of of light-emitting light-emitting elements elements for for protecting protecting the the array of of semiconductor semiconductor junctions; junctions; an optically optically reflective re?ective element element coupled coupled to to surround surround the the plurality of of light-emitting light-emitting elements elements to to capture capture the thecolcol lective light from from the the array array of oflight-emitting light-emittingelements elements and direct it forwardly forWardly away aWay from from the the collective collective array array and ultimately to a a compound compound for for curing. curing. The instrument 2. The instrument of claim claim 1 1 wherein Wherein said said solid solid state state elements are light emitting emitting dies dies formed formed of ofa a semiconductor semiconductor material. 3. The The instrument instrument of claim claim 1 1 further further comprising comprising a a heat heat sink sink thermally thermally coupled coupled to the the substrate substrate for for absorbing absorbing heat heat generated by the array array of ofelements. elements. The instrument 4. The instrument of claim claim 1 1 further further comprising comprising a a therther mally conductive element which Which is thermally coupled coupled to to the the substrate for conductively conductively transferring transferringheat heatgenerated generatedby bythe the array of of elements elements away aWay from from the the substrate. substrate. 5. The The instrument instrument of claim claim 1 1 further further comprising comprising a a heat heat exchanger which is thermally exchanger Which thermally coupled coupled to to the the substrate substrate for for dissipating dissipating heat generated by the the array array of ofelements. elements. 6. The instrument instrument of of claim claim 1 1 further further comprising comprising a a first ?rst heat heat sink element thermally coupled coupled to to the the substrate substrate for forabsorbabsorb ing by the ing heat heat generated generated by the array array of of elements, elements, and and aa heat heat
36
US 7,066,733 7,066,733 B2 B2 17
18
lengths for curing 17. The The instrument instrument of claim claim 16 16 further further comprising comprising aa lengths suitable suitable for curing a a dental dental compound compound and and operating operating separately separately from from the the first ?rst plurality plurality of oflightlight generally clear protective protective layer layer covering covering the the semiconductor semiconductor emitting elements; elements; junctions of of both both pluralities pluralities of oflight-emitting light-emitting elements elements for for a generally generally clear clear protective protective layer layer covering coveringthe thesemiconsemicon protecting junctions, light generated by the protecting the junctions, the plurality plurality of of ductor junctions of of at at least ductor junctions least one one of of the the pluralities pluralities of of 5 light-emitting elements elements passing passing through throughthe theprotective protectivelayer. layer. light-emitting elements for protecting light-emitting elements protecting the the junctions, junctions, 18. The The instrument instrument of claim claim 16 16 further further comprising comprising an an light light generated generated by the the plurality plurality of oflight-emitting light-emitting eleele optically reflective element coupled to surround both pluoptically re?ective coupled to surround both plu ments passing through through the the protective protectivelayer; layer; ralities ralities of of light-emitting light-emitting elements elements and and operable operable to to capture capture an optically reflective re?ective element element coupled coupled to to surround surroundat at least least 10 the light generated by the pluralities of light-emitting elelight generated by the pluralities of light-emitting ele one one of of the the pluralities pluralities of oflight-emitting light-emitting elements elements and and ments and and direct direct it it generally generallyforwardly. forwardly. operable to capture the the light light generated generated by bythe theplurality plurality of light-emitting light-emitting elements and and direct direct it it generally generallyforfor wardly. Wardly.
37
Exhibit C
111111111111111011111 11111111111111101011011111100111111111110111111
US007210930B2
(12)
(12) United States States Patent Patent

Kovac et al. a].
(10) Patent No.: US 7,210,930 B2 (10) Patent N0.: B2 (45) *May 1, (45) Date of Patent: Patent: 1, 2007
3,970,856 3,970,856 A A
4,048,490 A A 4,048,490
(54) (54) APPARATUS APPARATUS AND AND METHOD METHOD FOR FOR CURING CURING MATERIALS WITH RADIATION MATERIALS WITH RADIATION (75) Kovac, Danbury, (75) Inventors: Inventors:Jozef Jozef Kovac, Danbury,CT CT(US); (US); Raymond Knox Bethel, Bethel CT CT (US) (Us) Raymond Knox,

7/1976 Mahaffey et al. a1. ......... .. 250/493

240/4135 9/1977 Troue .................... .. 240/41.35
4,114,274 4,114,274 A A 4,114,946 4,114,946 A A 4,149,086 4,149,086 A A
9/1978 Jones J 4/1979 Nath
9/1978 9/1978 Hoffmeister Hoifmelster et et al. a1.
Ones .
(73) Corporation, Orange, (73) Assignee: Assignee: Kerr Kerr Corporation, Orange,CA CA(US) (US)
(*)
Notice:
Subject to any disclaimer, disclaimer, the the term term of ofthis this patent is extended patent extended or or adjusted adjusted under under 35 35 U.S.C. 154(b) USC 1540) by by 67 67 days. days This patent Tlhi's patent is is subject subject to to a a terminal terminal disdisc a1mer. claimer.
_
(Continued) (comlnued)
FOREIGN PATENT PATENT DOCUMENTS DOCUMENTS FOREIGN

DE DE 42 11 11 233 233 42 V1992 1/1992
(21) (21)
Appl. No.: 10/656,490 10/656,490 Filed:
(22) (22)
(65)
5, 2003 2003 Sep. 5, (Under (Under 37 37 CFR CFR 1.47) 1-47)

Prior Publication Publication Data Data Mar. 4, Mar. 4, 2004 2004

Burgess, John et al., al., An Evaluation Evaluation of ofFour Four Light-Curing Light-CuringUnits Units Burgess, John O. 0. et Comparing Soft and Hard Curing, Curing, Pract. Periodont Periodont Aesthet. Aesthet. Dent. Dent. 11(1), 125-132, 125432, 1999. 1999 11(1),
US 2004/0043351 Al US 2004/0043351A1
Related Related U.S. US. Application Data Data (63) application (63) Continuation-in-part Continuation-in-partof of applicationNo. No.09/632,260, 09/632,260, filed on Aug. Aug. 4, 4, 2000, 2000, noW now Pat. No. 6,692,251, ?led on Pat. NO. 6,692,251, which which is a a continuation-in-part continuation-in-part of of application application No. No. 09/009, 09/009, 205, 205, filed ?led on Jan. Jan. 20, 1998, 1998, now noW Pat. Pat. No. No. 6,200,134. 6,200,134.
_ _
Primary Examiner Ralph A. Lewis mm? ExamljerfRalpljjeLev? d Herron H & E (74) Attorney, iLg) Howey Agent, gem or 0r Firm lrmiWood, O0 erron & Evans, Vans
LLP (57) (57) ABSTRACT ABSTRACT
_
(51) (51)
Int Cl. CL Int.

A61C A61C 3/00 3/00
(2006.01)
(52) U.S. 52 US. Cl. ....................................... .. 433/29; 433/29 362/800 362/800 E58; Field Fieldof ofClassification Classi?cation Search Search 433/29, 433/29 (58) 433/215 606/1, 606/1 13, 13 16; 607/88; 362/119, 362/119 433/215; 362/800 804 804 362/800, See application application file ?le for for complete Complete search Search history. history See
'
(56)
References Cited U.S. PATENT Us PATENT DOCUMENTS DOCUMENTS
3 638 013 A A 3,638,013
3,712,984 3,712,984 A 3,733,481 A 3,733,481

3,868,513 A 3,868,513
1/1972 1/1972 1/1973 5/1973 2/1975
Keller Keller ................... .. 240/41.15 240/41.15
Lienhard Kuyt
Gonser ..................... .. 250/504
A A hand hand held held dental dental instrument instrument for forcuring curinglight-curable light-curable compounds compounds comprises comprises a a housing housing and and an an array array of ofsolid solid state, state, light emitting junctions or or dies dies for for generating generating light light having having wavelengths within a Wavelengths Within a narrow narroW band band of ofwavelengths Wavelengths (e.g. (e.g. 400-500 400*500 nm). nm). Preferably, Preferably, a a peak peak wavelength Wavelength of of470 470 nm nmis is generated. The The device device further further comprises comprises an anoptical opticalfiber ?berlight light pipe for for capturing capturing the the light light and and transmitting transmitting a a beam beam of ofthe the containing a a light-curable light-curable compound. compound. light to a Work work surface containing An An optical ePtiea1 lens lens or or lenses lenses may may be be used used for for focusing feeusing the the light light into the light pipe. me the 11gb P1Pe 9 Claims, 3 3 Drawing Drawing Sheets Sheets
$5
24
38
US 7,210,930 B2 B2
Page 2
US. PATENT DOCUMENTS U.S. PATENT
4,184,196 A 4,184,196 4,185,891 A 4,185,891 4,186,748 A 4,186,748 A 4,209,907 A 4,209,907 4,229,658 A 4,229,658 4,230,453 A 4,230,453 A 4,233,649 A 4,233,649 4,280,273 A 4,280,273 A 4,298,806 A 4,298,806 A 4,337,759 A 4,337,759 A 4,385,344 A 4,385,344 A 4,391,588 A 4,391,588 4,398,885 A 4,398,885 4,412,134 A 4,412,134 4,445,858 A 4,445,858 4,450,139 A 4,450,139 A 4,610,630 A 4,610,630 4,666,406 A 4,666,406 A 4,673,353 A 4,673,353 4,716,296 A 4,716,296 4,729,076 A 4,729,076 A 4,757,381 A 4,757,381 4,792,692 A 4,792,692 4,810,194 A 4,810,194 A 4,826,431 A 4,826,431 4,836,782 A 4,836,782 A 4,839,566 A 4,839,566 4,846,546 A 4,846,546 A 4,888,489 A 4,888,489 4,935,665 A 4,935,665 A 4,936,808 A 4,936,808 4,948,215 A 4,948,215 A 4,963,798 A 4,963,798 A 4,999,310 A 4,999,310 A 5,003,434 5,003,434 A A 5,007,837 5,007,837 A A 5,017,140 5,017,140 A A 5,029,957 5,029,957 A A 5,115,761 A 5,115,761 A 5,147,204 5,147,204 A A 5,150,016 5,150,016 A 5,161,879 5,161,879 A A 5,162,696 5,162,696 A A 5,173,810 5,173,810 A 5,198,678 5,198,678 A 5,201,655 5,201,655 A 5,233,283 5,233,283 A 5,242,602 5,242,602 A 5,265,792 A 5,265,792 5,278,629 A 5,278,629 5,283,425 A 5,283,425 5,290,169 5,290,169 A 5,302,124 A 5,302,124 5,312,249 A 5,312,249 5,316,473 A 5,316,473 5,328,368 A 5,328,368 5,371,826 5,371,826 A 5,373,114 5,373,114 A A 5,420,768 5,420,768 A 5,457,611 A A 5,457,611 5,471,129 5,471,129 A 5,487,662 A 5,487,662 5,521,392 5,521,392 A 5,530,632 5,530,632 A 5,535,230 5,535,230 A 5,616,141 5,616,141 A 5,617,492 5,617,492 A 5,634,711 5,634,711 A A 5,660,461 5,660,461 A 5,664,042 5,664,042 A 5,698,866 5,698,866 A 1/1980 M0161 Moret et al. a1. ................ .. 433/29 1/1980 Kaestner . 350/167 2/1980 Schlager 2/1980 Schlager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 128/736 128/736 7/1980 Tsukada et 6t al. 10/1980 Gonser 10/1980 Reimers Reimers .................... .. 433/29 10/1980 433/29 11/1980 Scheer et al. a1. 7/1981 Vincent 7/1981 Vincent 11/1981 Herold Herold ..................... .. 250/504 250/504 11/1981 7/1982 Popovich et 7/1982 Popovich et al. a1. . . 126/438 126/438 5/1983 Gonser Gonser ........ .. 5/1983 . 362/32 362/32 7/1983 Matsui 8/1983 Loge et al. a1. ............... .. 433/126 10/1983 Herold et al. 211. 5/1984 Johnson 5/1984 Bussiere Bussiere et 422/186.3 5/1984 et al. a1. ....... .. 422/1863 9/1986 Bemsh Betush 5/1987 Kanoa,1n Kanca, III ................ .. 433/229 433/229 5/1987 6/1987 6/1987 Nevin Nevin 12/1987 Bussiere et et al. a1. 3/1988 Masami et 362/235 3/1988 Masami et al. a1. ........... .. 362/235 7/1988 Cooper et al. a1~ 12/1988 Herold et al. 12/1988 3/1989 Herold Snedden 6t .................... .. 433/91 433/91 3/1989 Snedden 5/1989 Fujimura et al. a1. ........... .. 433/29 6/1989 Gonser 6/1989 Gonser 6/1989 Herold et al. a1. 7/1989 350/96.24 7/1989 Cuda Cuda ..................... .. 350/96.24 250/504 12/1989 Bryan 6/1990 313/500 6/1990 Murata 6/1990 Lee 445/24 8/1990 Friedman 8/1990 10/1990 McDermott 315/312 10/1990 McDermott ............... .. 315/312 3/1991 Kim ............ .. 3/1991 Kim .. 437/51 437/51 3/1991 Gonser et 3/1991 Gonser et al. a1. .............. .. 362/32 362/32 4/1991 4/1991 Werly 5/1991 Ascher 5/ 1991 Ascher 7/1991 Hood ...................... .. 350/96.2 7/1991 HOOd 350/962 5/1992 Hood 5/1992 Hood ------- -- 118/641 9/1992 Patten et 433/229 9/1992 Patten et al. a1. .............. .. 433/229 9/1992 Sawase et al. 315/294 eta1~ 11/1992 McDermott 362/206 11/1992 McDermott 11/1992 Goodrich Goodrich .................. .. 313/511 11/1992 313/511 12/1992 Yamakawa 12/1992 Yamakawa 3/1993 3/1993 Oppawsky OPPaWSky 4/1993 Friedman Friedman ................... .. 433/29 8/1993 Kennedy 8/1993 Kennedy ................... .. 320/13 9/1993 Richardson et et al. a1. . . 210/745 11/1993 Harrah et al. a1. .............. .. 228/6.2 a1. .......... .. 356/313 1/1994 Schlager et al. 2/1994 Imamura Imamnra . 250/208.1 2/1994 3/1994 Friedman et et al. a1. ........... .. 433/29 a1. 4/1994 Lansing et al. 5/1994 Kennedy 5/1994 Kennedy 5/1994 Hare ......................... .. 433/29 a1. 7/1994 Lansing et al. 12/1994 Friedman .................. .. 385/115 Kondo et al. 12/1994 Kondo a1. ............. .. 174/268 5/1995 Kennedy .................. .. 362/119 10/1995 Verderber 11/1995 Mann ........................ .. 320/21 a1. ................ .. 433/37 1/1996 Kipke et al. 5/1996 Kennedy et al. a1. ....... .. 250/492.1 6/1996 Shikano Shikano et al. a1. 7/1996 7/1996 Abe Abe .......................... .. 372/43 4/1997 Cipolla 4/1997 Beach et al. a1. ................ .. 385/33 6/1997 Kennedy et al. a1. .......... .. 362/119 8/1997 Ignatius et al. a1. ........... .. 362/241 9/1997 9/1997 Kennedy Kennedy .................. .. 385/136 12/1997 Doiron et al. a1. .............. .. 257/99 257/99 5,707,139 5,707,139 A A 5,711,665 5,711,665 A A 5,747,363 A A 5,747,363 5,759,032 A A 5,759,032 5,803,729 A A 5,803,729 5,857,767 A A 5,857,767 5,912,470 A A 5,912,470 5928220 A A 5,928,220 5,975,895 A A 5,975,895 6,008,264 A A 6,008,264 6,033,223 A A 6,033,223 6,045,240 A A 6,045,240 6,046,460 A A 6,046,460 6,065,965 A A 6,065,965 6,068,474 A A 6,068,474 6,077,073 A A 6,077,073 6,086,367 A A 6,086,367 6,095,812 A A 6,095,812 6,102,696 A A 6,102,696 6,123,545 A A 6,123,545 6,155,823 A A 6,155,823 6,159,005 A A 6,159,005 6,161,937 A A 6,161,937 6,168,431 B1 B1 6,168,431 6,171,105 B1 6,171,105 B1 6,186,786 6,186,786 B1 6,193,510 B1 B1 6,193,510 6,200,134 B1 B1 6,200,134 6,208,788 B1 B1 6,208,788 6,220,722 B1 B1 6,220,722 6,280,187 B1 B1 6,280,187 6,280,188 B1 B1 6,280,188 6,331,111 B1 B1 6,331,111 6,345,982 6,345,982 B1 B1 6,379,149 B1 B1 6,379,149 6,419,483 B1 B1 6,419,483 6,439,888 B1 B1 6,439,888 6,468,077 B1 B1 6,468,077 6,692,251 B1* 6,692,251 Bl* 2001/0007739 Al A1 2001/0007739 2001/0046652 Al A1 2001/0046652 2002/0014864 Al A1 2002/0014864 2002/0051367 Al A1 2002/0051367 2002/0133970 Al A1 2002/0133970 2003/0015667 Al A1 2003/0015667 2003/0036031 Al A1 2003/0036031 2003/0219693 Al A1 2003/0219693 1/1998 1/1998 5/1998 5/1998 6/1998 9/1998 9/1998 V1999 1/1999 6/1999 7/1999 l1/l999 11/1999 12/1999 30000 3/2000 4/2000 40000 4/2000 50000 5/2000 5/2000 6/2000 70000 7/2000 80000 8/2000 8/2000 90000 9/2000 12/2000 12/2000 00000 12/2000 1/2001 1/2001 2/200l V2001 2/2001 2/200l 2/2001 3/2001 3/2001 4000, 4/2001 8/2001 8/2001 12/2001 2/2002 4/2002 7/2002 @2002 8/2002 10/2002 2/2004 7/2001 11/2001 2/2002 5/2002 9/2002 1/2003 2/2003 11/2003 Haitz 362/231 Adam etal. 433/9 Wei et al. 438/5 Bartel Tsimerman Tsimerman Hochstein et al. a1. 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FQREIGN PATENT PATENT DOCUMENTS FOREIGN

DE DE EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP 295 295 11 11 927 927 0 0 116 116 405 405 0 0 266 266 038 038 0 0 568 568 666 666 0 320 320 080 080 0 672 672 435 435 0 0 678 678 282 282 0 709 709 698 698 0 0 755 755 662 662 0 0 736 736 307 307 0 0 780 780 101 101 0 780 780 103 103 0 0 830 830 850 850 0 0 879 879 582 582 0 0 880 880 945 945 0 884 884 025 025 0 885 885 025 025 0 998 998 880 880 1 1 031 031 326 326 1 090 607 1090 607 1 1 090 608 608 1 1 093 765 765 1 1 103 103 232 232 2/1997 2/1997 8/1984 8/1984 10/1991 10/1991 11/1992 11/1992 8/1993 9/1995 10/1995 10/1995 5/1996 7/1996 7/1996 10/1996 10/1996 6/1997 6/1997 6/1997 3/1998 3/1998 11/1998 11/1998 12/1998 12/1998 12/1998 12/1998 5/2000 8/2000 4/2001 4/2001 4/2001 5/2001
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EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP GB GB GB JP JP JP JP JP JP JP JP JP JP JP JP WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO W0
55
1 112 112 721 721 1 1 138 138 276 276 1 1 138 138 349 349 1 0 830 851 0 830 852 1 1 206 206 923 923 1 1 228 228 738 738 0 740 0 740 567 567 2 212 010 010 2 329 2 329 756 756 6-30275 6'30275 8-141001 8441001 9-10238 940238 8-194786 8494786 410033573 410033573 2 080 2 080 522 522 WO W0 83/01311 83/01311 WO 84/04463 WO 84/04463 WO 92/02275 WO 92/02275 WO 93/09847 WO 93/09847 WO 93/21842 WO 93/21842 WO 95/07731 WO 95/07731 W095/19810 WO95/19810 WO 95/26217 W0 95/ 26217 W097/36552 WO97/365 52 WO 97/37722 WO 97/37722 WO 97/46279 WO 97/46279 WO 97/46280 WO 97/46280 WO 98/03131 98/03131 WO 98/04317 W0 98/ 04317 WO 99/09071 WO 99/09071 WO WO 99/11324 99/11324 WO 99/16136 99/16136 WO 99/20346 WO 99/20346 WO 99/35995 WO 99/35995 WO 00/01464 00/01464 WO 00/02491 WO 00/02491 WO 00/13608 WO 00/13608 WO 00/15296 WO 00/15296 WO 00/41726 W0 (lo/41726 WO 00/41767 WO 00/41767 WO 00/41768 WO 00/41768 WO 00/43067 WO 00/43067 WO 00/43068 WO 00/43068 WO 00/43069 WO 00/43069 WO 00/45733 WO 00/45733 WO 00/67048 WO 00/67048 WO 00/67660 WO 00/67660 WO 01/03770 W0 01/ 03770 WO 00/14012 WO 00/14012 WO 01/19280 WO 01/19280 WO 01/24724 W0 01/ 24724 WO 01/54770 WO 01/54770 WO 01/60280 W0 01/ 60280 WO 01/64129 W0 Q1/6409 WO 01/68035 01/68035 WO 01/69691 W0 0l/69691 WO 02/06723 WO 02/06723 WO 02/09610 W0 02/ 09610 WO 02/11640 W0 02/ 11640 WO 02/32505 02/32505 WO 02/33312 02/33312 WO 02/49721 02/49721
7/2001 10/2001 10/2001 5/2002 5/2002 5/2002 5/2002 8/2002 8/2002 11/2002 110002 7/1989 3/1999 3/1999 2/1994 2/1994 6/1996 6/1996 1/1997 1/1997 2/1997 2/1997 2/1998 2/1998 11/1999 A999 4/1983 4/1983 11/1984 U/ 1984 2/1992 992 5/1993 5/1993 11/1993 U/ 1993 3/1995 3/1995 7/1995 7/1995 10/1995 10/1995 10/1997 10/1997 10/1997 10/1997 12/1997 12/1997 12/1997 12/1997 1/1998 2/1998 2/1998 2/1999 2/1999 3/1999 3/1999 4/1999 4/1999 4/1999 4/1999 7/1999 7/1999 1/2000 1/2000 V2000 3/2000 3/2000 3/2000 3/2000 7/2000 7/2000 7/2000 7/2000 7/2000 7/2000 7/2000 7/2000 7/2000 7/2000 7/2000 7/2000 8/2000 8/2000 11/2000 110000 11/2000 110000 1/2001 H2001 3/2001 3/2001 3/2001 3/2001 4/2001 4/2001 8/2001 8/2001 8/2001 8/2001 9/2001 9/2001 9/2001 9/2001 9/2001 1/2002 V2002 2/2002 2/2002 2/2002 2/2002 4/2002 4/2002 6/2002
W0 WO W0 WO W0 WO
W0 02/056787 02/056787 WO W0 02/069839 02/069839 WO W0 02/080808 02/080808 WO
7/2002 9/2002 10/2002
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* cited by examiner examiner
40
U.S. Patent
May 1, 2007
Sheet 1 013
US 7,210,930 B2
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APPARATUS AND AND METHOD METHOD FOR FOR CURING APPARATUS MATERIALS RADIATION MATERIALS WITH RADIATION RELATED APPLICATIONS
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require require less less radiated radiated light light power, poWer, while While thicker, thicker, deeper deeper fillings ?llings for caries caries and and other other cavities cavities will Will require require aagreater greater amount of of radiated radiated power. poWer. Light-curable have shown Light-curable compounds compounds have shoWn very very beneficial bene?cial results in the dental dental field. ?eld. However, HoWever, existing existing techniques techniques and and dental curing light devices devices utilized utiliZed to to deliver deliver the the blue blue light light tooth surface surface have have exhibited exhibited various various drawbacks. drawbacks. For For to the tooth example, example, it is known knoWn that that certain certain wavelengths Wavelengths of ofblue blue light light are harmful harmful to to human human tissue. tissue. While While attempts attempts are are made madeto to direct the light beam only only on on to to the the tooth tooth surface, surface, aa certain certain amount amount of oral oral tissue tissue exposure exposure to to the the light light is isinevitable. inevitable. Therefore, curing light devices for for curing curing dental dental compounds compounds must have their their output output radiation radiation limited limited to to within Withinaasuitable suitable wavelength Wavelength band for for patient patient safety. safety. Furthermore, Furthermore, the thelightlight curable curable compounds compounds are usually sensitive sensitive to to light light having having aa specific wavelength, such speci?c Wavelength, such as as a a blue blue light light wavelength. Wavelength. ThereThere fore, a dental curing curing light light device device must must be be tuned tunedto to emit emitlight light at the the proper proper wavelengths Wavelengths for for patient patient safety safety and and proper proper curing. curing. As a a result, result, current current dental dental curing curing light light devices devices require require special complicated complicated filtering ?ltering devices devices or orfilters ?lters which Whichreceive receive broad spectrum spectrum light light from from a a lamp lamp element, element, such such as as a a halogen halogen lamp bulb, and then filter ?lter the light light to to provide provide only only the the light light at the the desirable desirable blue blue wavelengths. Wavelengths. Because Because of of the the wide Wide spectrum of of radiation radiation delivered delivered by by available available lamp lamp elements, elements, including visible visible light, light, UV UV light, light, and and infra-red infra-red light, light, prior prior art art curing techniques techniques and and light light devices devices have have generally generallybeen beenvery very inefficient. ine?icient. That is, a large amount amount of of the radiated radiated light lightpower poWer is lost lost due due to to filtering. ?ltering. For For example, example, the the input input power poWer to to aa conventional halogen bulb bulb may conventional halogen may typically typically be be around around 80 80 Watts, whereas the output Watts, Whereas output power poWer of of light light from fromthe thedental dental light light device device at at the the desired desired blue bluewavelength, Wavelength, for forexample example 400-500 4004500 nanometers, nanometers, is is typically typically less less than than one-half one-half of of aa Watt. Additionally, Additionally, the efficiency e?iciency of of the prior prior art art dental dental curing curing light devices is is further further degraded degradedby bythe thepower poWerloss lossdue dueto tothe the angle angle of incidence incidence of of the the radiated radiated light light upon upon the thefiltering ?ltering element. element. For example, example, many prior art art curing curing light light devices devices utilize utiliZe reflective re?ective filters ?lters which Which reflect re?ect only only the the desirable desirableblue blue light light onto onto the the tooth tooth surface surface and and dental dental compound, compound, but but transmit transmit light light at the the undesirable undesirable wavelengths Wavelengths to to a a light light absorbing component Where where it is dissipated. dissipated. If If the the angle angle of of incidence of the light light from from the the halogen halogenbulb bulb varies variessignifisigni? cantly from the desired desired angle angle of ofincidence incidence for forthe thefiltering ?ltering element element surface surface (e.g., (e.g., 45), 45), then then a a reduced reduced amount amount of ofthe the desirable blue light is desirable blue is reflected re?ected to to the the tooth toothsurface. surface. This This further the light further decreases decreases the light power poWer which Which is is available available for for curing the dental compound. Conversely, Conversely, a a higher higher amount amount of of the undesirable, undesirable, non-blue non-blue light may may be be reflected re?ected onto onto the the tooth tooth surface, surface, rather rather than than being being transmitted transmitted through through the the filtering ?ltering element to be be dissipated. dissipated. Another with prior prior art Another drawback drawback With art devices devices is is that that they they require complicated complicated cooling cooling systems systems to to operate operate within Withinthe the proper temperature range. range. The The significant signi?cant amount amount of of light light energy at undesirable wavelengths Wavelengths which Which is is generated generatedby by the the halogen halogen bulb bulb must must be be filtered ?ltered or or otherwise otherWise captured. captured. The The captured energy is is then in the captured energy then dissipated dissipated in the form form of ofheat. heat. Therefore, power absorbing Therefore, poWer absorbing and and dissipating dissipating elements elements are are required within Within conventional conventional curing curing light light devices. devices. Thermal Thermal shields are often utilized utiliZed in in conjunction conjunctionwith Withreflective re?ectivefilters ?lters to absorb absorb and and dissipate dissipate the the unreflected, unre?ected, unused unusedlight lightenergy energy in the form form of of heat. heat. The The high high power poWer output output required requiredfor forthe the halogen bulb to produce halogen bulb produce the the desired desired blue blue light light power poWer for for curing, high thermal curing, creates creates a significantly, signi?cantly, high thermal load on on the the shields. The shields shields. The shields must must then then be be cooled. cooled. Generally, Generally, fan fan elements are used in the dental dental light light device device to to provide provide such such cooling. The additional cooling elements increase the size siZe of of
This application is a This a continuation-in-part continuation-in-part of ofU.S. US. patent patent application Ser. No. 09/632,260, filed ?led on on Aug. 4, 4, 2000 2000 now now U.S. Pat. No. 6,692,251 and entitled "Apparatus US. Apparatus and and Method Method for Curing Materials with With Light Light Radiation," Radiation, which, Which, in inturn, turn, is a continuation-in-part continuation-in-part of ofU.S. US. patent patentapplication applicationSer. Ser.No. No. 09/009,205, filedon on Jan. Jan. 20, 20, 1998 09/009,205, ?led 1998 now now U.S. US. Pat. Pat. No. No. 6,200,134, 6,200,134, and issued Mar. Mar. 13, 13, 2001, which Which application and patent are incorporated incorporated herein by by reference reference in in their theirentireentire ties.
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FIELD OF THE INVENTION INVENTION FIELD

This application is related to the curing This curing of of materials materials with With radiation and, and, more more specifically, speci?cally, to curing dental dental coating coating and and filling ?lling compounds with With light. light. BACKGROUND BACKGROUND OF THE THE INVENTION INVENTION
20
Curable adhesive compounds and and bonding bonding or or filling ?lling comcom
pounds are widely pounds Widely used used for forstructurally structurally connecting connecting object object surfaces together or for filling surfaces together ?lling gaps gaps or or other other openings openings and and cavities cavities in an an object object surface. surface. Such Such curable curable compounds compounds are are generally manipulated and positioned in a generally manipulated a semi-solid semi-solid state state and are then hardened or cured in in position position to a a more more solid solid state. state. Such curing or hardening is a chemical chemical process process which Which is promoted and driven by one or or more more curing curing conditions conditions or or factors. For example, the the curing curing process process may may be be the the result resultof of exposure exposure of the the semi-solid semi-solid compound compound and andcomponents components thereof to air or or from from exposure exposure of ofsuch such aa compound compoundand andits its components components to an energy energy source, source, such such as as aaheat heatsource. source. Other curable adhesive and and filling ?lling compounds compounds are are cured cured by exposure to to radiated radiated energy, energy, such such as as visible visiblelight lightenergy. energy. Such Such compounds, compounds, referred to to as as light-curable light-curablecompounds, compounds, are manipulated in a semi-solid semi-solid form form into into or or onto onto the the work Work surface and radiation, preferably preferably in in the the form form of ofa a visible visible light light beam, is beam, is directed directed at at a a specific speci?c wavelength Wavelength or band band of of wavelengths onto onto the compound. Wavelengths compound. The The compound compound includes includes light-sensitive light-sensitive chemical chemical components components therein therein which, Which, when When exposed to the light at at the the specific speci?c wavelength, Wavelength, promote promote the the hardening of the compound hardening compound in the the desired desired position position on on the the object surface to bond, bond, fill, ?ll, or or coat coat the thesurface. surface. Specifically, light-curable light-curable compounds are widely Speci?cally, Widely used used in in dental dental procedures. procedures. Dentists Dentists use use light-curable light-curable dental dental comcom pounds for coating coating and and sealing sealing tooth tooth surfaces, surfaces, filling ?lling caries caries and other cavities in in the the tooth tooth surface, surface, and andsecuring securingcrowns croWns and various various other dental dental structures structures to a a tooth tooth surface. surface. The The dental compounds are generally generally cured cured by by exposure exposure to to visible visible light light in the the blue blue range range of ofthe thespectrum. spectrum. Once Once cured, cured, the the dental dental compound compound reduces reduces further further tooth tooth decay, decay, bonds bonds the the dental dental structure, structure, and/or and/or provides provides additional additional structure structure to to aa tooth. For curing light-curable light-curable dental dental compounds, compounds, visible visible blue blue light, light, and particularly particularly a blue blue light light beam beam from from aahand-held hand-held curing light device, is is directed directed onto onto a a tooth tooth surface surface containcontain ing the desired desired compound compound layer. layer. The The blue blue light light penetrates penetrates into into the compound compound layer on on the the tooth tooth surface surface for for complete complete curing. The duration of of the the exposure exposure to to blue blue light light for forproper proper curing curing of the the compound compound layer layer depends depends upon upon the the type type and and thickness of the compound thickness compound layer, layer, as well Well as as the the power poWer and and characteristics of of the blue light light from from the the curing curing light lightdevice. device. For For example, example, a thin thin tooth tooth surface surface coating coating or or veneer veneer will Will
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US 7,210,930 7,210,930 B2 B2
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the light the light device device and and complicate complicate its its design. design. As As will Will be be appreciated, appreciated, it is desirable desirable to to keep keep the the light light device device as assmall small and maneuverable as possible, since it is used used in in a a patient's patients mouth. Additionally, thermal load load is is placed Additionally, aa thermal placed on the the reflective re?ective 5 filter element, and and it it must also ?lter element, also be cooled, cooled, such such as as by by heat heat sinks sinks and fans. The absorption absorption devices devices and and heat heat dissipating dissipating systems not only the operation systems not only complicate complicate the operation of the the light light device, but also device, but also make it it more more expensive expensive to to produce, produce, and and 10 more subject subject to to operational operational failure. failure. Another drawback draWback of of prior prior art art dental dental curing curing light light devices devices is is the limited limited operational operational life of of the the lamp lamp element, element, such such as as a halogen bulb. The bulbs frequently frequently burn out out and and must must be be replaced. Furthermore, the heat generated replaced. Furthermore, the generated inside inside the the light light device shortens the effective operational lifespan lifespan of of the bulb. 15 Attempts have been made made in in the the prior prior art art to to address address some some of these drawbacks. draWbacks. For For example, example, Japanese Japanese Patent PatentApplicaApplica tions No. tions No. 6-30275, 6-30275, 6-285508, 6-285508, 7-163863, 7-163863, and and 8-194786 8-194786 disclose disclose various various devices devices using using solid solid state statesemiconductor semiconductor elements, as LEDs, 20 elements, such as LEDs, to provide a curing light source in 20 the blue range. range. However, HoWever, various various of ofthese these devices devices require require complicated internal designs designs for for focusing focusing of ofthe the curing curing light. light. Furthermore, as illustrated Furthermore, as illustrated in the Figures Figures of ofthose those applicaapplica tions, the tions, the solid solid state state elements elements utilized utiliZed would Would require require aa 25 somewhat someWhat large housing for generating the intensity of of light light 25 which is necessary Which necessary for for practical practical use. use. Accordingly, Accordingly, it is an objective of of the the present present invention invention to to provide a simple, simple, durable durable curing curing light light device device for forhardening hardening or curing it is curing light-curable light-curable compounds. compounds. Particularly, Particularly, it is an an objective to provide objective to provide such such a a curing curing light light device device for forcuring curing 30 dental dental compounds compounds used for for dental dental fillings ?llings and and coatings. coatings. It is another objective objective to to provide provide a a curing curing light lightwhich Whichhas has a compact and simple design which Which is is capable capable of ofproviding providing light intensity useful useful for for practical practical curing curingapplications. applications. It is still another objective of of the the present present invention inventionto to cure cure 35 compounds with curing compounds With curing light devices devices utilizing utiliZing less less power poWer and to reduce and with With greater greater efficiency e?iciency to reduce the the amount amount of ofheat heat energy by the device energy generated generated by device and and thus thus reduce reduce the the heat heat energy which Which must must be be dissipated. dissipated. It is another another objective objective of of the the present present invention invention to to reduce reduce 40 the operational operational temperature temperature of a a curing curing light lightdevice, device, thus thus reducing the need for for complicated complicated cooling cooling systems systems utilized utiliZed in the prior prior art. art. It is is still another objective of of the invention invention to eliminate eliminate the the necessity of of reflective re?ective filters ?lters and and other other filter ?lter elements elementswithin Within 45 a light device device for for curing curing light-curable light-curable compounds. compounds. It is still a further objective objective to provide provide a a blue blue light light device device which operates Which operates within Within a small small space space and and is is easily easily manipumanipu lated within Within the mouth mouth of ofa a dental dental patient. patient. 50 It is still another objective to increase the effective operaopera so tional lifespan tional lifespan of the the light light generating generating components components of of aa curing light device. device. These objectives and and various various other other objectives objectives will Will become become more readily apparent apparent from from the the Description Description of ofthe theInvention Invention below. 55 beloW. SUMMARY OF OF THE INVENTION SUMMARY
4
More one embodiment More specifically, speci?cally, one embodiment of the the curing curing light light device of of the present present invention invention comprises comprises an an array array of ofsolid solid state, light-emitting diode dies, dies, each each in in the theform formof ofaasmall, small, non-packaged semi-conductorjunction junction mounted mounted on non-packaged semi-conductor on aa ceramic ceramic substrate or circuit circuit board. board. The The array array of ofnon-packnon-pack aged efficiently aged LED LED dies dies collectively collectively are areoperable operablefor for e?iciently emitting narrow-bandradiation radiationin in a a small emitting narroW-band small area. area. In In the the preferred preferred embodiment embodiment of ofthe the invention, invention, the the LED LEDdies diesradiate radiate blue blue light light at at predominantly predominantly a narrow narroW band band with With a a peak peak wavelength Wavelength and, and, most most preferably, preferably, at at a a peak peakblue bluelight lightwaveWave length which Which is is suitable suitable for for curing curing dental dental filling ?lling and andcoating coating compounds. compounds. One desirable desirable blue light light wavelength Wavelength peak peak for for dental applications applications is is approximately approximately 470 470 nanometers. nanometers. The LED dies dies of of the the invention invention are are very very small small and anddo do not not have any external external plastic plastic packaging. packaging. Therefore, Therefore, aavery verydense dense array array of die die elements elements is is provided provided by by the theinvention invention for for providing a light beam of of practical practical intensity intensity in in a a very very small small space. The dies are are surface surface mounted mounted on onaaceramic ceramicsubstrate substrate or circuit board by soldering. soldering. The The top side side of ofeach each die die is is then then coupled coupled to the circuit circuit by by very very thin thin wires Wires in in aamicroscopic microscopic procedure called called wire-bonding. Wire-bonding. Preferably, Preferably, the small LED dies, for example example 0.3 0.3 mm mm on on a a side, on the substrate side, are are arranged arranged on substrate in in a a matrix matrix having having aa circular shape. 2 of shape. Preferably, only only 0.25 0.25 mm mm2 of substrate substrate space space is used for for mounting mounting each each LED. LED. Generally Generally 200-500 20(k500LEDs LEDs are used for for creating creating the the necessary necessary light light power poWerneeded neededfor for curing available dental dental compounds. compounds. However, HoWever, aa lower loWernumnum ber of of LEDs LEDs may may be be suitable, suitable, and and in inone oneembodiment embodimentof ofthe the invention, invention, 96 LED dies dies provided provided suitable suitable power poWer for for curing curing a dental dental compound. compound. Since Since light light is is radiated radiated generally generally only only at at the thedesired desired wavelength, Wavelength, the invention invention eliminates eliminates the need need for forspecial special light filters ?lters and reflective re?ective elements. elements. Therefore, Therefore, the theinvention invention simplifies the design design and simpli?es the and operation operation of the the curing curing light light device. the inventive device. Furthermore, Furthermore, the inventive curing curing light light device device is is more efficient e?icient than prior art devices because because the the power poWerused used by the device is is predominantly predominantlyfor forlight lightat atthe thespecific speci?cusable usable blue wavelength Wavelength rather rather than than for for broad broad spectrum spectrum light. light. The The blue blue light light radiation radiation from from the the LED LED array array may may be be captured captured by a light light transmitting transmitting device, device, such such as as an anoptical optical fiber ?ber light pipe, and is is transmitted transmitted and and directed directed through throughthe the light light pipe pipe and and onto onto the the working Working surface, surface, such such as as a a tooth tooth surface. surface. The light pipe would Would preferably preferably be be aa conventional conventional light light pipe formed formed by fusing fusing together together a a plurality plurality of ofoptical optical fibers. One embodiment ?bers. One embodiment of such such a light light pipe pipe maintains maintains a a uniform diameter along along its its length. length. In In another another embodiment, embodiment, a focusing focusing light pipe pipe might might be be utilized utiliZed which Which gathers gathers the the light light from from the the LED LED array array at at one one end endand andtransmits transmits the the radiation radiation at a a smaller smaller or or tapered tapered end end to to further furtherdefine de?ne and and concentrate the curing light light beam for for use use on on a a smaller smallerwork Work surface. surface. The LED dies and and light light pipe pipe are are positioned positioned within Within a suitably shaped shaped housing housing which Which is is manually manually manipulated manipulatedso so that that the blue blue light light beam beam may may be be directed directed onto onto the the tooth tooth surface for curing purposes. purposes. Alternatively, Alternatively, the the array array of ofsmall small dies on the dies may may be positioned positioned on the tip of of aa curing curing device device to to directly directly irradiate irradiate the dental dental compound compound instead instead of of using using aa light pipe. pipe. A light focusing focusing device, such such as as an an optical optical lens, lens, may may be be utilized utiliZed between betWeen the array array of of LED LED dies dies and and the the light light pipe pipe for for further focusing and and directing directing the the light light into into the the light lightpipe pipefor for more efficient e?icient transmission onto the the tooth tooth surface. surface. PreferPrefer ably, ably, the lens is is a a converging-type converging-type lens lens which Which focuses focuses the the light from the LED array array into into the the small small light lightpipe pipeend. end. As As an an alternative to a single alternative to single large large lens, lens, the array array of of dies dies may may be be coated coated or encapsulated encapsulated in plastic plastic so so that that individual individual micro micro lenses lenses are formed formed around around each each of of the the dies dies for forfocusing focusing the the light therefrom. therefrom.
The present invention addresses the above objectives objectives and and provides a durable provides durable and and efficient e?icient curing curing light light device device to to cure cure
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light-curable compounds. The The invention invention is is particularly particularly useuse ful ful for for curing curing dental dental adhesive adhesive and and filling ?lling compounds compounds with With blue light. The device device is is more more energy energyefficient e?icient and and generates generates less less heat than than prior prior art artdevices. devices.Furthermore, Furthermore, aapreferred preferred embodiment of of the device device provides provides efficient e?icient delivery delivery of ofblue blue 65 curing light in a curing light a simple, simple, durable durable design design and and creates creates new neW design possibilities for dental dental curing curing light light devices. devices.
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US 7,21 0,930 B2 7,210,930
A DC power supply provides power power poWer to light-emitting light-emitting elements elements 32 32 to to generate generate a a curing curing power of ofup up to to 50 50 Watts Watts for for driving light beam, as as discussed discussed below. beloW. driving the LED LED die die array. array. The The array array generates generates some someheat, heat, and therefore, is mounted on a Barrel Barrel portion portion 16 16 supports supports aa light lighttransmitting transmitting device, device, a simple simple heat heat sink, sink, which Which may may such as a a light light pipe pipe 22, 22, which Which is is appropriately appropriately formed formed and and be utilized with With or or without Without a a forced forced air airdevice, device, such suchas asaafan, fan, direct the the curing curing light light onto onto aa tooth toothsurface surfaceor orother other to further dissipate dissipate the the heat. heat. While While some some heat heat is is generated, generated, 5 angled to direct work the array array of of surface-mounted surface-mounted LEDs LEDs of ofthe theinventive inventivecuring curing Work surface. surface. It It will Will be be understood understood by by aa person personof ofordinary ordinary light device generates skill in the art that the shape generates substantially substantially less less heat heat than thanconvenconven shape of ofhousing housing 12 12 may may vary. vary. Barrel Barrel portion tional dental curing lights. lights. Furthermore, Furthermore, the elimination elimination of of portion 16 16 is is shown shoWn as as solid; solid; however, hoWever, it it might might also also be be reflective filtering vented re?ective ?ltering elements elements and thermal thermal shields shields further further vented for for heat heat dissipation dissipation purposes purposes as as discussed discussed further further hereinbelow. The The light light pipe reduces the heat and thermal stresses stresses which Which are are generated generated by by 10 hereinbeloW. pipe 22 22 is ispreferably preferably removably removably secured in the prior art art devices. devices. secured in the end end of of barrel barrel portion portion 16 16 by byany anysuitable suitable method as as is known knoWn in in the art. art. For For example, example, the the light light pipe pipe 22 22 In another embodiment of of the invention, surface surface mounted mounted might be screwed screWed into into and and out out of of the the barrel barrel portion portion 16. 16. The The LEDs LEDs are utilized. utiliZed. The The surface surface mounted mounted LEDs LEDs are are larger larger housing body 12 12 is is formed formed of ofa a suitable suitable light-weight light-Weight plastic plastic than the LED LED dies dies discussed discussed above, above, and and thus thus will Will take take up up such as as polysulphone. polysulphone. more space more space in in an anarray. array. The Thesurface-mounted surface-mounted LEDs LEDs are are 15 material such The The DC power poWer supply supply 20 20 of of device device 10 10 is is coupled coupled to to a a preferably arranged arranged in in a a circular circularpattern, pattern, similar similarto tothe theLED LED conventional base AC source source 15, 15, such such as as through throughaacord cord13 13 dies, dies, for for a a circular circular light light pattern. pattern. The The array array of of LEDs LEDs is is as is conventional with With dental dental curing curing light light devices. devices. The The base base soldered to an appropriate mounting mounting base, base, such such as as aaprinted printed AC source 15 15 is mounted mounted within Within a a base base structure structure (not (not shown) shoWn) circuit circuit board. The The surface-mounted surface-mounted LED LED array array preferably preferably 20 20 for for the the device device which Which includes includes conventional conventional controls controls for for the the utilizes a separate utiliZes separate lens lens for for focusing focusing the theirradiated irradiatedlight. light. light device 10, 10, such such as as a a timer timerfor fortiming timingthe theoperational operational OF THE THE DRAWINGS DRAWINGS BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF radiation cycle for for the the device device when When the thetrigger triggerswitch sWitch18 18is is engaged. engaged. The band of radiation The narrow narroW wavelength Wavelength band radiation or light light is is The accompanying accompanying drawings, draWings, which Which are are incorporated incorporated in in 25 generated by an conventional generated by an array array 30 30of of conventionallight-emitting light-emitting and constitute a part part of of this this specification, speci?cation, illustrate illustrate embodiembodi 25 diodes diodes 32. Preferably, Preferably, a single single wavelength Wavelength of light light is is gengen ments of of the invention invention and, and, together together with With a a general general descripdescrip erated, but a narrow narroW wavelength Wavelength band band comprising comprising the the single single tion of tion of the the invention invention given given below, beloW, serve serve to to explain explain the the wavelength Wavelength peak desired desired would Would also also be be suitable. suitable. The The array array principles of of the the invention. invention. 30 creates a field ?eld or beam beam of of light light 34, 34, aa portion portionof ofwhich Whichis is FIG. 1 FIG. 1 is a a side side view vieW in in partial partial cross-section cross-section of ofaacuring curing 30 captured by a receiving receiving end end 35 35 of ofthe the light light pipe pipe 22. 22. The The light light light device utilizing utiliZing traditional traditional packaged packaged LEDs. LEDs. beam beam 34 34 is is transmitted transmitted through through light light pipe pipe 22 22 as as aamore more FIG. 1A is FIG. is a a plan plan view vieW of ofan analternative alternative LED LED array array as as narrow narroW beam 36 and is is emitted emitted at at a a transmission transmission end end 37 37 of of shown shoWn in FIG. 1. 1. the light pipe 22 22 onto onto a a work Work surface surface or or tooth tooth surface surface (not (not FIG. 2 2 is FIG. is aa side sideview vieW in inpartial partialcross-section cross-section of of one one shown). shoWn). embodiment of of the the invention. invention. 35 In one prototype tested tested during during development development of ofthe the inveninven FIG. 3 3 of FIG. 3 is is a a cross-sectional cross-sectional view vieW taken taken on on lines lines 3 3i3 tion, the inventors utilized nine high-intensity, blue light tion, the inventors utiliZed nine high-intensity, blue light FIG. FIG. 2 2 of of an an array array of oflight-emitting light-emitting dies dies mounted mounted on on a a LEDs 32 which had integral lenses therein which produced Which integral lenses therein Which produced substrate. a 15 15 degree degree radiation radiation or or viewing vieWing angle. angle. Again, Again, suitable suitable FIG. 3A FIG. 3A is is aacross-sectional cross-sectional view vieW of ofan analternative alternative LEDs are commercially commercially available available from fromNichia Nichiaor orPanasonic Panasonic embodiment of of the the present present invention. invention. 40 under Model Model No. No. LNG997CKB. LNG997CKB. The The LEDs LEDs are areconsidered considered FIG. 4 4 is FIG. is aa side sideview vieWin inpartial partialcross-section cross-section of of an an as blue light light LEDs LEDs because because they they generate generate light light at at aawaveWave alternative embodiment of of the the present present invention. invention. length of of approximately approximately 470 nm, which Which is is blue blue within Within the the FIGS. Sand 5 and 5A 5A are side side views vieWs of of alternative alternative embodiments embodiments visible light spectrum. spectrum. Other Other blue blue light light wavelengths Wavelengths might might of a light light pipe pipe for for use use in inthe theinvention. invention. also be utilized, utiliZed, depending depending upon upon the the particular particular curing curing charchar FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view vieW of ofan an alternative alternative embodiembodi 45 acteristics of of the the light-curable light-curable compound. compound. ment of of the the present present invention. invention. The LEDs 32 of of the the embodiment embodiment in in FIG. FIG. 1 1 are are mounted mounted FIG. 7 is FIG. is a a plan plan view vieW of ofan analternative alternative array array of ofLEDs LEDs on a suitable suitable base base 40, 40, such such as as G10 G10 (circuit (circuitboard boardmaterial), material), utilized in accordance utiliZed accordance with With the the principles principles of ofthe thepresent present and are arranged arranged in a 3x3 3x3 matrix. matrix. Each Each of of the the LEDs LEDs 32 32 is is invention. adjusted individually individually on on the the base base 40 40 to to concentrate concentratethe thebeam beam so 50 into into the the receiving receiving end end of ofthe the light light pipe pipe 22. 22. For Forexample, example, as as DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DETAILED illustrated illustrated in FIG. FIG. 1, 1, some some of of the the LEDs LEDs on on the the outer outeredges edges INVENTION of the array array are are bent bent at at their theirelectrical electrical leads leads 33 33toward toWardthe the center of the array array to to focus focus the the light light 34. 34. The The LEDs LEDs 32 32are are FIG. 1 electrically FIG. 1 illustrates illustrates a curing curing light light device device for for curing curing lightlight electrically coupled to DC DC power poWer supply supply 20. 20. A A cooling cooling fan fan curable such as 55 indicated indicated by by reference reference numeral numeral 42 42 is is utilized utiliZed to to surface surfacecool cool curable compounds compounds such as dental dental compounds. compounds. Such Such a a 55 device utilizes the LEDs 32 and utiliZes blue light light LEDs LEDs such such as as those those available availablefrom from and is is also also powered poWered by by supply supply 20. 20. Panasonic, Model No. No. LNG997CKB. In testing the prototype shown shoWn in FIG. FIG. 1, 1, the the DC DC current current Panasonic, Model LNG997CKB. In FIG. 1, 1, device device 10 10 includes through the LEDs LEDs was Was increased increased in in several several gradations gradations and and includes a generally generally gun-shaped gun-shaped plastic housing housing 12 12 which Which includes radiated light energy includes a handle portion 14 14 and and a a barrel barrel portion portion 16. 16. The The energy measurements were Were taken taken with With a a laser laser operator, such as as a dentist, operator, such dentist, grips grips housing 12 12 at at the the handle handle 60 power poWer monitor instrument (not (not shown). shoWn). The curing ability of of the LEDs LEDs 32 32 was Was checked checked by by using using one onemillimeter millimeterthick thick portion 14 and directs the barrel portion portion 16 16 in in the the direction direction of the tooth surface slices slices of a a light-curable light-curable dental dental compound, compound, such such as as Kerr Kerr surface and and compound compound to to be becured cured(not (notshown). shoWn). For curing dental filling Dentin ?lling and and coating coating compounds, compounds, the thedentist dentist Dentin XRV XRV Herculite, Herculite, which Which were Were placed placed proximate proximate the the would generally transmission end end 36 of of light pipe 22. 22. At DC current levels of of Would generally direct the barrel portion into the mouth of of a patient. 65 mA, mA, a radiated patient. The The handle handle portion portion 14 14 includes includes an anoperational operational 65 approximately approximately 65 radiated power poWer level level of ofapproxiapproxi trigger switch 18 which to a mately mately 30 mW mW from from beam beam 36 36 was Was measured. measured. The The dental dental trigger sWitch 18 Which is operably operably coupled coupled to a power poWer supply 20 Within within the barrel portion for compound compound slices slices were Were radiated radiated for for approximately approximately one one for selectively selectively supplying supplying
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minute. Through such minute. such experimentation, experimentation, it it was Was determined determined that the compound compound was Was successfully successfully cured, cured, at atleast leastpartially. partially. Longer curing times and higher radiation power poWer levels levels may may
very small and substantially smaller smaller than than conventional conventional LEDs LEDs used in the the test test prototype prototype of of FIGS. FIGS. 1 1 and and 1A. 1A. Referring to FIG. FIG. 3, the dies dies 43 are mounted in an an array array as shown shoWn on on the thegenerally generallycircular circularceramic ceramicsubstrate substrate 44. be necessary for a full cure, depending upon the thickness of of the compound. compound. poWer lines lines 48 coupled to a a DC DC power poWer supply supply 20 5 Suitable power Currently, a a number provide the necessary necessary power poWer for for illuminating illuminatingthe thedevices devices 43. Currently, number of ofLED LEDmanufacturers, manufacturers, including including Panasonic, have made The individual dies or or chips chips 43 are generally rectangular rectangular in in Panasonic, have made available available blue light light LEDs LEDs which Which include semiconductor shape and measure approximately 0.3 mm (0.012 semiconductor junctions junctions doped doped with With Silicon SiliconCarbide Carbide (0.012 inches) inches) on on a side, or 0.09 mm2 in area. Therefore, to provide a generally narrow narroW band band wavelength Wavelength light lightoutput. output. Therefore, the the area area needed neededin inthe the plurality or or array array of such devices devices Was was utiliZed utilized in in the the test test 10 array substantially the area A plurality arrayfor foraasingle singledie dieisis substantiallysmaller smallerthan than the area prototype because because they they have needed in the array array for for a a conventional conventional LED. LED. The The LEDs LEDs are are prototype have a a relatively relatively low loW individual individual power rating, as mounted in a a matrix mounted side-by-side side-by-side in matrix for forming forming a a beam beam of of poWer as compared compared to to halogen halogen lamp lamp bulbs. bulbs. A fan element 42 Was was utilized light. The matrix or utiliZed in the test prototype prototype shown shoWn or array array arrangement arrangement of of the the devices devices 43 is in FIG. 1, in a circular circular shape shape to correspond correspond to the the circular circular shape shape of of 1, although although the the lack lack of offiltering ?ltering devices devices reduces reduces the the heat dissipation ceramic element element 44 and the cross-section cross-section of of barrel barrel portion portion heat dissipation requirements requirements of curing curing light light device device 10. 15 ceramic Since the radiation 34 from the LEDs 32 is generally a single 16, which Which is circular. circular. Furthermore, Furthermore, the the circular circulararray arrayof ofFIG. FIG. wavelength, or a very narrow 3 generates generates a generally generally circular circular beam beam of oflight. light. Other Othersubsub Wavelength, narroW band band of ofwavelengths, Wavelengths, energy energy from strate from the unwanted unWanted wavelengths Wavelengths of visible visible light light does does not not strate shapes shapes may may be used, used, depending depending upon the the design design of of device 10. 10. It It has has been been determined determined that that each each LED LED die die 43 have to be device have be dissipated dissipated in in the the form form of ofheat. heat. Therefore, Therefore, fan fan element 42 could be eliminated in 20 should in an an alternative alternative test test protoproto 20 shouldhave have approximately approximately 0.5 0.5 mm mm per per side, side, or orapproxiapproxi type. mately mately 0.25 0.25 mm2 mm2 of ofceramic ceramic substrate substrate space space for for proper proper type FIG. 1A illustrates another test prototype mounting, operation, FIG. prototype LED LED array array for for operation, and and cooling cooling purposes. purposes. use, such utilizes Metal use, such as as in in the the device device of of FIG. FIG. 1. 1. Array Array 23 utiliZes Metal tracks tracks (not (not shown) shoWn) are are formed formed on on the theceramic ceramic individual having a relatively substrate substrate and the the dies dies 43 are appropriately appropriately soldered soldered to to the the individual LEDs LEDs 24 having relatively standard standard 3.0 3.0 mm mm 25 tracks diameter size. Twenty-one (21) (21) LEDs LEDs are are shoWn shown mounted mounted to to 25 the trackson onaabottom bottomside. side.The Thetop topsides sidesof of thedies dies 43, shown shoWn siZe. TWenty-one in the vieW view of base 25 by the wire Wire leads leads 26 similar to the array in in FIG. FIG. 1. 1. of FIG. 3, are coupled coupled to conductive conductive pads pads by by very very Base 25 is a printed circuit board thin wires board material material such such as as G10. The Wires (not (not shown) shoWn) in in aa microscopic microscopicprocedure procedurereferred referred LEDs used in in the to as LEDs used the test test array array 23 are are Panasonic Panasonic No. No. as wire Wire bonding. bonding. The The conductive conductive pads pads 47, in turn, turn, are are LNG997CKB, and coupled to leads leads 48. and the light light therefrom therefrom was Was focused focusedto to a a 15% 15% viewing area into a light pipe similar In the vieWing similar to that that shown shoWn in in FIG. FIG. 30 the embodiments embodiments illustrated illustrated in in FIGS. FIGS. 2, 3, 3, and 4, 96 96 SA. LEDs 5A. The circular array array 23 of LEDs ensures ensures good good transmistransmis LEDs are arranged arranged as as shown shoWn for forproviding providingthe thenecessary necessary sion into a light pipe. Preferably, curing radiation. Each Each LED LED 43 requires approximately 4-5 45 Preferably, a cooling fan, fan, as as shown shoWn in in FIG. Volts Volts of DC bias, and are preferably biased biased in in series series circuits circuits FIG. 1, 1, is used used to to cool cool array array 23. The array of four The array 23 was Was tested tested and it it was Was determined determined that that a a four LEDs, LEDs, for for a a total total of ofapproximately approximately 20 20 volts volts DC DC driving required per per series series circuit. circuit. The The 96 96 LEDs LEDs are are thus thus arranged arrangedas as driving current current of approximately approximately 50 50 mA mA per per LED LED 24 is 35 required optimal. At that current, the 24 series series circuits circuits of of four four LEDs LEDs each eachon onsubstrate substrate 44. It It is the array array produced producedan anoutput outputpower poWer of approximately 40 mW. important to keep important to keep the density density of of the the light light beam beam to to aa maximaxi approximately 40 mW. Measuring Measuring the the output, output, it it was Was found that the transmission mum. The LED devices devices therefore therefore need need to to be be laid laid out out to to avoid avoid transmission percentage, percentage, or orrelative relativeintensity, intensity, for the light any blank spots light array array at at around around 470 470 nm nm increases increases as as the thedrive drive spots in the the beam. beam. The The array array of of96 96 LEDs LEDs in inthe the current increases between 40 arrangement of betWeen 30 mA mA and and 60 60 mA. mA. of FIG. FIG. 3 requires requires a circular circular area area of ofapproxiapproxi While the the arrays in FIGS. mately 8 mm2 mm2 or or 0.3125 0.3125 inches inches in indiameter. diameter. While arrays as as illustrated illustrated in FIGS. 1 1 and and 1A 1A are are sufficient for curing, The dies su?icient for curing, at least least partially, partially, dental dental compound compound dies 43 of the invention invention provide provide a a very very high highdensity density array which Which provides suitable suitable curing curing power poWer in in a a small small area. area. materials, they are are still still somewhat someWhat large large and andbulky, bulky, generate generate a relatively substantial As discussed, a substantial amount amount of of heat, heat, and and require require separate separate a very very large large number number of ofindividual individualdies dies 43 may focusing Therefore, there there is is still a small small area. area. Suitable Suitable dies dies for for the the invention invention focusing apparatuses. apparatuses. Therefore, still a a need need for for aa 45 be mounted in a suitable, are available from suitable, compact compact dental dental curing curing device device which Which is isefficient, ef?cient, from CREE CREE Research, Research, Inc., Inc., of ofDurham, Durham, N.C., NC, durable, relatively cool, as Part Part No. No. C430-DH85. C430-DH85. durable, relatively cool, and can can provide provide a a density density of oflight light generating elements in a Referring to FIG. FIG. 3, each 4 LED series series circuit circuit is is coupled coupled a small small package package which Which will Will generate generate a curing beam to beam of ofsuitable suitableintensity. intensity. to the the DC DC power poWer supply supply 20 through through wire Wire leads leads 48 and In accordance With with the the principles principles of of the the present present invention, invention, so 50 conductive conductivepads pads 47 which Which are arranged arranged around around the the periphery periphery FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of of of substrate substrate 44. of the the present present invention inventionin in which a plurality It should be appreciated appreciated that that the the spacing spacing of ofthe theindividual individual Which plurality of of LED LED dies dies are are utilized utiliZed to to generate generate the the curing radiation. More LEDs 43 in the array may be More specifically, speci?cally, a plurality of of LED LED dies dies be varied varied as as necessary necessary depending depending 43 are such as upon the size are mounted mounted on on a a ceramic ceramic substrate substrate 44, such as by by siZe of of substrate substrate 44, the cooling requirements, and and soldering. The ceramic ceramicsubstrate, substrate,such such as alumina, utilized55 55 the the cooling cooling system available. available. Furthermore, Furthermore, the the number numberof of soldering. The as alumina, isis utiliZed for providing the necessary LEDs LEDs utilized utiliZed and the the electrical electrical wiring Wiring scheme scheme may may also also necessary cooling cooling of of the the elements elements 43 as vary vary from from that that shown shoWn in in the thedrawings draWings without Without departing departing they operate. The The substrate substrate 44, in turn, is mounted on a heat sink device 46, having cooling fins from the scope scope of ofthe the invention. invention. ?ns 46a, for further cooling cooling An array array of of 96 96 surface-mounted surface-mounted blue blue LEDs LEDs arranged arranged as as purposes. A forced air element (not (not shown), shoWn), such such as as the thefan fan element 42 in shoWn in FIG. FIG. 3 generated generated 480 nm blue light light at at a a radiated radiated in FIG. FIG. 1, 1, might might be be utilized utiliZed for for directing directing or or 60 shown forcing and over the heat power forcing air toward toWard fins ?ns 46a and heat sink sink 46 to poWer level level of of approximately approximately 30 30 mW. mW. While While the the embodiembodi ment illustrated illustrated in in FIG. FIG. 2 utilizing utiliZing 96 LEDs is is suitable suitable for for provide further further cooling. cooling. some curing applications, a The LED dies dies of of the the invention invention are are made madeof oflight-generlight-gener a greater greaternumber numberof ofLEDs LEDsmay maybe be ating material Which which is is not necessary ating semiconductor semiconductor material not packaged packaged or or necessary for for generating generating the therequired requiredpower poWerfor foraawide Widerange range otherwise covered in in plastic. plastic. That otherWise covered That is, is, the the LED LED dies dies of ofthe the 65 of of curing conditions. For For example, example, deeper deeper fillings ?llings or or thicker thicker invention surface invention are essentially essentially unpackaged unpackaged semiconductor semiconductor juncjunc surface coatings coatings may may require require additional additional power. poWer. Radiated Radiated power 2 or poWer levels levels of of approximately approximately 200 200 mW/cm mW/cm2 or greater greater are are tions for generating the the desired desired light. light. Therefore, Therefore, the the dies dies are are
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generally necessary for curing element 64 having fins generally necessary curing the the available available dental dental comcom ?ns 64a, and may may generate generate a beam of of radiation 65 which Which is broader broader or or wider Wider than than the the receiving receivingend end pounds. Other intensities may be be necessary necessary for for curing curing other other light-sensitive 66 of light pipe 67. For efficient ef?cient transfer of of the the radiation radiation to to light-sensitive compounds. compounds. To that end, end, it is anticipated the light pipe 67 and to prevent a a portion portion of ofthe the radiation radiation 65 To anticipated that that the the number number of ofelements elements in in the the array array will Will be be determined determined by by the the intensity intensity of ofthe the 5 from being lost, lost, a a radiation radiation focusing focusing device device 70, such as an an individual dies. A A number number of dies dies in the range of optical individual dies. of 200-500 20(k500 optical lens, lens, may may be be utilized. utiliZed. Lens Lens 70 is is preferably preferably a a elements might be be used. converging optical lens which Which focuses focuses the the radiation radiation 65 from elements might used. Elements Elements having having the the shape shape and and the dies dies to to a a smaller smaller size siZe beam beam as as shown shoWn in inFIG. FIG. 4 for dimensions as discussed the discussed above above would Would require require approximately approximately 1.25 cm2 for efficient ef?cient transmission into the receiving receiving end end 66 of of light pipe 1.25 for approximately approximately 500 500 LEDs. LEDs. Arranged Arranged in in aa circir cular shape, as would be 10 67. In that way, as illustrated illustrated in in FIG. FIG. 3, such an array Would Way, a large percentage of of the radiation radiation generated generated approximately by the the elements elements 60 is is received received by by the the light light pipe pipe and and approximately 18 18 mm (0.7 (0.7 inches) inches) in in diameter. diameter. Of Ofcourse, course, such size will vary depending upon the number transmitted siZe dimensions Will number transmitted thereby thereby for for curing curing purposes. purposes. The The embodiment embodiment of elements used as illustrated in as well Well as as heat heatdissipation dissipationconsiderations considerations in FIG. FIG. 4 utilizes utiliZes the heat sink sink 64 for dissipation and electrical connections and biasing of biasing of ofthe the elements. elements. of heat generated generated by by the the array arrayof ofelements elements 60. A forced air air The invention provides many many advantages advantagesover overthe the prior prior 15 device conjunction The invention provides device (not (not shown) shoWn) might might also also be beutilized utiliZedin in conjunction art with art dental dental compound compound curing curing technology. technology. One One particular particular With the heat heat sink sink 64 for heat heat dissipation dissipation purposes. purposes. The The advantage embodiment illustrated illustrated in in FIG. FIG. 2 does not utilize utiliZe a a focusing focusing advantage is is that the the dies dies 43 are solid solid state state devices devices which Which device device such such as as a a lens. lens. However, HoWever, in inaccordance accordance with With the the have virtually an an unlimited unlimited life. life. Furthermore, Furthermore, the the radiation radiation or light output from the dies principles dies is is not not degraded degraded toward toWard the the end end principles of the the present present invention, invention, a a microlens microlens might might be be of the useful life of the devices, as generally occurs With with the 20 over each die to focus the light generated therefrom. 20 formed formed over each die to focus the light generated therefrom. The microlenses microlenses over individual dies dies would Would be be an an The over the the individual halogen lamp bulbs used used in in the the prior prior art. art. Therefore, Therefore, even evenup up to ultimate alternative to the the large large lens lens 70 illustrated in in FIG. FIG. 4. To that to ultimate failure failure of of the the dies, dies, they they will Will provide provide suitable suitable end, referring to FIG. radiation for curing curing purposes. purposes. The The dies dies 43 further eliminate eliminate FIG. 3A, 3A, the the entire entire array arrayof ofdies dies 43 can be encapsulated in a a continuous continuous layer layer of ofclear clearplastic plastic 71. The the need for for specific speci?c filtering ?ltering of ofthe the undesired undesiredwavelengths Wavelengths 25 layer of broad-spectrum light Which which is is required layer 71 is formed to to create create individual individual curved curvedmicrolenses microlenses broad-spectrum light required with With prior prior art art 25 of the the individual individual dies. dies. The The microlenses microlenses focus focus 73 over each of halogen lamp bulbs. The The dies dies 43 preferably provide radiaradia the emitted light light toward toWard the the fiber ?ber optic optic light lightguide guidefor formore more tion at a a desirable desirable blue blue light light wavelength, Wavelength, for for example, example, 470 470 nm, or at efficient transmission of the blue ef?cient transmission blue light. light. Alternatively, Alternatively, indiindi nm, at a a desirable desirable blue blue light light band band of ofwavelengths. Wavelengths. vidual vidual layers layers and and microlenses microlenses might might be be formed formed separately separately Referring again again to to FIG. FIG. 2, the LED dies dies 43 preferably are are arranged so that that as much dies 43 rather than as as part part of ofa a one one large large continuous continuous arranged so much as as possible possible of ofthe the radiation radiation is is 30 over the dies directed into the receiving end layer. end 35 of light pipe 22. The dies layer. 43 are preferably positioned as The use of of an an array array of ofmicrolenses microlenses 73 will Will eliminate eliminate the as close close to to the the receiving receiving end end 35 of the need need for for a a larger larger single single lens lens 70 and thus will Will produce produce an an even even the light light pipe pipe 22 as as possible possible to to eliminate, eliminate, or at at least least minimize, any loss more compact compact design design for for the the inventive inventive light light curing curing device. device. minimiZe, loss of of radiation. radiation. Light pipes Light pipes or or light light guides guides 22 may may be be commercially commercially 35 Referring to to FIG. FIG. 6, the array array of of dies dies 43, which Which produces a a available and come come in sufficient intensity and and is properly suf?cient intensity properly focused focused using using micromicro available and in a a variety variety of ofdifferent different sizes; siZes; for for example in diameters diameters of of 8 8 mm, mm, 11 mm and and 13 mm Genlenses 73, could be positioned example in 11 mm 13 mm. Gen positioned at at the the tip tip 75 of of the light curing erally, such light pipes are device 76. Such a design would Would eliminate eliminate the the need need for fora a light light erally, such are formed formed of of a a plurality plurality of ofoptical optical fibers pipe and would Would thus eliminate eliminate any any loss loss of ofpower poWer associated associated ?bers (for example, approximately approximately 5,000 5,000 fibers) ?bers) which Which are are fused fused together together into into a a single single light light pipe pipe structure. structure. The The light light 40 with With a light light pipe. pipe. The The array array of of dies dies 43 would Would directly directly transmitted into illuminate a transmitted into the receiving receiving end end 35 is then then transmitted transmitted a tooth tooth or or dental dental compound. compound. As As shown shoWnin inFIG. FIG. 6, the die array is through the light pipe pipe and and is is directed directed out out the thetransmission transmission is coupled coupled to to a a power poWer supply supply 78 by lines lines 80. If end 37 as a narroW narrow beam of necessary, of radiation radiation 36. In the embodiment necessary, a small small fan fan unit unit 82 might be utilized utiliZed for for cooling cooling of purposes. Fan of FIG. 1, the light pipe maintains maintains a a uniform uniform diameter diameterfrom from Fan unit unit 82 is also coupled to power poWer supply supply 78 by the receiving receiving end end 35 to to the the transmission transmission end end 37. At the the 45 lines 83. transmission end the light Therefore, on the intensity transmission end 37, the light pipe pipe is is bent bent or or curved curved for for Therefore, depending depending on intensity of ofthe the individual individual directing beam 36 in a downward dies, doWnWard direction direction onto onto the the work Work dies, the the number number of dies dies in in the the array array is isminimized minimized in in surface, such as is also accordance with the the principles accordance With principles of the the invention. invention. In In the the surface, such as a a tooth tooth surface. surface. The The light light pipe pipe 22 is also embodiment preferably rotatable rotatable in in the the barrel barrel portion portion 16 of of housing 12 so embodiment illustrated illustrated in in FIG. FIG. 6, a very small power poWer supply supply as to direct the beam 36 in other directions, directions, as as necessary necessary With with so 50 78 may be utilized utiliZed to drive drive the the minimized minimized number number of ofdies. dies. A small small rechargeable rechargeable battery battery pack pack 84 may may be be used. used. The The respect to housing housing 12. In an alternative inventive light could could therefore thereforebe be made made as as small inventive light small as as a a alternative embodiment embodiment of of the the invention, invention, as as illusillus fountain pen, similar similar to to the the embodiment embodiment shown shoWn in inFIG. FIG. 6. trated in FIG. FIG. 5, a tapered light light pipe pipe 50 might be utilized utiliZed which has a FIG. 7 shows shoWs an alternative alternative embodiment embodiment of of the the present present Which a larger larger diameter diameter receiving receiving end end 52 (e.g. (eg 13 13 mm) mm) which tapers down which utilizes small packaged surface mountable 55invention invention Which utiliZes small packaged surface mountable Which doWn to to a a smaller smaller diameter diameter transmission transmission end end55 54 (e.g. LEDs in an LEDs in an array array for for generating generating the the blue blue light light of of the the (eg 6-7 6*7 mm). mm). In In that that way, Way, the the light light captured captured in in the the receiving end invention. receiving end 52 is is directed directed to to form form a a more more focused focused or or invention. Array Array 90 is is generally generally circular circular in shape shape and and narrow beam 55. FIG. SA includes a plurality of narroW 5A shows shoWs another suitable version of of ofsurface-mounted surface-mounted LEDs LEDs 92 which Which are are a tapered light pipe. Light mounted on a base 94 of Light pipe pipe 56 has a wide Wide receiving end of printed circuit board board material, material, such such 57 which Which tapers to a a smaller smaller diameter diameter and and transmission transmission end end 60 as G10. The surface-mounted surface-mounted LEDs LEDs are are commercially commerciallyavailavail 58. able from from Nichia Nichia and and have have aagenerally generallyrectangular rectangularsurface surface area on the FIG. 4 illustrates an alternative embodiment embodiment of ofthe the inveninven the base base 94 of approximately approximately 0.050x0.065 0.050><0.065 inches. inches. Therefore, the surface-mounted tion which Which utilizes utiliZes a a focusing focusing device device 70 which Which might might be be surface-mounted LEDs LEDs 92 are larger than than the the utilized When when the generates a beam dies utiliZed the array array of of dies dies 60 generates beam 65 dies illustrated illustrated in in FIGS. FIGS. 2-4, 2*4, and would Would require require a a larger larger substantially Wider wider than the receiving end array. surface area for the the same same number number of ofelements elementsin inan an array. end 66 of a light pipe 65 surface 67. More The LEDs 92 are electrically connected connected in in series series of of3 3 LEDs LEDs More specifically, speci?cally, the array of ofdies dies 60 is mounted mounted on on substrate 62, Which which is appropriately which appropriately coupled to a a heat heat sink sink Which are are coupled coupled to to an an appropriate appropriate power poWersupply supplythrough through
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resistors 96 resistors 96 positioned positioned around around the periphery periphery of of base base 94. 94. Attachment ?anges flanges 98 98 are used to secure Attachment secure base base 94 94 within Within a a curing light device. While the surface-mounted surface-mounted embodiment embodiment will be larger, on average, than Will than the the embodiments embodiments using using dies, dies, such such an array will Will still still be be smaller smaller than than one one using using convenconven 5 tional, bulky tional, bulky LEDs LEDs having having large large packages packages and and long long wire Wire leads. While 126 126 LEDs LEDs are are shown in FIG. leads. While shoWn in FIG. 7, 7, larger larger or or smaller array sizes siZes might be be utilized. utiliZed. Thus the present invention invention provides a a small, small, compact compact and and durable curing device for hardening or curing curing light-curable light-curable 10 materials such materials such dental dental filling ?lling and andcoating coatingcompounds. compounds. Because Because light is generated generated in in a a narrow narroW wavelength Wavelength band band of of the spectrum, spectrum, and preferably as close to a a single single blue blue light light wavelength as possible, Wavelength possible, reflective re?ective filters ?lters and andother otherfiltering ?ltering elements are not required elements are required within Within the the inventive inventive device device for for 15 filtering ?ltering and removing removing unused unused radiation radiation generated generated by by the the traditional lamp bulbs. bulbs. Therefore, Therefore, the the inventive inventive device devicesigsig nificantly reduces reduces the the heat ni?cantly heat generated generated within Within the the curing curing device device and eliminates eliminates the the need need for forcomplicated complicated cooling cooling systems. systems. Furthermore, the power poWer efficiency e?iciency of ofthe the device device is is 20 increased because most if if not not all all of ofthe the radiation radiationgenerated generated is is usable for the purposes purposes of of curing. curing. The The small small size siZe of of the the radiating dies dies and surface-mounted LEDs, as as well radiating surface-mounted LEDs, Well as as the the elimination elimination of filters ?lters and and complicated complicated heat heat dissipation dissipation mechanismsprovides providesaa curing mechanisms curing device device which Which may may be be 25 assembled assembled in a a housing housing substantially substantially smaller smaller than than convenconven tionally available. available. Accordingly, the device device would Would be be lighter lighter and easier to manipulate manipulate for for the the operator, operator, such such as as aadentist. dentist. Still further, the useful life of of the device device is is increased increased because because of the solid surface-mounted solid state state nature nature of ofthe thedies diesand and surface-mounted 30 LEDs. there Will will be no LEDs. Furthermore, Furthermore, there no degradation degradation in in the the radiation output output toWard toward the the end end of the radiation the useful useful life life of of the the elements as generally generally occurs occurs with With halogen halogen lamps. lamps. As Assuch, such, the invention provides a a variety variety of ofnew neW design designpossibilities possibilities for for curing curing devices, devices, and and particularly particularly for for dental dental curing curing 35 devices. While the present While present invention invention has has been been illustrated illustrated by by the the description of the description of the embodiments embodiments thereof, thereof, and and while While the the embodiments embodiments have been described described in in considerable considerable detail, detail, it it is not the intention of of the the applicant applicant to to restrict restrict or orin inany anyway Way 40 limit limit the the scope scope of of the the appended appended claims claims to to such suchdetail. detail. Additional advantages and and modifications modi?cations will Will readily appear appear to those to those skilled skilled in in the the art. art. Therefore, Therefore, the the invention invention in in its its broader aspects aspects is not not limited limited to to the thespecific speci?cdetails detailsreprerepre sentative sentative apparatus apparatus and and method, method, and and illustrative illustrativeexamples examples 45 shown shoWn and described. Accordingly, departures departures may maybe bemade made from such details without Without departure departure from from the the spirit spirit or or scope scope of applicant's applicants general general inventive inventive concept. concept. What is claimed claimed is: is: 1. hand held 1. held dental dental instrument instrument for forcuring curinglight-curable light-curable 50 compounds compounds curable in the mouth mouth of ofaapatient patientcomprising: comprising: a housing; a plurality plurality of of solid solid state, state, light-emitting light-emitting dies, dies, each each die die including including at least least one one generally generally bare baresemiconductor semiconductor junction, mounted mounted in in a a collective collective array array in inthe thehousing, housing, 55 the array of of dies operable operable for for collectively collectively emitting emittinglight light having wavelengths within a narrow having Wavelengths Within narroW band band of ofwaveWave lengths lengths and at a a power poWer to to cure cure aadental dental compound; compound; a continuous continuous clear lens layer having at at least least one one curved curved surface and contacting contacting the the array array to to extend extendin inaacontinucontinu 60 ous fashion over all of of the dies dies of ofthe the array array of ofdies, dies, the the curved surface operable for for protecting protecting the the bare bare semisemi
12
conductor junctions and directing conductor junctions directing and and focusing focusing light light generated by the array; array; and and a light light transmitting transmitting device device for for capturing capturing said said light light from from the array array of of dies dies and and continuous continuous lens lens layer, layer, and andtranstrans mitting a a beam beam of ofthe the light light out out of ofthe the housing housingto toaawork Work surface. 2. The The hand hand held held dental dental instrument instrument of of claim claim 1 1 wherein Wherein 2. said narrow narroW wavelength Wavelength band includes includes a a blue blue light light waveWave length. length. 3. The The hand hand held held dental dental instrument instrument of of claim claim 1 1 wherein Wherein 3. said band includes said narrow narroW wavelength Wavelength band includes a a wavelength Wavelength of of approximately 470 470 nanometers. nanometers. 4. The The hand hand held held dental dental instrument instrument of of claim claim 1 1 wherein Wherein 4. said light transmitting transmitting device comprises comprises at at least least one one fiber ?ber optic element. element. 5. The The hand hand held held dental dental instrument instrument of of claim claim 1 1 wherein Wherein 5. said light transmitting device comprises a a plurality plurality of offiber ?ber optic elements operably operably coupled coupled together together for for directing directing said said beam. 6. 6. The The hand hand held held dental dental instrument instrument of of claim claim 1 1 wherein Wherein said device has has a receiving said light light transmitting transmitting device receiving end end and and aa transmission transmission end, the transmission transmission end end being being dimensioned dimensioned smaller than said said receiving receiving end end for for narrowing narroWing the thelight lightbeam beam captured by said said light light transmitting transmittingdevice. device. 7. The The hand hand held held dental dental instrument instrument of of claim claim 1 1 further further 7. comprising a heat sink comprising a sink coupled coupled to to said said array array for fordirecting directing heat away aWay from from the the array. array. 8. 8. hand hand held held dental dental instrument instrument for forcuring curinglight-curable light-curable compounds compounds curable in the the mouth mouth of ofaapatient patientcomprising: comprising: a housing; housing; a plurality plurality of of solid solid state, state, light-emitting light-emitting dies, dies, each each die die including including at least least one one generally generally bare baresemiconductor semiconductor junction, mounted mounted in in a a collective collective array arrayin inthe thehousing, housing, the array of of dies operable operable for for collectively collectivelyemitting emittinglight light having within a narrow having wavelengths Wavelengths Within narroW band band of ofwaveWave lengths lengths and at a a power poWer to to cure cure aadental dentalcompound; compound; a continuous continuous clear lens lens layer layer having having at at least least one one curved curved surface and contacting contacting the the array array to to extend extendin inaacontinucontinu ous fashion over all of of the the dies dies of ofthe the array array of ofdies, dies, the the curved surface operable operable for for protecting protecting the the bare baresemisemi conductor junction and directing conductor junction directing and and focusing focusing light light generated by the array; array; and and the includingaa distal distal end end and and the the housing housing including the array array of of light-emitting dies and light-emitting dies and lens lens layer layer being beingpositioned positioned proximate the distal distal end end for fortransmitting transmittinglight lightdirectly directly from the array array to a a compound compound to to be be cured. cured. 9. An instrument instrument for for curing curing dental dental compounds compounds compriscompris ing: a plurality plurality of of light-emitting light-emitting elements elements formed formed from from gengen erally bare, bare, light-generating light-generating semiconductor semiconductor junctions junctions mounted mounted on a a substrate, substrate, the thelight-emitting light-emitting elements elements collectively emitting emitting light light in in a a narrow narroW wavelength Wavelengthband band suitable for curing curing a a dental dental compound; compound; a continuous lens lens layer layer having having at at least least one one curved curvedsurface surface thereon, the layer layer contacting contacting the the substrate substrate to to extend extend in in a continuous light-emitting continuous fashion fashion over over all all of ofthe the light-emitting elements; elements; a light light pipe pipe having having a a receiving receiving end end proximate proximate the the lightlight emitting elements and and lens emitting elements lens layer layer to to capture capture emitted emitted light.
49

Kerr v. Ultradent Products

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Kerr v. Ultradent Products

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SCHEPER KIM & HARRIS LLP MARC S. HARRIS (State Bar No. 136647) [email protected] ALEXANDER H.

UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT CENTRAL DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN DIVISION

CASE NOSA(Vi Li")-3(v - Cit-- (F i\b)

15 ULTRADENT PRODUCTS, INC., a Utah corporation, 16 Defendant. 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

Plaintiff Kerr Corporation ("Plaintiff" or "Kerr") hereby complains and

2 alleges against Defendant Ultradent Products, Inc. ("Defendant" or "Ultradent") as 3 follows: 4 5

NATURE OF THE ACTION

On information and belief, Ultradent has infringed and continues to

Upon information and belief, Ultradent is a corporation organized and

JURISDICTION AND VENUE

This Court has personal jurisdiction over Ultradent because, on

Venue in this judicial district is appropriate based on 28 U.S.C.

27 1391(b)-(c), and 1400(b). 28

Kerr has sought legal protection for its technological innovations,

Upon information and belief, Ultradent had knowledge of each of

On information and belief, Ultradent manufactures and sells various

COUNT I PATENT INFRINGEMENT (Infringement of '251 patent)

14 paragraphs 1-15 above as though fully set forth herein.

28 suffer substantial injury, including irreparable injury and monetary damage,

COUNT II PATENT INFRINGEMENT

(Infringement of '733 patent)

8 paragraphs 1-20 above as though fully set forth herein.

COUNT III PATENT INFRINGEMENT (Infringement of '930 patent)

4 paragraphs 1-25 above as though fully set forth herein.

PRAYER FOR RELIEF

26 infringed and induced others to infringe each of Kerr's Asserted Patents;

That judgment be entered requiring Ultradent to pay to Kerr monetary

That judgment be entered trebling such monetary damages that

That this case be adjudged and decreed exceptional under 35 U.S.C.

10 285, and that Kerr be awarded its reasonable attorney fees; 11 12

13 just and proper. 14 15 16 17 18 DATED: February 18, 2014 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 By

Alexander H. Cote Attorneys for Plaintiff KERR CORPORATION

11111111111111101111111111191191111111111 111 11111111111 11101 11

United States States Patent Patent

APPARATUS AND (54) APPARATUS AND METHOD METHOD FOR CURING

(List (Llst continued Con?rmed on on next next page.) page)

PUBLICATIONS OTHER PUBLICATIONS

LLP (57) (57)

606/13, 16; 607/80; 607/80; 362/800 362/800 (56) (56)

US. PATENT PATENT DOCUMENTS U.S.

OTHER PUBLICATIONS PUBLICATIONS OTHER

FOREIGN PATENT PATENT DOCUMENTS

O000 O O O 000 000 000 00000 O O O D 000 0 00 00000

Feb. 17, 17, 2004

U.S. U.S. Patent

17, 2004 Feb. 17,

DESCRIPTION OF OF THE THE DRAWINGS DRAWINGS BRIEF DESCRIPTION

UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE

CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION CORRECTION

Signed and Sealed this Second Day of of August, 2005 2005

11111111111111101111111111!11111116111 1111111111111111111111 1101111 11

(12) United States States Patent Patent

MATERIALS WITH LIGHT LIGHT RADIATION RADIATION MATERIALS

PATENT DOCUMENTS FOREIGN PATENT

N0.: 10/655,781 10/655,781 (21) Appl. No.:

PUBLICATIONS OTHER PUBLICATIONS

Sep. 5, 5, 2003 2003

Prior Publication Publication Data Data

Jan. 6, 6, 2005 2005

U.S. PATENT PATENT DOCUMENTS