• Vichet Chindavanig B.Sc., D.D.S., Cert. of Proficiency in Prosthodontics, M.S. (Oral Science)

Objective To design a dental surveyor with minimized component parts and low production cost for
Thailand economic foundation.

Materials and methods An imported product was studied as a comparative model. Then, synthesis an
alternative design of which prefabricated objects was assembled into a mechanical tool. Work simplification
design philosophy comprising of reducing components, and custom made parts resulted tominimizing production cost.

Results Implication a design predominating with polymer is presenting for use as an alternative tool in
dental education and chair-side. Sale price is nearly fifteen times less than an imported product of the
same use.

Conclusion This innovative design is one of the attempts to produce a mechanical tool of which most
component parts are available in Thailand. This invention may end the day to be reckoned with
importing products and seize control national expense on moderate technological tools. Improvement of
the product and promotion would stimulate inventors and end-users to the novelty value of which
would be their esteem under self reliance for their motherland.

(CU Dent J. 2008;31:1-10)