Laser Trimming of Dental Aligners With Orientation Offset Compensation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dental aligner trimming systems face challenges in accurately cutting dental aligners due to potential offsets in the orientation of dental models, leading to inconsistencies and inaccuracies in the trimming process.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a model positioning system, an orientation determination system, and a laser trimming system that uses a camera to capture images of orientation features on dental models, determines offsets, and adjusts the trimming process to ensure precise cutting along a trim line specific to each user's dental model, allowing for accurate repositioning of teeth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a traditional trimming system is used without offset compensation, then the trimming process is simpler and faster, but the cutting accuracy and consistency deteriorate due to orientation offsets in dental models
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by capturing images of orientation features and determining offsets before the trimming process begins. The offset determination is completed in advance, allowing the trimming system to compensate for positioning errors and adjust the cutting path accordingly, ensuring accurate trimming despite variations in model placement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by using a camera to capture the actual position and orientation of the dental model, determining the offset from the expected position, and then using this offset information to adjust the trimming path. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures that cutting accuracy is maintained despite variations in model placement.
2Measurement precision
If the dental model is positioned manually on the fixture plate, then the setup process is simpler, but the orientation accuracy and consistency deteriorate due to human positioning errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by allowing the dental model to identify its own position and orientation through the camera system. The orientation features on the model itself provide the reference information needed for offset determination, eliminating the need for manual measurement or complex alignment procedures by operators.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical positioning with an optical measurement system. Instead of relying on operators to physically align the model using mechanical fixtures, the camera-based system optically detects the orientation features and automatically determines the offset, providing more precise and consistent results.
3Manufacturing precision
If the trim line is not adjusted for offset, then the cutting process is faster and simpler, but the dental aligner fit and quality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamics by making the trim line adjustable and adaptive rather than fixed. The trim line is dynamically modified based on the detected offset, allowing the system to accommodate variations in model positioning while maintaining cutting accuracy. This dynamic adjustment ensures high-quality aligner fit without requiring repositioning or manual intervention.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system ensures accurate and consistent trimming of dental aligners, improving their fit and comfort by compensating for orientation offsets, resulting in better-fitting dental aligners for orthodontic treatment.
Implementation Method 1
a laser trimming system configured to cut the material from the dental model along the trim line
Implementation Method 2
a camera of an orientation determination system...captures an image of the orientation feature
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes an orientation determination system comprising a camera where the camera is configured to capture an image of an orientation feature of a physical dental model of a dental arch of a customer with material thermoformed thereon. The orientation determination system is configured to identify an offset of the physical dental model with respect to a fixture plate during positioning or before or after the physical dental model is positioned on the fixture plate by determining an actual orientation of the physical dental model based on the orientation feature. The system also includes a laser trimming system configured to cut the material along a trim line based on the identified offset while the fixture plate is moved about at least two axes to produce a dental aligner specific to the customer and being configured to reposition one or more teeth of the customer.