Compact UV Sterilization Case for Portable Oral Appliance Care
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sterilization cases for oral appliances are bulky and not portable, failing to meet the need for easy and compact sterilization on the go, especially for individuals using retainers or aligners.
Innovation Solution
A compact, rechargeable UV sterilization case with a hinged body design, incorporating a rechargeable battery and UV lights, designed to fit in a pocket and sanitize oral appliances effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing sterilization cases for oral appliances are designed to be effective, then sterilization function is improved, but device size and portability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The sterilization case is designed to nest within a standard retainer case, with the UV sterilization components integrated into the existing case structure. The case body can be configured to fit inside another case, maximizing space utilization and maintaining portability while providing effective sterilization functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The case design utilizes three-dimensional space efficiently by arranging the UV light source, battery, and case body in a compact vertical configuration. The hinged case body allows the UV light to illuminate the oral appliance from multiple angles, achieving effective sterilization in a reduced volume.
2Ease of operation
If sterilization case is made compact for portability, then ease of carrying is improved, but sterilization effectiveness may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The case incorporates a hinged body design that allows dynamic adjustment of the case opening angle, enabling the UV light to reach the oral appliance effectively. The hinge mechanism provides flexibility in positioning the UV source relative to the appliance, maintaining sterilization effectiveness while keeping the overall case compact.
Solution Approach 2:
The rechargeable battery powers the UV light in periodic cycles, providing sufficient illumination time for effective sterilization. The battery can be recharged multiple times, ensuring consistent sterilization effectiveness across multiple use cases while maintaining a compact form factor.
3Reliability
If UV light intensity is increased for better sterilization, then sterilization effectiveness is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The UV light operates in periodic cycles rather than continuously, providing sufficient sterilization effectiveness during active periods while reducing overall energy consumption. The rechargeable battery is designed to support these periodic operation cycles, balancing sterilization effectiveness with energy efficiency.
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
Provides portable and efficient sterilization of oral appliances, ensuring bacteria and pathogens are eliminated during travel, with a user-friendly design and multiple charging options.
Implementation Method 1
at least one ultraviolet light mounted in the case body and being powered by the rechargeable battery, the at least one ultraviolet light being configured to sterilize the oral appliance
Data Source
AI summary
A sterilization system and method for sterilizing an oral appliance is disclosed. As part of the system, a sterilization case is provided, which includes a case body, a rechargeable battery, and at least one ultraviolet light. The case body includes a top portion and a bottom portion movably connected to one another, and the case body is sized and shaped to house the oral appliance. The at least one ultraviolet light is mounted in the case body, is powered by the rechargeable battery, and, in use, sterilizes the oral appliance.