Composite Mouthguard with Selective Flavorant Layers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mouthguards lack the ability to provide targeted flavor distribution and customization, often resulting in a uniform taste experience that may not be appealing to all users, and do not effectively utilize multiple flavorants to enhance user satisfaction.
Innovation Solution
A composite flavored mouthguard comprising a U-shaped base made of a first material, an elastomeric frame of a second material, and a liner of a third material, where at least one of these materials includes flavorants, allowing for the deployment of different flavors in various regions of the mouth and providing a customizable taste experience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a uniform flavorant distribution is used in conventional mouthguards, then manufacturing is simple, but user satisfaction and appeal are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The mouthguard is divided into multiple functional layers (base layer, elastomeric frame, and liner) with flavorants selectively incorporated into specific layers. This segmentation allows different flavorants to be placed in different regions, providing targeted flavor distribution while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through modular construction.
Solution Approach 2:
Different flavorants are incorporated into different layers based on their intended release characteristics and user experience goals. The base layer may contain a first flavorant, the elastomeric frame a second flavorant, and the liner a third flavorant, allowing each region to provide a customized taste experience appropriate to its function and contact area.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple flavorants are incorporated into separate layers, then flavor customization and user satisfaction are enhanced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing process is segmented into sequential molding steps where each layer is formed and cured independently before the next layer is added. This allows each layer to be optimized for its specific material properties and flavorant incorporation while simplifying the overall manufacturing process through modular, step-by-step construction rather than attempting to mold all layers simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
Each layer is prepared and cured in advance before being combined with subsequent layers. The base layer is molded and cured first, then the elastomeric frame is molded around it and cured, and finally the liner is molded and cured. This preliminary action approach allows each layer to be independently optimized and simplifies quality control by enabling inspection at each stage.
3Ease of operation
If the liner conforms closely to tooth shape, then fit and comfort are improved, but the mouthguard may be more prone to chewing and crumpling
Solution Approach 1:
The mouthguard structure is segmented into a soft, conforming liner layer and a more robust elastomeric frame layer. The liner provides close adaptation to tooth surfaces for comfort and fit, while the frame layer surrounding it provides structural reinforcement to resist chewing forces and prevent crumpling, with each layer performing its specialized function.
Solution Approach 2:
The mouthguard utilizes a composite structure combining a thermoplastic liner material with an elastomeric frame material. The liner material is selected for its ability to conform to tooth anatomy, while the elastomeric frame material provides superior mechanical strength and tear resistance, creating a composite structure that exhibits both conformability and durability.
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 composite mouthguard offers a customizable and appealing flavor experience by allowing different flavorants to be used in separate layers, enhancing user satisfaction and providing a closer fit to the teeth due to the liner's ability to conform to tooth shape, reducing the likelihood of chewing and crumpling.
Implementation Method 1
an elastomeric frame disposed at least partially within the mouthguard base, the elastomeric frame including a second material and a liner disposed within the upper channel, the liner including a third material
Implementation Method 2
At least one of the first material, the second material, and the third material independently includes one or more flavorants or other additive
Data Source
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AI summary
A mouthguard is configured to encourage its continued use by including one or more flavorants. A composite flavored mouthguard includes a mouthguard base having a generally U-shaped profile forming an upper channel. The mouthguard is formed of multiple layers, each of the layers independently including different flavorants. Mouthguards are often used to protect the teeth, oral tissue and gums from impact and abrasion. Different types of mouthguards are available including nonpersonalized and those that are custom formed to the teeth of an individual user.