Automated Dental Device Edge Curves Using Gingival Offset Points
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manual cutting of dental devices such as clear aligners and retainers is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and produces inconsistent results due to reliance on technician skill, lacking precision and consistency.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method for generating an edge curve by identifying tooth reference and offset points on a dental model, connecting these points to create a precise edge curve outside the interproximal area, using spline fitting and control points for enhanced control over the shape.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual cutting is used to generate the edge of dental devices, then the process allows flexibility in handling different cases, but it is time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical cutting process with an automated computer-implemented method. The system automatically identifies tooth reference points, calculates offset points, and generates edge curves using algorithms, eliminating the need for manual technician intervention while maintaining adaptability to different dental cases through programmable parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service automation where the computer algorithm independently performs the entire edge curve generation process without human intervention. The method automatically processes dental models, identifies features, and produces consistent results, freeing technicians from repetitive manual cutting tasks while preserving clinical flexibility through configurable offset distances.
2Ease of manufacture
If manual cutting is used to generate the edge of dental devices, then the process can be performed without specialized equipment, but it produces inconsistent results due to reliance on technician skill
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual cutting with an automated computer-implemented method that uses algorithms to identify tooth reference points and generate edge curves. This substitution eliminates variability introduced by different technicians' skills and produces consistent, repeatable results across all dental devices while maintaining ease of manufacture through software-based processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the computer algorithm continuously refines the edge curve generation by calculating offset points based on identified tooth features and adjusting parameters to achieve the desired offset distance. This iterative process ensures manufacturing precision and consistency while allowing for adjustments based on specific case requirements.
3Manufacturing precision
If automated methods are used to generate edge curves, then consistency and precision are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex manual procedures with a streamlined computer-implemented method that uses standardized algorithms for point identification and curve generation. While automation introduces software complexity, it eliminates the need for specialized technician skills and equipment, overall simplifying the manufacturing process and improving consistency through programmable precision.
Data Source
AI summary
According to an embodiment, a computer-implemented method for generating an edge curve to facilitate manufacture of at least a portion of a dental device is disclosed. The method includes identifying at least one tooth reference point for each of at least two teeth on a dental model; identifying at least one offset point corresponding to each of the at least one tooth reference points such that the at least one offset point is on a gingival surface of the dental model and located outside an interproximal area; and generating the edge curve by connecting the offset points such that the edge curve is outside the interproximal area and on the gingival surface.