Impressionless Dental Modeling System with Removable Pin Mounting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional dental modeling methods require the creation of a traditional impression, which is time-consuming and costly, and do not allow for efficient electronic transmission or rapid prototyping of dental models.

Innovation Solution

A dental modeling system comprising a dental model base with pre-positioned removable pins and a mounting plate, along with an alignment jig, that supports the formation of dental models without impressions, enabling digital image input for milling or rapid prototyping, and allows for electronic transmission and cost-effective production.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If traditional dental impressions are used to create dental models, then the models can be formed with accurate tooth impressions, but the process is time-consuming and costly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of dental modelVSAvoidtime required for impression and model creation
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses digital imaging technology to create digital copies of teeth instead of physical impressions. The digital image serves as a virtual replica that can be transmitted and processed electronically, eliminating the need for physical impression materials and manual model creation while maintaining accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical impression-taking process with digital imaging and computer-aided design systems. Instead of using pliers, trays, and casting materials, the system uses digital cameras or scanners to capture tooth geometry and software to generate the dental model

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If traditional dental impressions are used, then dental models can be created, but electronic transmission and rapid prototyping are not enabled

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectronic transmission capabilityVSAvoidcomplexity of impressionless modeling system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a digital copy of the teeth that exists in electronic format, enabling easy transmission through communication networks. This digital replica can be sent to dental laboratories or stored for future use without requiring physical transport of impression materials or models

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The digital image serves multiple functions: it can be transmitted electronically, used for creating physical models through various manufacturing methods, stored for future reference, and modified if needed. This single digital representation replaces multiple physical steps in the traditional process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If conventional dental modeling methods are used, then dental models can be formed, but cost-effective production and efficient workflow are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveefficiency of dental model productionVSAvoidcost-effectiveness of model creation
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The digital copy eliminates the need for expensive impression materials, specialized trays, and manual model-making processes. The digital image can be repeatedly used to create multiple models or send to different laboratories without additional cost for physical materials

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The digital workflow allows continuous processing without interruption. Once the digital image is captured, it can be immediately processed, transmitted, and used for model creation without waiting for impression materials to set or for manual model construction, enabling faster turnaround and increased productivity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Data Source

PatentUS10271931B2Impressionless dental modeling systems and methods
Publication Date: 2019.04.30 HUFFMAN RONALD E
  • US10271931B2 patent drawing
  • US10271931B2 patent drawing
  • US10271931B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Dental systems and methods related to impressionless dental modeling. A dental modeling system includes a dental model base and a mounting plate. The dental model base includes a plate support surface and a plurality of pin receiving apertures formed in the support surface. The mounting plate includes a plate portion positioned on the plate support surface and a plurality of pins extending into the pin receiving apertures to provide removable attachment of the mounting plate to the dental model base. The plate portion includes a model support surface configured to support a model of a person's teeth. The model may be formed directly on the model support surface using an impressionless technique. The model may be formed separately using an impressionless technique and then bonded to the model support surface.