Dental Prosthesis Framework with Standardized Keys

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional methods for producing dental implant-supported prostheses are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and require highly skilled technicians, with inefficient manual processes and limited precision, making them costly and inefficient.

Innovation Solution

A method using standardized premanufactured teeth with internal struts (keys) that are precisely matched to a horizontal beam framework, allowing for rapid and accurate production of prosthetic frameworks that can be replicated and easily replaced, utilizing either traditional or advanced CAD/CAM technologies.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If traditional manual methods are used to design and fabricate frameworks in wax or resin, then high precision can be achieved, but the process becomes highly labor-intensive and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveframework precisionVSAvoidproduction efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses copy milling technology to create precise framework copies from digital designs. A milling machine automatically reproduces the framework structure with high precision, eliminating manual wax modeling while maintaining accuracy through computer-controlled cutting processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical modeling with automated computer-aided manufacturing. The framework design is performed using CAD software, and the physical framework is produced through automated milling or casting processes controlled by computer programs, substituting skilled manual labor with automated mechanical systems.

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

2Manufacturing precision

If traditional lost wax casting method is used for framework production, then detailed frameworks can be created, but the process becomes extremely lengthy and labor-intensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveframework detail accuracyVSAvoidproduction time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary digital design and planning using CAD software before physical manufacturing. The framework is designed, analyzed, and optimized in virtual space first, allowing for error detection and design refinement before committing to physical production, thereby reducing rework and overall production time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses digital copying and automated manufacturing methods. Instead of traditional lost-wax processes requiring physical pattern making, investing, and casting, the framework is copied from digital models using automated milling or direct digital manufacturing techniques, dramatically reducing the number of manual steps and production time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Manufacturing precision

If custom fabrication of individual prosthetic teeth is performed manually, then precise fit can be achieved, but skilled labor and time are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetooth fit accuracyVSAvoidfabrication process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses copy milling technology to manufacture individual prosthetic teeth from digital impressions and designs. The milling machine automatically reproduces the precise tooth morphology and fit characteristics from digital models, eliminating manual tooth fabrication while maintaining high precision through computer-controlled shaping.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual tooth fabrication techniques with automated computer-aided manufacturing. The complex process of hand-carving and shaping individual teeth is substituted with automated milling processes controlled by CAD software, reducing the need for highly skilled manual labor while maintaining or improving precision.

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

4Reliability

If replacement of worn or chipped teeth is performed using traditional methods, then the prosthesis can be restored, but the entire framework process must be repeated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprosthesis durabilityVSAvoidtooth replacement time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the framework and prosthetic teeth as separate, modular components. Individual teeth can be detached and replaced independently from the main framework structure. This segmentation allows for selective replacement of damaged teeth without requiring removal or remanufacturing of the entire framework, significantly reducing replacement time and complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS10271929B2Dental prosthesis and method of its production utilizing standardized framework keys and matching premanufactured teeth
Publication Date: 2019.04.30 GLOBAL DENTAL SCIENCE LLC
  • US10271929B2 patent drawing
  • US10271929B2 patent drawing
  • US10271929B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system including a method and associated structures creates efficiencies in the manufacture of prosthetic tooth support frameworks. Pre-manufactured teeth with matching internal keys are used in the setup of a patient prototype. Each key includes a shaft, a cervical platform, a retention knob and preferably at least one channel for the expulsion of excess adhesive fluid. The cervical platforms are shaped to provide intimate contact with a base of their respective tooth. The same tooth/key pairs are then used to make a framework pattern from the setup positioning. The pattern can be cast or scanned for direct machining to produce the finished framework.