Segmental Distalization Device with Elastic Connectors

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current segmental distalization devices for orthodontic treatment are invasive, noticeable, and offer limited control over forces acting on teeth, often causing discomfort and affecting speech quality, with a need for improved customization and three-dimensional force control.

Innovation Solution

A segmental distalization device featuring an elongate bar with distal and mesial bases and attachment members that can connect to anchors via elastic connectors, allowing for customizable forces and three-dimensional control through various attachment configurations, including threaded cavities and setscrews, enabling flexible attachment and rotation for optimal tooth alignment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional segmental distalization devices are used, then tooth alignment can be achieved, but the devices are invasive, noticeable, and offer limited control over forces acting on teeth

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol over forces acting on teethVSAvoiddevice structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device is divided into separate modular components including an elongate bar, attachment members, and elastic connectors that can be independently positioned and configured. This segmentation allows for customized force application while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure that avoids invasiveness.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The device incorporates adjustable and rotatable attachment members that can be dynamically repositioned along the elongate bar and rotated to different orientations. This dynamic configurability enables precise control over the magnitude and direction of forces applied to teeth without requiring a complex fixed structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If traditional orthodontic devices are used, then tooth alignment can be achieved, but they cause discomfort and affect speech quality

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecomfort and speech qualityVSAvoidtooth alignment precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The device uses flexible elastic connectors instead of rigid structures to transmit forces. These elastic elements can accommodate minor variations in tooth position and jaw movement, reducing discomfort and speech interference while still providing sufficient precision for effective tooth alignment through the attachment members.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Adaptability or versatility

If current segmental distalization devices are used, then some tooth correction can be achieved, but they require dual jawbone usage and offer limited customization

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecustomization optionsVSAvoidattachment configurations

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment members are designed with multi-functionality, serving as connection points for elastic connectors while also providing rotation and positioning capabilities. This universal design allows the same component structure to achieve various force application configurations without requiring multiple specialized devices, thus reducing overall complexity while enhancing customization.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 device provides enhanced customization and control over forces applied to teeth, reducing discomfort and the need for dual jawbone usage, allowing for more precise and effective orthodontic corrections while minimizing visibility and discomfort.

Implementation Method 1

an attachment member attached to at least one of the elongate bar, the distal base, and the mesial base, wherein the attachment member is operable to connect the segmental distalization device to an anchor via an elastic connector

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11654000B2Anteroposterior correction devices

Publication Date: 2023.05.23 UNDER DOG MEDIA

AI summary

In an embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a segmental distalization device that includes an elongate bar having a distal end and a mesial end, a distal base on the distal end of the elongate bar, a mesial base on the mesial end of the elongate bar, and an attachment member attached to at least one of the elongate bar, the distal base, and the mesial base. In some embodiments, the attachment member is operable to connect the segmental distalization device to an anchor via an elastic connector.