Elastic Protrusion Tie for Adjustable Jaw Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing anti-snoring devices with U-shaped upper and lower jaw bars connected by protrusion ties lack user control over the movement of the lower jaw relative to the upper jaw, leading to discomfort and a rigid stop at end positions due to non-stretchable ties.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating stretchable and compressible protrusion ties with a curved center section made of elastic thermoplastic material, allowing for reversible elastic deformation and adjustable distance between fixing buttons, enabling user-influenced movement of the lower jaw relative to the upper jaw.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If non-stretchable protrusion ties are used to connect upper and lower jaw bars, then the device provides stable structural support, but the user cannot influence the movement of the lower jaw and experiences discomfort at end positions
Solution Approach 1:
The protrusion ties are designed to change their physical parameters (length and rigidity) based on the jaw position. The ties consist of a rigid portion for structural support and a flexible portion that can stretch and compress, allowing the device to adapt to different jaw positions and user actions while maintaining stability when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The protrusion ties transition from a static, fixed-length connection to a dynamic system that can adjust its length and stiffness. The flexible portions allow the ties to extend when the jaw moves forward and compress when it returns, providing continuous adaptation throughout the jaw's range of motion.
2Ease of operation
If fixed-length protrusion ties are used, then the device maintains consistent jaw positioning, but it creates a hard stop at end positions causing discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible portions of the protrusion ties act as cushioning elements that absorb excess stress before it reaches the rigid portions. When the jaw reaches end positions, the flexible ties can compress further or stretch slightly, cushioning the impact and preventing the hard stop that would otherwise cause discomfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The ties change their mechanical properties based on the applied force. Under normal positioning forces, the rigid portions maintain consistent jaw alignment. When excessive force is applied at end positions, the flexible portions deform to absorb the shock, preventing discomfort while maintaining overall positioning reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If non-stretchable protrusion ties are used, then the device provides rigid connection, but it prevents user-influenced adjustment of jaw movement
Solution Approach 1:
Each protrusion tie is divided into distinct functional segments: a rigid portion that provides strong structural connection and positioning, and a flexible portion that enables user-influenced adjustment. This segmentation allows different parts of the same component to serve conflicting functions simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the protrusion ties have different mechanical properties tailored to their specific functions. The rigid portions are designed for high strength and stability where needed, while the flexible portions are designed for adaptability and user control where needed, creating local optimization within the overall structure.
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
Enhances user comfort and acceptance by allowing adjustable jaw movement, preventing damage from excessive pressure, and providing a damped stop at end positions, thus improving the overall effectiveness of the anti-snoring device.
Implementation Method 1
a curved center section (11) connecting the two end sections (9), the center section (11) having a cross-sectional contour—at least in part—that permits a temporary change of the distance of the round holes (10) relative to each other by means of an elastic deformation of the protrusion tie (7)
Data Source
AI summary
An intraoral anti-snoring device, for shifting the lower jaw forward in relation to the upper jaw, with an upper jaw bar and a lower jaw bar that are both U-shaped and are connected to each other in a hinge joint at their outer flanks facing away from each other via protrusion ties by means of fixing buttons. At each of the two end sections of the protrusion tie, a round hole is provided for accepting the fixing button. The invention proposes a curved design for the protrusion tie, specifically an S-shaped design, with the center section having a cross-sectional contour—at least in part—that permits a temporary change of the distance of the round holes relative to each other by means of an elastic deformation of the protrusion tie in the longitudinal and in transverse direction. Preferably, the center section has an elongated hole that extends from one round hole to the other round hole and has a width that is smaller than or equal to the diameter of the round hole. Due to the resulting longitudinal edge strips that are capable of spring action, the fixing button is able to avoid excessive pressure by moving into the elongated hole.