Implant Support Device With Rotary Removal Rings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for grafting bioactive polymers onto implants, such as those described in document EP 2 032 663, are not scalable for industrial use due to the danger and impracticality of chemical oxidation, and lack guidance on large-scale processing.
Innovation Solution
The development of support devices with a comb-like configuration featuring bars and pins for securely holding implants, along with a removal system using rotary rings, and the use of anodic oxidation, allowing for efficient handling and processing of multiple implants simultaneously in a controlled environment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If chemical oxidation is used for grafting bioactive polymer onto implants, then the polymer can be synthesized on the implant surface, but the process becomes dangerous and unsuitable for industrial-scale processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the oxidation method from chemical oxidation to anodic oxidation (electrochemical process). This parameter change eliminates the hazards of chemical oxidation while enabling industrial-scale processing. The anodic oxidation process uses electrical current to generate oxidizing species at the implant surface, providing controlled and safe polymer grafting suitable for mass production.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces chemical oxidation mechanisms with an electrochemical system. Instead of using chemical oxidants that pose safety risks, the invention employs an electrical current-based system (anodic oxidation) to generate the necessary oxidizing species. This substitution enables safer, more controlled, and scalable polymer grafting processes.
2Productivity
If a comb-like support structure with multiple pins is used to hold implants, then multiple implants can be processed simultaneously, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support device is segmented into multiple independent pins arranged in parallel on a common bar. Each pin can independently hold and process one implant, allowing parallel processing of multiple implants. This segmentation maintains relative structural simplicity while enabling increased productivity through parallel operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The common bar structure serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical support for multiple pins, acts as a handle for manipulating the entire support device, and ensures proper spacing and alignment of all pins. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, keeping the device relatively simple despite handling multiple implants.
3Ease of operation
If rotary rings are added to pins for removal systems, then implants can be removed without contacting exposed portions, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotary ring mechanism allows the implant to be removed through a simple rotational motion that is easily performed by the operator. The design enables self-service removal where the user can independently unscrew the implant from the pin without requiring complex tools or procedures, significantly improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring the operator to directly manipulate and unscrew the implant from the pin (which would be difficult and dangerous), the invention inverts the approach by providing a rotary ring that converts a simple rotational motion into effective unscrewing action. This inversion makes the removal process much easier and safer.
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
Enables the industrial-scale grafting of bioactive polymers onto implants, ensuring safe and efficient processing by allowing for the handling and processing of large numbers of implants with a bioactive polymer coating, specifically PolyNaSS, while avoiding the hazards of chemical oxidation.
Implementation Method 1
During the turning of the rotary ring, its vibration is transmitted to the implant that is in abutment against the rotary ring
Implementation Method 2
the threaded free end projecting out from the rotary ring in order to enable the implant to be screw-fastened on the threaded free end
Implementation Method 3
the present invention has thus turned to anodic oxidation (anodizing), which is not mentioned in document EP 2 032 663
Data Source
AI summary
A support element (S) for supporting implants (I), such as dental implants, the support element comprising a bar (S1) and a plurality of pins (S5) that are fitted to the bar (S1) and that are arranged parallel to one another, each pin (S5) defining a free end that is provided with reception means (S8) that are suitable for co-operating with the implant (S) so as to hold it on the reception means (S8) of the pin (S5), the bar (S1) including at least one mounting end (S4) for mounting the bar (S1) on another support device, thereby forming a support structure;the support element being characterized in that each pin (S5) is provided with a removal system (S9) for removing the implant (S) from the reception means (S8), without coming into contact with an exposed portion of the implant (S).