3D Printed Indirect Bonding Tray Multi-Resin Fabrication
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current indirect bonding systems for orthodontic bracket placement face challenges in precision fabrication of intricate geometries and are prone to human error, leading to inaccuracies in bracket positioning.
Innovation Solution
The use of 3-D printed indirect bonding trays fabricated with multiple resin materials, digitally designed to match patient-specific anatomy, which include features like biocompatible materials, customizable markings, and rigid handles for improved accuracy and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional indirect bonding systems are used for bracket placement, then the process is simpler and more established, but manufacturing precision and bracket positioning accuracy deteriorate due to inability to fabricate intricate geometries and human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fabrication method from traditional molding to 3-D printing, enabling precise fabrication of intricate tray geometries that match patient-specific anatomy. This parameter change in manufacturing technology directly improves bracket positioning accuracy while the digital workflow standardization mitigates the complexity issue
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the patient's dental anatomy and bracket positions, then uses this digital model to generate the 3-D printed tray. This copying approach ensures high precision by transferring digital precision to the physical tray, while the digital workflow reduces human error in the fabrication process
2Manufacturing precision
If 3-D printed trays with multiple resin materials are used, then manufacturing precision and customization improve, but device complexity and fabrication process complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses multiple resin materials with different properties (e.g., rigid resin for tray structure, flexible resin for patient-contact surfaces) to create a composite tray that optimizes both precision and comfort. The multi-material approach enables precise fabrication of intricate geometries while the digital workflow manages the fabrication complexity
3Manufacturing precision
If digitally defined bracket setup is used, then bracket positioning accuracy improves, but loss of time in digital workflow and fabrication increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs bracket positioning and tray design in advance using digital workflows and 3-D printing before the actual bonding appointment. This preliminary action allows time for precise fabrication while the tray is ready for use, reducing waiting time during the clinical procedure. The digital setup can be done remotely, further optimizing the time workflow
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
This approach enhances manufacturability, reduces human error, and improves bonding accuracy, providing a more precise and efficient method for orthodontic bracket placement with reduced variation in part appearance and improved patient comfort.
Implementation Method 1
The tray can be digitally designed and fabricated using rapid prototyping means, such as 3-D printing
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for fabricating indirect bonding trays are disclosed. Digital models of a patient's teeth can be created with digital brackets positioned on the digital model of a patient's teeth. Digital models of indirect bonding trays can be created to retain and transfer the brackets. The indirect bonding trays can be 3-D printed with wells that the functional brackets can be placed into and thereafter transferred to the patient. The 3-D printed indirect bonding tray can comprise two resins, with one resin forming the tray and another resin forming a functional feature.