3D-Printed Jaw Model Mounting for Warp-Free Articulator Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for mounting dental models in articulators using 3D-printed materials result in warping due to plaster expansion, and the models are not easily removable, leading to space issues and mechanical bonding challenges.

Innovation Solution

A method involving 3D printing a jaw model integrated with a model plate, using a tongue-and-groove system and magnetic connection with an articulation plate, allowing for easy detachment and precise alignment, and incorporating a honeycomb structure for removable tooth stumps.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If plaster is used to mount jaw models in articulators, then the models can be firmly fixed, but the models cannot be easily removed and space problems occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefirm fixation of jaw modelsVSAvoidremovability of jaw models

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting system is divided into separate components: a model plate that holds the jaw model and an articulation plate that mounts to the articulator. This segmentation allows the jaw model to be easily detached from the model plate while maintaining firm fixation during articulation work.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The model plate serves as an intermediary between the jaw model and the articulator. It provides a stable mounting interface while allowing easy removal of the jaw model through the tongue-and-groove connection mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Strength

If plaster base is used for mounting, then secure connection is achieved, but warping occurs due to plaster expansion

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure connection of modelVSAvoidwarping of model

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The jaw model is extracted from direct contact with the plaster base by introducing a model plate as an intermediary. The model plate is mounted on the articulation plate rather than being directly plastered, eliminating the warping caused by plaster expansion while maintaining secure connection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Manufacturing precision

If 3D-printed models are mounted directly in articulator, then manufacturing precision is improved, but space problems and mechanical bonding challenges occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprecision of 3D-printed modelVSAvoidcomplexity of mounting system

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting system is segmented into a model plate and articulation plate, simplifying the mechanical bonding process while maintaining the manufacturing precision of 3D-printed models. The tongue-and-groove connection provides straightforward assembly without complex bonding procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

4Ease of operation

If individual tooth stumps are to be removed, then accessibility is improved, but structural integrity of model is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccessibility of tooth stumpsVSAvoidstructural integrity of model

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The model plate incorporates individual openings that segment the structure to allow access to tooth stumps while maintaining overall structural integrity. The openings are strategically positioned to enable removal of individual stumps without compromising the strength of the remaining model structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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 easy removal of individual tooth stumps and precise alignment in articulators, preventing warping and space issues, while ensuring a stable and accurate mounting process.

Implementation Method 1

magnetic connection with an articulation plate

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic connection: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentEP4208123B1Method for producing a jaw model intended for mounting in an articulator

Publication Date: 2025.12.17 SHERA WERKSTOFF TECHNOLOGIE GMBH & CO KG

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AI summary

The present invention relates to a method for producing a jaw model of a patient intended for mounting in an articulator (10), said method comprising the production of at least one jaw model (11, 12), at least one model plate (17) assigned to this jaw model and at least one articulation plate (19), which is detachably connectable to the model plate, is to be arranged approximately parallel to the model plate (17), can be inserted into an articulator (10) and is connectable to the latter, the model plate (17) and articulation plate (19) being fixable with respect to one another by an interlocking connection, and, according to the invention, the data for the jaw model being obtained digitally and the jaw model (11, 12) then being produced by means of 3D printing on the basis of these digital data. The jaw model (11, 12) is preferably produced from plastic in one piece together with the model plate (17) by means of 3D printing. The method according to the invention is simple, reliable and accurate and, as necessary, also allows for easier removal of individual tooth stumps (27, 28) from the model.