Jaw Movement Simulator With Rotational-Translational Engagement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for simulating jaw movements, such as using articulators with conventional plaster models, are complex, extensive, and limited in personalization, making it difficult to achieve realistic and comprehensive jaw movement simulations.

Innovation Solution

A device comprising at least one first device unit attachable to an upper jaw model and at least one second device unit attachable to a lower jaw model, with engagement means that perform rotational and translational movements within openings, allowing for realistic simulation of jaw movements through 3D printing and simplified construction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional articulators with plaster models are used to simulate jaw movements, then jaw movement simulation can be achieved, but the process becomes complex and extensive

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvejaw movement simulation accuracyVSAvoidarticulator construction complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the articulator body and jaw models into a single integrated device that can be 3D printed as one piece. This merging eliminates the need for separate plaster models, multiple articulator components, and complex assembly procedures, while still achieving accurate jaw movement simulation through the engagement means mechanism

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the traditional mechanical articulator system with plaster models and manual assembly with a 3D printed device featuring engagement means that perform rotational and translational movements. This substitution simplifies construction while maintaining the ability to simulate jaw movements accurately

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If conventional articulators are configured to simulate jaw movements, then movement simulation is possible, but personalization is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvejaw movement simulation accuracyVSAvoidpersonalization capability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements local quality by allowing different regions of the engagement means to have different movement characteristics. The engagement means can perform both rotational and translational movements in specific directions, enabling personalized jaw movement simulation for individual patients while maintaining overall device simplicity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies dynamics by designing the engagement means to perform multiple types of movements (rotational and translational) rather than fixed mechanical linkages. This dynamic capability allows the device to adapt to and simulate the unique movement patterns of different individuals, enhancing personalization

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If multiple components are used in articulator construction, then functional capability is maintained, but manufacturing and assembly become more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvearticulator functionalityVSAvoidarticulator manufacturing ease

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple articulator components into a single 3D printed device. The engagement means, jaw models, and articulator body are integrated into one monolithic structure, eliminating the need for separate manufacturing and assembly of multiple components while preserving all necessary functional capabilities

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

While integrating components, the patent maintains functional segmentation through the engagement means mechanism. The engagement means is designed with distinct rotational and translational movement capabilities, allowing complex jaw movement simulation to be achieved through coordinated simpler movement types within a unified structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS12310807B2Device for simulating jaw movements and a method for generating the device

Publication Date: 2025.05.27 XWERK GMBH

AI summary

It is described a device for simulating jaw movements, the device comprising at least one first device unit attachable to an upper jaw model and at least one second device unit attachable to a lower jaw model, wherein the at least one first device unit comprises an engagement means and the at least one second device unit comprises one or more openings for receiving the engagement means, or vice versa, wherein the engagement means is arranged to perform a rotational movement and a translational movement within the one or more openings. It is further described a computer-implemented method for generating the device.