Mandibular Advancement Device With Interlocking Teeth Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mandibular advancement devices face challenges such as difficulty in adjustment due to limited dexterity, slippage, requirement of specialized tools, and reduced efficacy in moist environments, leading to discomfort and ineffective securing.
Innovation Solution
A mandibular advancement device with adjustable frames that can be secured in the mouth using ribs and channels that snap together, allowing for easy adjustment and secure locking through interlocking teeth, optimized for automated manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If interlocking slide-channels are used for adjustment, then the device can be adjusted, but specialized tooling and sliding molds are required in manufacturing
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into an upper tray and a lower tray as separate segments. Each tray has simplified attachment features (protrusions and recesses) that enable adjustment without requiring complex interlocking slide-channels in either component, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining adjustability.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mechanism allows dynamic adjustment between different tray positions. The protrusions and recesses can engage at multiple positions along the adjustment path, enabling the device to be adjusted intraorally without requiring complex locking mechanisms or specialized tooling.
2Reliability
If friction-fit grooves are used to prevent movement, then the trays can be secured, but the device thickness increases and comfort decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The securing function is segmented into discrete attachment features (protrusions and recesses) rather than relying on a single thick friction-fit groove. This allows the trays to be secured effectively while maintaining a thinner, more comfortable device profile.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a friction-fit groove that requires significant depth to prevent movement, the design inverts the approach by using positive mechanical interlocking features (protrusions fitting into recesses) that provide secure attachment with minimal thickness.
3Reliability
If friction is relied upon to prevent tray movement, then securing is achieved, but saliva lubrication reduces friction and efficacy
Solution Approach 1:
The design inverts the securing approach by using positive mechanical interlocking (protrusions and recesses) rather than relying on friction. This mechanical interlocking remains effective even when saliva lubrication reduces friction between surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The friction-based mechanical system is replaced with a positive mechanical interlocking system. The protrusions and recesses create a deterministic mechanical connection that is not dependent on friction coefficients, making it reliable in the moist oral environment.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a mandibular advancement device having a first frame and a second frame, the first frame having generally a U shape, the U shape having an apex and two ends, the two ends associated with a rear of the first frame and the apex associated generally with a front of the first frame, a channel of the first frame having two opposing sidewalls, an inner sidewall of the two opposing sidewalls, an outer sidewall of the two opposing sidewalls, a first plurality of teeth on the inner sidewall, a raised block of the second frame, a mating sidewall of the raised block, a second plurality of teeth on the mating sidewall, and wherein the first plurality of teeth on the inner sidewall is sized in relative proportions to engage with the second plurality of teeth on the mating sidewall.