Mandibular Repositioning Device Articulated Link Arm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mandibular advancement devices for treating snoring and obstructive sleep apnea lack adjustability, restrict jaw movement, and do not provide an adequate range of adjustment, making them uncomfortable and inconvenient for users.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device for a dental appliance that includes a first and second splint with connecting members and a link arm, allowing for pivotal and slidable movements to adjust the mandibular repositioning, providing a range of relative movement and maintaining axial positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the mandibular advancement device is fixed to maintain precise repositioning, then the mandibular repositioning precision is improved, but the jaw movement freedom deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device transitions from a fixed rigid connection to a dynamic articulated connection using link arms with rotational joints. The link arms allow the mandible to move freely in lateral and opening-closing directions while maintaining the forward advancement position through the axis of rotation design, resolving the contradiction between fixed positioning precision and movement freedom.
2Ease of manufacture
If the device structure is simplified for ease of manufacture, then the manufacturing complexity is reduced, but the adjustment range capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into modular components: upper splint, lower splint, connecting members, and link arms. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured separately using simple processes while the assembly provides complex adjustment capabilities through the articulated link arm mechanism that enables multiple degrees of freedom.
3Ease of operation
If the coupling mechanism allows free jaw movement, then the jaw movement freedom is improved, but the mandibular repositioning precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The link arm connection creates an asymmetric mechanical system where movement is permitted in certain directions (lateral and opening-closing) while being constrained in the forward-backward direction. The axis of rotation is positioned to allow natural jaw movements while maintaining the therapeutic advancement position, resolving the contradiction between movement freedom and repositioning precision.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides an adjustable mandibular repositioning appliance including first and second connecting members and a link arm which is pivotable about an axis wherein protrusive positioning of the mandible is provided by relative positioning of the link arm along aid axis, to kits and couplings for making a readily adjustable mandibular appliance, to a system for providing a readily adjustable mandibular repositioning appliance and methods of use.