Angled Support Structure for Orthodontic Appliance Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional packaging methods for adhesive-coated orthodontic appliances often result in adhesive residue loss due to contact with the package, and suspending appliances can be challenging due to varying appliance geometries, leading to inadequate bonding and handling issues.
Innovation Solution
A packaged orthodontic assembly design that secures the appliance within a container by engaging the archwire slot or passage with a support post, preventing adhesive contact with the container walls and allowing easy access, thus preserving adhesive integrity and accommodating diverse appliance geometries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the appliance is placed directly on the bottom of the container, then the packaging is simple and secure, but the adhesive contacts the container wall causing residue loss
Solution Approach 1:
A support structure acts as an intermediary element between the appliance and the container bottom. This support structure has a release surface that contacts the container bottom while the appliance rests on the support structure, preventing direct contact between the adhesive-coated appliance base and the container wall. The support structure effectively mediates the contact, allowing secure packaging without adhesive contamination.
2Loss of substance
If the appliance is suspended in the container, then adhesive contact is prevented, but appliances with varying geometries are difficult to secure
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is designed with universal adaptability to accommodate appliances of varying geometries. The support structure includes a generally U-shaped configuration with sidewalls that can adapt to different appliance shapes and sizes. The release surface provides a universal contact point with the container bottom, while the apertures can receive various appliance features (slots, brackets, etc.), making the same support structure suitable for multiple appliance types.
3Reliability
If the appliance is secured tightly in the container, then transportation security is improved, but ease of removal and access is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure provides dynamic security - it firmly holds the appliance during transportation through the container bottom contact and sidewall engagement, but allows easy removal when needed. The appliance can be easily removed by applying minimal force to disengage from the support structure's apertures, or the support structure itself can be removed from the container while the appliance remains intact. This dynamic characteristic provides both secure transport and easy access.
Data Source
AI summary
Packaged orthodontic assemblies include a chamber, an orthodontic appliance, and a support structure engaged with the appliance to secure the appliance in the chamber. The support structure can include a post complemental to a partially enclosed passage, typically an arch wire slot, in the appliance body. The support may orient the wall sections of the enclosed passage at an acute angle relative to a chamber side wall.