Orthodontic Bracket Axis Indicator with Cruciform Insert
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional orthodontic bracket alignment methods, such as using visual reference marks and paint, are ineffective due to obstruction by the sickle scaler and can lead to surface damage and paint residue, making it difficult for clinicians to accurately align brackets and frustrating for patients.
Innovation Solution
An orthodontic bracket axis indicator with a cruciform-shaped insert that provides an interference fit with the bracket, allowing for precise alignment and protection from damage, and is removable without chemicals, ensuring visibility and reusability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If visual reference marks are provided in the archwire slot, then alignment guidance is improved, but the sickle scaler blocks the view of these marks reducing effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator moves the visual reference system from a two-dimensional flat surface (bracket face) to a three-dimensional protruding structure that extends into the archwire slot space. This allows the reference marks to be viewed from multiple angles and remains visible even when the scaler is inserted into the slot, as the indicator protrudes above the slot opening.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator acts as an intermediary element between the bracket and the scaler. It provides a visual reference system that is separate from the bracket body itself, allowing the scaler to interact with the bracket without blocking the view of the reference marks on the indicator.
2Manufacturing precision
If the sickle scaler is pushed against the base surface of the archwire slot for alignment, then positioning control is improved, but surface defects are created leading to bracket fracture
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator serves as a mediator between the scaler and the bracket base surface. The scaler applies force to the indicator rather than directly to the bracket, and the flexible material of the indicator absorbs this force without transmitting it to the bracket, preventing surface defects.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator is positioned in advance to intercept and cushion the force applied by the scaler. Its flexible material properties provide beforehand cushioning that prevents the harmful transmission of force to the bracket base surface before damage can occur.
3Measurement precision
If removable water soluble paint is applied to the bracket for alignment, then visual guidance is improved, but the paint cannot be easily removed by patients requiring professional intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator is designed as a disposable component that is easily removed by the patient after serving its alignment purpose. It can be peeled off or dissolved without requiring professional intervention, unlike persistent paint that remains on the bracket.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator enables self-service removal by the patient. Its design allows easy removal through simple actions like peeling or dissolving in water, eliminating the need for professional intervention to remove alignment markers.
4Measurement precision
If paint is used for alignment indication, then visual reference is improved, but the paint cannot be reused and must be disposed of
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator is designed to be easily discarded by the patient after use, and the clinician can recover and reuse the same indicator on multiple brackets. This eliminates the continuous consumption and disposal of paint materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator serves multiple functions: it provides alignment reference, protects the bracket during bonding, and can be reused across multiple brackets. This multi-functionality replaces the single-use nature of paint applications.
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
The solution enables accurate and damage-free alignment of orthodontic brackets, improving the efficiency of the orthodontic process for clinicians and reducing patient dissatisfaction from paint residue, while allowing for easy removal and reusability of the indicator.
Implementation Method 1
The first cross member is configured to be received by the archwire slot and the second cross member is configured to be received by the long slot in order to provide an interference fit between the insert and the orthodontic bracket.
Data Source
AI summary
An orthodontic bracket axis indicator for use with an orthodontic bracket including a long slot intersecting with an archwire slot having a base surface and first and second opposed slot surfaces extending from the base surface includes an insert having first and second elongate cross members having first and second top surfaces, respectively, and arranged generally perpendicular to each other such that, when viewed from above, the insert has a generally cruciform shape. First and second grooves extend along the first and second top surfaces of the first and second cross members, respectively, and are each configured to receive an orthodontic tool. The first cross member is configured to be received by the archwire slot and the second cross member is configured to be received by the long slot in order to provide an interference fit between the insert and the orthodontic bracket.