Orthodontic Bracket With C-Shaped Pocket And Interchangeable Securing Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional orthodontic treatment methods face challenges in achieving precise and efficient adjustment of tooth alignment, particularly in terms of inclination and angulation, due to the limitations of universal brackets and the complexity of managing multiple bracket types, which can lead to mix-ups and increased manufacturing effort.
Innovation Solution
An orthodontic treatment device featuring a receiving element with a C-shaped opening for securing archwires, allowing for adjustable slot dimensions and orientations through interchangeable securing elements, including pivotable and torque elements, enabling precise adjustments without replacing the receiving element, and facilitating individualized treatment plans.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If universal brackets are used for all teeth, then manufacturing and inventory are simplified, but precise individual tooth alignment (torque, angulation, inclination) cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket system is segmented into two functional parts: a universal receiving element (bracket body) and customizable securing elements (wings). The receiving element provides the basic slot structure that fits all teeth, while the securing elements are individually tailored to each tooth's required torque, angulation, and inclination values. This segmentation allows mass production of simple receiving elements while enabling precise customization through the securing elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing elements (wings) are designed with locally adapted properties for each tooth position. Each wing is customized with specific geometric parameters (angle, width, length) that correspond to the individual tooth's alignment requirements. This local quality approach allows the universal receiving element to be combined with locally optimized securing elements, achieving both manufacturing efficiency and alignment precision.
2Manufacturing precision
If 28 different bracket types are manufactured for each tooth position, then precise alignment is achievable, but manufacturing complexity and inventory management increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving element is designed as a universal component that can be used for all tooth positions. Instead of manufacturing 28 different bracket types, the same receiving element structure is used universally, while the securing elements (wings) are varied to achieve the required precision for each tooth. This multi-functionality approach reduces manufacturing complexity while maintaining alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static, fixed bracket designs to a dynamic, modular configuration. The securing elements can be selectively attached and removed from the universal receiving element, allowing the system to adapt to different tooth positions and treatment requirements without manufacturing entirely different bracket types. This dynamic approach reduces inventory complexity while maintaining precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If interchangeable securing elements are used with the receiving element, then individualized treatment plans are enabled, but the number of components and assembly steps increase
Solution Approach 1:
The securing element integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides both the mechanical retention of the archwire and the geometric control for torque, angulation, and inclination. By merging these functions into one customizable element that attaches to the universal receiving element, the system achieves high adaptability without proportionally increasing overall complexity. The standardized interface between receiving element and securing element simplifies assembly despite the modular design.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an orthodontic treatment device comprising: a receiving element (2, 2') which can be fastened in the jaw of a patient for receiving at least one wire arch portion (3a, 30a, 3b) of at least one orthodontic wire arch (3, 3', 30); and a securing element (4, 5, 6) for securing the at least one orthodontic wire arch (3, 3', 30) in the receiving element (2, 2'). According to the invention, the receiving element (2, 2') comprises a base plate (20), a first or gingival receiving pocket (22) for receiving a first or gingival wire arch portion (3a, 3b) and a second or occlusal receiving pocket (23) for receiving a second or occlusal wire arch portion (30a) which together form a C-shaped receiving opening (21) for the securing element (4, 5, 6); wherein, in an inserted state, the securing element (4, 5, 6) is held in the C-shaped receiving opening (21); wherein the first or gingival receiving pocket (22) has an inner surface (22a) which is bent with a constant radius and, when the securing element is in the inserted state, the at least one wire arch (3, 3') can be held at least in the gingival receiving pocket (22) and can be placed on the bent inner surface (22a) of the first or gingival receiving pocket (22); and wherein the securing element (4, 5, 6) has a first or gingival contact surface (44, 44a, 44b, 54, 64), adapted to a first or gingival wire arch portion (3a, 3b), for securing the at least one wire arch (3, 3') in the first or gingival receiving pocket (22).