Orthodontic Bracket Marking via Laser Oxide Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing orthodontic elements face challenges in clearly identifying markings due to their integration with retention structures, which can obscure the tooth designation, making it difficult for orthodontists to assign the elements correctly.
Innovation Solution
The marking is placed in an area without retention structure, and a laser beam is used to reduce the oxide layer in this area, creating a visually distinct marking that is optically different from the retention structure, allowing for better recognition and a strong adhesive bond through a partial retention structure design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a marking is applied on the base surface over the retention structure, then the marking can be applied in a simple manner, but the marking is not clearly recognizable
Solution Approach 1:
The base surface is segmented into two functional zones: a retention structure area with net-like pattern for adhesive bonding and a marking area without retention structure for clear visual identification. This spatial segmentation allows the marking to be clearly visible without being obscured by the retention structure pattern.
Solution Approach 2:
Different areas of the base surface are given different properties: the retention structure area has a net-like pattern for bonding, while the marking area has a smooth, oxide-free surface for clear visual identification. The marking area is locally treated with a laser beam to remove the oxide layer, creating a distinct visual contrast.
2Strength
If the retention structure covers the entire base area, then the adhesive bond is maximized, but the marking cannot be clearly recognized
Solution Approach 1:
The base surface is divided into a retention structure area and a marking area. The retention structure is concentrated in specific regions (edges and central area) while leaving a designated zone free for marking, achieving both strong bonding and clear identification.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of covering the entire base area with retention structure, the net-like pattern is applied partially to specific regions. This partial coverage is sufficient to provide strong adhesive bonding while leaving space for a clearly recognizable marking.
3Area of stationary object
If the retention structure is reduced to a partial area, then the marking area is increased, but the adhesive bond strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The retention structure is strategically positioned in areas of high stress concentration (edges and central region) rather than uniformly distributed. This localized concentration of retention structure maintains bonding strength while freeing up space for marking.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention structure covers only the necessary partial areas (edges and central region) required for sufficient bonding strength, avoiding excessive coverage that would interfere with marking visibility. This optimized partial coverage achieves the right balance between bond strength and marking area.
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
This approach enhances the clarity of the marking and achieves a strong adhesive bond between the orthodontic element and the tooth, enabling reliable withstanding of both compressive and tensile forces despite a limited retention structure area.
Implementation Method 1
the marking has a reduced surface, ie a surface which is subjected to chemical reduction. For example, it can be provided that an otherwise present oxide layer is removed by means of the laser beam in the residual area of the base surface that is free of retention structure.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The element has a base, which includes a base surface (12) for fixing the element to tooth. The base surface has a retention structure (26) with recesses and/or elevations for improving adhesive connection between the element and the tooth. The base surface has marking (33) for positioning the elements to a tooth type. The retention structure partially covers the base surface, and the retention structure free remaining area (31) of the base surface includes the marking. An independent claim is also included for a method for producing a jaw bone orthopedic element.