Self-Ligating Orthodontic Bracket Spring Pin Securing Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional self-ligating orthodontic brackets face challenges in aesthetics, functionality, and manufacturing costs due to separate mechanisms for securing the movable member in the closed position and preventing disengagement from the bracket body, which can lead to increased size and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A dual-function securing mechanism using a spring pin and retaining slot that radially expands and contracts to secure the movable member in both the closed and opened positions, preventing accidental disengagement and simplifying the design by combining locking and retention functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate mechanisms are used for securing the movable member in the closed position and preventing disengagement from the bracket body, then the bracket provides reliable securing and retention functions, but the overall size and structural complexity of the bracket increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate functions (securing the movable member in the closed position and preventing disengagement from the bracket body) into a single integrated securing mechanism. This mechanism includes a securing element with a securing portion and a retaining portion that work together as one unified structure, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining both securing and retention functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing mechanism is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it secures the movable member in the closed position, prevents disengagement from the bracket body, and guides the movable member during movement. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate mechanisms, reducing structural complexity while ensuring reliable operation.
2Reliability
If separate mechanisms are used for securing the movable member in the closed position and preventing disengagement from the bracket body, then the bracket provides reliable securing and retention functions, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates two separate mechanisms into one unified securing mechanism, which reduces the number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled. This consolidation lowers manufacturing costs while maintaining the reliability of both securing and retention functions through the coordinated action of the securing portion and retaining portion.
3Device complexity
If a compact securing mechanism is used to reduce bracket size, then aesthetics and manufacturing costs are improved, but the reliability of securing and retention functions may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The securing mechanism utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement of the securing portion and retaining portion to achieve compact design. By strategically positioning these elements in different spatial dimensions and utilizing vertical and lateral spaces efficiently, the mechanism maintains full functionality while minimizing the overall bracket size and footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing portion and retaining portion are designed to nest within each other or occupy overlapping spatial regions, maximizing space utilization. This nested arrangement allows both functions to be performed within a compact volume, ensuring reliability while reducing bracket size for better aesthetics.
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 dual-function securing mechanism reduces the overall size of the orthodontic bracket, enhances aesthetics, and lowers manufacturing costs by integrating the locking and retention functions, while also simplifying the operation of the self-ligating mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
at least a portion of spring pin has a first effective diameter or radius of curvature in the expanded state and is capable of being flexed so as to have a second effective diameter or radius of curvature in the contracted state smaller than the first effective diameter or radius of curvature
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4B
Figure 5~6
AI summary
An orthodontic bracket (10, 210, 410, 710, 910) for coupling an archwire (18) with a tooth includes a bracket body (12, 212, 412, 712, 912) having an archwire slot (16, 216, 416, 716, 916) adapted to receive the archwire therein and a movable member (14, 214, 414, 714, 914) engaged with the bracket body (12, 212, 412, 712, 912) and movable between an opened position and a closed position. A securing mechanism is configured to secure the movable member (14, 214, 414, 714, 914) in at least the closed position and includes a projecting portion and a receiving portion. The projecting portion may include a generally elongate pin (66, 94, 106, 466, 766, 966) capable of flexing relative to a central axis thereof to secure the movable member (14, 214, 414, 714, 914) in at least the closed position. An orthodontic assembly (650) includes an orthodontic bracket (10) and an alignment device (652) for positioning the bracket on the tooth.