Orthodontic Appliance Case with Magnetic Mobile Device Mount
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Solution Overview
Problem
Orthodontic appliances are often lost when set down due to their small size and lack of secure storage solutions, and existing cases do not offer multiple functional uses.
Innovation Solution
An orthodontic appliance case with a magnetic securement system that attaches to a mobile computing device, featuring beveled edges for stability and antimicrobial materials, allowing it to serve as both a storage case and a device stand/handle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If orthodontic appliances are set down on surfaces like napkins, then they are easily accessible, but they are prone to accidental loss due to small size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the orthodontic appliance case with a mobile computing device case into a single integrated unit. The orthodontic appliance is stored within the mobile device case, which serves dual purposes: protecting the mobile device and securely holding the orthodontic appliance. This merging eliminates the need to carry separate cases and prevents loss by associating the orthodontic appliance storage with a larger, harder-to-misplace mobile device.
Solution Approach 2:
The orthodontic appliance case is nested within the mobile computing device case. The smaller orthodontic case fits inside the larger mobile device case, creating a nested structure. This nesting allows the orthodontic appliance to be stored securely within the protective enclosure of the mobile device, preventing accidental loss while maintaining easy accessibility when needed.
2Ease of operation
If orthodontic appliance cases are made small to match appliance size, then they are portable, but they are easily misplaced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the orthodontic case with the mobile computing device case, creating a unified structure. The orthodontic case is not a separate small object but is integrated into the larger mobile device case, which is inherently harder to misplace due to its size and importance to the user. This merging maintains portability while improving traceability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile computing device case serves multiple functions: it protects the mobile device, stores the orthodontic appliance, and acts as a handle or grip. By making the orthodontic case part of a multi-functional device, it becomes associated with a larger, more noticeable object that is less likely to be misplaced, while still maintaining the portability needed for everyday use.
3Device complexity
If orthodontic appliance cases serve only as storage, then they are simple in design, but they lack multiple uses
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile computing device case is designed to perform multiple functions: it protects the mobile device, stores the orthodontic appliance, provides a handle or grip for carrying the mobile device, and may serve as a stand when the device is placed on a surface. This multi-functionality is achieved without significantly increasing complexity, as the same structural elements serve multiple purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
By combining the orthodontic case with the mobile device case, the invention creates a unified structure that inherits the versatility of the mobile device case. The integrated design allows the same object to serve both as orthodontic appliance storage and as part of the mobile device protective case, eliminating the need for separate specialized cases.
4Ease of manufacture
If orthodontic appliances are removed during eating, then they can be cleaned and maintained, but they risk being lost without secure storage
Solution Approach 1:
The orthodontic appliance is stored within the mobile device case, creating a nested storage structure. When the appliance is removed for cleaning or eating, the empty case remains attached to or associated with the mobile device, providing a secure base to return the appliance to. This nested structure ensures the appliance is always accounted for, even when removed from the mouth.
Solution Approach 2:
The integration of the orthodontic case with the mobile device case creates a unified storage solution that is always accessible and accounted for. When the orthodontic appliance is removed for maintenance, the case remains part of the mobile device assembly, providing a secure and obvious location to place the appliance after cleaning, thereby preventing loss during the maintenance process.
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 case effectively prevents loss by securely attaching to a mobile device, providing a stable stand and handle while also serving as a versatile storage container for orthodontic appliances and other small items, with antimicrobial properties for hygiene.
Implementation Method 1
at least one securement means, such as a magnetic portion
Data Source
AI summary
An orthodontic appliance case for use with a mobile computing device. The orthodontic appliance case has beveled edges and a magnet to removably couple to a mobile computing device. The beveled edges add support to the mobile computing device when propped upward. The orthodontic appliance case may also serve as a support or handle for the user of the mobile computing device.