Orthodontic Data Match Code Through-Hole Pattern
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Solution Overview
Problem
In orthodontic manufacturing, particularly for customized appliances, identifying and tracking multiple items is challenging due to limitations in existing one-dimensional, two-dimensional, and three-dimensional bar code systems, which restrict information storage and require complex detection equipment.
Innovation Solution
The use of three-dimensional dentition models with integrated data match codes, comprising through-holes in a predetermined pattern, allows for efficient tracking and identification of orthodontic appliances. These models are fabricated using photosensitive resins and can be imaged through a translucent polymeric film, enabling automatic data capture and transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If one-dimensional bar codes are used for identification, then the identification mechanism is simple, but the information storage capacity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional bar codes to two-dimensional data matrices, utilizing both horizontal and vertical dimensions to encode information. This dimensional expansion allows significantly more data to be stored in the same physical space, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and information capacity.
2Loss of information
If two-dimensional data matrices are used for identification, then information storage capacity increases, but the detection equipment complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical imaging to create a digital copy of the physical data matrix on the orthodontic appliance. This optical copy can then be processed by software algorithms, replacing complex specialized detection equipment with standard imaging devices and computational methods.
3Loss of information
If three-dimensional bar codes are used for identification, then information storage capacity increases, but the manufacturing complexity and detection equipment requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the identification function from the three-dimensional structure of the appliance itself and places it on a separate, flat data matrix attached to or integrated with the appliance. This separation allows the main appliance to maintain its functional three-dimensional form while the identification system remains a simple two-dimensional code that can be manufactured and detected more easily.
4Device complexity
If traditional bar code systems are used, then the identification mechanism is simple, but the tracking and processing efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optical imaging system as an intermediary between the physical appliance and the digital tracking system. This intermediary captures the data matrix and converts it into machine-readable format, enabling automated tracking and processing without requiring complex direct sensing equipment on each appliance.
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 solution enables rapid and accurate identification of orthodontic appliances, facilitating automated fabrication and handling, while providing a unique identifier for each patient and appliance, enhancing tracking and processing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an imager and machine vision can be implemented to recognize the data match code to automatically capture and transmit this information
Implementation Method 2
The three-dimensional dentition model may be fabricated such as by a three-dimensional printing process using, e.g., photosensitive resins
Data Source
AI summary
Data match coding system for orthodontic appliances are disclosed. One variation of a data match code apparatus may generally comprise a three-dimensional model corresponding to a patient dentition and a platform extending from the three-dimensional model. The platform may define a data match code having a plurality of through-holes which are positioned relative to one another in a predetermined pattern.