Orthodontic Force Device with Integrated Scale and Adjustable Mounts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Herbst appliances for orthodontic treatment lack means to indicate applied force, have non-adjustable mounting parts, fixed force lengths, and are inconvenient to operate in the oral cavity.
Innovation Solution
A force applying device for orthodontic treatment that is elastically expandable, comprising a first and second element capable of moving relative to each other, with adjustable mounting parts and a scale to indicate applied force, allowing for adjustable force and length.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional Herbst appliance force applying device is used, then the structure is simple, but it lacks means for indicating applied force making it difficult to determine whether treatment force meets requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The scale is integrated into the hollow cylindrical structure of the force applying device, with the scale markings positioned on the inner surface of the cylinder. This nesting approach allows the measurement function to be incorporated within the existing structural form, adding force indication capability without significantly increasing external device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The scale is pre-marked on the inner surface of the hollow cylinder during manufacturing, establishing the measurement reference system before the device is used. This preliminary preparation enables direct force measurement without requiring additional measurement devices or complex calibration procedures during treatment
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional Herbst appliance with fixed mounting parts is used, then the manufacturing is simple, but the positions of mounting parts are not adjustable and tolerance for mounting error is small
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting parts are designed with adjustable features that allow their positions to be modified after manufacturing. The hollow cylindrical structure incorporates mechanisms that enable dynamic repositioning of mounting points along the cylinder surface, transitioning from fixed to adjustable positioning capability
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting parts are divided into separable components that can be independently positioned and adjusted. This segmentation allows the mounting mechanism to be assembled in different configurations, providing flexibility in position selection while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through modular components
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional Herbst appliance with fixed length is used, then the structure is stable, but the force is not adjustable when mounting parts remain fixed, limiting scope of application
Solution Approach 1:
The force applying device incorporates adjustable length mechanisms within the hollow cylindrical structure, allowing the distance between mounting parts to be modified. This dynamic adjustment capability enables force magnitude control while maintaining structural stability through rigid connection elements and precise positioning features
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows change in the geometric parameter of length between mounting parts, which directly affects the applied force. By providing mechanisms to adjust this dimensional parameter, the force magnitude can be controlled without compromising the structural integrity and stability of the overall device composition
4Ease of operation
If conventional Herbst appliance is fixed on jaws with screws, then the connection is secure, but it is inconvenient to operate in oral cavity
Solution Approach 1:
The screw fastening mechanism is extracted and replaced with a snap-fit or click-into-place mounting system. The mounting parts are designed to engage with jaw buttons through elastic deformation and mechanical interlocking, eliminating the need for screw tools and manual fastening operations while maintaining secure connection
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting mechanism is designed to be self-securing through elastic engagement features. The mounting parts automatically lock into position on the jaw buttons through spring-loaded or elastomeric elements that provide self-centering and self-locking functionality, eliminating the need for external fastening tools and simplifying the mounting operation
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 device provides a means to accurately apply and adjust orthodontic forces, improve mounting precision, and enhance operational convenience, thereby facilitating effective orthodontic treatment.
Implementation Method 1
a spring received in the inner sleeve and configured to be pushed and compressed by the sliding rod
Implementation Method 2
the spring is received in the inner sleeve and is configured to be pushed and compressed by the sliding rod
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a force applying device for orthodontic treatment being elastically expandable and configured to generate a restoring force as an orthodontic force for an orthodontic treatment when compressed. The force applying device comprises a first element and a second element capable of moving relative to each other along a first axis. The force applying device for orthodontic treatment is compressed when the first and second elements move towards each other along the first axis. A first arm extends laterally from a first end of the first element away from the second element. A first connecting part of a first connector is fitted over the first arm. A second connecting part of the first connector is to be fitted over a button fixed on a first jaw to connect the first element to the first jaw. Both the first and the second connecting parts are toroidal in shape.