Multi-axis Orthodontic Force Gauge for Concurrent Tooth Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current force measurement systems for orthodontic appliances are inaccurate and inefficient in measuring forces exerted on multiple teeth within the jaw, requiring extensive time and effort to obtain reliable results.
Innovation Solution
A method using a force gauge system that couples a dentition crown connecting rod to a three-dimensional force gauge, allowing for concurrent measurement of forces exerted on each tooth by a dental appliance, with strain gauges sensing deformation in multiple directions to calculate the forces in x, y, z, a, b, and c axes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional force measurement systems are used to measure forces on multiple teeth, then measurement coverage is achieved, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate due to inaccuracy and inability to look at multiple teeth simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system is segmented into multiple independent force gauges, each equipped with strain gauges oriented in specific directions. Each force gauge independently measures forces on individual teeth or specific regions, allowing simultaneous multi-point measurement while maintaining high precision for each measurement location.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates strain gauges oriented in multiple directions (x, y, z axes and rotational axes a, b, c) to capture forces from different dimensional perspectives. This multi-dimensional measurement approach enables comprehensive force analysis on multiple teeth simultaneously, improving both precision and coverage.
2Productivity
If conventional measurement methods are used for multiple teeth, then some force measurements can be obtained, but productivity deteriorates due to extensive time and effort required
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple force gauges with multiple strain gauges are combined into a single integrated measurement system that can simultaneously measure forces on multiple teeth. This consolidation enables concurrent measurement across the dental arch, dramatically improving productivity while minimizing the time required to obtain comprehensive force data.
3Reliability
If conventional force measurement systems are used, then some force data can be collected, but reliability deteriorates because results cannot be replicated
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses multiple independently positioned force gauges, each with strain gauges oriented in specific directions, to simultaneously measure forces on multiple teeth. This segmentation enables replication of measurements across different teeth and conditions, improving reliability while increasing the quantity of force measurement data obtained.
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
Enables precise and efficient measurement of forces exerted on multiple teeth, allowing for effective testing of dental appliances and new products, ensuring they satisfactorily re-align teeth to predetermined positions.
Implementation Method 1
strain gauges sensing deformation in multiple directions to calculate the forces in x, y, z, a, b, and c axes
Data Source
AI summary
A method for concurrently measuring a force exerted upon each of a plurality of teeth is disclosed. A dentition crown connecting rod associated with a force gauge is positioned such that a dentition crown coupled to the dentition crown connecting rod may be received within a corresponding cavity of a reference aligner. A measurement aligner is then applied to the dentition crown, wherein the dentition crown is positioned to be received within a corresponding cavity of a reference aligner. A force exerted on the dentition crown by the measurement aligner is then calculated.