Orthodontic Force Module for Class III Malocclusion Correction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for correcting Class III malocclusions are often reliant on practitioner-driven modifications of devices designed for Class II correction, leading to issues like inadvertent disassembly and patient discomfort, and typically require substantial modifications that can restrict jaw movement.
Innovation Solution
A specifically designed intraoral force module with a low profile, featuring a first member extending mesially and a second member coupled to a helical compression spring, allowing for rotational movement to apply corrective forces between the upper and lower dental arches, minimizing disruption and discomfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If practitioner-driven modifications are made to Class II correction devices to correct Class III malocclusions, then Class III correction capability is achieved, but device reliability deteriorates due to inadvertent disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into distinct components: an upper member attached to the upper arch, a lower member attached to the lower arch, and a connection member linking them. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system reliability through standardized interfaces that prevent inadvertent disassembly.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of modifying Class II correction devices for Class III correction, the patent inverts the approach by designing a dedicated Class III correction device with a specific structural configuration where the connection member extends in opposite directions to apply corrective forces appropriate for Class III malocclusion, thereby achieving reliability through design rather than modification.
2Adaptability or versatility
If substantial modifications are made to correction devices, then Class III correction effectiveness is improved, but patient comfort deteriorates due to restricted jaw movement
Solution Approach 1:
The connection member is designed with rotational freedom, allowing it to dynamically adapt to jaw movements while maintaining corrective force. This dynamic capability enables the device to provide substantial modification for Class III correction effectiveness without restricting natural jaw mobility, as the connection member can rotate to accommodate various jaw positions and movements.
3Duration of action of moving object
If the effective length of the intraoral device is increased to maintain force during treatment, then force effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases requiring component removal and replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The connection member's rotational capability provides a dynamic solution that maintains force effectiveness throughout treatment without requiring changes to the device structure. As the jaws move and the malocclusion corrects, the connection member rotates to maintain optimal force application, eliminating the need for practitioner-driven component removal and replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs self-adjustment through the rotational freedom of the connection member, which automatically adapts to changing jaw positions and maintains corrective force throughout treatment. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for complex practitioner interventions to adjust device length or replace components.
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 force module effectively corrects Class III malocclusions with minimal patient discomfort and practitioner intervention, allowing for adjustable force application and reduced risk of device disassembly, while maintaining adequate jaw mobility.
Implementation Method 1
a second member pivotally connected to the first member and coupled to a helical compression spring coaxial with at least a portion of the second member
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The present disclosure provides intraoral devices for repositioning the relationship between upper and lower dental arches, particular those in a Class III relation. The devices are attached to appliances on molar teeth of each arch and can be reactivated without removal or replacement of substantial components of the device.