Palatal Expander Activation Tool with Integrated Turn Counter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of screw-operated palatal expanders face challenges in tracking the number of turns and degree of expansion, which can lead to ineffective treatment outcomes, especially in prolonged treatments.
Innovation Solution
A tool with a body featuring marks and a slider mechanism that records each activation, allowing users to track the number of turns without external aids, and includes a click mechanism for auditory feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a simple key tool is used for screw activation, then the device complexity is low and ease of manufacture is high, but the user cannot track the number of turns and degree of expansion
Solution Approach 1:
The slider (6) is nested within the body (1) of the key tool, moving along the upper edge (11) and positioning the appendix (60) over the marks (5). This nested structure allows the tracking function to be integrated into the existing tool without adding external components, resolving the contradiction between information tracking and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The key tool serves itself by automatically tracking the number of activations through the slider mechanism that moves with each use. The tool records its own usage history by positioning the appendix over sequential marks, eliminating the need for external tracking devices or manual recording by the user
2Measurement precision
If marks and slider are added to the key body, then tracking precision is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking function is segmented into discrete marks (5) along the body and a separate slider (6) that moves independently along the upper edge. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured separately with simple geometries, maintaining ease of manufacture while achieving precise tracking through the cumulative positioning of the slider over sequential marks
Solution Approach 2:
The tracking mechanism utilizes the longitudinal dimension of the body by placing marks along the upper edge and allowing the slider to move in this dimension. This dimensional approach converts the rotational screw movements into linear positional changes that can be easily manufactured and read, achieving precision without complex manufacturing
3Reliability
If the slider is forced on the edge, then reliability of tracking is improved, but friction and wear increase
Solution Approach 1:
The slider is slightly forced on the edge (11) rather than being loosely fitted, providing just enough contact pressure to ensure reliable tracking without excessive force. This partial action approach maintains reliable positioning of the appendix over the marks while minimizing friction and wear to acceptable levels
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 4~5
AI summary
Tool for actuating palatal expanders, comprising a body (1) with a grip portion (2) and, on the opposite side, a tip (3). The body (1) has, on at least one surface (10) thereof, display means adapted for displaying the number of uses.