Removable Orthodontic Device with Elastic Force Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional orthodontic correction methods using mini-screws for pressing teeth into the alveolar bone are invasive and cause discomfort, with the devices being difficult to remove and clean.

Innovation Solution

A removable orthodontic correction device featuring a correction unit with elongated openings and elastic members that exert a force to press teeth into the alveolar bone, allowing for easy wear and removal, and a second correction unit with protrusions to enhance correction efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If a mini-screw is implanted into the maxilla as an anchorage to press the second molar into the alveolar bone, then the corrective force can be effectively applied, but the procedure becomes invasive and causes local inflammation and discomfort

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecorrective forceVSAvoidinflammation and discomfort

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts the harmful mini-screw anchorage system from the oral cavity and replaces it with a removable correction device that achieves the same corrective force through elastic members and receiving parts that conform to the tooth shape, eliminating the invasive implantation step while maintaining treatment effectiveness

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the physical state and application method of the corrective force by using elastic members that can be adjusted and replaced, allowing the force to be applied through a removable device rather than a fixed implant, thereby reducing harm while maintaining the necessary corrective pressure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Force

If a mini-screw and hook are disposed in the oral cavity for a long time to maintain corrective force, then the tooth can be pressed into the alveolar bone, but the device cannot be arbitrarily removed which causes inconvenience

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecorrective forceVSAvoidremovability and convenience

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The invention transforms the static, fixed mini-screw system into a dynamic, removable correction device with elastic members that can be easily inserted and removed by the patient, allowing flexibility in use while maintaining the ability to apply corrective force when needed

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The removable correction device enables patients to independently insert and remove the device themselves without requiring professional intervention, greatly improving ease of operation and convenience compared to the fixed mini-screw system that required clinical procedures for installation and removal

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If a conventional correction device is used to press the second molar into the alveolar bone, then the tooth alignment can be corrected, but the device structure is complex and difficult to clean

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecorrection effectivenessVSAvoiddevice simplicity and cleanability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The invention segments the correction device into simple, separable components including a receiving part that conforms to the tooth shape and elastic members, allowing each component to be easily manufactured and cleaned independently while working together to achieve reliable tooth correction

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The receiving part is designed as a flexible structure that conforms to the tooth shape, eliminating complex rigid components and creating a smooth, easy-to-clean surface that maintains correction effectiveness through its adaptable form rather than complex mechanics

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

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 convenient and effective method for pressing teeth into the alveolar bone, reducing discomfort and improving dental aesthetics and function while allowing for easy cleaning and use.

Implementation Method 1

The elastic member is configured to stretch across the first occlusal surface of the first correction unit to couple with the first connecting parts and contact the first tooth through the first opening, thereby exerting a force on the first tooth to press the first tooth into the alveolar bone. The force is an elastic restoring force.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElastic restoring force: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11160637B2Orthodontic correction device

Publication Date: 2021.11.02 HUNG CHENG HSIANG

AI summary

An orthodontic correction device includes a correction unit that is adapted to be removably worn on a dental arch. The correction unit includes at least one first receiving part for receiving at least one first tooth which needs correction. The shape of the first receiving part allows the first tooth to move toward the alveolar bone. At least one elongated opening is formed on the occlusal surface of the correction unit and extends to the lingual surface and the buccal surface of the correction unit. The opening exposes parts of the occlusal surface, the lingual surface and the buccal surface of the first tooth. A force exerting assembly is configured to contact the first tooth through the opening, thereby exerting a force on the first tooth to press the first tooth into the alveolar bone.