Self-Ligating Bracket with Dual-Function Spring Pin
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional self-ligating orthodontic brackets require separate mechanisms for securing the movable member in the closed position and preventing it from disengaging, leading to increased size, complexity, and manufacturing costs, as well as potential discomfort and inefficiency in orthodontic treatments.
Innovation Solution
A self-ligating orthodontic bracket design featuring a dual-function securing mechanism, such as a spring pin and retaining slot, that secures the ligating slide in both the closed and opened positions, and includes a chamfered pushing element to guide the archwire into the slot, reducing the need for additional components and improving ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate mechanisms are used for securing the movable member in the closed position and preventing disengagement, then the bracket can reliably perform its function, but the size, complexity, and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate functions into a single integrated mechanism: the spring pin serves both to secure the movable member in the closed position and to prevent disengagement. The retaining slot works cooperatively with the spring pin to provide both securing and prevention of accidental opening, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms and reducing overall bracket complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring pin is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously performs the function of securing the movable member in the closed position and preventing it from disengaging. This universal component approach reduces the number of parts needed while maintaining reliable operation of the bracket.
2Reliability
If additional components are added to improve bracket functionality, then the bracket performance improves, but the manufacturing costs and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the securing function and the prevention of disengagement into a single integrated spring pin and retaining slot mechanism, reducing the number of components that need to be manufactured and assembled. This integration lowers manufacturing costs while maintaining or improving bracket functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
By designing the spring pin as a multi-functional component that handles both securing and prevention of disengagement, the patent reduces the total component count, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while improving overall bracket reliability.
3Device complexity
If a movable member with multiple functions is designed, then the bracket complexity is reduced, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into the spring pin and retaining slot mechanism, reducing the number of separate components and assembly steps. This integration can actually reduce manufacturing precision requirements by eliminating the need to precisely manufacture and assemble multiple separate parts, while still achieving reliable operation.
Data Source
AI summary
An orthodontic bracket for coupling an archwire with a tooth includes a bracket body having an archwire slot for receiving the archwire and a movable member engaged with the bracket body and movable between opened and closed positions. The movable member includes a leading edge having a non-uniform pushing element configured to guide the archwire into the archwire slot as the movable member is closed. An associated method includes providing a movable member for an orthodontic bracket and providing a non-uniform pushing element on a leading edge thereof. The pushing element may include a chamfer formed along the leading edge of the movable member.