Orthodontic Aligner Reshaping Through Shape Memory Polymers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for imparting alternative shapes to orthodontic aligners are complex and inefficient, particularly when using shape memory polymers, requiring advanced manufacturing processes.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize a treatment container with a pressure chamber, a holder, a barrier, and conditioning means to apply stimuli like temperature, pH, or humidity, followed by exerting pressure and fixing the shape using mechanical, hydraulic, or pneumatic means to create and store alternative shapes in the aligner.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complex manufacturing processes are used to impart alternative shapes to orthodontic aligners, then the ability to store multiple shapes is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes changes in physical parameters (temperature, humidity, pH) to trigger shape memory polymer transitions. By controlling these environmental parameters, the aligner can switch between different pre-programmed shapes without complex manufacturing processes. The SMP material responds to parameter changes by recalling its original shapes, enabling multiple shape storage capability through simple material property exploitation rather than complex device architecture.
2Adaptability or versatility
If advanced manufacturing processes are used to create alternative shapes, then the functionality of the aligner is improved, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates multiple shapes into the aligner during the initial manufacturing process by pre-programming the shape memory polymer with different shapes at different locations or layers. The SMP material is processed in advance to embed multiple shape memories, and then during use, appropriate shapes are activated by applying specific stimuli. This preliminary action during manufacturing eliminates the need for complex post-processing or advanced manufacturing techniques to create alternative shapes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If shape memory polymers are used to store alternative shapes, then the versatility of the aligner is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent exploits phase transitions in shape memory polymers, specifically the transition between crystalline and amorphous phases or glassy and rubbery states, to enable shape changes. By controlling temperature or other parameters that trigger these phase transitions, the aligner can switch between shapes. This approach uses fundamental material phase behavior rather than complex mechanical or electronic systems, thereby improving versatility while maintaining manufacturing simplicity.
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 simple and effective re-shaping of orthodontic aligners by storing multiple alternative shapes using shape memory polymers, allowing for efficient tooth repositioning through controlled application of stimuli and pressure.
Implementation Method 1
The orthodontic aligner has a first shape, preferably the shape which allows the tooth to be corrected to achieve its final position. In order to facilitate use of the aligner, at least one alternative shape may be imparted to said orthodontic aligner, said at least one alternative shape to be imparted and released by a specific stimulus, said stimulus being e.g. heat or humidity or a specific pH value or a combination of such parameters.
Implementation Method 2
The orthodontic aligner is covered at least partly with a barrier, said barrier being sealed to a pressure chamber of the treatment apparatus. This is to convey pressure created in the pressure chamber via the barrier evenly onto at least part of an orthodontic aligner.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention refers to a method of imparting at least one alternative shape to an orthodontic aligner having a first shape. In order to provide a simple and effective method for manufacturing an orthodontic aligner, said method comprises the steps of - placing the orthodontic aligner on a holder in or adjacent to a treatment container, - covering the orthodontic aligner at least partly with a barrier, - setting a second stimulus condition for the orthodontic aligner into, and after the orthodontic aligner has adapted to the second stimulus condition, - exerting pressure across the barrier on at least part of the orthodontic aligner to create a first alternative shape which is different from the first shape, and - fixing the first alternative shape and releasing pressure after fixing. Further, the invention comprises a treatment apparatus to conduct said method.