Shape Memory Orthodontic Device with Reversible TAD Connections
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing removable orthodontic devices face challenges in achieving complex orthodontic movements, are aesthetically unpleasant due to metal components, and pose risks of allergic reactions, while being cumbersome to apply and remove.
Innovation Solution
A removable orthodontic device using shape memory polymers and 3D printing technology, featuring a pressure connection mechanism between orthodontic members and temporary anchorage devices (TADs) that are transparent and biocompatible, allowing for complex movements with improved aesthetics and patient comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed metal auxiliary apparatuses or removable additional force systems are used to achieve complex orthodontic movements, then the treatment biomechanics is improved, but the device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the orthodontic device and force system into a single integrated removable appliance. The orthodontic device includes retention elements, force application elements, and connection elements all combined in one piece that can be easily inserted and removed, eliminating the need for separate fixed metal apparatuses or additional removable force systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The orthodontic device performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides retention for the orthodontic appliance, applies corrective forces to teeth, and connects to anchorage devices. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate specialized components while maintaining ease of removal and application.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed metal auxiliary apparatuses are used to achieve complex orthodontic movements, then the treatment biomechanics is improved, but the aesthetics deteriorate and allergic risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from metal to polymer for the orthodontic device. This substitution eliminates allergic reactions associated with metal components while maintaining the mechanical functionality needed for complex orthodontic movements. The polymer material also provides superior aesthetics by being tooth-colored or translucent.
Solution Approach 2:
The orthodontic device utilizes polymer composite materials that combine aesthetic properties with sufficient mechanical strength and flexibility to deliver complex orthodontic forces. The composite nature allows optimization of both biocompatibility/aesthetics and functional performance.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional stiff materials are used for removable orthodontic devices, then the manufacturing process is conventional, but the ability to achieve complex orthodontic movements is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from stiff traditional materials to flexible polymer materials. This enables the device to achieve complex three-dimensional tooth movements through elastic deformation and force application, while still allowing conventional or simplified manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The orthodontic device incorporates dynamic flexibility through polymer material properties, allowing it to adapt to complex tooth movement trajectories. The flexible nature enables progressive force application and adjustment during treatment, achieving movements that would be impossible with rigid traditional materials.
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 enables complex orthodontic movements with reduced allergic risks, enhanced aesthetics, and easier application/removal, improving treatment compliance and oral hygiene.
Implementation Method 1
Under shape memory polymer (Shape Memory Polymers or SMP) is meant a polymer which belongs to the class of the smart materials, and it is defined as a polymer 'which has the ability to return from a deformed state (temporary shape) to the original one (permanent shape) through an external stimulus (activation)'.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~6
AI summary
A removable orthodontic device, suitable to obtain complex orthodontic movements and made with CAD-CAM techniques and 3D printing, comprising an orthodontic member, made from a shape memory polymer, in turn comprising: a restraint portion of a dental arch; a connection portion which is apt to be in contact with a palatal surface and/or a lingual surface; and one or more female members positioned at said connection portion; the orthodontic device further comprises one or more temporary anchorage devices (TADs), acting as orthodontic screw, comprising a shank, a hollow upper end and a protruding head which is attached to said upper end by a respecting connection screw, said head implementing a male connection member and being made from a shape memory polymer as well; said female members of said orthodontic member and said one or more TADs being shaped as to cooperate with each other implementing an automatic pressure connection, whereby a reversible connection mechanism is implemented.