Shape-Memory TAD Abutment for Continuous Orthodontic Traction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing orthodontic traction elements, such as silicone rubber bands, lose effectiveness over time due to constant stress and saliva, requiring frequent substitution, which is inconvenient for patients and affects treatment efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A temporary anchorage device (TAD) with a biased abutment that transitions from a default to an active position, utilizing shape memory or superelastic materials like Nitinol, maintaining force application until the treatment objective is achieved, then passively returning to the default position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If silicone rubber bands or elastic ligatures are used as traction elements, then the TAD can apply force to move teeth, but the traction elements lose effectiveness quickly due to constant stress and saliva exposure, requiring frequent substitution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter of the abutment from conventional materials to shape memory alloy or superelastic material, which fundamentally alters the mechanical properties to maintain force application over time. This material parameter change enables the abutment to recover its original position after deformation, thereby maintaining continuous effective force application throughout the treatment period without frequent replacements
Solution Approach 2:
The abutment with shape memory or superelastic properties performs self-service by automatically recovering its original position after being deformed during activation. This self-recovery mechanism maintains the traction force without requiring external intervention or frequent substitution by the patient or orthodontist, thereby improving reliability and duration of action
2Force
If rubber bands are used as traction elements, then force can be applied to the TAD, but the elements wear off over time, reducing the force application and extending treatment time
Solution Approach 1:
The abutment with shape memory or superelastic material provides continuous useful action by maintaining its ability to apply force throughout the entire treatment period. The material's inherent recovery property ensures that the traction force remains effective continuously from activation until the treatment objective is achieved, eliminating the interruptions and time losses associated with replacing worn rubber bands
3Force
If frequent substitution of traction elements is required, then force application can be maintained, but patient convenience is reduced and treatment efficiency is affected
Solution Approach 1:
The abutment performs self-service by automatically maintaining its force application capability through its shape memory or superelastic properties. The system serves itself by recovering its original position after deformation, eliminating the need for patient intervention to replace traction elements, thereby significantly improving ease of operation and patient convenience
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
Enhances treatment efficiency by maintaining consistent force application, reducing the need for frequent element substitution and ensuring the TAD remains effective throughout the treatment process.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing shape memory or superelastic materials like Nitinol
Implementation Method 2
utilizing shape memory or superelastic materials like Nitinol
Implementation Method 3
passively returning to the default position
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an implant configured as a temporary anchorage device, TAD, comprising a fixture for fixing the implant in a bone of a subject and an abutment mounted on the fixture. The abutment is configured to be moved in use from a default position to an active position, wherein the abutment is biased to return to the default position and the abutment is configured to retain a traction element.