Tapered Thickness Interproximal Reduction Strip
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current interproximal reduction methods in dentistry require multiple tools and measuring devices, are time-consuming, and lack sufficient leverage for effective material removal, making them inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
A tapered-thickness single strip tool that progressively decreases in width from one end to the other, allowing for continuous use without needing to change thicknesses, and is coated with a diamond material for effective material removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple single-thickness tools are used to create interproximal space, then the desired space can be achieved, but the number of tools increases and the process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple single-thickness tools into a single multi-thickness tool. The interproximal reduction tool includes a body with a first thickness and a second thickness greater than the first thickness, allowing the practitioner to use one tool for multiple reduction stages instead of switching between separate tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The interproximal reduction tool is designed with multiple thicknesses to perform multiple functions. The same tool can create different amounts of interproximal space (first thickness for smaller reductions, second thickness for larger reductions), eliminating the need for multiple specialized tools.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple single-thickness tools are used to create interproximal space, then the desired space can be achieved, but the process requires repeated measurement and tool changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple single-thickness tools into a single multi-thickness tool. The interproximal reduction tool includes a body with a first thickness and a second thickness greater than the first thickness, allowing the practitioner to use one tool for multiple reduction stages instead of switching between separate tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The tapered design allows for continuous reduction action. The practitioner can progressively move from the thicker portion to the thinner portion of the same tool as the interproximal space opens, maintaining continuous useful action without interruption for tool changes or remeasurement.
3Ease of manufacture
If uniform thickness strips are used, then the tool is simple to manufacture, but sufficient leverage cannot be generated for effective material removal
Solution Approach 1:
The interproximal reduction tool features non-uniform thickness distribution. The body has a first thickness at one end and a second greater thickness at the other end, providing different functional qualities: the thicker portion provides leverage and structural strength, while the thinner portion provides precision for the reduction action.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool employs asymmetric thickness design rather than uniform symmetry. This asymmetry creates a tapered profile where one end is thicker than the other, optimizing both the leverage capability (thicker end) and the precision reduction capability (thinner end) within a single tool.
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
Simplifies the interproximal reduction process, reduces the number of tools needed, and enhances leverage for easier and safer material removal between teeth.
Implementation Method 1
the strip is constructed with gradually-increasing thicknesses from one end to the other... coated with a diamond material for effective material removal
Data Source
AI summary
A tapered-thickness single strip interproximal reduction tool having a thickness that progressively decreases in width from one end to the other along its length so that it is easier to pull through the contact areas intended to open up a space, and does not need to be removed to change thicknesses. In a typical embodiment the narrowest end of the strip would be 0.1 mm and gradually thickens from the narrow end to the thickest end.