Telescoping Rod Orthodontic Device for Jaw Repositioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional orthodontic devices for treating Class II malocclusions, such as Herbst devices, are cumbersome, cause discomfort, and obstruct access to teeth, making it difficult to bond brackets, while alternative devices are prone to breakage and lack historical data and experience.
Innovation Solution
A telescoping rod orthodontic device with coaxial sections that connects to molar teeth on both arches, allowing for adjustable length and reduced interference with existing orthodontic components, facilitating jaw repositioning without breaking easily.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional Herbst device uses long and stiff assemblies to withstand mastication forces, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and patient discomfort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The rod assembly is divided into multiple telescoping sections that can slide relative to each other, transforming a single long stiff component into a segmented structure that maintains strength while reducing overall complexity and improving comfort
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from a static long assembly to a dynamic telescoping structure that can change length, allowing the device to adapt to functional requirements while maintaining reliability through controlled movement rather than rigid construction
2Reliability
If a Herbst device extends from upper molar to lower bicuspid or cantilever arm, then malocclusion correction is achieved, but access to teeth for bracket bonding is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of extending the device anteriorly to bicuspids or cantilever arms, the invention inverts the attachment strategy by connecting both ends of the rod assembly to molars in the posterior region, reversing the traditional attachment points to eliminate interference with anterior tooth access
3Reliability
If a Herbst device uses anterior teeth connection, then malocclusion correction is achieved, but anterior teeth flare or tip forward
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the problematic anterior tooth connection from the device design, removing the source of unwanted forces on anterior teeth while preserving the malocclusion correction function through posterior molar-to-molar attachment
4Reliability
If a Herbst device creates a hard fixed stop to reposition the lower jaw, then occlusion correction is achieved, but patient comfort deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The hard fixed stop is replaced with a dynamic telescoping mechanism that allows controlled movement, transforming the uncomfortable rigid constraint into a flexible system that adapts to jaw movement while maintaining correction effectiveness
Data Source
AI summary
An orthodontic device treats malocclusions using a telescopic rod fixed to a molar on the upper arch and a molar on a lower arch. The telescopic rod lengthens and shortens during opening and closing of the jaw. The telescopic rod encourages the patient to properly position their jaw causing adaptation thereby treating the malocclusions.