TMJ Prosthesis Flexible Unit Stress Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional temporomandibular joint implants lack flexibility to accommodate complex three-dimensional movements, leading to stress concentration and discomfort during activities like speaking, chewing, and swallowing, which can result in pain and damage.
Innovation Solution
A temporomandibular joint prosthesis with a joint portion, a fixation portion, and a flexible unit that allows for complex three-dimensional movements while serving as a cushion to reduce stress concentration, featuring a 3D-printed design with biocompatible materials and a serpentine-shaped flexible unit with trenches to distribute stress effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional rigid temporomandibular joint implants are used, then structural strength is maintained, but stress concentration occurs during complex three-dimensional movements causing pain and discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The prosthesis is divided into three main segments: a joint portion, a fixation portion, and at least one flexible unit connecting them. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function - the rigid portions provide structural strength while the flexible unit dissipates stress through deformation during jaw movements.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible unit is designed as a serpentine-shaped structure that can deform elastically during the complex three-dimensional movements of the jaw. This flexible component acts as a stress-absorbing element, reducing stress concentration by up to 80% while maintaining overall structural integrity of the prosthesis.
2Reliability
If rigid fixation is used to ensure stability, then implant reliability is improved, but flexibility to accommodate natural jaw movements is reduced leading to discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The prosthesis transitions from a completely rigid structure to a dynamic system where the flexible unit can adapt its shape and absorb stresses during various jaw movements including speaking, chewing, and swallowing. This dynamic flexibility maintains implant reliability while accommodating natural physiological movements.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible unit changes its physical parameters (shape, position) in response to applied forces during jaw movements. The serpentine structure allows controlled deformation that absorbs mechanical energy, maintaining reliability while providing necessary adaptability for natural jaw function.
3Manufacturing precision
If 3D printed models are used for customization, then patient-specific fit is improved, but stress distribution during movement remains poor causing high failure risk
Solution Approach 1:
The 3D printed prosthesis incorporates segmented design with distinct rigid and flexible portions. This segmentation allows the customized fit to be maintained while introducing stress-dissipating flexible elements that prevent stress concentration, thereby improving both patient-specific fit and implant durability.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible unit within the 3D printed prosthesis provides stress distribution during movement, reducing the risk of failure by up to 80%. This flexible component works in conjunction with the customized rigid portions to maintain both patient-specific fit and long-term reliability.
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 prosthesis reduces stress concentration by up to 80%, alleviating pain and discomfort, and increasing the durability and lifespan of the implant by enabling natural jaw movements and maintaining appearance and function.
Implementation Method 1
The flexible unit is located between and connected to the joint portion and the fixation portion. The fixation portion is movable with respect to the joint portion via the flexible unit.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed embodiments relate to a temporomandibular joint prosthesis including a joint portion, a fixation portion, and at least one flexible unit. The joint portion is configured to be as a temporomandibular joint and movably connected to cranial skeleton. The fixation portion is configured to be fixed on mandible. The flexible unit is located between and connected to the joint portion and the fixation portion. The fixation portion is movable with respect to the joint portion via the flexible unit.