Tooth Mobility Measuring Apparatus Using Alveolar Ridge Anchor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for measuring tooth mobility in periodontal disease are inaccurate and rely on manual estimation, lacking a reliable and mechanical means to assess the degree of tooth looseness, which is crucial for diagnosing periodontal disease progression.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical apparatus comprising a base member, two clamps (one for the alveolar ridge and one for the tooth) with a metering rod and a gage system that includes a scale and rotatable indicator to measure tooth movement, allowing for precise classification according to the Miller Scale.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a mechanical apparatus with clamps and metering rod is used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is divided into distinct functional segments: a base member for stability, a first clamp for gripping the alveolar ridge, a second clamp for gripping the tooth, and a metering rod with gage system for measurement. Each segment performs a specific function, allowing the complex measurement task to be broken down into manageable components that work together systematically.
Solution Approach 2:
The metering rod serves as an intermediary element that transfers the movement of the tooth (grasped by the second clamp) into a measurable displacement relative to the base member. The gage system attached to the metering rod then converts this mechanical displacement into a readable measurement, acting as a mediator between the physical tooth movement and the quantitative assessment.
2Reliability
If spring loaded clamps are used to grip the tooth and alveolar ridge, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded clamps utilize elastic deformation as a key parameter, allowing the gripping force to be automatically adjusted based on the compression of the spring. This parameter change approach enables the clamps to adapt to variations in tooth and alveolar ridge dimensions while maintaining reliable grip, reducing the need for extremely tight manufacturing tolerances.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism provides a cushioning effect that absorbs variations and inconsistencies in the gripping interface. By incorporating this elastic element beforehand, the design anticipates and compensates for potential issues with grip stability, ensuring reliable attachment without requiring perfect manufacturing precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A manually operable apparatus for measuring tooth mobility utilizing an alveolar ridge clamped and a tooth clamp. A positioning rod of the alveolar clamp serves as an anchor. A metering rod of the tooth indicates tooth mobility to a gage when force is applied to the same.