Transparent Aligner Rotational Correction via Localized Thickness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transparent aligners are ineffective for rotational correction of teeth, difficult to remove, especially when teeth are severely misaligned, and do not accommodate developing permanent teeth, leading to discomfort and potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A method for manufacturing a transparent aligner involving 3D modeling, vacuum compression, and varying thicknesses, with specific tooth pocket designs for rotational correction, easy removal, and space for permanent tooth development, using synthetic resin sheets and protrusions on the lingual and labial sides for effective alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a transparent aligner with uniform thickness is used, then the aligner can be easily manufactured and worn, but it cannot apply sufficient rotating force on teeth for effective rotational correction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by varying the thickness of the transparent aligner at specific locations. The aligner includes a first region with a first thickness and a second region with a second thickness greater than the first thickness. This localized thickness variation allows the aligner to apply different forces to different teeth, providing sufficient rotating force for rotational correction while maintaining ease of manufacture through a systematic design approach.
2Reliability
If the aligner is made tight to effectively move severely misaligned teeth, then alignment effectiveness is improved, but removal becomes difficult causing damage to nails or gums
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating specific regions with different thicknesses. The first region has a smaller thickness to provide flexibility and reduce friction for easier removal, while the second region has a greater thickness to maintain alignment effectiveness on severely misaligned teeth. This localized differentiation resolves the contradiction between tight fit for effectiveness and ease of removal.
3Ease of manufacture
If the aligner has a fixed thickness design, then manufacturing is simplified, but it cannot accommodate developing permanent teeth in children or adolescents
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by designating specific regions with different thicknesses to serve different functions. The thinner first region accommodates developing permanent teeth by providing space for eruption, while the thicker second region maintains structural integrity and alignment effectiveness. This localized approach enables the aligner to adapt to growing teeth while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through a systematic multi-region design.
4Duration of action of stationary object
If the aligner thickness is increased to prevent abrasion during extended wear, then durability is improved, but the aligner causes pain during extended periods of use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by varying the thickness across different regions. The first region has a smaller thickness to reduce pressure and discomfort during extended wear, while the second region has a greater thickness to prevent abrasion and maintain durability. This localized thickness differentiation resolves the contradiction between durability and comfort during extended use.
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
Enables effective rotational correction, easy removal, and accommodates developing permanent teeth, reducing discomfort and preventing damage, while allowing for precise dental alignment with adjustable thicknesses for extended wear.
Implementation Method 1
applying vacuum compression after placing a synthetic resin sheet on the alignment teeth mockup
Data Source
AI summary
A method for manufacturing a transparent aligner for dental alignment is disclosed. The method may include: determining a tooth contour model which includes a contour portion surrounding a surface of a tooth requiring rotational correction; determining an axis of rotation for the tooth requiring rotational correction; determining two points touching exterior surfaces of the tooth requiring rotational correction based on the axis of rotation and a direction of rotation required for correcting the tooth requiring rotational correction, the two points being symmetrical with respect to the axis of rotation; determining a rotational correction model for the rotational correction by protruding the contour portion towards a tooth surface and towards a direction of rotation at the two points; and generating the 3D dental alignment model data by applying the rotational correction model.