Variable Thickness Orthodontic Archwire for Bracket Gate Closure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing orthodontic brackets with passive self-ligation systems face difficulties in closing the moveable gate due to frictional interference from archwire dimensions, leading to compromised first and second order movement control when attempting to achieve third order movements.
Innovation Solution
An archwire with a circular-square or circular-rectangular cross-sectional shape and variable thickness, allowing consistent first order movement control while enabling adjustable force application for second and third order movements by varying the thickness dimension, facilitating easier gate closure and maintaining torque control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a larger cross-sectionally dimensioned archwire is used to achieve desired first and second order movement control, then first and second order movement control is improved, but the moveable gate cannot be closed when the bracket body is oriented to deliver low or high torqueing couples
Solution Approach 1:
The archwire is given a circular-square or circular-rectangular cross-sectional shape where only specific surfaces (anterior and posterior facing surfaces) are convexly curved, while superior and inferior facing surfaces are substantially planar. This localized curvature on specific surfaces allows the archwire to maintain first and second order movement control while reducing frictional engagement with the moveable gate, enabling gate closure.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a traditional rectangular cross-section to a circular-square or circular-rectangular cross-section with convexly curved anterior and posterior surfaces. This dimensional change in the cross-sectional geometry allows the archwire to simultaneously achieve movement control and gate closure by distributing contact points differently along its perimeter.
2Ease of operation
If a smaller cross-sectionally dimensioned archwire is used to enable moveable gate closure, then gate closure is achieved, but first order movement control is diminished
Solution Approach 1:
By applying convex curvature only to the anterior and posterior facing surfaces of the archwire cross-section, the invention creates localized contact zones that facilitate gate closure while maintaining adequate first order movement control. The planar superior and inferior surfaces provide stable engagement for torque control without requiring reduction of overall archwire dimensions.
3Measurement precision
If the archwire is received in the archwire slot with the bracket body oriented to impart low or high torqueing couples, then third order movement control is improved, but frictional interference prevents moveable gate closure
Solution Approach 1:
The convexly curved anterior and posterior facing surfaces of the archwire create a more rounded contact interface with the moveable gate, reducing frictional engagement. This curvature allows the archwire to be received in the archwire slot with the bracket body oriented for low or high torqueing couples while still enabling smooth gate closure without frictional interference.
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 archwire design allows for consistent first order movement control and adjustable torque application, enabling clinicians to achieve desired tooth movements with improved ease and precision, reducing treatment time and enhancing patient comfort.
Implementation Method 1
an elongated and resilient main body which is dimensioned to be received within the archwire slot
Data Source
AI summary
An archwire for use with a passive self-ligation orthodontic bracket is described and which includes a resilient main body which is received in the archwire slot, and which further has a predetermined width dimension, and a variable thickness dimension, and wherein the variable thickness dimension of the archwire can be varied so as to facilitate an adjustable application of a force to the passive self-ligation orthodontic bracket so as to achieve a clinician selectable and controllable second and third order movement of a patient's tooth.