US3823476A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Support structure for dental models
Assignee: Individual
•
Filing: 1973-06-04
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Granted: 1974-07-16
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Expires: 1993-06-04
Abstract
Abstract A support structure for orthodontic models comprises two trays arranged in opposed disposition and pivotally connected together by a hinge means which permit relative motion of the trays in simulation of the relative movement of upper and lower jaws. The hinge means is separable from at least one of the trays in a manner such that the trays can be separated linearly as well as pivotably. The hinge means is a one-piece, normally rectilinear hinge plate having each opposite end slidably received in rectilinear guide means on the rear wall of each tray.
Inventors
- 👤 R Hudson
- 👤 J Richards
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-11-08 13:33
CPC Classifications
A; A61; A61C; A61C11/00; A61C11/001
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 9
Claim 1
Independent Claim
129 words
A support structure for orthodontic models comprising: upper and lower tray-like parts, each having a rear wall and a base, pivotably connected together by a hinge plate secured to the rear walls so that the upper tray-like part is offered in inverted disposition for cooperation with the lower tray-like part; a guide formation in at least one of said traylike parts to receive and secure slidably said hinge plate; and means securing the hinge plate to the other of said tray-like parts so that, with models set up on the tray-like parts, pivoting movement of the models can be effected by pivoting of said hinge plate and the models can be moved linearly towards and away from each other by sliding of said hinge plate in said guide formation.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
129 words
A support structure for orthodontic models comprising: upper and lower tray-like parts, each having a rear wall and a base, pivotably connected together by a hinge plate secured to the rear walls so that the upper tray-like part is offered in inverted disposition for cooperation with the lower tray-like part; a guide formation in at least one of said traylike parts to receive and secure slidably said hinge plate; and means securing the hinge plate to the other of said tray-like parts so that, with models set up on the tray-like parts, pivoting movement of the models can be effected by pivoting of said hinge plate and the models can be moved linearly towards and away from each other by sliding of said hinge plate in said guide formation.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
21 words
A support structure as claimed in claim 1 in which: said means securing the hinge plate comprises a second guide formation.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
70 words
A support structure as claimed in claim 1 in which: the rear walls of the tray-like parts are flat and co-planar; and the hinge plate and guide means are on the inside of the rear walls, thereby leaving a smooth planar surface at the rear of the structure so that the structure and models can be stored in a stable manner whilst resting on the rear wall of the structure.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
33 words
A support structure as claimed in claim 1 in which: said hinge plate defines a traNsverse channel to give a line of weakness defining a pivot axis about which said plate can hinge.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
81 words
An orthodontic articulator of the type having a pair of opposed trays connected by a separable hinge and characterized by: a one-piece, flat, normally rectilinear hinge plate forming said hinge; and guide means extending along the rear wall of each said tray in a direction normal to the bottom wall thereof, each slidably receiving one opposite end of said hinge plate; said hinge plate being hinge foldable centrally thereof and either of said trays being slidably removable, or pivotable, away therefrom.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
81 words
An orthodontic articulator of the type having a pair of opposed trays connected by a separable hinge and characterized by: a one-piece, flat, normally rectilinear hinge plate forming said hinge; and guide means extending along the rear wall of each said tray in a direction normal to the bottom wall thereof, each slidably receiving one opposite end of said hinge plate; said hinge plate being hinge foldable centrally thereof and either of said trays being slidably removable, or pivotable, away therefrom.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
35 words
An articulator as specified in claim 5, wherein: said hinge plate is of uniform width and thickness from end to end, except for a transverse channel centrally thereof forming a weakened hinge fold line therein.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
45 words
An articulator as specified in claim 5, wherein: each said guide means comprises a pair of integral ribs of L-shaped cross section forming channels on the inside of the rear wall of each tray adapted to slidably retain the adjacent end of said hinge plate.
References Cited (Backward Citations)
USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1977-07-15 | 1978-01-14 | 1978-07-16 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1981-07-15 | 1982-01-14 | 1982-07-16 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 1985-07-15 | 1986-01-14 | 1986-07-16 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |