Expanding Stereolithography Technology Beyond Dentistry
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept leverages the core technology of stereolithography to create novel applications in various industries, including jewelry, prosthetics, phone accessories, footwear, and hearing aids.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent focused on producing plate dentures using stereolithography. However, the technology's potential extends far beyond dentistry. The inventive concept addresses the limitation of the original patent by applying the core technology to entirely new industries and use cases, thereby expanding its commercial potential.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept involves adapting the curable composition for stereolithography and the 3D printing process to create customized products in various fields. For instance, in jewelry, the composition can be formulated to produce wearable pieces with specific textures and colors. In prosthetics, the composition can be designed to mimic the texture and flexibility of human skin. Similarly, in phone accessories, footwear, and hearing aids, the composition can be tailored to meet specific requirements, such as durability, impact resistance, arch support, and cushioning.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel applications of stereolithography technology, which were not originally considered in the patent. The inventive step lies in the adaptation of the core technology to address specific challenges and requirements in various industries, thereby expanding its commercial potential.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include using different types of 3D printers, varying the composition's properties, or integrating additional technologies, such as computer-aided design software or artificial intelligence, to further enhance the customization capabilities.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including jewelry, prosthetics, phone accessories, footwear, and hearing aids. The market for customized products is growing rapidly, and the inventive concept is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61C13/0013 |
| A | A61 | A61C13/01 |
| A | A61 | A61C13/10 |
| B | B29 | B29C64/124 |
| B | B33 | B33Y10/00 |
| B | B33 | B33Y80/00 |
| C | C09 | C09J7/10 |
| C | C09 | C09J7/30 |
| C | C09 | C09J2301/416 |
| C | C09 | C09J2433/00 |
| C | C09 | C09J2433/008 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Additive manufacturing, stereolithography, and custom fabrication technologies with a focus on medical and consumer product applications, involving expertise in materials science, 3D printing techniques, and polymer chemistry
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A professional with advanced degree in materials engineering or mechanical engineering, experienced in 3D printing technologies, familiar with polymer formulations, and capable of adapting manufacturing processes across different industrial domains
Obviousness Rationale
The PTD demonstrates a straightforward extension of the source patent's core stereolithography technology by applying its fundamental principles of customized 3D printing and specialized curable compositions to multiple product domains. A PHOSITA would recognize that the fundamental stereolithographic method disclosed in US 11857385 can be readily adapted to different industries by modifying material properties and design parameters. The technical principles of stereolithography are universally applicable across various manufacturing contexts, making the PTD's variations predictable and obvious.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,385 |
|---|---|
| Title | Method of producing plate denture, curable composition for stereolithography, and plate denture production kit |
| Assignee(s) | TOKUYAMA DENTAL CORPORATION |