| 摘要 |
<p>One embodiment of an orthodontic mechanical force module (14) includes a pair of housings (36a, 36b) that are interconnected with the patient in any appropriate manner, and are further rotatably interconnected with a spindle (40). At least one of these housings (36a, 36b) is also threadably engaged with the spindle (40). A ratchet (42) is associated with the spindle (40) to selectively allow the spindle (40) to rotate only in a direction that increases a magnitude of the treatment forces being exerted on the patient by changing the spacing between the pair of housings (36a, 36b) by a movement of at least one of the housings (36a, 36b) along the spindle (40) due to its rotation. That is, in an active position the ratchet (42) precludes the spindle (40) from rotating in a direction that would tend to reduce the magnitude of the treatment forces being exerted on the patient.</p> |
