Patents by Inventor Michael E. Mechley

Michael E. Mechley has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 5399088
    Abstract: An orthodontic wire for selectively moving teeth is provided. The wire comprises a first layer made from a first metallic material, and a second layer made from a second material, wherein the wire exhibits a predetermined degree of springback suitable for the selective movement of teeth. The first layer is preferably of a material which, because of its mechanical properties, would be suitable for use as an orthodontic wire by itself, and wherein the second layer is preferably of a material which has less elasticity than the material of the first layer, and this wire is capable of delivering a light, substantially continuous force to teeth when used in orthodontic treatment. The wire further has a cross-sectional area, and, when used in the orthodontic treatment of teeth, the wire can deliver a force which is lighter than that delivered by a wire of identical cross-sectional area made solely from the first layer. A method for selectively moving teeth is also provided, and utilizes the same wire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 21, 1995
    Inventor: Michael E. Mechley