Derivative works — US Patent 12167948

Defensive Disclosure: Derivative Works of US Patent 12,167,948

This document describes derivative works based on the inventive concepts disclosed in US Patent 12,167,948, titled "Dental Mouthpiece." The purpose of this disclosure is to establish prior art for potential future incremental improvements, thereby rendering them obvious or non-novel and contributing to a defensive patenting strategy.

Derivations based on Independent Claim 1:

Claim 1: A mouthpiece comprising: a main body portion comprising: a first wall that includes one or more edges, a second wall set at a distance from the first wall, wherein the first wall and the second wall define an interior space that corresponds to the distance between the first wall and the second wall; and at least one intervening wall that includes a span protruding from the one or more edges of the first wall, wherein the span is defined by a ridged edge that includes a plurality of ridges extending different distances at least partially across the distance between the first wall and the second wall; a suction connector portion extending from a first end of the main body portion, wherein the suction connector portion includes an evacuation conduit opening into the interior space of the main body portion; and a cheek retractor portion connected to a second end of the main body portion.

Derivative 1.1: Material & Component Substitution - Bioresorbable Polymer Mouthpiece with Integrated Microfluidic Suction

Enabling Description: This derivative discloses a dental mouthpiece fabricated entirely from a bioresorbable polymer, such as poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) or polycaprolactone (PCL), designed for single-use applications where traditional sterilization is impractical or undesirable, or for controlled degradation post-procedure. The main body portion, including the first and second walls, the intervening wall with its ridged edge, the suction connector portion, and the cheek retractor portion, are molded via stereolithography (SLA) or fused deposition modeling (FDM) using medical-grade bioresorbable filaments/resins. The evacuation conduit in the suction connector portion is augmented with an integrated microfluidic manifold network embedded within the polymer structure, leading to the interior space. This microfluidic network, with channels of 50-200 µm diameter, enhances distributed suction and prevents soft tissue occlusion at the primary evacuation port. The ridged intervening wall maintains structural integrity during suction while facilitating fluid flow through the degrading matrix.

graph TD
    A[Bioresorbable Polymer Mouthpiece] --> B{Main Body Portion}
    B --> C[First Wall]
    B --> D[Second Wall]
    C -- Ridged Intervening Wall (PLGA/PCL) --> D
    B --> E[Suction Connector Portion]
    E --> F[Evacuation Conduit]
    F -- Microfluidic Manifold --> G[Interior Space]
    B --> H[Cheek Retractor Portion]
    A -- Fabricated via --> I[SLA/FDM Process]
    I --> J[Medical-Grade Bioresorbable Material]

Derivative 1.2: Material & Component Substitution - Hybrid Metallic-Polymer Mouthpiece with Piezoelectric Fluid Management

Enabling Description: This variation features a hybrid construction where the structural elements requiring rigidity and durability (e.g., the posterior wall, portions of the suction connector) are composed of a biocompatible titanium alloy (Ti-6Al-4V) or cobalt-chromium alloy, while the patient-contacting and flexible components (e.g., anterior wall, ridged intervening wall, cheek retractor, inner lining of suction conduit) are formed from a medical-grade thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) or silicone. The metallic components are manufactured via additive manufacturing (e.g., selective laser melting) for complex geometries, and the polymer components are overmolded or bonded. The key innovation is the integration of lead zirconate titanate (PZT) piezoelectric transducers within the ridged intervening wall and along the evacuation conduit. These transducers, actuated by a microcontroller at ultrasonic frequencies (e.g., 20-100 kHz), generate localized acoustic streaming and micro-jets within the interior space, actively dislodging and propelling fluids and debris towards the evacuation conduit, thus improving suction efficiency and preventing clogging, particularly with viscous fluids.

classDiagram
    class Mouthpiece {
        <<device>>
        +MainBody
        +SuctionConnector
        +CheekRetractor
    }
    class MainBody {
        +FirstWall : TPU/Silicone
        +SecondWall : Ti-6Al-4V
        +InteriorSpace
        +InterveningWall : TPU/Silicone (Ridged)
    }
    class InterveningWall {
        +PZT_Transducers
        +Microcontroller
        +Ultrasonic_Actuation
    }
    class SuctionConnector {
        +EvacuationConduit
        +PZT_Transducers
    }
    Mouthpiece *-- MainBody
    Mouthpiece *-- SuctionConnector
    Mouthpiece *-- CheekRetractor
    MainBody "1" -- "1" FirstWall
    MainBody "1" -- "1" SecondWall
    MainBody "1" -- "1" InterveningWall
    InterveningWall "1" -- "*" PZT_Transducers
    SuctionConnector "1" -- "*" PZT_Transducers

Derivative 1.3: Operational Parameter Expansion - Cryogenic Dental Mouthpiece with High-Vacuum Cryosuction

Enabling Description: This derivative describes a dental mouthpiece designed for specialized cryogenic dental procedures, operating in a temperature range of 0°C to -80°C. The mouthpiece is constructed from a cryo-resistant silicone or a flexible fluoropolymer (e.g., PFA, FEP) to maintain flexibility and integrity at low temperatures. It features an integrated, closed-loop refrigerant circulation system within the walls of the main body and cheek retractor, capable of actively cooling the mouthpiece to a target temperature. The suction connector portion is modified to interface with a high-vacuum pump (e.g., capable of 10^-3 Torr) to rapidly evacuate fluids and cryo-aerosols. The ridged intervening wall's geometry is optimized for fluid dynamics at cryogenic viscosities, featuring wider troughs and shallower crests to prevent ice buildup and maintain flow. The ridges extend different distances to create varying flow paths that can be dynamically controlled by localized heating elements (e.g., embedded resistive wires) for targeted de-icing.

stateDiagram-v2
    state "Mouthpiece Status" as MP_Status {
        [*] --> Initializing
        Initializing --> Cooling : Refrigerant System Engaged
        Cooling --> Ready : Target Temp Reached
        Ready --> Operating : High-Vacuum Suction Activated
        Operating --> De_icing : Ice Detected
        De_icing --> Operating : Localized Heat Applied
        Operating --> Warming : Procedure Complete
        Warming --> Sterilizing : Sterilization Cycle
        Sterilizing --> [*]
    }
    state "Mouthpiece Components" as MP_Comp {
        state "Main Body" {
            FirstWall
            SecondWall
            InterveningWall
        }
        state "Suction Connector" {
            EvacuationConduit
        }
        state "Cheek Retractor" {
            CheekRetractor
        }
    }
    MP_Comp --> MP_Status : Operational Link
    Cooling --> Refrigerant_System
    Operating --> High_Vacuum_Pump
    De_icing --> Resistive_Heaters

Derivative 1.4: Cross-Domain Application - Veterinary Mouthpiece for Large Equine Oral Procedures

Enabling Description: This mouthpiece is scaled and adapted for large animal veterinary dentistry, specifically for equine oral procedures. The overall dimensions are significantly larger, with a main body length up to 60 cm and a cheek retractor span of 20-30 cm to accommodate the larger oral cavity of horses. The material is a robust, chew-resistant, veterinary-grade silicone or high-density thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) capable of withstanding significant bite forces (e.g., Shore A hardness 80-90). The suction connector is reinforced with stainless steel or hardened polymer inserts to prevent collapse and connects to an industrial-grade high-volume aspiration system (e.g., 500-1000 LPM flow rate) to manage large volumes of saliva, water, and debris (e.g., feed particles, bone fragments). The ridged intervening wall features robust, wider ridges with increased structural thickness to resist deformation and maintain the interior space under challenging conditions, ensuring effective suction during prolonged procedures. The ridges extend different distances to optimize fluid drainage across a wide oral surface area.

graph TD
    A[Equine Oral Mouthpiece] --> B{Main Body (Scaled)}
    B --> C[First Wall (Thick TPE)]
    B --> D[Second Wall (Thick TPE)]
    C -- Reinforced Ridged Intervening Wall --> D
    B --> E[Suction Connector (Reinforced)]
    E --> F[High-Volume Evacuation Conduit]
    F --> G[Industrial Aspiration System]
    B --> H[Cheek Retractor (Chew-Resistant)]
    A -- Material --> I[Veterinary-Grade Silicone/HD TPE]
    A -- Application --> J[Large Animal Dentistry]

Derivative 1.5: Integration with Emerging Tech - AI-Optimized Adaptive Mouthpiece with IoT Biosensors

Enabling Description: This derivative describes a dental mouthpiece integrated with a network of micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) pressure sensors, temperature sensors, and optical (e.g., spectroscopic) fluid composition sensors embedded within the first wall, second wall, and ridged intervening wall. These IoT biosensors continuously transmit real-time oral cavity data to an external AI-driven control unit via a low-power wireless protocol (e.g., BLE 5.0). The AI analyzes this data (e.g., suction pressure, tissue contact force, fluid viscosity, presence of blood/debris) and dynamically adjusts the suction flow rate, suction aperture configuration (e.g., via micro-actuators altering ridge distances or opening/closing perforations in the walls), and even localized vibration (e.g., using embedded miniature haptic actuators) to optimize fluid evacuation, minimize tissue impingement, and improve patient comfort. The ridged intervening wall, with its ridges of different lengths, can be actuated to change the effective cross-sectional area for fluid flow, guided by the AI.

sequenceDiagram
    participant MP as Mouthpiece (IoT Biosensors)
    participant AI as AI Control Unit
    participant SA as Suction Apparatus
    participant HA as Haptic Actuators
    
    MP->>AI: Transmit Real-time Sensor Data (Pressure, Temp, Fluid Comp)
    AI->>AI: Analyze Data (Optimization Algorithm)
    AI->>SA: Adjust Suction Flow Rate (e.g., PID Control)
    AI->>MP: Adjust Suction Aperture (Micro-actuators)
    AI->>HA: Activate Localized Vibration (if needed)
    Note over AI: Continuously optimizes for fluid evac. & comfort

Derivative 1.6: The "Inverse" or Failure Mode - Limited-Functionality Emergency Airway Management Mouthpiece

Enabling Description: This mouthpiece is designed primarily for emergency airway management in dental settings, where its primary function is to maintain an open airway and offer minimal, gravity-assisted fluid drainage, rather than active high-suction. The main body portion, including the first and second walls and the intervening wall, is constructed from a soft, highly flexible, and radiolucent silicone material to reduce the risk of tissue trauma during rapid placement and to allow for X-ray imaging without obstruction. The suction connector portion is simplified, featuring a large, passive drainage port designed to prevent complete occlusion, and connects to a low-vacuum or manual aspiration bulb. The ridged intervening wall is designed with widely spaced, low-profile ridges that prevent complete collapse of the interior space but do not actively direct suction flow, ensuring a basic airway. The ridges, extending different distances, primarily serve to support the walls against minimal internal pressure. If active suction fails, the design ensures a residual, unobstructed path for air and passive fluid drainage.

graph TD
    A[Emergency Airway Mouthpiece] --> B{Main Body (Soft Silicone)}
    B --> C[First Wall (Radiolucent)]
    B --> D[Second Wall (Radiolucent)]
    C -- Low-Profile Ridged Intervening Wall --> D
    B --> E[Suction Connector (Passive)]
    E --> F[Large Drainage Port]
    F --> G[Low-Vacuum / Manual Aspirator]
    B --> H[Cheek Retractor (Highly Flexible)]
    A -- Primary Function --> I[Airway Patency]
    A -- Secondary Function --> J[Gravity-Assisted Drainage]
    G -- Fallback --> K[Ambient Air Breathing]

Derivations based on Independent Claim 20:

Claim 20: A mouthpiece comprising: a main body portion comprising: a first wall that includes two edges, a second wall set at a distance from the first wall, wherein the first wall and the second wall define an interior space that corresponds to the distance between the first wall and the second wall; wherein the first wall is configured at the two edges to have a ridged configuration with a plurality of ridges extending different distances partially across the distance between the first wall and the second wall, the two edges of the first wall being unconnected to the second wall, the plurality of ridges forming an open-meshed configuration between the first and second walls to allow for suction of fluids from a patient's mouth into the interior space between the first and second walls; and a suction connector portion extending from a first end of the main body portion, wherein the suction connector portion includes an evacuation conduit opening into the interior space of the main body portion; and a cheek retractor portion connected to a second end of the main body portion.

(Key differences from Claim 1: "two edges," "unconnected to the second wall," "open-meshed configuration" for suction.)

Derivative 20.1: Material & Component Substitution - Antimicrobial-Coated Mouthpiece with Electro-Osmotic Pump

Enabling Description: This derivative features a dental mouthpiece where the main body, suction connector, and cheek retractor portions are molded from a medical-grade silicone impregnated with a sustained-release antimicrobial agent (e.g., silver nanoparticles or chlorhexidine). The surface of the first wall, second wall, and the open-meshed ridged configuration are coated with a permanent, hydrophilic, anti-biofouling layer (e.g., PEG-based hydrogel). Instead of traditional vacuum suction, the evacuation conduit integrates an array of micro-electro-osmotic pumps (EOPs) at the entrance to the interior space. These EOPs, comprising porous silicon membranes and microelectrodes, generate electro-osmotic flow (EOF) to actively draw fluids through the open-meshed ridges into the interior space and then into the evacuation conduit, minimizing noise and vibration. The ridges, extending different distances, are structured to facilitate uniform EOF distribution across the first wall's surface, ensuring efficient fluid collection even with a low-pressure, electro-osmotic driving force.

graph TD
    A[Antimicrobial Mouthpiece] --> B{Main Body}
    B --> C[First Wall (Antimicrobial + Anti-biofouling)]
    B --> D[Second Wall (Antimicrobial + Anti-biofouling)]
    C -- Open-Meshed Ridges (Unconnected) --> D
    B --> E[Suction Connector]
    E --> F[Evacuation Conduit]
    F -- Integrated Electro-Osmotic Pumps --> G[Interior Space]
    B --> H[Cheek Retractor (Antimicrobial)]
    G --> I[Fluid Collection]
    EOP(Electro-Osmotic Pumps) --> J[Low Voltage Power Source]

Derivative 20.2: Operational Parameter Expansion - High-Temperature Sterilization Mouthpiece with Integrated Catalytic Debris Burner

Enabling Description: This mouthpiece is designed for extreme operational parameters, specifically high-temperature sterilization and in-situ debris remediation. The entire mouthpiece is fabricated from a high-performance, autoclavable, and heat-resistant polymer such as polyether ether ketone (PEEK) or high-temperature liquid crystal polymer (LCP). The open-meshed ridged configuration between the first and second walls is lined with a thin film of a catalytic material (e.g., platinum-rhodium alloy) or a porous ceramic impregnated with a catalyst. During a post-procedure "cleaning cycle," the mouthpiece is subjected to temperatures up to 250°C (e.g., in a specialized oven or via internal heating elements), and a controlled flow of oxygen-rich air is passed through the interior space and over the open-meshed ridges. The catalytic lining facilitates the oxidative decomposition and "burning off" of organic debris, reducing it to sterile ash and volatile compounds, which are then evacuated. The different lengths of the ridges in the open-meshed configuration ensure optimal surface area exposure for the catalytic reaction and efficient distribution of the oxygen flow and exhaust.

stateDiagram-v2
    state "Mouthpiece Cycle" as MP_Cycle {
        [*] --> Usage
        Usage --> High_Temp_Sterilization : Post-Procedure
        High_Temp_Sterilization --> Debris_Burning : Oxygen Flow
        Debris_Burning --> Evacuation : Waste Products
        Evacuation --> Ready_for_Reuse
        Ready_for_Reuse --> [*]
    }
    state "Components" as Comps {
        High_Performance_Polymer : PEEK/LCP
        Open_Meshed_Ridges : Catalytic_Lining (Pt-Rh/Ceramic)
        Evacuation_Conduit
        Suction_Connector
    }
    Comps --> MP_Cycle : Operational Link
    High_Temp_Sterilization --> External_Heating_System
    Debris_Burning --> Oxygen_Supply

Derivative 20.3: Cross-Domain Application - Autonomous Submersible Inspection Mouthpiece

Enabling Description: This derivative transforms the dental mouthpiece concept into an autonomous submersible inspection mouthpiece for confined, fluid-filled industrial environments (e.g., inspecting pipelines, reactor vessels, or fluid storage tanks). The main body, suction connector, and cheek retractor portions are constructed from a corrosion-resistant, high-strength polymer (e.g., reinforced PVC or specialized elastomer) suitable for submersion in various industrial fluids (e.g., water, oil, mild chemicals). The "first wall" is an external surface equipped with an array of miniature ultrasonic transducers or optical sensors for non-destructive inspection. The "second wall" forms the inner structural support. The "open-meshed ridged configuration" between the walls is adapted as a micro-propulsion system, where the ridges house miniature thrusters (e.g., magnetohydrodynamic or micro-impellers) that extend different distances and are individually controllable. This allows for precise maneuvering and fluidic control around inspection areas. The "suction connector" becomes a fluid sampling port, drawing samples into the "interior space" for analysis, with the evacuation conduit connecting to onboard micro-analyzers or storage.

graph TD
    A[Autonomous Submersible Mouthpiece] --> B{Main Body (Corrosion-Resistant)}
    B --> C[External Wall (Ultrasonic/Optical Sensors)]
    B --> D[Internal Structural Wall]
    C -- Open-Meshed Ridged Configuration (Thrusters) --> D
    B --> E[Fluid Sampling Port]
    E --> F[Sampling Conduit]
    F --> G[Onboard Micro-Analyzers/Storage]
    B --> H[Maneuvering Fins / Control Surfaces (from Cheek Retractor concept)]
    A -- Propulsion --> Thrusters(Micro-Thrusters)
    A -- Control --> Onboard_Processor(Onboard Processor)
    Onboard_Processor --> Thrusters
    Onboard_Processor --> C
    Onboard_Processor --> G

Derivative 20.4: Integration with Emerging Tech - Blockchain-Verified Smart Mouthpiece for Medical Traceability

Enabling Description: This dental mouthpiece incorporates a tamper-proof, embedded RFID tag or NFC chip unique to each unit, linked to a blockchain-based supply chain and sterilization verification system. The main body, suction connector, and cheek retractor portions are made of medical-grade silicone. Before each use, an NFC reader scans the mouthpiece, querying the blockchain to verify its authenticity, manufacturing batch, sterilization history, and recommended maximum use cycles. The ridged intervening wall, with its open-meshed configuration, could integrate micro-sensors (e.g., conductivity sensors) that detect residual cleaning agents or contaminants, logging this data onto the blockchain. Upon successful sterilization and verification, a cryptographic hash is updated on the distributed ledger. If the mouthpiece exceeds its safe use cycles or fails sterilization checks (as detected by the integrated sensors), the system prevents its use by disabling associated suction equipment or alerting the operator, creating a secure, transparent, and immutable record of its lifecycle. The different ridge lengths ensure comprehensive fluid contact for sensor readings.

graph TD
    A[Smart Mouthpiece] --> B{Unique ID (RFID/NFC)}
    B -- Transmits Data --> C[Blockchain Network]
    C --> D{Smart Contract}
    D -- Verifies --> E[Authenticity]
    D -- Verifies --> F[Sterilization History]
    D -- Verifies --> G[Use Cycles]
    A --> H[Embedded Sensors (Conductivity)]
    H -- Logs Data --> C
    D -- If Failed --> I[Disable Suction / Alert User]
    D -- If Verified --> J[Enable Suction / Record Use]
    SubGraph Mouthpiece Components
        M1[Main Body]
        M2[Suction Connector]
        M3[Cheek Retractor]
        M4[Open-Meshed Ridges]
    End
    A --> M1
    M1 --> M4

Derivative 20.5: The "Inverse" or Failure Mode - Biofeedback-Integrated Safety Release Mouthpiece

Enabling Description: This dental mouthpiece is designed with integrated biofeedback mechanisms for safe failure. The first wall, second wall, and open-meshed ridged configuration are manufactured from a flexible, stress-indicating polymer or elastomer with embedded strain gauges. These gauges continuously monitor the force exerted by the patient's oral tissues (e.g., tongue, cheek) against the mouthpiece walls and the bite block. If the detected force exceeds a predetermined safety threshold, indicating discomfort, gagging, or potential trauma, the system initiates a controlled safety release. This release mechanism could involve: 1) a quick-release pneumatic valve on the suction connector to instantly equalize pressure and cease suction, preventing tissue aspiration; and/or 2) a localized, rapid, micro-actuator-driven retraction of specific ridges in the open-meshed configuration, increasing the effective fluid flow area and reducing direct tissue contact, mitigating pressure points. The ridges extending different distances allow for a graduated, localized release of pressure, rather than a uniform collapse. The system could also activate an audible or visual alert for the dental professional.

stateDiagram-v2
    state "Mouthpiece Operation" as Op {
        [*] --> Idle
        Idle --> Inserted
        Inserted --> Suctioning : Suction Activated
        Suctioning --> Monitoring_Biofeedback : Strain Gauges
        Monitoring_Biofeedback --> Over_Threshold : Force > Limit
        Over_Threshold --> Safety_Release : Pressure Equalization / Ridge Retraction
        Safety_Release --> Idle : Suction Ceased / Alert
        Over_Threshold --> Alert_Professional : Visual/Audible Alert
        Suctioning --> Idle : Procedure Complete
    }
    state "Components" {
        Strain_Gauges
        Safety_Threshold
        Pneumatic_Valve
        Micro_Actuators
    }
    Op --> Components

Derivations based on Independent Claim 23:

Claim 23: A mouthpiece comprising: a main body portion comprising: a first wall that includes two edges, a second wall set at a distance from the first wall, wherein the first wall and the second wall define an interior space that corresponds to the distance between the first wall and the second wall; wherein the first wall is configured at the two edges to have a ridged configuration with a plurality of ridges extending different distances partially across the distance between the first wall and the second wall, the two edges of the first wall being unconnected to the second wall, the plurality of ridges forming an open-meshed configuration between the first and second walls to allow for suction of fluids from a patient's mouth into the interior space between the first and second walls; and a suction connector portion extending from a first end of the main body portion, wherein the suction connector portion includes an evacuation conduit opening into the interior space of the main body portion; and a neck that extends from the second end of the main body portion.

(Key differences from Claim 20: "neck" instead of "cheek retractor portion".)

Derivative 23.1: Material & Component Substitution - Adjustable Neck Mouthpiece with Shape Memory Alloy Actuators

Enabling Description: This derivative features a dental mouthpiece where the main body, suction connector, and neck are primarily made of medical-grade silicone. However, the neck portion integrates a series of embedded shape memory alloy (SMA) wires (e.g., Nitinol) or strips. These SMA actuators, controlled by a micro-heater array, allow the neck's curvature and rigidity to be dynamically adjusted in real-time to optimize positioning and stability within the oral cavity, particularly for patients with unique anatomical variations or during procedures requiring specific tongue depression or retraction. The SMA wires, when heated by a low electrical current, transition between martensitic (flexible) and austenitic (rigid) phases, effectively "molding" the neck to the desired configuration. The open-meshed ridged configuration of the main body ensures consistent fluid suction, while the adjustable neck enhances stability without requiring a bulky cheek retractor. The ridges, extending different distances, facilitate adaptive fluid flow regardless of neck curvature changes.

graph TD
    A[Adjustable Neck Mouthpiece] --> B{Main Body}
    B --> C[First Wall]
    B --> D[Second Wall]
    C -- Open-Meshed Ridges --> D
    B --> E[Suction Connector]
    E --> F[Evacuation Conduit]
    B --> G[Neck Portion]
    G -- Embedded SMA Actuators --> H[Micro-Heater Array]
    H -- Controls --> I[Neck Curvature/Rigidity]
    I --> J[Optimized Positioning]

Derivative 23.2: Operational Parameter Expansion - High-Pressure Micro-Jet Cleaning Mouthpiece with Integrated Filtration

Enabling Description: This mouthpiece is designed for aggressive intraoral cleaning procedures, where the interior space between the first and second walls is used not only for suction but also for high-pressure micro-jet delivery. The main body and neck are constructed from a rigid, autoclavable polymer (e.g., polysulfone, ULTEM). The "first wall" is perforated with an array of micro-nozzles (e.g., 50-100 µm diameter) connected to an internal high-pressure fluid delivery system (e.g., 500-1000 psi) fed with sterile saline or an antimicrobial solution. The "open-meshed ridged configuration" is adapted to channel both the incoming high-pressure fluid and the subsequent suctioned debris. The ridges, extending different distances, are crucial for creating turbulent flow zones and optimizing the collection of dislodged particles. The "suction connector" integrates a multi-stage micro-filtration system (e.g., progressively finer mesh filters down to 0.2 µm) to capture all particulate debris before evacuation, enabling fluid recycling or environmentally safe disposal.

graph TD
    A[Micro-Jet Cleaning Mouthpiece] --> B{Main Body (Rigid Polymer)}
    B --> C[First Wall (Micro-Nozzles)]
    B --> D[Second Wall]
    C -- Open-Meshed Ridged Configuration (Flow Channeling) --> D
    B --> E[Suction Connector]
    E --> F[Evacuation Conduit]
    F -- Multi-Stage Micro-Filtration --> G[Fluid Collection/Recycling]
    A --> H[High-Pressure Fluid Delivery System]
    H --> I[Sterile Solution]
    I --> C
    B --> J[Neck Portion]

Derivative 23.3: Cross-Domain Application - Archaeological Micro-Excavation Suction System

Enabling Description: This derivative adapts the mouthpiece concept for archaeological micro-excavation, specifically for the gentle removal of soil and fine debris from delicate artifacts or fossilized remains. The main body, suction connector, and neck are scaled down for precision work and made from a non-abrasive, static-dissipative elastomer (e.g., specialized antistatic silicone) to protect artifacts. The "first wall" would be positioned directly over the excavation area. The "open-meshed ridged configuration" between the walls forms a delicate, non-contact suction interface that generates a laminar airflow across the artifact surface, gently lifting loose soil into the "interior space." The different lengths of the ridges are designed to create a finely controlled differential pressure field, minimizing direct contact and preventing damage. The "suction connector" attaches to a low-volume, finely regulated vacuum system, which includes a particle trap and collection chamber for sifting and preserving excavated micro-artifacts. The "neck" provides a slender, maneuverable handle for precise manipulation.

graph TD
    A[Archaeological Suction System] --> B{Main Body (Non-Abrasive Elastomer)}
    B --> C[First Wall (Precision Suction Interface)]
    B --> D[Second Wall]
    C -- Open-Meshed Ridged Configuration (Laminar Airflow Generation) --> D
    B --> E[Suction Connector (Particle Trap)]
    E --> F[Regulated Vacuum System]
    F --> G[Collection Chamber]
    B --> H[Neck (Slender Handle)]
    A -- Application --> I[Delicate Artifact/Fossil Excavation]
    D -- Collects --> J[Loose Soil/Micro-Artifacts]

Derivative 23.4: Integration with Emerging Tech - Haptic-Feedback Mouthpiece with Augmented Reality Guidance

Enabling Description: This derivative integrates a dental mouthpiece with augmented reality (AR) guidance and haptic feedback. The main body and neck are translucent and embedded with an array of miniature haptic actuators (e.g., eccentric rotating mass motors or piezoelectric vibrators) within the first wall and the open-meshed ridged configuration. An external AR headset worn by the dental professional superimposes real-time data (e.g., suction efficiency mapping, intraoral tissue status, procedural instructions) onto the patient's oral cavity view. The haptic actuators provide tactile feedback to the patient or operator, guided by the AR system, to indicate optimal positioning, warn of improper bite force, or guide the patient's tongue away from the working area. The different lengths of the ridges in the open-meshed configuration allow for spatially resolved haptic cues, guiding fluid flow or indicating specific areas of interest for suction or retraction, further enhanced by the AR overlay. The suction connector links to standard evacuation, but its performance is monitored and displayed in the AR interface.

flowchart TD
    A[Dental Professional] --> B(AR Headset)
    B --> C{AR Overlay & Data Display}
    C --> D[Mouthpiece (Haptic Actuators)]
    D --> E[Patient's Oral Cavity]
    E -- Real-time Data --> C
    C -- Haptic Control Signals --> D
    D -- Suction/Fluid Flow --> F[Suction Connector]
    D -- Open-Meshed Ridges --> G[Spatially Resolved Haptic Feedback]
    C -- Displays --> H[Suction Efficiency Mapping]
    C -- Displays --> I[Tissue Status]
    C -- Displays --> J[Procedural Guidance]

Derivative 23.5: The "Inverse" or Failure Mode - Intelligent Self-Sealing Mouthpiece for Contaminant Isolation

Enabling Description: This mouthpiece is designed to prevent contaminant escape (e.g., aerosols, infectious fluids) in the event of suction system failure or disconnection, acting as an inverse of its primary function. The main body and neck are formed from a dual-layer polymer: an outer, rigid layer for structural support, and an inner, highly compliant layer that responds to internal pressure changes. The open-meshed ridged configuration between the first and second walls is equipped with normally-open micro-valves or pressure-sensitive gel elements within the troughs. Upon loss of negative pressure in the interior space (e.g., suction failure), or detection of a positive pressure surge (e.g., patient cough), these micro-valves or gel elements rapidly expand or close, effectively sealing off the open-meshed configuration. This prevents the expulsion of aerosols or fluids from the interior space back into the oral cavity or environment. The different lengths of the ridges provide varied pressure thresholds for activating the self-sealing elements, ensuring a robust and redundant closure mechanism across the entire suction interface. The neck further features a one-way passive release valve to prevent overpressure buildup without external contaminant egress.

stateDiagram-v2
    state "Mouthpiece Safety Mode" as SM {
        [*] --> Normal_Operation
        Normal_Operation --> Suction_Failure : Loss of Negative Pressure
        Normal_Operation --> Pressure_Surge : Patient Cough
        Suction_Failure --> Self_Seal_Activate : Micro-Valves / Gel Expand
        Pressure_Surge --> Self_Seal_Activate
        Self_Seal_Activate --> Contaminant_Isolation
        Self_Seal_Activate --> Alert_System : Visual/Audible Alert
        Contaminant_Isolation --> Passive_Pressure_Release : One-Way Neck Valve
        Passive_Pressure_Release --> Safe_State
        Safe_State --> [*]
    }
    state "Components" {
        Dual_Layer_Polymer
        Open_Meshed_Ridges : Micro-Valves/Gel
        One_Way_Neck_Valve
        Pressure_Sensors
    }
    SM --> Components

Combination Prior Art Scenarios

These scenarios combine elements of US Patent 12,167,948 with existing open-source standards, demonstrating how such integration would be obvious to a person skilled in the art.

Mouthpiece with Open-Source DICOM for Patient-Specific Customization:
- Description: The geometric data of the oral cavity obtained from intraoral scanners (e.g., using a standard STL file format) can be converted into the Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) standard for medical images. This DICOM data, openly available or standardized, can then be used as input for open-source CAD/CAM software (e.g., FreeCAD, OpenSCAD) to generate patient-specific molds or direct additive manufacturing files (e.g., G-code for FDM, CLI for SLA) for fabricating the main body portion, including the precise curvature, wall distances, and especially the ridged intervening wall (Claim 1, 20, 23), to perfectly conform to a patient's unique oral anatomy. The specific ridged configuration, with ridges extending different distances, could be algorithmically optimized based on the patient's individual tooth morphology and soft tissue contours derived from the DICOM data to maximize suction efficiency and comfort.
- Prior Art Obviousness: Customization of medical devices based on patient imaging data is well-known in many fields (e.g., prosthetics, orthodontics). Applying open-source CAD/CAM and the universal DICOM standard for precise manufacturing of the mouthpiece's detailed features, including the unique ridged wall, is a straightforward adaptation.
IoT-Enabled Mouthpiece with MQTT Protocol for Dental Clinic Network Integration:
- Description: A dental mouthpiece (as described in Derivatives 1.5, 20.4, or 23.4) equipped with IoT sensors (pressure, temperature, fluid flow, RFID/NFC) communicates real-time operational data using the open-source Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) protocol. This data is published to an MQTT broker within the dental clinic's local network or a cloud-based service, allowing seamless integration with existing clinic management software, electronic health records (EHR) systems (e.g., using FHIR standards for data exchange), and remote monitoring dashboards. For example, suction efficiency and usage cycles of individual mouthpieces (identified via RFID) can be automatically logged, triggering alerts for maintenance or replacement. The ridged intervening wall's performance metrics (e.g., fluid accumulation rate as detected by embedded sensors) could be transmitted via MQTT, enabling predictive maintenance for the suction system or informing procedural adjustments.
- Prior Art Obviousness: The use of MQTT for low-bandwidth, real-time data exchange from IoT devices is a pervasive open standard. Integrating medical sensors and devices into clinic networks via MQTT for operational efficiency and data logging is a well-established practice in healthcare IoT.
Mouthpiece Material Traceability using Open-Source Hyperledger Fabric Blockchain:
- Description: To enhance supply chain transparency and regulatory compliance for reusable or bioresorbable dental mouthpieces (Derivative 1.1, 20.1), the manufacturing process and material provenance can be tracked using an open-source blockchain framework such as Hyperledger Fabric. Each batch of raw materials (e.g., medical-grade silicone, PEEK, PLGA) is recorded on the blockchain, along with manufacturing dates, quality control results, and sterilization records. Each individual mouthpiece, identified by a unique serialized QR code or embedded RFID tag (Claim 20.4), has its lifecycle events (e.g., purchase, sterilization, patient use, degradation status for bioresorbables) immutably recorded on the distributed ledger. This open-source blockchain implementation ensures end-to-end traceability, prevents counterfeiting, and automates compliance reporting. The specific material characteristics of the main body and the ridged intervening wall, including any antimicrobial properties or degradation profiles, would be cryptographically linked to its unique identifier on the blockchain.
- Prior Art Obviousness: Blockchain technology, and specifically Hyperledger Fabric, is widely adopted for supply chain management and traceability across various industries. Applying this open-source standard to medical device manufacturing, particularly for ensuring material authenticity and lifecycle tracking, is an obvious extension of existing technology.

The information disclosed herein aims to cover foreseeable variations and integrations of the dental mouthpiece described in US Patent 12,167,948, thereby broadening the scope of prior art and limiting the patentability of future incremental advancements in this domain.The USPTO provides a "Patent Public Search" tool for searching its database of patents and patent application publications. This tool offers both basic and advanced search interfaces to access prior art. To search for a specific patent number like 12167948, the "Patent Number" field is used, entering the six, seven, or eight-digit number without commas, spaces, or leading zeros. The USPTO also offers the "Patent Official Gazette" for browsing weekly issued patents and an "Assignment Center" for searching patent assignments and changes in ownership.