Mouthguard design concept
FLOAT explored a mouthguard design for boxers using lattice structures and a proposed impact-sensing system. I developed CAD models, ran finite element simulations and made physical models to investigate form and lattice geometry. The work shown here is a design and prototyping project.
Metamaterials
The three-layer lattice concept explored a trade-off between material volume, airflow and energy absorption. I modelled the structure in CAD and produced scaled physical prototypes to examine its geometry. Protective performance in use would require dedicated impact and fit testing.
+ Customisation and Design Flexibility
+ Energy Absorption and Dissipation
+ Lightweight and Comfort
+ Breathability and Hygiene
Proposed impact-sensing system
The product concept proposed an embedded sensor and Bluetooth connection to record impacts. The demonstrated work on this page is the mechanical design, simulation and physical prototyping; the electronics and injury-assessment functions were proposed extensions.
+ Impact Recognition
+ Power Estimation
+ Potential data for further assessment
Molded Form
The moulded form explored how a lattice mouthguard could fit around the teeth. Physical models were used to investigate shape, size and appearance; the final material, fit and protective properties would need further validation.
Proposed fitting sequence — concept
1. Place in boiling water for 60 s.
2. Align with teeth and pinch shut with the jaw
3. Fold the flat FLOAT up towards your gums, ensuring you cover all of your teeth.
4. Massage the mouthguard until a comfortable and tight fit is formed.
5. Leave FLOAT in your mouth, taking routine sips of cold water if necessary.
Proposed product components
1 x FLOAT Mouth Guard
1 x Electromagnetic Charging Dock
1 x Holding Case
Colorways
Grey
Salcombe Mud - Light Blue - Moss Green - Lavender
Sand Dune Yellow - Violet - Raspberry
Concept specifications to validate
Power
Battery life: specification to validate
Battery concept: Li-ion
Charging concept: wireless
Charge time: specification to validate
Design Color
Grey
Salcombe Mud
Light Blue
Moss Green
Lavender
Sand Dune Yellow
Violet
Raspberry
Service
Service life: specification to validate
Project status: design and prototypes
Proposed functions
Impact Recognition
Power Estimation
Potential impact-data review
Water resistance: design requirement
Cleaning
Cleaning method: requires material testing
Literature Review
A literature review of relevant topics demonstrated that mouthguards have the following roles and advantages:
+ Evenly dissipates forces
+ Reduces jaw movement
+ Lowers tooth impact
+ Decreases risk of jaw fractures
Additionally, the following insights were drawn about mouthguard design:
+ EVA mouthguards are more protective than Polyurethane ones
+ Most vulnerable teeth: cervical region of upper central incisors
+ Microchips shouldn't be placed here due to risk
+ Recommended chip placement: under the molars
Tribst, J.P.M., Dal Piva, A.M. de O., Borges, A.L.S. and Bottino, M.A. (2018). Simulation of mouthguard use in preventing dental injuries caused by different impacts in sports activities. Sport Sciences for Health, 15(1), pp.85–90. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s11332-018-0488-4.
Sketching Ideation
Morphological Analysis and eight-point design methods were the initial steps, providing a structured method of analysing multiple aspects of a proposed solution. These methods helped brainstorm the concept of a mouthguard.
Sketching ideation was conducted next, and users were consulted to select ideas to be considered and developed going forward.
Sketching ideation was conducted next, and users were consulted to select ideas to be considered and developed going forward.
Extended Ideation and Low Fidelity Prototyping
Those ideas that were explored were experimented with in CAD using a range of software and techniques, creating a strong mix between divergent and focused exploration and analysis.
CAD Modelling
Leveraging CAD enabled the creation of meticulous and adaptable design parameters tailored to diverse jaw structures and dental configurations.
CAD iterations explored geometry and fit before physical prototyping.
Finite element analysis in SolidWorks modelled responses to simulated impacts.
High Fidelity Prototyping
Looks Like Prototype
A looks-like prototype was created to allow for a physical investigation of the size, shape, and aesthetic of the design.
Lattice Modelling
Lattice properties vary with size, structure, and solidarity. These features were investigated and the results were recorded.
Lattice Demonstration
Once lattice structures were finalized and allocated, they were prototyped in a scaled version of the mouthguard to enable a clear demonstration of the different layers within the design.
Exploded View
To demonstrate effectively the difference in lattice structures between layers, and within layers, an exploded perspective view was prototyped, for a visual representation used during presentations.
CMF Exploration
Once CAD and testing were concluded, and a design was finalized, colors, materials, and variants of these parameters were finalized. This produced the final CAD models shown below.
Awards
Nomination at the Design Intelligence Award from the China Academy of Art.
