Finite element analysis of the relationship between clasp dimensions and flexibility.
A parameter study with use of the finite element method was conducted for examination of the relationships between the shape parameters of a clasp (width and thickness at the base and tip of the clasp) and its displacement or stress. By synthesis of these relationships, a simple formula defining the clasp tip displacement in terms of clasp dimensions ("displacement formula") was obtained. A stiffness parameter "Fd" (the load producing a 1-mm displacement of the clasp tip) was proposed, and a formula defining Fd in terms of shape parameters was derived from the displacement formula. Fd would be a practical parameter for the definition of clasp retention, and the present formulae appear to be useful tools for investigation of the retention of removable partial dentures.
Yuasa
Y
Y
Department of Removable Prosthodontics, Hiroshima University School of Dentistry, Japan.
Sato
Y
Y
Ohkawa
S
S
Nagasawa
T
T
Tsuru
H
H
D002858:Chromium Alloys / Q000737:chemistry; D003799:Dental Stress Analysis / Q000379:methods* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D003832:Denture, Partial, Removable / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D004548:Elasticity; D016018:Least-Squares Analysis
D002858:Chromium Alloys