Creating a New Product Category
Overview
Developed an innovative decoration platform for orthodontic aligners that transformed a functional medical device into a customizable consumer experience. The technology was commercialized as the Stickables® product line for Invisalign®, creating a new category of patient personalization while maintaining the clinical performance of the aligner system.
Client Challenge
As clear aligners became increasingly popular, there was an opportunity to enhance patient engagement by allowing users to personalize their aligners without compromising aesthetics, comfort, or treatment effectiveness. The solution required the development of an ultra-thin decorative platform that would adhere reliably throughout daily wear while remaining compatible with the unique requirements of orthodontic treatment.
Our Approach
We led the development of a complete decoration platform by combining advanced materials engineering, adhesive technology, product design, and manufacturing expertise. The development program balanced technical performance with manufacturability, ensuring the product could be produced consistently at commercial scale.
The project included:
- Platform architecture and product design
- Materials selection and compatibility studies
- Adhesive system development
- Prototype development and performance testing
- Manufacturing process development
- Commercialization planning and launch support
Solution Delivered
The resulting platform enabled decorative elements to be securely applied to orthodontic aligners while preserving comfort, appearance, and day-to-day usability. The technology successfully transitioned from concept through commercial manufacturing and was launched as the Stickables® product line for Invisalign.
Business Impact
- Successfully commercialized an entirely new orthodontic accessory platform
- Expanded product offerings within the clear aligner ecosystem
- Combined consumer personalization with functional product performance
- Demonstrated scalable manufacturing and commercial readiness
- Delivered a differentiated product that strengthened brand engagement
Core Capabilities Demonstrated
Product Development
- Innovation strategy
- Materials engineering
- Adhesive technology
- Product design
- Product validation
Manufacturing & Supply
- Manufacturing process development
- Scale-up planning
- Commercial readiness
- Quality validation
Technical Expertise
- Materials compatibility
- Performance testing
- Product qualification
- Commercialization strategy