Intraoral measurement device and intraoral measurement system

Abstract

The present invention provides an intraoral measurement device for acquiring temperature information. The intraoral measurement device of the present invention is an intracavity measurement device having a length direction, and comprises: a sensor, which is arranged at one end of the length direction of the intraoral measurement device, and acquires analog information in the oral cavity; a processing unit, which is arranged on the sensor side relative to the central part in the length direction of the intraoral measurement device, and converts the analog information acquired by the sensor into digital information, and outputs the processing result converted into the digital information; and a temperature information acquisition unit, which acquires the temperature information of the processing unit and outputs the temperature information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an intra-oral measurement device and an intra-oral measurement system for measuring the inside of an oral cavity. Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an oral moisture meter. The moisture meter described in Patent Document 1 is composed of a sensor that contacts a measurement site directly or through a plastic film or the like to detect moisture in the measurement site, and a measurement unit including the sensor.

[0003] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2004 / 038359 Summary of the invention

[0004] In recent years, there has been a demand for an intraoral measurement device and an intraoral measurement system that acquires temperature information.

[0005] An intra-oral measurement device according to one embodiment of the present invention is an intra-oral measurement device having a longitudinal direction.

[0006] The intraoral measurement device comprises:

[0007] A sensor is disposed at one end of the above-mentioned length direction of the above-mentioned intraoral measurement device, and obtains analog information of the oral cavity;

[0008] a processing unit, which is arranged on the sensor side relative to the central portion in the longitudinal direction of the intraoral measurement device, and converts the analog information obtained by the sensor into digital information and outputs a processing result converted into the digital information; and

[0009] The temperature information acquisition unit acquires the temperature information of the processing unit and outputs the temperature information.

[0010] An intraoral measurement system according to one embodiment of the present invention includes:

[0011] An intraoral measurement device having a length direction; and

[0012] a processing device communicating with the intraoral measuring device,

[0013] The intraoral measurement device comprises:

[0014] A sensor is disposed at one end of the above-mentioned length direction of the above-mentioned intraoral measurement device, and obtains analog information of the oral cavity;

[0015] a processing unit, arranged on the sensor side relative to the center portion in the longitudinal direction of the intraoral measurement device, and converting the analog information obtained by the sensor into digital information and outputting a processing result converted into digital information;

[0016] a temperature information acquisition unit that acquires the temperature information of the processing unit and outputs the temperature information; and

[0017] The first communication unit sends the processing result and the temperature information to the processing device.

[0018] The processing device has:

[0019] a second communication unit that receives the processing result and the temperature information from the first communication unit of the intraoral measurement device;

[0020] a calculation unit that calculates the amount of the measurement object based on the processing result; and

[0021] The correction processing unit corrects the amount of the measurement object based on the information on the amount of the measurement object and the temperature information.

[0022] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an intra-oral measurement device and an intra-oral measurement system for acquiring temperature information. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view of an example of the intra-oral measurement device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 2 1 is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of an example of the intra-oral measurement device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an example of an intra-oral measurement device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 4 This is a schematic perspective view of an example of a sensor in the intraoral measurement device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 5 This is a schematic enlarged view showing an enlarged internal structure of a part of the intraoral measurement device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing an example in which a substrate is used as a heat transfer member.

[0029] Figure 7 It is a schematic diagram showing an example of the deviation of the measured value before correction.

[0030] Figure 8 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the deviation of the measured value after correction.

[0031] Fig. 9 This is a flowchart showing an example of calculation of a correction coefficient of the intra-oral measurement device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Fig.10 This is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the intra-oral measurement device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Fig.11 This is a flowchart showing an example of obtaining temperature information.

[0034] Fig.12 This is a flowchart showing an example of correction of measurement results.

[0035] Fig.13 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a situation in which the intra-oral measurement device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is used.

[0036] Fig.14 This is a schematic enlarged view showing an enlarged internal structure of a part of the intraoral measurement device according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Fig.15 This is a schematic enlarged view showing an enlarged internal structure of a part of the intraoral measurement device according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Fig.16 This is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an example of an intra-oral measurement system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Description of Reference Numerals

[0040] 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D…intraoral measuring device; 2…housing; 10…sensor unit; 11…sensor; 20…probe unit; 21…processing unit; 22…temperature information acquiring unit; 23…substrate; 23a…base pattern; 24…heat transfer component; 25…heat conductive resin component; 30…holding unit; 31…calculating unit; 32…correction processing unit; 33…operation display unit; 34…first communication unit; 40…processing device; 41…second communication unit; 50…intraoral measuring system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] (Process of Completing the Invention)

[0042] As a sensor for measuring the moisture in the oral cavity, for example, there is known a moisture meter described in Patent Document 1. The moisture meter described in Patent Document 1 measures the moisture in the oral cavity by contacting a measurement site in the oral cavity directly or through a plastic film.

[0043] In an intraoral measurement device such as the moisture meter described in Patent Document 1, the temperature of the intraoral measurement device itself may rise due to contact with the user's oral cavity. In this case, the temperature of the processing unit that processes the intraoral information obtained by the sensor changes, causing a problem of deviation in the measured value of the moisture content. This is a new problem discovered by the inventors of the present invention.

[0044] Therefore, the inventors of the present invention have found a configuration including a temperature information acquisition unit that acquires temperature information, and have completed the following invention.

[0045] An intraoral measurement device according to one embodiment of the present invention has a longitudinal direction.

[0046] The intraoral measurement device comprises:

[0047] A sensor is disposed at one end of the above-mentioned length direction of the above-mentioned intraoral measurement device, and obtains analog information of the oral cavity;

[0048] a processing unit, which is arranged on the sensor side relative to the central portion in the longitudinal direction of the intraoral measurement device, and converts the analog information obtained by the sensor into digital information and outputs a processing result converted into the digital information; and

[0049] The temperature information acquisition unit acquires the temperature information of the processing unit and outputs the temperature information.

[0050] With such a configuration, the temperature information of the processing unit can be acquired.

[0051] The intra-oral measurement device may further include a housing that accommodates the sensor, the processing unit, and the temperature information acquisition unit.

[0052] The housing has:

[0053] A sensor portion, disposed on the one end side of the intraoral measuring device in the longitudinal direction;

[0054] A gripping portion provided at the other end side of the length direction of the intraoral measuring device; and

[0055] The probe part is formed in a rod shape and connects the sensor part and the holding part.

[0056] The sensor is arranged in the sensor part.

[0057] The processing unit and the temperature information acquisition unit are arranged inside the probe unit.

[0058] With such a configuration, the sensor can be in a shape that allows it to easily come into contact with the inside of the oral cavity of the user, and the temperature information of the processing unit can be acquired with high accuracy.

[0059] The temperature information acquisition unit may be arranged on the other end side of the intra-oral measurement device in the longitudinal direction relative to the processing unit.

[0060] With such a structure, the generation of noise can be suppressed.

[0061] The processing unit and the temperature information acquisition unit may be in contact with each other via a heat transfer member.

[0062] With such a configuration, the thermal coupling between the processing unit and the temperature information acquisition unit can be improved, and the temperature information of the processing unit can be acquired with high accuracy.

[0063] The heat transfer member may be any one of a substrate, a metal member, silicone and carbon.

[0064] With such a configuration, the temperature information of the processing unit can be acquired with higher accuracy.

[0065] The heat transfer member may be a base pattern of the substrate.

[0066] With such a configuration, it is possible to improve thermal coupling between the processing unit and the temperature information acquisition unit and reduce the number of components.

[0067] The processing unit and the temperature information acquisition unit may be molded from a thermally conductive resin member.

[0068] With such a configuration, it is possible to improve the thermal coupling between the processing unit and the temperature information acquisition unit, and suppress damage to the processing unit and the temperature information acquisition unit due to an external load.

[0069] The intra-oral measurement device may further include a calculation unit that calculates the amount of the measurement object in the oral cavity based on the processing result output by the processing unit.

[0070] With such a configuration, the amount of the object to be measured in the oral cavity can be measured.

[0071] The intra-oral measurement device may further include a correction processing unit that corrects the amount of the measurement object based on the information on the amount of the measurement object and the temperature information.

[0072] With such a configuration, the amount of the object to be measured can be corrected based on the temperature information of the processing unit.

[0073] The amount of the object to be measured may be the amount of water.

[0074] With such a structure, the amount of moisture in the oral cavity can be measured.

[0075] An intraoral measurement system according to one embodiment of the present invention includes:

[0076] An intraoral measurement device having a length direction; and

[0077] a processing device communicating with the intraoral measuring device,

[0078] The intraoral measurement device comprises:

[0079] A sensor is disposed at one end of the above-mentioned length direction of the above-mentioned intraoral measurement device, and obtains analog information of the oral cavity;

[0080] a processing unit, arranged on the sensor side relative to the center portion in the longitudinal direction of the intraoral measurement device, and converting the analog information obtained by the sensor into digital information and outputting a processing result converted into digital information;

[0081] a temperature information acquisition unit that acquires the temperature information of the processing unit and outputs the temperature information; and

[0082] The first communication unit sends the processing result and the temperature information to the processing device.

[0083] The processing device has:

[0084] a second communication unit that receives the processing result and the temperature information from the first communication unit of the intraoral measurement device;

[0085] a calculation unit that calculates the amount of the measurement object based on the processing result; and

[0086] The correction processing unit corrects the amount of the measurement object based on the information on the amount of the measurement object and the temperature information.

[0087] With such a configuration, it is possible to obtain temperature information of the processing unit and correct the amount of the measurement object based on the temperature information.

[0088] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, the following description is essentially only illustrative and is not intended to limit the present disclosure, its applications, or its uses. Moreover, the accompanying drawings are schematic, and the ratios of various dimensions may not necessarily be consistent with reality.

[0089] (Implementation Method 1)

[0090] [Overall structure]

[0091] Figure 1This is a schematic perspective view of an example of an intra-oral measurement device 1A according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 1 is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of an example of the intra-oral measurement device 1A according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an example of an intra-oral measurement device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. The X, Y, and Z directions in the figure respectively represent the width direction, length direction, and height direction of the intra-oral measurement device 1A.

[0092] <Appearance>

[0093] The appearance of the intraoral measurement device 1A will be described. Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 As shown, the intraoral measurement device 1A includes a housing 2 . The housing 2 is formed in a rod-like shape having a longitudinal direction D1 . Specifically, the housing 2 includes a sensor unit 10 , a probe unit 20 , and a grip unit 30 .

[0094] The sensor unit 10 is a portion that contacts the user's oral cavity. The sensor unit 10 is provided at one end E1 in the length direction D1 of the intraoral measurement device 1A. The outer dimensions of the sensor unit 10 are designed to be smaller than those of the probe unit 20 and the grip unit 30. For example, the dimensions of the sensor unit 10 in the X direction and the Y direction are designed to be smaller than those of the probe unit 20 and the grip unit 30.

[0095] The probe part 20 connects the sensor part 10 and the grip part 30. The probe part 20 is formed in a rod shape. The size of the probe part 20 in the X direction and the size of the probe part 20 in the Z direction decrease as it moves from the grip part 30 toward the sensor part 10. That is, the probe part 20 has a shape that becomes thinner from the grip part 30 toward the front end of the sensor part 10.

[0096] The grip portion 30 is located outside the oral cavity of the user and is a portion for the user to grip. The grip portion 30 is provided at the other end E2 of the length direction D1 of the intraoral measurement device 1A. The grip portion 30 is formed in a rod shape. The outer dimensions of the grip portion 30 are designed to be larger than those of the sensor portion 10 and the probe portion 20. For example, the dimensions of the grip portion 30 in the X, Y, and Z directions are designed to be larger than those of the sensor portion 10 and the probe portion 20.

[0097] The housing 2 is formed of, for example, resin. Alternatively, a portion of the housing 2 may be formed of metal. Alternatively, the entire housing 2 may be formed of metal.

[0098] Next, the components constituting the intraoral measurement device 1A will be described. Figure 1-Figure 3 As shown, the intra-oral measurement device 1A includes a sensor 11 , a processing unit 21 , a temperature information acquisition unit 22 , a substrate 23 , a calculation unit 31 , a correction processing unit 32 , and an operation display unit 33 .

[0099] In the first embodiment, an example is described in which the intra-oral measurement device 1A includes the substrate 23, the calculation unit 31, the correction processing unit 32, and the operation display unit 33, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The substrate 23, the calculation unit 31, the correction processing unit 32, and the operation display unit 33 may be provided in a device different from the intra-oral measurement device 1A.

[0100] In the first embodiment, an example is described in which the object to be measured by the intra-oral measurement device 1A is water and the intra-oral measurement device 1A measures the water content.

[0101] <Sensor>

[0102] The sensor 11 obtains analog information in the oral cavity. In the first embodiment, the sensor 11 is, for example, an electrostatic capacitance sensor. The sensor 11 is in contact with the oral cavity and obtains information of electrostatic capacitance as analog information in the oral cavity.

[0103] The sensor 11 is provided at one end E1 of the intraoral measurement device 1A in the longitudinal direction D1. Figure 4 1 is a schematic perspective view of an example of the sensor 11 in the intraoral measurement device 1A according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 As shown in FIG. 1 , the sensor 11 is disposed on the sensor portion 10 . Specifically, the sensor 11 is disposed on the lower surface of the sensor portion 10 .

[0104] The analog information in the oral cavity acquired by the sensor 11 is sent to the processing unit 21 .

[0105] <Processing Department>

[0106] Return to Figure 1-Figure 3 The processing unit 21 is disposed on the sensor 11 side relative to the central portion C1 in the longitudinal direction D1 of the intraoral measurement device 1A. Specifically, the processing unit 21 is disposed inside the probe unit 20 .

[0107] The processing unit 21 converts the analog information in the oral cavity obtained by the sensor 11 into digital information. In addition, the processing unit 21 outputs the processing result converted into digital information.

[0108] The processing unit 21 includes a frequency conversion circuit that converts information on the electrostatic capacitance acquired by the sensor 11 into a frequency.

[0109] For example, the processing unit 21 repeatedly charges and discharges the sensor 11 that obtains information regarded as electrostatic capacitance, and converts the information into a cycle frequency determined by the charging and discharging speed.

[0110] Thus, the processing unit 21 converts analog information indicating electrostatic capacitance in the oral cavity obtained by the sensor 11 into digital information indicating frequency. The processing result converted into digital information by the processing unit 21 is sent to the calculation unit 31. In the first embodiment, the processing result converted into digital information by the processing unit 21 refers to frequency.

[0111] The processing unit 21 can be implemented by semiconductor elements and the like. The processing unit 21 can be composed of, for example, a microcomputer, a CPU, an MPU, a GPU, a DSP, an FPGA, an ASIC, a discrete semiconductor, or an LSI. The functions of the processing unit 21 can be composed of hardware alone or by combining hardware and software. The processing unit 21 reads out data and programs stored in a storage unit (not shown) in the processing unit 21 and performs various calculations, thereby realizing a predetermined function. The storage unit can be implemented, for example, by a hard disk (HDD), an SSD, a RAM, a DRAM, a ferroelectric memory, a flash memory, a magnetic disk, or a combination thereof.

[0112] <Temperature information acquisition unit>

[0113] The temperature information acquisition unit 22 acquires the temperature information of the processing unit 21. In addition, the temperature information acquisition unit 22 outputs the temperature information. The temperature information of the processing unit 21 is information about the temperature of the processing unit 21 used to correct the information of the processing result of the processing unit 21. For example, the temperature information of the processing unit 21 includes information about the temperature at the start and end of the acquisition of the analog information by the sensor 11.

[0114] For example, the temperature information acquisition unit 22 measures the resistance of the processing unit 21 as information related to the temperature of the processing unit 21 , and calculates the temperature information of the processing unit 21 based on the information of the measured resistance.

[0115] For example, the temperature information acquisition unit 22 includes a temperature-related information acquisition unit that acquires information related to the temperature of the processing unit 21 and a temperature calculation unit that calculates the temperature information of the processing unit 21 based on the temperature-related information acquired by the temperature-related information acquisition unit.

[0116] The temperature-related information acquisition unit can use, for example, a thermistor, a platinum electrode, or a thermocouple. In the first embodiment, the temperature information acquisition unit 22 uses a thermistor. The temperature information acquisition unit 22 measures the resistance as information related to the temperature of the processing unit 21, and calculates the temperature information of the processing unit 21 based on the resistance information. In other words, the temperature information acquisition unit 22 acquires the resistance information through the temperature-related information acquisition unit, and calculates the temperature information of the processing unit 21 based on the resistance information through the temperature information calculation unit.

[0117] The temperature information acquisition unit 22 performs multiple temperature measurements. That is, the temperature information acquisition unit 22 acquires multiple temperature information. For example, the temperature information acquisition unit 22 acquires the temperature information of the processing unit 21 at the start of the measurement and at the end of the measurement. The start of the measurement refers to when the sensor 11 is brought into contact with the oral cavity. The end of the measurement refers to when the sensor 11 completes acquiring information in the oral cavity. The temperature information acquisition unit 22 determines the temperature information for correction based on the multiple temperature information. For example, the temperature information acquisition unit 22 can determine the average value of the multiple temperature information as the temperature information for correction. Alternatively, the temperature information acquisition unit 22 can also determine the central value of the multiple temperature information as the temperature information for correction.

[0118] Thus, the temperature information acquisition unit 22 acquires analog information in the temperature-related information acquisition unit and converts the analog information into digital information in the temperature information calculation unit. Specifically, the temperature information acquisition unit 22 converts the information of the resistance as analog information into the temperature information as digital information.

[0119] The temperature information acquired by the temperature information acquisition unit 22 is output to the correction processing unit 32. In the first embodiment, the temperature information acquired by the temperature information acquisition unit 22 is sent to the correction processing unit 32 via the processing unit 21. In addition, the temperature information acquired by the temperature information acquisition unit 22 may be directly sent to the correction processing unit 32 without passing through the processing unit 21. In other words, the temperature information acquisition unit 22 outputs the temperature information including sending the temperature information to the correction processing unit 32 via the processing unit 21 and sending the temperature information directly to the correction processing unit 32 without passing through the processing unit 21.

[0120] Figure 5 1 is a schematic enlarged view showing a part of the internal structure of the intraoral measurement device 1A according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 As shown, the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 are mounted on a substrate 23 and are arranged inside the probe unit 20 .

[0121] The temperature information acquisition unit 22 is not arranged on the one end E1 side of the length direction D1 of the intraoral measurement device 1A relative to the processing unit 21. In other words, the temperature information acquisition unit 22 is arranged on the other end E2 side of the length direction D1 of the intraoral measurement device 1A relative to the processing unit 21. Since analog information is transmitted from the sensor 11 to the processing unit 21, it is possible to suppress the generation of noise by avoiding arranging the temperature information acquisition unit 22 between the sensor 11 and the processing unit 21.

[0122] The temperature information acquisition unit 22 can be implemented by a semiconductor element or the like. The temperature information acquisition unit 22 can be configured by, for example, a microcomputer. The function of the temperature information acquisition unit 22 can be configured by hardware alone or by combining hardware and software. The temperature information acquisition unit 22 reads data and programs stored in a storage unit (not shown) in the processing unit 21 and performs various calculations, thereby realizing a predetermined function.

[0123] <Substrate>

[0124] The substrate 23 is provided with the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22. In the first embodiment, the substrate 23 functions as a heat transfer member that transfers the temperature of the processing unit 21 to the temperature information acquisition unit 22.

[0125] Figure 6 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of using the substrate 23 as a heat transfer component. Figure 6 As shown, the substrate 23 has a base pattern 23a. The base pattern 23a is formed of a copper foil pattern. The base pattern 23a connects the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22. That is, the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 are in contact via the base pattern 23a of the substrate 23. Thus, the base pattern 23a of the substrate 23 can be used as a heat transfer component, and the heat of the processing unit 21 can be transferred to the temperature information acquisition unit 22 via the base pattern 23a.

[0126] In this way, the base pattern 23 a of the substrate 23 is used as a heat transfer member that transfers the heat of the processing unit 21 to the temperature information acquisition unit 22 .

[0127] <Calculation Department>

[0128] Return to Figure 1-Figure 3 The calculation unit 31 calculates the moisture content based on the processing result output by the processing unit 21. Specifically, the calculation unit 31 calculates the moisture content based on the frequency information output from the processing unit 21. The calculation unit 31, for example, has a moisture content calculation circuit that calculates the moisture content based on the frequency change. In addition, the frequency change refers to the difference between the reference frequency and the frequency converted based on the information of the electrostatic capacitance in the processing unit 21. The reference frequency refers to the frequency in the standard air environment.

[0129] Information on the amount of moisture calculated by the calculation unit 31 is sent to the correction processing unit 32 .

[0130] The calculation unit 31 is disposed inside the grip unit 30 .

[0131] <Correction Processing Department>

[0132] The correction processing unit 32 corrects the moisture content based on the moisture content information and the temperature information.

[0133] For example, the correction processing unit 32 calculates the correction amount based on the temperature information and the correction coefficient K. The correction coefficient K is calculated before the intraoral measurement device 1A measures the amount of water. For example, the correction coefficient K may be calculated when the intraoral measurement device 1A is manufactured. The calculation of the correction coefficient K will be described later.

[0134] For example, the correction processing unit 32 adds the calculated correction amount to the moisture content calculated by the calculation unit 31. Thus, the correction processing unit 32 corrects the moisture content calculated by the calculation unit 31.

[0135] The information on the moisture content corrected by the correction processing unit 32 is sent to the operation display unit 33 .

[0136] The correction processing unit 32 is arranged inside the grasping unit 30 .

[0137] The correction processing unit 32 can be implemented by semiconductor elements and the like. The correction processing unit 32 can be composed of, for example, a microcomputer, a CPU, an MPU, a GPU, a DSP, an FPGA, or an ASIC. The functions of the correction processing unit 32 can be composed of hardware alone, or can be implemented by combining hardware and software. The correction processing unit 32 reads out data and programs stored in a storage unit (not shown) in the correction processing unit 32 and performs various calculations, thereby implementing a specified function. The storage unit can be implemented, for example, by a hard disk (HDD), an SSD, a RAM, a DRAM, a ferroelectric memory, a flash memory, a magnetic disk, or a combination thereof.

[0138] Here, the deviation of the measured value due to the temperature change of the processing unit 21 is described. Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the deviation of the measured value before correction. Figure 7 In FIG. 1 , the horizontal axis represents the temperature of the processing unit 21, and the vertical axis represents the measurement value deviation. The measurement value deviation refers to the deviation of the processing result after the processing by the processing unit 21. Figure 7 In FIG. 1 , the measured value deviation indicates a change rate with respect to a case where the temperature of the processing unit 21 is 25° C. as a reference “1”.

[0139] like Figure 7 As shown, the measured value deviation occurs due to the change in the temperature of the processing unit 21. In this way, if the temperature of the processing unit 21 changes, it affects the processing result of the processing unit 21. Therefore, if the temperature of the processing unit 21 changes, there is a case where the oral cavity cannot be measured with high accuracy.

[0140] Therefore, the correction processing unit 32 corrects the moisture content calculated by the calculation unit 31 based on the temperature information of the processing unit 21 . Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the deviation of the measured value after correction. Figure 8In the figure, the horizontal axis and the vertical axis are Figure 7 The vertical axis and the horizontal axis are the same. Figure 8 As shown, the intra-oral measurement device 1A reduces the variation in the measured value by performing correction processing by the correction processing unit 32. Thus, even if the temperature of the processing unit 21 changes, the moisture content in the oral cavity can be measured with high accuracy.

[0141] <Operation display>

[0142] The operation display unit 33 receives input from the user and displays information on the moisture content corrected by the correction processing unit 32. For example, the operation display unit 33 includes an operation unit that receives an operation from the user and a display unit that displays information.

[0143] The operation unit includes one or more buttons for receiving input from the user. The buttons include, for example, a power button for switching the power on / off. By switching the power on / off with the power button, the measurable state of the intraoral measurement device 1A can be switched.

[0144] The display unit includes a display that displays information on the amount of water corrected by the correction processing unit 32 .

[0145] The operation display unit 33 is disposed on the upper surface of the grip unit 30 .

[0146] The intra-oral measurement device 1A includes a control unit that performs unified control of the components constituting the intra-oral measurement device 1A. The control unit includes, for example, a memory storing a program and a processing circuit corresponding to a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). For example, in the control unit, the processor executes the program stored in the memory. In the first embodiment, the control unit controls the sensor 11, the processing unit 21, the temperature information acquisition unit 22, the substrate 23, the calculation unit 31, the correction processing unit 32, and the operation display unit 33.

[0147] [Calculation of correction factor]

[0148] use Fig. 9 An example of calculation of the correction coefficient K used in the correction processing performed by the correction processing unit 32 will be described. Fig. 9 This is a flowchart showing an example of calculation of the correction coefficient K of the intra-oral measurement device 1A according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0149] like Fig. 9As shown, in step ST1, the temperature of the processing unit 21 is changed, and the intraoral measurement device 1A performs measurement. Specifically, the temperature of the processing unit 21 is changed stepwise while the object in contact with the sensor 11 is under a predetermined condition, and the intraoral measurement device 1A performs measurement at each temperature. The predetermined condition refers to a state in which the moisture content of the object in contact with the sensor 11 is maintained constant. For example, a heating device such as a heater is used to change the temperature of the processing unit 21.

[0150] In step ST1 , for example, the temperature of the processing unit 21 is changed by 1° C. at a time between 21° C. and 28° C. The processing unit 21 processes analog information acquired by the sensor 11 at each temperature.

[0151] In the first embodiment, the processing unit 21 converts the electrostatic capacitance obtained by the sensor 11 into a frequency. Therefore, in step ST1, the temperature of the processing unit 21 is changed stepwise, and the processing unit 21 obtains the frequency at each temperature. Thus, as the processing result of the processing unit 21, the temperature information of the processing unit 21 and the frequency (measured value) at each temperature are obtained.

[0152] The processing result of the processing unit 21 is sent to the calculation unit 31 and the correction processing unit 32. Specifically, the information of the frequency at each temperature is sent to the calculation unit 31. The information of a plurality of temperatures is sent to the correction processing unit 32.

[0153] The calculation unit 31 calculates the moisture content at each temperature based on the information of the frequency at each temperature. The calculation unit 31 sends the information of the moisture content at each temperature to the correction processing unit 32.

[0154] In step ST2, an approximate formula is calculated based on the information of the moisture content at each temperature, the processing result of the processing unit 21, and the temperature information of the processing unit 21. Specifically, the correction processing unit 32 calculates an approximate formula based on the temperature information of the processing unit 21 changed in step ST1 and the information of the moisture content (measured value) at each temperature obtained in step ST1. The approximate formula is calculated, for example, by the following formula.

[0155] [Formula 1]

[0156] M=a×T+b

[0157] Here, "M" represents the moisture content (measured value), "T" represents the temperature of the processing unit 21, and "a" and "b" represent arbitrary numerical values.

[0158] In step ST3 , based on the approximate formula calculated in step ST2 , the correction coefficient K is determined. For example, the correction processing unit 32 determines “a”, which is the slope of the approximate formula, as the correction coefficient K. The correction processing unit 32 stores the correction coefficient K in the storage unit.

[0159] In this way, by performing steps ST1 to ST3, it is possible to calculate the correction coefficient K. The approximate formula calculated in step ST2 is just an example and is not limited to the above formula. For example, the approximate formula may be a linear formula or a polynomial formula.

[0160] [Operation of the intraoral measurement device]

[0161] use Figure 10-12 An example of the operation of the intra-oral measurement device, that is, an example of the intra-oral measurement method will be described. Fig.10 This is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the intra-oral measurement device 1A according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Fig.11 This is a flowchart showing an example of obtaining temperature information. Fig.12 This is a flowchart showing an example of correction of measurement results.

[0162] like Fig.10 As shown, in step ST11, the sensor 11 acquires the analog information in the oral cavity. Specifically, the sensor 11 acquires the analog information in the oral cavity by contacting the user's oral cavity. The information acquired by the sensor 11 is sent to the processing unit 21.

[0163] In the first embodiment, since the sensor 11 is a capacitance sensor, the sensor 11 obtains capacitance information as analog information in the oral cavity.

[0164] In step ST12, the analog information in the oral cavity obtained by the sensor 11 is converted into digital information by the processing unit 21. In the first embodiment, the processing unit 21 converts the information of the electrostatic capacitance obtained by the sensor 11 into frequency. In this way, the processing unit 21 converts the analog information representing the electrostatic capacitance obtained by the sensor 11 into digital information representing the frequency.

[0165] In step ST13, the temperature information acquisition unit 22 acquires the temperature information of the processing unit 21. Specifically, in step ST13, the temperature information acquisition unit 22 acquires the temperature of the processing unit 21 at the start of measurement and before the start of measurement, and calculates the average value of the temperature of the processing unit 21 at the start of measurement and before the start of measurement.

[0166] Fig.11 This is a flowchart showing an example of temperature acquisition. Fig.11 The flowchart shown shows the processing performed by the temperature information acquisition unit 22 when the measurement is started and when the measurement is finished.

[0167] like Fig.11As shown, in step ST13A, the temperature-related information acquisition unit of the temperature information acquisition unit 22 is used to acquire information related to the temperature of the processing unit 21. In the first embodiment, the temperature-related information acquisition unit is a thermistor. Therefore, the temperature-related information acquisition unit acquires information on the resistance of the processing unit 21 as information related to the temperature of the processing unit 21.

[0168] In step ST13B, the temperature information calculating unit of the temperature information acquiring unit 22 calculates the temperature information of the processing unit 21 based on the information related to the temperature acquired by the temperature-related information acquiring unit. In the first embodiment, the temperature information calculating unit calculates the temperature of the processing unit 21 based on the information on the resistance of the processing unit 21 acquired by the temperature-related information acquiring unit.

[0169] In this way, by performing steps ST13A and ST13B, the temperature information acquisition unit 22 acquires the temperature of the processing unit 21 at the start of measurement and at the end of measurement.

[0170] In step ST13 , the temperature information acquisition unit 22 uses the average value of the temperature of the processing unit 21 at the start of measurement and before the start of measurement as the temperature information of the processing unit 21 .

[0171] In step ST14, the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 output the processing result (frequency information) converted into digital information and the temperature information. In the first embodiment, the processing unit 21 sends the processing result to the calculation unit 31. The temperature information acquisition unit 22 sends the temperature information to the correction processing unit 32 via the processing unit 21.

[0172] In step ST15, the calculation unit 31 calculates the moisture content based on the processing result of the processing unit 21. In the first embodiment, the calculation unit 31 calculates the change amount of the frequency based on the frequency converted by the processing unit 21. In addition, the calculation unit 31 calculates the moisture content based on the change amount of the frequency. The calculation unit 31 sends the information of the calculated moisture content to the correction processing unit 32.

[0173] In step ST16 , the moisture content is corrected by the correction processing unit 32 based on the moisture content information and the temperature information. In the first embodiment, the moisture content calculated by the calculation unit 31 is corrected by the correction processing unit 32 based on the temperature information of the processing unit 21 acquired by the temperature information acquisition unit 22 .

[0174] Fig.12 FIG. 1 is a flowchart showing an example of correction of the processing result. Fig.12 As shown, step ST16 includes steps ST16A-ST16B.

[0175] In step ST16A, the correction processing unit 32 calculates the correction amount based on the temperature information of the processing unit 21 and the correction coefficient K. For example, the correction processing unit 32 calculates the correction amount by the following equation.

[0176] [Formula 2]

[0177] Q=K×(T1-T0)

[0178] Here, “Q” represents a correction amount, “K” represents a correction coefficient, “T1” represents the temperature of the processing unit 21 , and “T0” represents a reference temperature.

[0179] The correction coefficient K is a value calculated in advance before the measurement starts, and is stored in the storage unit of the correction processing unit 32. The temperature T1 is based on the temperature information of the processing unit 21 obtained in step ST13. The reference temperature T0 is a reference temperature, and is set to an arbitrary value. The reference temperature T0 is stored in the storage unit of the correction processing unit 32.

[0180] In this way, the correction processing unit 32 reads the correction coefficient K and the reference temperature T0 from the storage unit, and multiplies the difference between the temperature T1 of the processing unit 21 and the reference temperature T0 by the correction coefficient K, thereby calculating the correction amount Q.

[0181] In addition, the calculation formula of the correction amount described above is just an example, and the present invention is not limited to the above formula.

[0182] In step ST16B, the correction processing unit 32 corrects the processing result of the processing unit 21 based on the correction amount Q. For example, the correction processing unit 32 corrects the processing result of the processing unit 21 using the following equation.

[0183] [Formula 3]

[0184] P=M+Q

[0185] Here, "P" represents the moisture content after correction, "M" represents the moisture content before correction (measured value), and "Q" represents the correction amount.

[0186] In this way, the correction processing unit 32 corrects the moisture content by adding the correction amount Q to the moisture content M before correction.

[0187] In addition, the correction formula of the water content mentioned above is just an example, and is not limited to the above formula.

[0188] The information on the moisture content corrected by the correction processing unit 32 is sent to the operation display unit 33 .

[0189] Return to Fig.10In step ST17, the information of the corrected moisture content is displayed on the operation display unit 33. For example, the operation display unit 33 displays the corrected moisture content using numerical values. Alternatively, the operation display unit 33 displays the corrected moisture content using a graph or an indicator.

[0190] In this way, by performing steps ST11 to ST17 , the moisture content can be corrected and displayed.

[0191] [How to use the intraoral measurement device]

[0192] use Fig.13 An example of a method of using the intraoral measurement device 1A will be described. Fig.13 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a situation in which the intra-oral measurement device 1A according to the first embodiment of the present invention is used.

[0193] like Fig.13 As shown, the sensor unit 10 and the probe unit 20 of the intraoral measurement device 1A are covered with the film 3. The power button of the operation display unit 33 is pressed to turn on the power of the intraoral measurement device 1A. Thus, the intraoral measurement device 1A is ready for measurement.

[0194] The intra-oral measurement device 1A is used to perform multiple measurements. For example, the intra-oral measurement device 1A is used to perform three measurements.

[0195] In each measurement, the sensor 11 provided on the lower surface of the sensor unit 10 is brought into contact with the inside of the oral cavity of the user. For example, the sensor 11 is brought into contact with the tongue of the user. The measurement is started by bringing the sensor 11 into contact with the tongue of the user.

[0196] When the measurement is completed, the intraoral measurement device 1A notifies the user of the completion of the measurement through, for example, voice information.

[0197] After the above-mentioned measurement is performed three times, the measurement results are displayed on the operation display unit 33 .

[0198] [Effect]

[0199] According to the intra-oral measurement device 1A according to the first embodiment, the following effects can be achieved.

[0200] The intraoral measurement device 1A includes a sensor 11, a processing unit 21, and a temperature information acquisition unit 22. The sensor 11 is provided at one end E1 in the longitudinal direction of the intraoral measurement device 1A, and acquires analog information in the oral cavity. The processing unit 21 is disposed on the sensor 11 side relative to the central portion C1 in the longitudinal direction D1 of the intraoral measurement device 1A. The processing unit 21 converts the analog information acquired by the sensor 11 into digital information, and outputs the processing result converted into digital information. The temperature information acquisition unit 22 acquires temperature information from the processing unit 21, and outputs the temperature information.

[0201] With such a configuration, it is possible to obtain the temperature information of the processing unit 21. In addition, the intraoral measurement device 1A can output the obtained temperature information to suppress the deviation of the processing result caused by the temperature change of the processing unit 21. For example, in the intraoral measurement device 1A, the temperature information can be output to the correction processing unit 32 that corrects the measurement result based on the temperature information. Thus, the measurement result can be corrected based on the temperature information.

[0202] Furthermore, analog information acquired by the sensor 11 is easily affected by noise. In the intraoral measurement device 1A, the processing unit 21 is arranged closer to the sensor 11 than the center portion C1 in the longitudinal direction D1 of the intraoral measurement device 1A, thereby suppressing the generation of noise.

[0203] Since the sensor 11 is in contact with the oral cavity, the closer the processing unit 21 is arranged to the sensor 11, the easier it is for the heat in the oral cavity to be transferred to the processing unit 21, and the easier it is for the temperature of the processing unit 21 to change. The intraoral measurement device 1A can obtain the temperature information of the processing unit 21 through the temperature information acquisition unit 22 and output information for correcting the processing result. Therefore, the oral cavity can be measured with high accuracy.

[0204] The intraoral measurement device 1A includes a housing 2 that accommodates a sensor 11, a processing unit 21, and a temperature information acquisition unit 22. The housing 2 includes a sensor unit 10, a probe unit 20, and a grip unit 30. The sensor unit 10 is disposed on the side of one end E1 in the longitudinal direction D1 of the intraoral measurement device 1A. The probe unit 20 is formed in a rod shape and connects the sensor unit 10 and the grip unit 30. The grip unit 30 is disposed on the side of the other end E2 in the longitudinal direction D1 of the intraoral measurement device 1A. The sensor 11 is disposed on the sensor unit 10. The processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 are disposed inside the probe unit 20. With such a structure, it is possible to obtain a shape that allows the sensor 11 to easily contact the inside of the user's oral cavity, and to obtain temperature information of the processing unit 21 with high accuracy.

[0205] The temperature information acquisition unit 22 is disposed closer to the other end E2 in the longitudinal direction D1 of the intraoral measurement device 1A than the processing unit 21. With such a configuration, the temperature information acquisition unit 22 can be avoided from being disposed between the sensor 11 and the processing unit 21, thereby suppressing the generation of noise.

[0206] The processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 are in contact with each other via the base pattern 23a of the substrate 23 as a heat transfer member. With such a structure, the thermal coupling between the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 can be improved. Thus, the temperature information of the processing unit 21 can be acquired by the temperature information acquisition unit 22 with high accuracy.

[0207] The intraoral measurement device 1A further includes a calculation unit 31 that calculates the moisture content based on the processing result output by the processing unit 21. With such a configuration, the moisture content in the oral cavity can be calculated based on the processing result processed by the processing unit 21.

[0208] The intraoral measurement device 1A further includes a correction processing unit 32 that corrects the moisture content based on moisture content information and temperature information. With such a configuration, the correction processing unit 32 can correct the moisture content based on the temperature information of the processing unit 21. This can improve measurement accuracy.

[0209] In the first embodiment, an example in which the intraoral measurement device 1A includes the sensor 11, the processing unit 21, the temperature information acquisition unit 22, the substrate 23, the calculation unit 31, the correction processing unit 32, and the operation display unit 33 is described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The intraoral measurement device 1A may implement these components by one device or by a plurality of devices. For example, the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 may be integrated. The sensor 11 and the processing unit 21 may be integrated. The calculation unit 31 and the correction processing unit 32 may be integrated.

[0210] In the first embodiment, an example in which the calculation unit 31, the correction processing unit 32, and the operation display unit 33 are provided in the intraoral measurement device 1A is described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The calculation unit 31, the correction processing unit 32, and the operation display unit 33 may not be provided in the intraoral measurement device 1A. For example, the calculation unit 31, the correction processing unit 32, and the operation display unit 33 may be provided in a processing device different from the intraoral measurement device 1A.

[0211] In the first embodiment, the measurement object of the intraoral measurement device 1A is water, and the example in which the intraoral measurement device 1A measures the amount of water in the oral cavity is described, but it is not limited to this. The intraoral measurement device 1A only needs to be able to measure the state in the oral cavity. For example, the intraoral measurement device 1A can also measure the amount of saliva secretion, bite force, tongue pressure, tongue color and / or the amount of various substances contained in saliva. Specifically, the intraoral measurement device 1A can also measure the amount of secreted electrolytes, various enzymes, proteins, ammonia, etc. as measurement objects. In this case, the calculation unit 31 can also calculate the amount of these measurement objects.

[0212] In the first embodiment, an example in which the housing 2 includes the sensor unit 10, the probe unit 20, and the gripping unit 30 is described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The housing 2 only needs to have a longitudinal direction.

[0213] In the first embodiment, the sensor 11 is described as an example of an electrostatic capacitance sensor, but it is not limited to this. The sensor 11 can be any sensor that can obtain analog information in the oral cavity. For example, the sensor 11 can also be at least one of an impedance measurement sensor, an optical sensor, a load sensor, and a humidity sensor.

[0214] In the first embodiment, the example in which the processing unit 21 converts the electrostatic capacitance into the frequency is described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The processing unit 21 only needs to have a circuit that converts the analog information obtained by the sensor 11 into digital information. In addition, the processing unit 21 may also have other processing circuits.

[0215] In the first embodiment, an example in which the calculation unit 31 is arranged inside the holding unit 30 is described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the calculation unit 31 may also be arranged inside the probe unit 20. In this case, the calculation unit 31 and the processing unit 21 may also be formed as one body. For example, the processing unit 21 may also include a frequency conversion circuit that converts information of electrostatic capacitance into frequency, and a moisture content calculation circuit that calculates the moisture content based on the change in frequency.

[0216] In the first embodiment, an example in which the temperature information acquisition unit 22 has a temperature-related information acquisition unit and a temperature information calculation unit is described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the temperature information acquisition unit 22 may not have a temperature information calculation unit. In this case, the temperature information calculation unit may also be provided in the processing unit 21. Alternatively, the temperature information calculation unit may also be provided in the calculation unit 31 or the correction processing unit 32.

[0217] In the first embodiment, the temperature-related information acquisition unit is described as a thermistor, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The temperature-related information acquisition unit can acquire temperature-related information that can calculate the temperature information of the processing unit 21. For example, the temperature-related information acquisition unit may be an infrared sensor.

[0218] In the first embodiment, the temperature information acquisition unit 22 calculates the temperature information of the processing unit 21 based on the temperature-related information, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The temperature information acquisition unit 22 only needs to be able to acquire the temperature information of the processing unit 21 and does not necessarily need to acquire the temperature-related information.

[0219] In the first embodiment, an example in which the temperature information acquisition unit 22 acquires the temperature information of the processing unit 21 at the start of measurement and at the end of measurement is described, but the invention is not limited thereto. The temperature information acquisition unit 22 only needs to be able to acquire a plurality of temperature information when performing measurement. For example, the temperature information acquisition unit 22 may also acquire the temperature information of the processing unit 21 before, during, and / or after measurement.

[0220] In the first embodiment, an example in which the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 are mounted on the substrate 23 is described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The substrate 23 is not an essential structure.

[0221] In the first embodiment, an example in which the base pattern 23a of the substrate 23 is used as a heat transfer component for connecting the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 is described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 only need to be in contact with each other via a heat transfer component. For example, a component different from the substrate 23 may be used as a heat transfer component. Alternatively, a portion other than the base pattern 23a of the substrate 23 may be used as a heat transfer component.

[0222] In the first embodiment, an example in which the correction coefficient K is calculated when the intraoral measurement device 1A is manufactured is described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the correction coefficient K may be calculated before measurement.

[0223] In the first embodiment, an example in which the correction processing unit 32 calculates the correction amount using the correction coefficient K is described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The correction processing unit 32 only needs to be able to calculate the correction amount based on the temperature information of the processing unit 21. For example, the correction processing unit 32 may also calculate the correction amount using a table indicating the relationship between the temperature of the processing unit 21 and the correction amount.

[0224] In the first embodiment, an example of performing multiple measurements as a method of using the intra-oral measurement device 1A is described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. As a method of using the intra-oral measurement device 1A, a single measurement may be performed.

[0225] (Implementation Method 2)

[0226] The intraoral measurement device involved in the second embodiment of the present invention is described. In addition, in the second embodiment, the points different from the first embodiment are mainly described. In the second embodiment, the same or equivalent structures as those in the first embodiment are marked with the same figure marks and described. In addition, in the second embodiment, the description repeated with the first embodiment is omitted.

[0227] use Fig.14 An example of the intra-oral measurement device according to the second embodiment will be described. Fig.14 This is a schematic enlarged view showing a part of the internal structure of the intra-oral measurement device 1B according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0228] The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the substrate 23 is not provided but another heat transfer member 24 is provided.

[0229] like Fig.14 As shown, the intraoral measurement device 1B includes a heat transfer member 24 connecting the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22. The heat transfer member 24 is formed of a material with high thermal conductivity. For example, the heat transfer member 24 is formed of a metal member, silicone, or carbon. As the metal member, for example, aluminum or the like can be used.

[0230] The heat transfer member 24 is formed in a block shape. In addition, the heat transfer member 24 covers at least a portion of the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22. In other words, at least a portion of the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 is buried in the heat transfer member 24. In the second embodiment, the processing unit 21 is buried in the heat transfer member 24 except for the lower surface. The temperature information acquisition unit 22 is buried in the heat transfer member 24 except for the upper surface.

[0231] [Effect]

[0232] According to the intra-oral measurement device 1B according to the second embodiment, the following effects can be achieved.

[0233] The intraoral measurement device 1B includes a heat transfer member 24 connecting the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22. The heat transfer member 24 is made of metal, silicone, carbon, etc. With such a structure, the thermal coupling between the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 can be improved.

[0234] At least a portion of the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 is embedded in the heat transfer member 24. In other words, the heat transfer member 24 covers at least a portion of the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22. With such a structure, the contact area between the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 and the heat transfer member 24 can be increased, so that the heat of the processing unit 21 can be more easily transferred to the temperature information acquisition unit 22. As a result, the temperature information acquisition unit 22 can obtain the temperature information of the processing unit 21 with higher accuracy.

[0235] In the second embodiment, the heat transfer member 24 is described as being formed in a block shape, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The heat transfer member 24 may have any shape as long as it can connect the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 .

[0236] In the second embodiment, an example is described in which the processing unit 21 is buried in the heat transfer member 24 except for the lower surface, and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 is buried in the heat transfer member 24 except for the upper surface, but it is not limited to this. The processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 only need to be in contact with the heat transfer member 24. For example, the entire processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 may be buried in the heat transfer member 24. Alternatively, at least a portion of the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 may be disposed in the heat transfer member 24.

[0237] In the second embodiment, an example is described in which the intraoral measurement device 1B does not include a substrate on which the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 are mounted, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The intraoral measurement device 1B may include a substrate on which the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 are mounted.

[0238] (Implementation Method 3)

[0239] The intraoral measurement device involved in the third embodiment of the present invention is described. In addition, in the third embodiment, the points different from the first embodiment are mainly described. In the third embodiment, the same or equivalent structures as those in the first embodiment are marked with the same figure marks and described. In addition, in the third embodiment, the description repeated with the first embodiment is omitted.

[0240] use Fig.15 An example of the intra-oral measurement device according to the third embodiment will be described. Fig.15 This is a schematic enlarged view showing a part of the internal structure of the intra-oral measurement device 1C according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0241] The third embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 are molded with a thermally conductive resin member 25 .

[0242] like Fig.15 As shown, in the intra-oral measurement device 1C, the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 are molded by a thermally conductive resin member 25. The thermally conductive resin member 25 is formed of a resin material such as PC, PBT, epoxy resin, or silicone.

[0243] [Effect]

[0244] According to the intra-oral measurement device 1C according to the third embodiment, the following effects can be achieved.

[0245] In the intra-oral measurement device 1C, the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 are molded by the thermally conductive resin member 25. With such a structure, the thermal coupling between the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 can be improved. In addition, the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 can be protected by the thermally conductive resin member 25. For example, even if an external attachment is applied to the intra-oral measurement device 1C, it is protected by the thermally conductive resin member 25, and damage to the processing unit 21 and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 can be suppressed.

[0246] (Implementation method 4)

[0247] The intraoral measurement system involved in the fourth embodiment of the present invention is described. In addition, in the fourth embodiment, the points different from the first embodiment are mainly described. In the fourth embodiment, the same or equivalent structures as those in the first embodiment are marked with the same figure marks and described. In addition, in the fourth embodiment, the description repeated with the first embodiment is omitted.

[0248] use Fig.16 An example of an intra-oral measurement system according to the fourth embodiment will be described. Fig.16 This is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an example of an intra-oral measurement system 50 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0249] The fourth embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that information acquired by the intraoral measurement device 1D is sent to the processing device 40 and the processing device 40 calculates the moisture content.

[0250] like Fig.16 As shown, the intra-oral measurement system 50 includes an intra-oral measurement device 1D and a processing device 40 .

[0251] <Intraoral measurement device>

[0252] The intraoral measurement device 1D includes a sensor 11, a processing unit 21, a temperature information acquisition unit 22, and a first communication unit 34. In the fourth embodiment, the sensor 11, the processing unit 21, and the temperature information acquisition unit 22 are the same as those in the first embodiment, and thus detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0253] The first communication unit 34 communicates with the processing device 40. Specifically, the first communication unit 34 transmits the processing result of the processing unit 21 and the temperature information to the processing device 40.

[0254] The first communication unit 34 includes a circuit for communicating with the processing device 40 according to a predetermined communication standard. The predetermined communication standard includes, for example, LAN, Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), USB, HDMI (registered trademark), CAN (controller area network), and SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface).

[0255] In the intraoral measurement device 1D, the processing unit 21 converts the analog information obtained by the sensor 11 into digital information. The processing unit 21 outputs the processing result converted into digital information. In the fourth embodiment, the processing unit 21 converts the electrostatic capacitance obtained by the sensor 11 into frequency. The processing unit 21 sends the frequency information as the processing result converted into digital information to the processing device 40 via the first communication unit 34.

[0256] The temperature information acquisition unit 22 acquires the temperature information of the processing unit 21 and outputs the temperature information. In the fourth embodiment, the temperature information acquisition unit 22 transmits the temperature information to the processing device 40 via the processing unit 21 and the first communication unit 34 .

[0257] The intra-oral measurement device 1D includes a first control unit that performs unified control of the components constituting the intra-oral measurement device 1D. The first control unit includes, for example, a memory storing a program and a processing circuit corresponding to a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). For example, in the first control unit, the processor executes the program stored in the memory. In the fourth embodiment, the first control unit controls the sensor 11, the processing unit 21, the temperature information acquisition unit 22, and the first communication unit 34.

[0258] <Processing equipment>

[0259] The processing device 40 receives information from the intraoral measurement device 1D, and calculates the moisture content based on the received information. Specifically, the processing device 40 calculates the moisture content based on the frequency information converted by the processing unit 21. In addition, the processing device 40 corrects the moisture content based on the calculated moisture content and the temperature information of the processing unit 21. The processing device 40 is a computer. For example, the processing device 40 can be a portable terminal such as a smart phone or a tablet terminal. Alternatively, the processing device 40 can also be a server connected to a network.

[0260] The processing device 40 includes a second communication unit 41, a calculation unit 31, a correction processing unit 32, and an operation display unit 33. In the fourth embodiment, the calculation unit 31, the correction processing unit 32, and the operation display unit 33 are the same as those in the first embodiment except for the operation of the operation display unit 33, so detailed description is omitted. In addition, in the fourth embodiment, the operation display unit 33 is not an essential structure in the processing device 40.

[0261] The second communication unit 41 communicates with the intra-oral measurement device 1D. Specifically, the second communication unit 41 receives the processing result and the temperature information from the first communication unit 34 of the intra-oral measurement device 1D.

[0262] The second communication unit 41 includes a circuit for communicating with the intraoral measurement device 1D according to a predetermined communication standard. The predetermined communication standard includes, for example, LAN, Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), USB, HDMI (registered trademark), CAN (controller area network), and SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface).

[0263] The processing device 40 receives the processing result and the temperature information from the intra-oral measurement device 1D via the second communication unit 41. In the fourth embodiment, the processing device 40 receives digital information indicating the frequency and the temperature information from the intra-oral measurement device 1D via the second communication unit 41.

[0264] In the processing device 40, the calculation unit 31 calculates the moisture content based on the frequency information. The calculated moisture content information is sent to the correction processing unit 32. The correction processing unit 32 corrects the moisture content based on the moisture content information and the temperature information of the processing unit 21. The corrected moisture content information is sent to the operation display unit 33. The operation display unit 33 displays the corrected moisture content information.

[0265] The processing device 40 includes a second control unit that performs unified control of the components constituting the processing device 40. The second control unit includes, for example, a memory storing a program and a processing circuit corresponding to a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). For example, in the second control unit, the processor executes the program stored in the memory. In the fourth embodiment, the second control unit controls the calculation unit 31, the correction processing unit 32, the operation display unit 33, and the second communication unit 41.

[0266] [Effect]

[0267] According to the intra-oral measurement system 50 according to the fourth embodiment, the following effects can be achieved.

[0268] The intraoral measurement system 50 includes an intraoral measurement device 1D having a longitudinal direction D1, and a processing device 40 that communicates with the intraoral measurement device 1D. The intraoral measurement device 1D includes a sensor 11, a processing unit 21, a temperature information acquisition unit 22, and a first communication unit 34. The sensor 11 is provided at one end E1 of the longitudinal direction D1 of the intraoral measurement device 1D, and acquires analog information in the oral cavity. The processing unit 21 is arranged on the sensor 11 side relative to the central portion C1 in the longitudinal direction D1 of the intraoral measurement device 1D. The processing unit 21 converts the analog information acquired by the sensor 11 into digital information, and outputs the processing result converted into digital information. The temperature information acquisition unit 22 acquires the temperature information of the processing unit 21, and outputs the temperature information. The first communication unit 34 sends the processing result and the temperature information to the processing device 40. The processing device 40 includes a second communication unit 41, a calculation unit 31, and a correction processing unit 32. The second communication unit 41 receives the processing result and the temperature information from the first communication unit 34 of the intraoral measurement device 1D. The calculation unit 31 calculates the moisture content based on the processing result. The correction processing unit 32 corrects the moisture content based on the moisture content information and the temperature information.

[0269] With such a configuration, the processing device 40 can calculate the moisture content and correct the moisture content based on the information acquired by the intraoral measurement device 1D. Specifically, the calculated moisture content can be corrected based on the temperature information of the processing unit 21.

[0270] In the fourth embodiment, the example in which the processing device 40 includes the operation display unit 33 is described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The operation display unit 33 is not an essential structure in the processing device 40. For example, the operation display unit 33 may be provided in the intraoral measurement device 1D. Alternatively, the operation display unit 33 may be provided in other external devices.

[0271] In the fourth embodiment, the intra-oral measurement system 50 is described as an example in which water is used as the measurement object, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The intra-oral measurement system 50 only needs to be able to measure the amount of the measurement object in the oral cavity.

[0272] Although the present invention has been fully described in connection with the preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, various changes and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and such changes and modifications are to be understood as being included therein as long as they do not depart from the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims.

[0273] [Industrial Applicability]

[0274] The intra-oral measurement device and intra-oral measurement system of the present invention can be applied to, for example, a moisture content measurement device that measures the moisture content in the oral cavity.

Claims

1. An intraoral measurement device having a length direction and a height direction orthogonal to the length direction, wherein: The intraoral measurement device comprises: A sensor is provided at one end of the intraoral measurement device in the length direction and acquires analog information of the intraoral cavity; a processing unit, which is arranged on the sensor side relative to the center portion in the longitudinal direction of the intraoral measurement device, and converts the analog information obtained by the sensor into digital information and outputs a processing result converted into the digital information; a temperature information acquisition unit, which acquires temperature information of the processing unit and outputs the temperature information; a housing for housing the sensor, the processing unit, and the temperature information acquisition unit; as well as a substrate, which is disposed in the housing and has a mounting surface for mounting the processing unit, The temperature information acquisition unit is arranged on the other end side of the longitudinal direction of the intraoral measurement device relative to the processing unit. The housing includes a sensor portion, the sensor portion is provided on the one end side of the length direction of the intraoral measurement device and has a lower surface on which the sensor is arranged. The lower surface of the sensor portion and the mounting surface of the substrate are arranged on different planes.

2. The intraoral measurement device according to claim 1, wherein: The housing has: A grip portion provided at the other end side of the length direction of the intraoral measurement device; and The probe part is formed in a rod shape and connects the sensor part and the holding part. The processing unit and the temperature information acquisition unit are arranged inside the probe unit.

3. The intraoral measurement device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The processing unit and the temperature information acquisition unit are in contact with each other via a heat transfer member.

4. The intraoral measurement device according to claim 3, wherein: The heat transfer member is any one of the substrate, a metal member, silicone, and carbon.

5. The intraoral measurement device according to claim 4, wherein: The heat transfer member is a base pattern of the substrate.

6. The intraoral measurement device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The processing unit and the temperature information acquisition unit are molded from a thermally conductive resin member.

7. The intraoral measurement device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The processing unit and the temperature information acquisition unit are molded by a thermally conductive resin component. The thermally conductive resin member is in contact with the housing.

8. The intraoral measurement device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: A calculation unit is further provided for calculating the amount of the measurement object in the oral cavity based on the processing result output by the processing unit.

9. The intraoral measurement device according to claim 8, wherein: The apparatus further includes a correction processing unit that corrects the amount of the measurement object based on the information on the amount of the measurement object and the temperature information.

10. The intraoral measurement device according to claim 9, wherein: The temperature information acquisition unit transmits the temperature information to the correction processing unit without passing through the processing unit.

11. The intraoral measurement device according to claim 9 or 10, wherein: The amount of the object to be measured is the amount of water.

12. The intraoral measurement device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The sensor and the substrate are arranged at positions that do not overlap in the height direction of the intra-oral measurement device.

13. An intraoral measurement system, wherein: have: An intraoral measurement device having a length direction and a height direction orthogonal to the length direction; and a processing device in communication with the intra-oral measurement device, The intraoral measurement device comprises: A sensor is provided at one end of the intraoral measurement device in the length direction and acquires analog information of the intraoral cavity; a processing unit, which is arranged on the sensor side relative to the center portion in the longitudinal direction of the intraoral measurement device, and converts the analog information obtained by the sensor into digital information and outputs a processing result converted into digital information; a temperature information acquisition unit, which acquires temperature information of the processing unit and outputs the temperature information; a housing for housing the sensor, the processing unit, and the temperature information acquisition unit; A substrate, disposed in the housing and having a mounting surface for mounting the processing unit; as well as a first communication unit, which sends the processing result and the temperature information to the processing device; The temperature information acquisition unit is arranged on the other end side of the longitudinal direction of the intraoral measurement device relative to the processing unit. The housing includes a sensor portion, the sensor portion is provided on the one end side of the length direction of the intraoral measurement device and has a lower surface on which the sensor is arranged. The lower surface of the sensor portion and the mounting surface of the substrate are arranged on different planes, The processing device has: a second communication unit that receives the processing result and the temperature information from the first communication unit of the intraoral measurement device; a calculation unit that calculates the amount of the measurement object based on the processing result; as well as The correction processing unit corrects the amount of the measurement object based on the information on the amount of the measurement object and the temperature information.

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