Saliva flow rate detection device

By designing a saliva flow rate detection device including a main body, filter element, sampling head and sensor, the problem of low detection accuracy and time-consuming in the prior art is solved, and efficient and accurate saliva flow rate measurement and saliva gland function evaluation are achieved. .

CN119138849APending Publication Date: 2024-12-17ZUNYI MEDICAL UNIVERSITY
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202411343291.4
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-09-25
Publication Date
2024-12-17

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The saliva flow rate detection method in the prior art is low in accuracy and takes a long time, making it difficult to accurately measure the saliva secretion rate and judge the saliva gland function.

Method used

A saliva flow rate detection device including the main body, filter element, sampling head and sensor is designed. The sensor can accurately detect saliva infiltration. The filter element is combined with the sensor to improve detection accuracy and efficiency. The sampling head is detachable to prevent cross-infection. The filter element is Some use hydrophobic membranes to reduce saliva volatility, and the main body facilitates the replacement of the filter element.

Benefits of technology

It improves the accuracy and efficiency of saliva flow rate detection, simplifies operations, ensures the stability and safety of the detection data, and reduces the detection time.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of saliva flow rate detection, and discloses a saliva flow rate detection device which comprises a main body part, a filter element, a sampling head and a sensor, the main body part is provided with a first end and a first channel, the first channel penetrates through the first end to form a first opening, the filter element is arranged in the first channel, and the sampling head is provided with a second channel; the second channel penetrates through the sampling head, the sampling head is arranged at the first end, the second channel is communicated with the first channel, and the sensor is arranged on the main body part and is suitable for detecting whether saliva infiltrates the to-be-detected area or not. The saliva flow rate measuring device has the beneficial effect that the saliva flow rate measuring precision and efficiency are improved.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of saliva flow rate detection, and in particular to a saliva flow rate detection device. Background Art

[0002] In some clinical examinations and studies, it is necessary to measure a person's salivary flow rate to determine whether their salivary gland function is normal. Common causes of salivary gland dysfunction (one of the manifestations is reduced salivary flow rate) include taking certain medications, radiotherapy for head and neck cancer, and systemic diseases (such as Sjögren's syndrome, diabetes, AIDS, etc.). However, in the related art, the method for measuring the rate of salivary gland flow has low measurement accuracy and a long time. Summary of the invention

[0003] The present application provides a saliva flow rate detection device, which solves the technical problems of low accuracy and long time in measuring saliva flow rate, and achieves the technical effect of improving the accuracy and efficiency of measuring saliva flow rate.

[0004] In order to achieve the above objectives, the main technical solutions adopted in this application include:

[0005] An embodiment of the present application provides a saliva flow rate detection device, including a main body, a filter element, a sampling head and a sensor, the main body having a first end and a first channel, the first channel penetrating the first end to form a first opening, the filter element being arranged in the first channel, the sampling head having a second channel, the second channel penetrating the sampling head, the sampling head being arranged at the first end and the second channel being connected to the first channel, the sensor being arranged in the main body, and the sensor being suitable for detecting whether saliva has infiltrated the area to be tested.

[0006] The saliva flow rate detection device proposed in the embodiment of the present application has a sensor arranged in the main body. The sensor is suitable for detecting whether saliva has infiltrated the area to be tested. The sensor can accurately sense the humidity change in the area to be tested and convert it into a quantifiable electrical signal, thereby enabling accurate measurement of the infiltration length or infiltration volume of the filter element, thereby greatly improving the accuracy of the saliva flow rate detection device in detecting the saliva secretion rate.

[0007] Optionally, one end of the filter element extends out of the first opening and enters the second channel.

[0008] Extending one end of the filter element out of the first opening and into the second channel can allow the filter element to come into contact with saliva more promptly, and the saliva secreted by the subject can effectively infiltrate the filter element, thereby improving detection accuracy and efficiency.

[0009] Optionally, the sampling head is detachably disposed at the first end.

[0010] The sampling head is detachably arranged at the first end, so that the various components of the device can be easily separated, thereby facilitating thorough cleaning and disinfection of the sampling head, effectively preventing cross infection, ensuring the safety of use by the subjects, and also ensuring the safety of use by the users.

[0011] Optionally, the sampling head comprises a sampling body and a sampling nozzle, the sampling body is detachably arranged at the first end, and the sampling nozzle is connected to the sampling body and bent relative to the sampling body.

[0012] The sampling nozzle is connected to the sampling body and is bent relative to the sampling body. On the one hand, the bent sampling head can reduce the pollution and interference of external factors (such as dust and other particles) on the filter element. On the other hand, the bent design can make the sampling nozzle more accurately placed at the duct opening of the salivary gland, especially for those glands that are more hidden or difficult to directly contact, such as the parotid gland, so as to collect saliva more accurately and improve the detection rate and detection accuracy of the salivary flow rate detection device.

[0013] Optionally, the filter element includes a first section and a second section connected to each other, a portion of the first section extends out of the first opening, and the second section is arranged in the first channel, wherein a portion of the outer surface of the second section is covered with a hydrophobic membrane, and the other portion is constructed as a test area for detection by the sensor.

[0014] A portion of the outer surface of the second section is covered with a hydrophobic film, and the other portion is constructed as a test area for sensor detection. On the one hand, it can reduce the area of ​​the second section exposed in the first channel, reduce the volatilization of saliva absorbed by the filter element, and further improve the detection efficiency and accuracy of the saliva flow rate detection device. On the other hand, the other portion is constructed as the test area for sensor detection, and the test area is not covered with the hydrophobic film, which can enable the sensor to more accurately and effectively detect the length and volume of the saliva infiltrated filter element, greatly improving the detection accuracy and efficiency of the saliva flow rate detection device.

[0015] Optionally, the area to be tested is arranged on the upper surface of the second section.

[0016] Setting the area to be tested on the upper surface of the second section, compared to setting the area to be tested on the lower surface of the second section, the saliva inside the filter element has a relatively greater tendency to flow downward due to the effect of gravity, and covering the lower part of the filter element with a hydrophobic membrane can reduce the volatilization flow of saliva infiltrating the filter element, so that more saliva is retained inside the filter element, thereby improving the detection efficiency and detection accuracy of the saliva flow rate detection device.

[0017] Optionally, the main body further has a second end, and the first channel passes through the second end to form a second opening.

[0018] The first channel passes through the second end to form a second opening, which enables the filter element to be assembled with the main body more efficiently. After the detection is completed, the filter element can be easily taken out through the second opening for replacement, which reduces the time for replacing the filter element and improves the use efficiency of the saliva flow rate detection device.

[0019] Optionally, the saliva flow rate detection device further comprises a first cover, which can be selectively installed on the second end to close or open the second opening.

[0020] The first cover can be selectively installed on the second end to close or open the second opening. When the filter element needs to be replaced, it is only necessary to open or close the sealing cover. The operation is simple and quick, and the detection efficiency of the saliva flow rate detection device is improved.

[0021] Optionally, the sensor is a humidity sensor.

[0022] The sensor is a humidity-sensitive sensor, which can maintain high measurement accuracy during long-term use and is not easily affected by external interference or intrusion, thereby ensuring the stability and reliability of the measured data and improving the detection accuracy of the saliva flow rate detection device.

[0023] Optionally, the saliva flow rate detection device also includes a control unit and a display screen, both of which are arranged in the main body, and the control unit is communicatively connected to the sensor and the display screen respectively to analyze the detection data of the sensor and display the analysis results on the display screen.

[0024] The control unit is communicatively connected with the sensor, and the sensor detects whether the area to be tested is wetted. The sensor transmits the detected data to the control unit, and then the data is processed by the control unit to obtain the saliva flow rate of each segment, the average saliva flow rate and whether the saliva flow rate is within the normal range. The control unit projects the processed data onto a display screen so that the user can easily and quickly obtain the saliva secretion rate of the subject, which greatly improves the efficiency of the user in obtaining data and saves calculation time. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] In order to more clearly illustrate the specific implementation methods of the present application or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings required for use in the specific implementation methods or the description of the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some implementation methods of the present application. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without paying any creative work.

[0026] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of a saliva flow rate detection device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0027] Figure 2A schematic diagram of the structure of the sampling head provided in the embodiment of the present application;

[0028] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the exploded structure of a saliva flow rate detection device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0029] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of an exploded structure of a saliva flow rate detection device provided in an embodiment of the present application from another perspective;

[0030] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of a saliva flow rate detection device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0031] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of a filter element provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0032] [Description of Reference Numerals]

[0033] Saliva flow rate detection device 100; main body 110; first end 111; first channel 112; first opening 113; second end 114; second opening 115; filter element 120; first section 121; second section 122; hydrophobic membrane 123; test area 124; sampling head 130; second channel 131; sampling body 132; sampling nozzle 133; sensor 140; first cover 150; control unit 160; display screen 170; first button 180; second button 181; third button 182; alarm 190; stopper 200; charging terminal 210; battery 220; Bluetooth module 230. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] In order to make the purpose, technical solution and advantages of the embodiments of the present application clearer, the technical solution in the embodiments of the present application will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the drawings in the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the described embodiments are part of the embodiments of the present application, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative work are within the scope of protection of the present application.

[0035] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as those commonly understood by technicians in the technical field of this application; the terms used in the specification of this application are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit this application; the terms "including" and "having" in the specification and claims of this application and the above-mentioned drawings and any variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions. The terms "first", "second", etc. in the specification and claims of this application or the above-mentioned drawings are used to distinguish different objects, rather than to describe a specific order or a primary and secondary relationship.

[0036] Reference to "embodiments" in this application means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in conjunction with the embodiments may be included in at least one embodiment of the present application. The appearance of the phrase in various locations in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it an independent or alternative embodiment that is mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It is explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described in this application may be combined with other embodiments.

[0037] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "installed", "connected", "connected", and "attached" should be understood in a broad sense, for example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a direct connection, or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or it can be the internal communication of two elements. For ordinary technicians in this field, the specific meanings of the above terms in this application can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0038] The term "and / or" in this application is only a description of the association relationship of associated objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can represent: A exists alone, A and B exist at the same time, and B exists alone. In addition, the character " / " in this application generally indicates that the associated objects before and after are in an "or" relationship.

[0039] The term "multiple" as used in this application refers to more than two (including two). Similarly, "multiple groups" refers to more than two groups (including two groups), and "multiple sheets" refers to more than two sheets (including two sheets).

[0040] In some clinical examinations and studies, it is necessary to measure a person's salivary flow rate to determine whether their salivary gland function is normal. Measuring a person's salivary flow rate to determine whether their salivary gland function is normal is a common examination method in stomatology and gastroenterology. The salivary flow rate reflects the secretion capacity of the salivary glands and is of great significance for evaluating the functional status of the salivary glands. Common causes of salivary gland dysfunction (one of the manifestations is a decrease in salivary flow rate) include taking certain medications, radiotherapy for head and neck cancer, and systemic diseases (such as Sjögren's syndrome, diabetes, AIDS, etc.).

[0041] However, in the related art, the commonly used methods for detecting the saliva flow rate of a person include the spitting method, the negative pressure suction method, the cotton pad method, etc. The spitting method requires the subject to accumulate saliva in the mouth for a period of time without swallowing, and then spit the saliva into a container, and repeat this process many times to measure the amount of saliva. This method is not very elegant because the collection process may be affected by the degree of cooperation of the subject, and may make the subject nervous or embarrassed, resulting in a low saliva flow rate; the negative pressure suction method uses a negative pressure suction saliva suction device to suck the saliva from the subject's mouth into a container, and measures the amount of saliva obtained over a period of time; the cotton pad method is used to measure the static saliva flow rate (i.e., the non-stimulated saliva flow rate). Since the cotton pad itself will produce a certain stimulation to the salivary glands, the measured static saliva flow rate may be high. The above methods take a long time to detect (about 5 to 20 minutes) and have low measurement accuracy, and it is difficult to obtain a curve of the change of the saliva secretion rate over a period of time.

[0042] In view of this, in order to improve the accuracy and measurement efficiency of the saliva secretion rate, an embodiment of the present application provides a saliva flow rate detection device, which includes a main body, a filter element, a sampling head and a sensor.

[0043] The main body has a first end and a first channel, the first channel passes through the first end to form a first opening, the filter element is arranged in the first channel, the sampling head has a second channel, the second channel passes through the sampling head, the sampling head is arranged at the first end and the second channel is connected to the first channel, and the sensor is arranged in the main body, and the sensor is suitable for detecting whether saliva infiltrates the area to be tested.

[0044] The saliva flow rate detection device disclosed in the embodiments of the present application includes but is not limited to a device for measuring the flow rate of saliva secretion. The flow rate of any secreted liquid can be measured using the saliva flow rate detection device disclosed in the embodiments of the present application.

[0045] For the convenience of description, the following embodiments are described by taking a saliva flow rate detection device disclosed in one embodiment of the present application as an example.

[0046] Please refer to Figures 1 to 6 , Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of a saliva flow rate detection device 100 provided in an embodiment of the present application; Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of the sampling head 130 provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0047] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the saliva flow rate detection device 100 provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0048] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of an exploded structure of a saliva flow rate detection device 100 provided in an embodiment of the present application from another perspective; Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of a saliva flow rate detection device 100 provided in an embodiment of the present application; Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of the filter element 120 provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0049] In this embodiment, the saliva flow rate detection device 100 includes a main body 110, a filter element 120, a sampling head 130 and a sensor 140. The main body 110 has a first end 111 and a first channel 112. The first channel 112 passes through the first end 111 to form a first opening 113. The filter element 120 is disposed in the first channel 112. The sampling head 130 has a second channel 131. The second channel 131 passes through the sampling head 130. The sampling head 130 is disposed at the first end 111 and the second channel 131 is connected to the first channel 112. The sensor 140 is disposed in the main body 110. The sensor 140 is suitable for detecting whether saliva infiltrates the area to be tested 124.

[0050] The main body 110 has a first end 111 and a first channel 112. The first channel 112 is connected to the first end 111 to form a first opening 113, that is, saliva can enter the first channel 112 from the first opening 113. The filter element 120 is arranged in the first channel 112. The saliva enters the first channel 112 from the first opening 113 and then enters the filter element 120. The filter element 120 has a liquid absorption function. After the saliva enters the first channel 112, due to the fluidity of the liquid in the capillary, when the saliva production rate is lower than the maximum saliva infiltration rate of the filter element 120, the movement rate of the saliva along the filter element 120 is roughly proportional to the saliva production rate. The saliva production rate can be measured by measuring the infiltration rate of the saliva in the filter element 120.

[0051] The sampling head 130 has a second channel 131, which is connected to the sampling head 130. The sampling head 130 is arranged at the first end 111 and the second channel 131 is connected to the first channel 112. When the saliva flow rate detection device 100 is used, the saliva can first enter the first opening 113 through the second channel 131 of the sampling head 130, and then flow through the first opening 113 into the filter element 120 arranged in the first channel 112. The sensor 140 is arranged in the main body 110, and the exemplary sensor 140 can be arranged in the first channel 112. When the saliva infiltrates the filter element 120, at least part of the filter element 120 will be infiltrated by the saliva. The sensor 140 is suitable for detecting whether the saliva infiltrates the test area 124, that is, the sensor 140 can detect the volume or length of the saliva infiltrating the filter element 120, and obtain the volume or length of the saliva infiltrating the filter element 120, thereby obtaining the secretion rate of the saliva.

[0052] Exemplarily, the filter element 120 may be a soft towel, absorbent paper, or geotextile filter paper. The following are the data measured for the filter elements 120 of different materials:

[0053]

[0054] According to public information, the dynamic and static salivary flow rates of different salivary glands are available (dynamic salivary flow rate is the stimulated salivary flow rate, and static salivary flow rate is the unstimulated salivary flow rate).

[0055]

[0056] It should be noted that the mass of saliva 1g is approximately equal to the volume of 1ml. From the above data, it can be seen that the maximum saliva absorption rate of a certain cotton paper is greater than the saliva flow rate under some conditions, which is close to meeting the needs of the filter element 120. After several pieces of cotton paper are stacked and processed, it can meet the needs of the filter element 120.

[0057] Furthermore, by disposing the filter element 120 inside the first channel 112, the volume of the main body 110 can be fully and effectively utilized, thereby improving the space utilization rate inside the saliva flow rate detection device 100, thereby making the saliva flow rate detection device 100 more compact and improving the user's comfort.

[0058] Specifically, the sensor 140 is arranged on the main body 110. The sensor 140 is suitable for detecting whether saliva has infiltrated the area to be tested 124. The sensor 140 can accurately sense the humidity change in the area to be tested 124 and convert it into a quantifiable electrical signal, thereby enabling accurate measurement of the infiltration length or infiltration volume of the filter element 120, thereby greatly improving the accuracy of the saliva flow rate detection device 100 in detecting the saliva secretion rate.

[0059] In some embodiments, the sensor 140 can be set as a photosensitive sensor, and a coating or pigment with a relatively strong fluidity is set on the filter element 120. When saliva infiltrates the filter element 120, the pigment or coating set on the filter element 120 can be driven by the saliva, and the photosensitive sensor detects the change in the pigment position of the filter element 120, and then can detect the infiltration volume or infiltration length of the saliva on the filter element 120, thereby obtaining the secretion rate of the subject's saliva. The sensor 140 is set as a photosensitive sensor. The photosensitive sensor detects the target object through the change of the light signal, so its response speed is very fast, and it can respond to the environmental changes of the test area 124 in real time, which is very important for improving the detection efficiency of the saliva flow rate detection device 100. Moreover, the photosensitive sensor only consumes very little energy when working, and can have a longer endurance under the condition of the same capacity of the battery 220. Moreover, since the manufacturing cost of the photosensitive sensor is low, setting the sensor 140 as a photosensitive sensor can greatly reduce the manufacturing cost of the saliva flow rate detection device 100.

[0060] Please refer to Figures 1 to 6 In this embodiment, one end of the filter element 120 extends out of the first opening 113 and enters the second channel 131 .

[0061] When using the saliva flow rate detection device 100, the saliva secreted by the subject enters the saliva flow rate detection device 100 through the second channel 131 of the sampling head 130. Extending one end of the filter element 120 out of the first opening 113 and entering the second channel 131 can make the filter element 120 contact with the saliva more timely, and the saliva secreted by the subject can effectively infiltrate the filter element 120, thereby improving the detection accuracy and detection efficiency.

[0062] Please refer to Figures 1 to 6 In this embodiment, the sampling head 130 is detachably disposed at the first end 111 .

[0063] When using the saliva flow rate detection device 100, the saliva secreted by the subject enters the saliva flow rate detection device 100 through the second channel 131 of the sampling head 130. The sampling head 130 will be in direct contact with the subject. During the use of the saliva flow rate detection device 100, the sampling head 130 will contact the saliva, which may contain microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses. The sampling head 130 is detachably arranged at the first end 111, so that the various components of the device can be easily separated, so as to facilitate the thorough cleaning and disinfection of the sampling head 130, effectively prevent cross infection, ensure the safety of the subject, and also ensure the safety of the user.

[0064] Moreover, the sampling head 130 is detachably disposed at the first end 111, and different sampling heads 130 can be designed according to the age and mouth shape of the subject, so that the sampling head 130 is more adapted to the subject, thereby improving the comfort of use of the subject. Moreover, when the sampling head 130 of the saliva flow rate detection device 100 is partially upgraded and reconstructed in the future, since the sampling head 130 is detachably disposed at the first end 111, when only the sampling head 130 is partially upgraded, the main body 110 does not need to be replaced, so that the main body 110 of the saliva flow rate detection device 100 that has been produced can continue to be reused, reducing the inventory pressure of the manufacturer.

[0065] Please refer to Figures 1 to 6 In this embodiment, the sampling head 130 includes a sampling body 132 and a sampling nozzle 133 . The sampling body 132 is detachably disposed at the first end 111 . The sampling nozzle 133 is connected to the sampling body 132 and is bent relative to the sampling body 132 .

[0066] The sampling head 130 includes a sampling body 132 and a sampling nozzle 133. Saliva enters the sampling body 132 from the sampling nozzle 133 of the sampling head 130. The sampling body 132 is detachably arranged at the first end 111, that is, the sampling head 130 is connected to the first end 111 through the sampling body 132, and the sampling body 132 is connected to the sampling nozzle 133. The sampling nozzle 133 is bent relative to the sampling body 132. On the one hand, the bent sampling head 130 can reduce the pollution and interference of external factors (such as dust and other particles) on the filter element 120. On the other hand, the bending design can make the sampling nozzle 133 more accurately placed at the duct opening of the salivary gland, especially for those glands that are relatively hidden or difficult to directly contact, such as the parotid gland, so that saliva can be collected more accurately, thereby improving the detection rate and detection accuracy of the saliva flow rate detection device 100.

[0067] Moreover, the sampling nozzle 133 is connected to the sampling body 132 and is bent relative to the sampling body 132, which can also reduce direct stimulation to the internal tissues of the oral cavity and reduce the discomfort of the subject. This design is particularly important when sampling for a long time or multiple times. The oral structure of each person is different, and the bending design can better adapt to the oral morphology of different subjects and improve the comfort of sampling. Furthermore, the sampling nozzle 133 is connected to the sampling body 132 and is bent relative to the sampling body 132.

[0068] Please refer to Figures 1 to 6 In this embodiment, the filter element 120 includes a first section 121 and a second section 122 connected to each other, a portion of the first section 121 extends out of the first opening 113, and the second section 122 is arranged in the first channel 112, wherein a portion of the outer surface of the second section 122 is covered with a hydrophobic film 123, and the other portion is constructed as a test area 124 for detection by the sensor 140.

[0069] The filter element 120 includes a first section 121 and a second section 122 connected to each other, a portion of the first section 121 extends out of the first opening 113 and enters the second channel 131, and the second section 122 is arranged in the first channel 112, that is, when the sampling head 130 is disassembled and separated from the main body 110, the filter element 120 can extend out of the first opening 113 to contact the air, and the length of the filter element 120 can be longer than the length of the first channel 112. During the use of the saliva flow rate detection device 100, saliva first contacts the first section 121, and then enters the second section 122 from the first section 121. The outer surface of the second section 122 is coated with a hydrophobic film 123, and the outer surface of the first section 121 is not provided with a hydrophobic film 123. Since the filter element 120 needs to be fully infiltrated with saliva, the outer surface of the first section 121 is exposed in the sampling head 130, which can make the filter element 120 and the saliva contact and absorb more fully, so that the saliva can be absorbed and infiltrated by the filter element 120 to the maximum extent, thereby improving the detection efficiency and accuracy of the saliva flow rate detection device 100.

[0070] Since the second section 122 is arranged in the first channel 112, a part of the outer surface of the second section 122 is coated with a hydrophobic film 123, which can reduce the area of ​​the second section 122 exposed in the first channel 112, reduce the volatilization of the saliva absorbed by the filter element 120, and further improve the detection efficiency and accuracy of the saliva flow rate detection device 100. The other part is constructed as a test area 124 for the sensor 140 to detect, that is, the test area 124 is not coated with the hydrophobic film 123, which can enable the sensor 140 to more accurately and effectively detect the length and volume of the saliva infiltrating the filter element 120, greatly improving the detection accuracy and detection efficiency of the saliva flow rate detection device 100. A part of the outer surface of the second section 122 is coated with a hydrophobic film 123, which can also prevent saliva from flowing to other parts of the first channel 112, reduce the probability of damage to other components inside the saliva flow rate detection device 100, and improve the stability and reliability of the use of the saliva flow rate detection device 100.

[0071] Please refer to Figures 1 to 6 In this embodiment, the test area 124 is disposed on the upper surface of the second section 122 .

[0072] Compared with setting the test area 124 on the lower surface of the second section 122, the saliva inside the filter element 120 has a relatively greater tendency to flow downward due to gravity when the test area 124 is set on the upper surface of the second section 122. Covering the lower part of the filter element 120 with a hydrophobic membrane 123 can reduce the volatilization flow of saliva infiltrating the filter element 120, so that more saliva is retained inside the filter element 120, thereby improving the detection efficiency and detection accuracy of the saliva flow rate detection device 100.

[0073] Please refer to Figures 1 to 6 In this embodiment, the main body 110 further has a second end 114 , and the first channel 112 passes through the second end 114 to form a second opening 115 .

[0074] Along the length direction of the main body 110, corresponding to the first end 111, the main body 110 also has a second end 114, and the first channel 112 penetrates the second end 114 to form a second opening 115. When the filter element 120 is installed into the saliva flow rate detection device 100, the filter element 120 enters the first channel 112 through the second opening 115, which enables the filter element 120 and the main body 110 to be assembled more efficiently. After the detection is completed, the filter element 120 can be easily taken out through the second opening 115 for replacement, which reduces the time for replacing the filter element 120 and improves the use efficiency of the saliva flow rate detection device 100.

[0075] Please refer to Figures 1 to 6In this embodiment, the saliva flow rate detection device 100 further includes a first cover 150 , which can be selectively installed on the second end 114 to close or open the second opening 115 .

[0076] The first cover 150 is provided on the saliva flow rate detection device 100, which can effectively prevent dust, bacteria and other pollutants in the external environment from entering the saliva flow rate detection device 100, keep the interior of the saliva flow rate detection device 100 clean, and reduce the probability of infection of the subject. The first cover 150 can be selectively installed on the second end 114 to close or open the second opening 115. When the filter element 120 needs to be replaced, it is only necessary to open or close the sealing cover. The operation is simple and quick, and the detection efficiency of the saliva flow rate detection device 100 is improved.

[0077] Please refer to Figures 1 to 6 In this embodiment, the sensor 140 is a humidity sensor.

[0078] Specifically, the moisture sensor can be disposed above the test area 124, and the moisture sensor can be in direct contact with the test area 124 to detect the infiltration volume or infiltration length of the saliva in the filter element 120, and then obtain the saliva secretion rate of the subject.

[0079] Since the humidity sensor is highly sensitive to humidity changes, it can quickly capture small changes in the humidity of the filter element 120. Moreover, the humidity sensor can maintain high measurement accuracy during long-term use and is not easily disturbed or disturbed by the outside world, thereby ensuring the stability and reliability of the measured data and further improving the detection accuracy of the saliva flow rate detection device 100. Moreover, the structure of the humidity sensor is relatively simple and easy to install. The humidity sensor can be easily integrated on the saliva flow rate detection device 100 to realize humidity monitoring and control, which greatly reduces the production cost of the saliva flow rate detection device 100.

[0080] In some embodiments, a plurality of humidity sensors may be provided, each humidity sensor corresponding to the test area 124, so that a plurality of nodes of the filter element 120 may be tested by a plurality of humidity sensors, which can improve the detection accuracy of the saliva flow rate detection device 100 and reduce the probability of error of the saliva flow rate detection device 100. After the saliva flow rate detection device 100 is inserted into the oral cavity of the subject, it will produce a certain stimulation to the salivary glands. At this time, the measured saliva flow rate may be too high. If the static saliva flow rate standard is used to determine whether the measured saliva flow rate is normal, the saliva flow rate of the subject obtained by the test may be higher than the saliva flow rate of the subject when not stimulated. In the present embodiment, a plurality of humidity sensors are used to detect a plurality of detection points corresponding to the test area 124, so as to obtain the flow rate of saliva secretion in different time periods.

[0081] Furthermore, the saliva flow rate of the subject can be tested for a long time, and the data can be processed to obtain a nearly static saliva flow rate. The saliva flow rates obtained by different humidity sensors at different detection points in the test area 124 can be fitted to obtain a dynamic curve of the saliva flow rate changing with time, and then the dynamic curve can be analyzed to obtain the actual saliva flow rate of the subject.

[0082] Please refer to Figures 1 to 6 In this embodiment, the saliva flow rate detection device 100 also includes a control unit 160 and a display screen 170. The control unit 160 and the display screen 170 are both arranged in the main body 110. The control unit 160 is respectively communicated with the sensor 140 and the display screen 170 to analyze the detection data of the sensor 140 and display the analysis results on the display screen 170.

[0083] The control unit 160 and the display screen 170 are both arranged on the main body 110, and the display screen 170 can be arranged on the outer surface of the main body 110, so that the user can directly observe the content of the display screen 170. The control unit 160 is connected to the sensor 140 for communication, and the sensor 140 detects whether the area to be tested 124 is wetted. The sensor 140 transmits the detected data to the control unit 160, and then the data is processed by the control unit 160 to obtain the saliva flow rate of each segment, the average saliva flow rate, and whether the saliva flow rate is within the normal range. The control unit 160 projects the processed data on the display screen 170, so that the user can easily and quickly obtain the saliva secretion rate of the subject, which greatly improves the efficiency of the user in obtaining data and saves calculation time.

[0084] In some embodiments, a battery 220 is further disposed inside the salivary flow rate detection device 100 to supply power to the components inside the salivary flow rate detection device 100 . Exemplarily, the battery 220 may be a lithium battery 220 .

[0085] In some embodiments, a charging terminal 210 may be provided on the outer surface of the main body 110, and an external power source supplies power to the saliva flow rate detection device 100 through the charging terminal 210. Exemplarily, the charging terminal 210 may be provided as a Type-C charging interface.

[0086] In some embodiments, the main body 110 is further provided with an alarm 190, the alarm 190 is electrically connected to the control unit 160, and the control unit 160 can selectively control the alarm 190 to sound. For example, the alarm 190 can be configured as a buzzer.

[0087] In some embodiments, the saliva flow rate detection device 100 includes a first button 180, a second button 181, and a third button 182. The first button 180 has a switch function. Long pressing the first button 180 can turn on or off the saliva flow rate detection device 100. The display screen 170 can display a function menu of the saliva flow rate detection device 100. Short pressing the first button 180 can cause the display screen 170 to display a main menu. Short pressing the second button 181 or the third button 182 can select and call the function displayed in the menu.

[0088] In some embodiments, the main body 110 is further provided with a stopper 200, which is provided inside the first channel 112. When the filter element 120 enters the first channel 112 through the second opening 115, the lower part of the filter element 120 directly contacts the stopper 200. The stopper 200 can make the filter element 120 fit with the sensor 140, so that the sensor 140 can more accurately detect the humidity of the area to be tested 124, thereby improving the detection accuracy of the saliva flow rate detection device 100. Exemplarily, the stopper 200 can be set as a spring sheet. When the filter element 120 enters the first channel 112, the lower part of the filter element 120 directly contacts the spring sheet. The spring sheet has a certain elasticity. Under the elastic force of the spring sheet, the area to be tested 124 on the filter element 120 contacts the sensor 140.

[0089] In some embodiments, the control unit 160 can be set as a single chip microcomputer, which is used for the first button 180, the second button 181 and the third button 182 and the sensor 140 signal, and the control unit 160 also includes a timing module. When the received sensor 140 signal exceeds a certain threshold, the volume or length of the filter element 120 infiltrated with saliva is judged, and the time point at this time is recorded. Finally, the average infiltration speed of saliva and the infiltration speed of each section in the whole process are calculated, and then the saliva secretion rate is judged whether it is normal. The control unit 160 can store a certain amount of detection data, adjust the display screen 170 display content, and output a signal to the Bluetooth module 230 set in the main body 110. In addition, after receiving the data transmitted by the sensor 140, the control unit 160 can process the data of the sensor 140, analyze and obtain the saliva flow rate curve of the subject, and then display the saliva flow rate curve of the subject on the display screen 170 or store it in the saliva flow rate detection device 100.

[0090] When using the saliva flow rate detection device 100, you can first set the normal range of the saliva flow rate value, then open the first cover 150, check whether the first channel 112 is clean and dry, if not, use a cleaning brush to absorb and clean the moisture inside the first channel 112, and then install the filter element 120 and the sampling head 130. After long pressing the first button 180 to turn on the device, select "Reset" in the main menu, then short press the first button 180, set the humidity currently detected by the sensor 140 as the reference, let the subject open his mouth, extend the sampling head 130 into the subject's mouth, and place it at the opening of the salivary gland duct (such as testing the salivary flow rate of the submandibular gland and sublingual gland, place it under the tongue), let the subject lower his head slightly, and stop swallowing during the test. In the reset state, short press the power key to start the test. Keep the sampling position of the salivary flow rate detection device 100 unchanged (the subject can hold the salivary flow rate detection device 100 by himself, which can save the doctor's physical strength and improve the doctor's work efficiency). When the salivary flow rate detection device 100 beeps, it means that saliva infiltration is detected through a sensor 140. At least two beeps need to be heard (indicating that two sensors 140 have passed) before the salivary flow rate detection device 100 can be taken out. If more data of sensor 140 nodes are needed, keep the sampling head 130 in the mouth for a longer time as needed until a longer beep is heard, indicating that the last sensor 140 has detected salivary infiltration. Taking the submandibular gland and sublingual gland as an example, if the data of all sensor 140 nodes need to be obtained, it is necessary to keep it in the mouth for about 6 to 10 minutes. The data of the first two sensor 140 nodes can be obtained in about 2 to 5 minutes. After meeting the requirements, take the salivary flow rate detection device 100 out of the mouth, short press the first button 180, and end the test. The main menu includes "Reset", "History", "Bluetooth Export" and "Settings". Short press the second button 181 or the third button 182 to change the selected option. After selecting an option, press the first button 180 to enter. In "History", you can view the historical saliva flow rate detection records. In "Bluetooth Export", you can change the Bluetooth pairing, and export the saliva flow rate records stored in the device to the corresponding paired device (such as a mobile phone or computer with Bluetooth function). In "Settings", you can view and change the preset reference value range, and you can also set the default number of sensors 140 (the specified number of sensors 140 will automatically stop detecting and emit a long beep after obtaining the data of saliva passing through).

[0091] It should also be noted that the terms "include", "comprises" or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, so that a process, method, commodity or device including a series of elements includes not only those elements, but also other elements not explicitly listed, or also includes elements inherent to such process, method, commodity or device. In the absence of more restrictions, the elements defined by the sentence "comprises a ..." do not exclude the existence of other identical elements in the process, method, commodity or device including the elements.

[0092] Each embodiment in this specification is described in a progressive manner, and the same or similar parts between the embodiments can be referred to each other, and each embodiment focuses on the differences from other embodiments. In particular, for the system embodiment, since it is basically similar to the method embodiment, the description is relatively simple, and the relevant parts can be referred to the partial description of the method embodiment.

[0093] The above is only an embodiment of the present application and is not intended to limit the present application. For those skilled in the art, the present application may have various changes and variations. Any modification, equivalent replacement, improvement, etc. made within the spirit and principle of the present application should be included in the scope of the claims of the present application.

[0094] Although the embodiments of the present application have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art may make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of the present application, and such modifications and variations are all within the scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A saliva flow rate detection device, characterized in that: include: A main body having a first end and a first passage, wherein the first passage passes through the first end to form a first opening; A filter element is disposed in the first channel; A sampling head having a second channel, wherein the second channel runs through the sampling head, the sampling head is disposed at the first end and the second channel is connected to the first channel; The sensor is arranged on the main body, and the sensor is suitable for detecting whether saliva infiltrates the area to be tested.

2. The saliva flow rate detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: One end of the filter element extends out of the first opening and enters the second channel.

3. The saliva flow rate detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sampling head is detachably arranged at the first end.

4. The saliva flow rate detection device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The sampling head comprises a sampling body and a sampling nozzle. The sampling body is detachably arranged at the first end. The sampling nozzle is connected to the sampling body and is bent relative to the sampling body.

5. The saliva flow rate detection device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The filter element comprises a first section and a second section connected to each other, a portion of the first section extends out of the first opening, and the second section is arranged in the first channel; Part of the outer surface of the second section is coated with a hydrophobic film, and the other part is configured as the area to be detected by the sensor.

6. The saliva flow rate detection device according to claim 5, characterized in that: The area to be tested is arranged on the upper surface of the second section.

7. The saliva flow rate detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The main body also has a second end, and the first channel passes through the second end to form the second opening.

8. The saliva flow rate detection device according to claim 5, characterized in that: The saliva flow rate detection device further includes a first cover, which can be selectively installed on the second end to close or open the second opening.

9. The saliva flow rate detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sensor is a humidity sensor.

10. The saliva flow rate detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The saliva flow rate detection device also includes a control unit and a display screen, both of which are arranged on the main body. The control unit is respectively connected to the sensor and the display screen for communication, so as to analyze the detection data of the sensor and display the analysis results on the display screen.

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