Support unit for intraoral scanning device

Abstract

A support unit for an intraoral scanning device includes: a rigid portion having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface; and a first flexible portion configured to be removably attached to the rigid portion. The first flexible portion includes at least a friction surface configured for holding an intraoral scanning device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a support unit for an intra-oral scanning device, and more particularly to a support unit that facilitates horizontal positioning of the intra-oral scanning device. Background Art

[0002] Intraoral scanning devices are typically used by dentists to capture direct optical images of a patient's teeth. During scanning or other processes, the dentist may need to use one or more devices. In order to use other devices, the dentist needs to position the intraoral scanning device on a workbench or holding device. Existing holding devices include a vertically extending shell that facilitates the vertical positioning of the intraoral scanning device. However, during the scanning process, it is difficult for the dentist to position the intraoral scanning device and remove it from the holding device, and in some cases, the intraoral scanning device may fall, which is undesirable. Therefore, assistant services are usually required, which increases the overall cost. In addition, since the intraoral scanning device is inserted into the patient's mouth for tooth scanning, the holding device needs to be properly cleaned after each scan. However, it is difficult to clean and disinfect existing holding devices. Summary of the invention

[0003] One aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a support unit for positioning and holding an intraoral scanning device.

[0004] One aspect of the present disclosure is a support unit that may be configured to support an intra-oral scanning device in a horizontal position, thereby reducing the risk of the intra-oral scanning device falling off the support unit.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a support unit for supporting an intra-oral scanning device, which may be configured to facilitate medical practitioners to position and remove the intra-oral scanning device during a medical procedure without any assistance from a second person.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a support unit for an intra-oral scanning device, which can be configured to grip an external surface where the support unit is positioned.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a support unit configured to be easily cleaned and disinfected.

[0008] These aspects are provided by a support unit, which may include: a rigid portion having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface; and a first flexible portion, which may be configured to be removably attached to the rigid portion. The first flexible portion may include at least a friction surface, which may be configured to hold an intraoral scanning device.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first surface of the first flexible portion may be a friction surface for holding the intraoral scanning device.

[0010] In some embodiments, in order to provide a friction surface for the first flexible portion, the first flexible portion can be made of a flexible material, such as a polymer, such as but not limited to plastic, rubber, silicone, soft plastic, such as TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) or TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane), or any other similar material known in the art.

[0011] In some embodiments, the rigid portion may be made of a relatively hard material, such as wood, metal, alloy, composite material, or any other similar material known in the art. This feature may increase the scratch and damage resistance of the surface, thereby reducing the risk of bacteria hiding in the grooves of the support unit.

[0012] In some embodiments, the rigid portion may be made of aluminum to keep the support unit lightweight.

[0013] In some embodiments, the rigid portion and the first and second flexible portions may be made of a material having a relatively high surface resistance to scratching or damage.

[0014] In some embodiments, the rigid portion and the first and second flexible portions may be treated, such as coated, to improve the scratch resistance or damage resistance of the surface. This can reduce the risk of contaminants such as bacteria hiding in parts or surfaces of the support unit, making them difficult to clean.

[0015] In some embodiments, the support unit may include a second flexible portion configured to be removably attached to the second surface of the rigid portion, and the first flexible portion may be configured to be removably attached to the first surface.

[0016] In some embodiments, the second flexible portion can be made of a flexible material, such as a polymer, such as but not limited to plastic, rubber, silicone, soft plastic, such as TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) or TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane), or any other similar material known in the art. The second flexible portion can be made of a flexible material to increase the friction between the second flexible portion and the outer surface where the support unit can be positioned. The increased friction can cause the support unit to grip the outer surface.

[0017] In some embodiments, the support unit may be suitable for reprocessing.

[0018] In some embodiments, reprocessing may include detaching at least the first flexible portion from the rigid portion, and cleaning the first flexible portion and the rigid portion. This feature may improve cleaning of the support unit.

[0019] In some embodiments, reprocessing may include cleaning and disinfecting the support unit.

[0020] In some embodiments, reprocessing may include cleaning and disinfecting the rigid portion, the first flexible portion, and the second flexible portion.

[0021] In some embodiments, the first and second flexible portions may be separated from the rigid portion for reprocessing of the support unit. Separating the support unit into the rigid portion and the first and second flexible portions may improve cleaning of these portions and thereby improve cleaning of the support unit.

[0022] Cleaning and disinfecting the separated sections ensures proper cleaning and removal of bacteria and other microscopic debris from the support unit.

[0023] In some embodiments, the second flexible portion of the support unit may include an inwardly extending depression that may be configured to mate to an outwardly extending protuberance on the rigid portion. This feature may improve retention of the second flexible portion on the rigid portion.

[0024] In some embodiments, the second flexible portion of the support unit may include an outwardly extending protrusion that may be configured to mate with an inwardly extending depression on the rigid portion.

[0025] In some embodiments, the rigid portion may include a recess extending between the first and second surfaces of the rigid portion. When a force is applied, the recess may cause the central portion of the first flexible portion to bend inwardly to enable removal / detachment of the first flexible portion from the rigid portion.

[0026] In some embodiments, the rigid portion may include a recess extending along an axis orthogonal to the first surface or the second surface of the rigid portion.

[0027] In some embodiments, the recess may be omitted.

[0028] In some embodiments, the rigid portion may include a groove extending between the first surface and the second surface of the rigid portion. This feature can improve the support of the intra-oral scanning device placed on the support unit and can reduce the risk of the intra-oral scanning device rolling to one side and falling off the support unit.

[0029] In some embodiments, the rigid portion may include two grooves extending between the first surface and the second surface. This feature makes it easier to place the intraoral scanning device on the support unit, thereby allowing the user to choose to place the intraoral scanning device in two different orientations.

[0030] In some embodiments, the two grooves may be arranged substantially perpendicular to each other and may intersect each other at a central portion of the first surface of the rigid portion.

[0031] In some embodiments, the first flexible portion may have a first surface and a second surface. The first surface may be a concave surface and may define at least one path that corresponds to the shape of the recess of the rigid portion. The second surface of the first flexible portion may be a flat surface and may cover the recess. This feature allows the first flexible portion to be pushed downward toward the recess, thereby bending the first flexible portion at its edge, making it easier to remove the first flexible portion from the rigid portion.

[0032] In some embodiments, the first surface may define two paths that extend substantially perpendicular to each other and intersect at a central portion of the first flexible portion. The two paths of the first flexible portion may correspond to the shape of the two grooves of the rigid portion and may be aligned with the two grooves when the first flexible portion is assembled with the rigid portion.

[0033] In some embodiments, the groove may be between 0.5 cm and 10 cm deep and between 0.5 cm and 10 cm wide.

[0034] In some embodiments, the rigid portion may include an opening in the second surface of the rigid portion. This feature may make it easier to remove the second flexible portion when a user passes a finger through the opening and pushes on the surface of the second flexible portion, thereby removing the second flexible portion from the rigid portion.

[0035] In some embodiments, the rigid portion may include an opening arranged in a recess or groove.

[0036] The opening facilitates removal or detachment of the second flexible portion from the rigid portion.

[0037] In some embodiments, the rigid portion may include one or more protrusions configured to fit into one or more cavities in the first flexible portion to enable secure attachment or engagement of the first flexible portion to the second flexible portion. This feature may further enable a tactile and / or audible feedback signal indicating sufficient and proper engagement and retention of the first flexible portion with the rigid portion.

[0038] In some embodiments, the first flexible portion can be configured to connect flush with the rigid portion.

[0039] In some embodiments, the rigid portion may include a bidirectional groove located at a first surface of the rigid portion, and wherein the first flexible portion may include a shape corresponding to the shape of the bidirectional groove and may be configured to connect flush with the bidirectional groove. The relative shapes of the bidirectional groove and the first flexible portion may enable positioning of the intraoral scanning device from any orientation.

[0040] The bidirectional groove may include openings at both ends and may enable the intra-oral scanning device to be inserted into the path of the first flexible portion from opposite directions.

[0041] In some embodiments, the rigid portion may include a unidirectional groove or a bidirectional groove in the first surface of the rigid portion.

[0042] The one-way groove may include an opening at one end, thereby enabling the intra-oral scanning device to be positioned from one side.

[0043] In some embodiments, the first flexible portion may include a shape corresponding to the shape of the unidirectional groove or the bidirectional groove of the rigid portion, and the first flexible portion may be configured to be connected flush with the unidirectional groove or the bidirectional groove.

[0044] In some embodiments, the distance between the edge of the rigid portion and the intersection between two grooves may be between 0.1 cm and 10 cm.

[0045] In some embodiments, all parts of the support unit may be adapted to be cleaned in an autoclave. This feature may make cleaning and sterilization of the support unit more complete, simpler, faster, and more thorough.

[0046] In some embodiments, the rigid portion may be made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy, and the first and second flexible portions may be made of a silicone material.

[0047] In some embodiments, the first surface of the rigid portion may include a groove having a geometry corresponding to the geometry of the first flexible portion, and the first flexible portion may be configured to connect flush with the first side of the rigid portion.

[0048] In some embodiments, the number of grooves may depend on the circumferential distance between the distal ends of two adjacent grooves. This feature allows the support unit to include more grooves, thereby allowing the user to place the intraoral scanning device in more different orientations.

[0049] In some embodiments, the support unit can be made of a single part made of a material similar to that of the first flexible portion. In this case, the shape and geometry of the first surface of the support unit can correspond to the shape and geometry of the first surface of the first flexible portion when the first flexible portion is assembled and arranged together with the rigid portion.

[0050] In some embodiments, a portion of the second flexible portion may extend outward and downward from the second flexible portion, and may enable the second flexible portion to contact an external surface where the positioning support unit is located.

[0051] In some embodiments, the supporting unit may include only the first flexible portion and the rigid portion, and the second flexible portion may be omitted.

[0052] In some embodiments, the second flexible portion may be integrally formed with the rigid portion and may be made of the same material as the rigid portion.

[0053] According to some aspects of the present disclosure, a method for disassembling a support unit may include the following steps: bending a region of a first flexible portion toward a recess; and removing the first flexible portion from the support unit.

[0054] In some embodiments, the method may further include the step of applying a force to a portion of the second flexible portion. The direction of the force may pass through the opening. The method may also include the step of removing the second flexible portion from the support unit.

[0055] In some embodiments, the support unit can be configured to be disassembled so that at least a first portion of the first flexible portion can be configured to bend toward the recess, and at least a second portion of the first flexible portion can be configured to separate from the rigid portion due to the bending of at least the first portion of the first flexible portion toward the recess.

[0056] In some embodiments, the second flexible portion can be configured to be able to bend at least partially toward or away from the opening. This feature makes it easier to engage and disengage the second flexible portion from the rigid portion.

[0057] In some embodiments, the second flexible portion can be configured to be at least partially removed from the support unit by applying a force to at least a portion of the second flexible portion, the force being directed through the opening.

[0058] According to another aspect, a method for cleaning a support unit for an intraoral scanning device may include the following steps: separating a rigid portion, a first flexible portion, and a second flexible portion; cleaning the separated portions using water and soap; wiping the separated portions using a cleaning and / or disinfecting wipe; and cleaning the separated portions in an autoclave.

[0059] According to another aspect, a method for cleaning a support unit for an intraoral scanning device may include the following steps: separating a rigid portion, a first flexible portion, and a second flexible portion; wiping the separated portions with a cleaning and / or disinfecting wipe; and cleaning the separated portions in an autoclave.

[0060] The support unit may be further configured to provide wireless charging for a battery of the intra-oral scanning device. This feature may enable more convenient and hygienic charging of a battery of the intra-oral scanning device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0061] Having generally described example embodiments of the present disclosure, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, in which:

[0062] Figure 1 A top perspective view of a support unit for holding an intraoral scanning device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0063] Figure 2 The embodiment according to the present disclosure is shown Figure 1 A bottom perspective view of a support unit;

[0064] Figure 3 shows an exploded view of a support unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, illustrating a top perspective view of components of the support unit;

[0065] Figure 4 An exploded view of a support unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, illustrating a bottom perspective view of components of the support unit; and

[0066] Figure 5 The embodiment according to the present disclosure is shown Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a support unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0067] In the following description, for ease of explanation, many specific details are set forth to provide a comprehensive understanding of the present disclosure. However, it is apparent to those skilled in the art that the present disclosure may be implemented without these specific details. In other cases, devices and methods are shown only in block diagram form to avoid obscuring the present disclosure.

[0068] The "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" mentioned in this specification means that a specific feature, structure or characteristic associated with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The phrase "in one embodiment" appearing in different places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, and separate or alternative embodiments are not mutually exclusive with other embodiments. In addition, the terms "one" and "an" in this document do not indicate a limitation on quantity, but rather indicate the presence of at least one of the referred matters. In addition, various features that may be present in some embodiments but not in other embodiments are described. Similarly, the various requirements described may be requirements for some embodiments but not for other embodiments.

[0069] Some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. In fact, various embodiments of the present disclosure may be embodied in a variety of different forms and should not be considered to be limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like reference numerals refer to like elements.

[0070] The embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes only and may be varied in many ways. In addition, it should be understood that the wording and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes only and should not be considered as limiting. Any headings used in this description are for convenience only and have no legal or limiting effect.

[0071] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 , a perspective view of a support unit (separation capsule) 100 for positioning and holding an intraoral scanning device is shown. The support unit 100 is assembled from a plurality of components and includes a rigid portion 102, a first flexible portion 104, and a second flexible portion 106. Although the support unit 100 shown includes three separate components, it is understood that the support unit 100 may include only two components, such as the rigid portion 102 and the first flexible portion 104.

[0072] like Figures 1 to 5 As shown in FIG. 1 , the rigid portion 102 includes a base 110 having a first surface 112 (i.e., an upper surface 112) and a second surface 114 (i.e., a lower surface 114) arranged opposite to the first surface 112 ( Figure 4). The rigid portion 102 is made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy, however, any other suitable material may be considered, such as steel, copper, or any other metal or metal alloy. The rigid portion and the first and second flexible portions may be made of a material having a relatively high surface scratch resistance or surface damage resistance. The rigid portion and the first and second flexible portions may be further treated, such as coated, to improve the surface scratch resistance or damage resistance.

[0073] As shown, when viewed from the top, the rigid portion 102 comprises a substantially circular shape, and the base 110 comprises a recess 116 extending downwardly within the base 110 from the upper surface 112 toward the second surface 114. Thus, the recess extends along an axis 118 orthogonal to the first surface 112 and / or the second surface 114. The recess 116 may be arranged substantially at the center of the upper surface 112 (i.e., the base 110) and comprises a substantially concave shape. In addition, the base 110 defines an opening 120 coaxially arranged with the recess 116, and the opening extends from the upper surface 112 to the lower surface 114. The recess 116 facilitates the detachment of the first flexible portion 104 from the rigid portion 102, while the opening 120 enables the detachment of the second flexible portion 106 from the rigid portion 102. The process / method of disassembling the support unit 100 will be described later.

[0074] In addition, the base 110 also includes a plurality of side walls extending upward from the upper surface 112, arranged annularly around the central axis 122 of the base 110, and arranged spaced apart from each other. In the illustrated embodiment, four side walls 124a, 124b, 124c, 124d are shown, wherein the first side wall 124a is arranged diametrically opposite to the third side wall 124c, and the second side wall 124b is arranged diametrically opposite to the fourth side wall 124d. In addition, each side wall 124a, 124b, 124c, 124d extends from the outer edge 132 of the rigid portion 102 in a radial direction toward the recess 116. Therefore, the four side walls 124a, 124b, 124c, 124d define two diametrically extending channels 140, 142 (i.e., grooves 140, 142) between them, wherein the first groove 140 crosses / intersects the second groove 142 at 90 degrees. Although two grooves 140, 142 are shown and considered, it is understood that the rigid portion 102 may include a single groove or more than two grooves. In addition, the number of grooves depends on the distance between the distal ends of two consecutive grooves 140, 142 (i.e., the ends of the grooves along the outer edge 132 of the rigid portion 102). In one embodiment, the width and / or length of each groove 140, 142 is between 0.5 centimeters (cm) and 10 cm. In addition, the depth of each groove 140, 142 is between 0.5 cm and 10 cm.

[0075] In addition, each side wall 124a, 124b, 124c, 124d includes a spherical sector shape, wherein the corresponding outer surface 146a, 146b, 146c, 146d has a substantially curved shape. Along the corresponding curved outer surface 146a, 146b, 146c, 146d, the vertex of each side wall 124a, 124b, 124c, 124d is between 0.7 cm and 11 cm from the outer edge 132. In addition, as Figure 3 As shown, two diametrically opposed side walls (e.g., second side wall 124b and third side wall 124d) include first and second protrusions 156, 158, respectively, extending from respective inner surfaces 160, 162 in a radial direction toward recess 116. Although only two protrusions 156, 158 are shown and considered, it is understood that rigid portion 102 may include only one, three, or four protrusions, with one protrusion on each side wall 124a, 124b, 124c, 124d.

[0076] In addition, the rigid portion 102 may further include a raised portion arranged along the outer edge 132 between two adjacent side walls, for example, a first raised portion 164a arranged between the first side wall 124a and the second side wall 124b, a second raised portion 164b arranged between the second side wall 124b and the third side wall 124c, a third raised portion 164c arranged between the third side wall 124c and the fourth side wall 124d, and a fourth raised portion 164d arranged between the fourth side wall 124d and the first side wall 124a. The raised portion facilitates retaining the first flexible portion 104 in the grooves 140, 142 and preventing the first flexible portion 104 from lateral movement relative to the rigid portion 102. However, in an embodiment, the raised portions 164a, 164b, 164c, 164d may also be omitted. In addition, it can be understood that the height of the raised portions 164a, 164b, 164, c, 164d is less than the height of the side walls 124a, 124b, 124c, 124d. As shown in the figure, the side walls 124a, 124b, 124c, 124d are connected to the raised portions 164a, 164b, 164c, 164d in one embodiment, respectively, thereby forming a continuous raised edge extending along the circumference of the rigid portion 102 and along the outer edge 132 and extending above the first surface 112.

[0077] In addition, if Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the rigid portion 102 includes a circular wall 170 disposed about the central axis 122 and extending outwardly and downwardly from the second surface 114, thereby defining a recess 172 (eg, Figure 4As shown). The recess 172 and the wall 170 are coaxial with the opening 120. In addition, as shown Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the rigid portion 102 includes an engagement structure 174, such as a ridge 176, extending radially inwardly from the inner surface of the wall 170 toward the central axis to enable the second flexible portion 106 to engage with the rigid portion 102 and be retained within the recess 172. The engagement structure 174 can extend annularly around the central axis 122 of the rigid portion 102 and along the circumference of the wall 170.

[0078] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The second flexible portion 106 is a disc-shaped structure having: a first surface 180 having a circular shape; a second surface 182 having a circular shape and arranged opposite to the first surface 180; and a vertical side surface 184 extending from the first surface 180 to the second surface 182. Figure 5 As shown, when the second flexible portion 106 is assembled with the rigid portion 102, the first surface 180 is arranged facing the opening 120, while the second surface 182 is suitable for being placed on an external surface, such as the surface of a workbench. The second flexible portion 106 is made of a flexible material to provide enhanced friction between the second surface 182 and the external surface where the support unit is positioned, and the second flexible portion 106 provides a better grip with the external surface. The height of the second flexible portion 106 is selected so that its lower portion extends to the outside of the circular wall 170 of the rigid portion 102, so that when the support unit 100 is positioned on an external surface (such as a workbench), the second surface 182 of the second flexible portion 106 can contact the external surface.

[0079] In addition, if Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, the side surface 184 defines a retaining structure 186, such as a depression 188, which extends radially inward from the side surface 184. The depression 188 extends annularly about the central axis 190 of the second flexible portion 106 and is adapted to facilitate securely retaining the second flexible portion 106 within the recess 172 by receiving the protrusion 176. Although the engagement structure 174 is shown as a protrusion 176 and the retaining structure 186 is shown and considered to be a depression 188, it is understood that the engagement structure 174 can be a depression and the retaining structure 186 can be a protrusion that is adapted to be inserted into a groove when the second flexible portion 106 is arranged in the recess 172 of the rigid portion 102. The second flexible portion 106 is disengaged from the rigid portion 102 by disengaging the first flexible portion 104 from the rigid portion 102 and then pushing the second flexible portion 106 out of the recess 172 by applying a force to the first surface 180 through the opening 120 of the rigid portion 102.

[0080] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the first flexible portion 104 includes Figure 1 and Figure 3 The first surface 200 (i.e., the upper surface 200) and Figure 4 The second surface 202 (i.e., the lower surface 202) is shown in the figure as being arranged opposite to the first surface 200. The first flexible part 104 is made of a flexible material that provides a friction surface for holding an intraoral scanning device. The first surface 200 includes a shape and a geometric structure corresponding to the grooves 140, 142 of the rigid part 102, while the second surface 202 is a flat surface that is suitable for abutting the first surface 112 of the rigid part 102. The first surface 200 defines at least one path, such as a first path 210 and a second path 212, for receiving and holding an intraoral scanning device. As shown in the figure, each of the first path 210 and the second path 212 includes a concave shape and is aligned with one of the grooves 140, 142 when the first flexible part 104 is assembled with the rigid part 102. When the first flexible part 104 is assembled with the rigid part 102, the second surface of the first flexible part 104 abuts the first surface 112 of the rigid part 102. As shown Figure 4 As shown, the second surface 212 of the first flexible portion 104 is a substantially flat surface.

[0081] In addition, if Figure 1 and Figure 3As shown, the first path 210 includes a first radial opening 220 and a second radial opening 222, which are arranged at the outer edge 224 of the first flexible portion 104. The first opening 220 and the second opening 222 are arranged diametrically opposite to each other. Therefore, the intra-oral scanning device can be arranged in the concave first path 210 through the first opening 220 or the second opening 222. Similarly, the second path 212 includes a third radial opening 230 and a fourth radial opening 232, which are arranged at the outer edge 224 of the first flexible portion 104. The third opening 230 and the fourth opening 232 are arranged diametrically opposite to each other. Therefore, the intra-oral scanning device can be arranged in the concave second path 212 through the third opening 230 or the fourth opening 232. Therefore, the shape of the first flexible portion 104 can correspond to the shape of the first groove 140 and the second groove 142 of the rigid portion, and the first flexible portion 104 is connected and flush with the first groove 140 and / or the second groove 142.

[0082] Due to the concave shape of the first path 210 and the second path 212, four side walls 240a, 240b, 240c, 240d of the first flexible portion 104 are defined, and when the first flexible portion 104 is assembled with the rigid portion 102, these side walls abut against the inner surfaces 166, 160, 168, 162 of the side walls 124a, 124b, 124c, 124d of the rigid portion 102. In addition, the first path 210 and the second path 212 extend perpendicularly to each other and intersect each other at the central portion 250 of the first flexible portion 104. When the first flexible portion 104 is assembled with the rigid portion 102, the central portion 250 is arranged to cover the recess 116. Thus, when a downward force is applied to the center portion 250, the center portion 250 flexes inwardly and downwardly within the recess 116, thereby causing the outer edge 224 of the first flexible portion 104 to flex inwardly and upwardly, thereby causing the side walls 240, 240b, 240c, 240d to move inwardly relative to the side walls 124a, 124b, 124c, 124d of the rigid portion 102. Figure 4 As shown, the outer surface of the first flexible portion 104 defines a plurality of cavities 270 that extend radially inwardly within the body of the first flexible portion 104. The cavities 270 are arranged annularly around a central axis 272 of the first flexible portion 104. In the illustrated embodiment, four cavities 270 are shown as being arranged 90 degrees apart from each other around the central axis. Figure 5 As shown, the protrusions 156 , 158 are disposed within two diametrically opposed cavities 270 to provide a tactile and / or audible feedback signal indicating sufficient and proper engagement and retention of the first flexible portion 104 with the rigid portion 102 .

[0083] A method for reprocessing / cleaning the support unit 100 is now described. To clean the support unit 100, the user separates the first flexible portion 104 and the second flexible portion 106 from the rigid portion 102. The method for disassembling the first flexible portion 104 and the second flexible portion 106 will be explained in the following description. After disassembling the three components from each other, the user cleans the portions 102, 104, 106 using water and soap. Thereafter, the user wipes the rigid portion 102, the first flexible portion 104, and the second flexible portion 106, respectively, using a cleaning and / or disinfecting wipe. In some embodiments, the step of cleaning the portions 102, 104, 106 using water and soap can be omitted. After wiping the portions 102, 104, 106 using a suitable wipe, each of the rigid portion 102, the first flexible portion 104, and the second flexible portion 106 is positioned in an autoclave for cleaning. In the autoclave, the parts 102 , 104 , 106 are heated at an appropriate temperature to sterilize, clean, and dry the surfaces of the parts 102 , 104 , 106 .

[0084] A method for disassembling the support unit 100 is now described. In order to disassemble the support unit 100, the user first detaches the first flexible portion 104 from the rigid portion 102. To do this, the user may apply a force in a downward direction, i.e., push / bend the central portion 250 of the first flexible portion 104 toward the recess 116. In an embodiment, the user may use his or her fingers to push / press / bend the central portion 250 into the recess 116. In response, the outer portion of the first flexible portion 104 (i.e., the side walls 240a, 240b, 240c, 240d) detaches from the rigid portion 102 and moves inwardly in a radial direction, i.e., away from the side walls 124a, 124b, 124c, 124d of the rigid portion 102. Thereafter, the user may pull the first flexible portion 104 by holding and pulling the outer portion of the first flexible portion 104, for example, by pulling one of the side walls 240a, 240b, 240c, 240d of the first flexible portion 104. In this way, the user detaches the first flexible portion 104 from the rigid portion 102 .

[0085] To remove / disengage the second flexible portion 106 from the rigid portion 102, the user applies a pushing force to the first surface 180 through the opening 120 of the rigid portion 102. In response to the force applied to the first surface 180 and due to the flexible nature of the second flexible portion 106, the engagement structure 174 disengages from the retaining structure 186, causing the second flexible portion 106 to move out of the recess 172. In this way, after the first flexible portion 104 is removed from the rigid portion 102, the second flexible portion 106 is disengaged from the rigid portion 102.

[0086] The support unit 100 may further be configured to provide wireless charging for a battery of the intra-oral scanning device. The support unit 100 may be provided with a device configured to enable wireless charging of the intra-oral scanning device.

[0087] Benefiting from the teachings of the foregoing description and the related drawings, those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs will think of many modifications and other embodiments of these disclosures set forth herein. Therefore, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. In addition, although the above description and the related drawings describe example embodiments in the case of example combinations of certain elements and / or functions, it should be understood that different combinations of elements and / or functions can be provided by alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In this regard, for example, combinations different from the combinations of elements and / or functions explicitly described above can also be thought of, such as combinations that can be set forth in some of the appended claims. Although specific terms are used herein, these terms are used only in a general and descriptive sense, and not for the purpose of limitation.

[0088] project

[0089] 1. A support unit for an intraoral scanning device, wherein the support unit comprises:

[0090] a rigid portion having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface; and

[0091] a first flexible portion configured to be removably attached to the rigid portion,

[0092] Wherein, the first flexible portion comprises at least a friction surface configured to hold the intraoral scanning device.

[0093] 2. The support unit according to item 1, comprising a second flexible portion, wherein the second flexible portion is configured to be removably attached to the second surface of the rigid portion, and the first flexible portion is configured to be removably attached to the first surface.

[0094] 3. A support unit according to any preceding claim, wherein the support unit is suitable for reprocessing.

[0095] 4. The support unit according to item 3, wherein the reprocessing includes at least detaching the first flexible portion from the rigid portion and cleaning the first flexible portion and the rigid portion.

[0096] 5. The support unit according to item 3, wherein the reprocessing comprises cleaning and disinfecting the support unit.

[0097] 6. The support unit according to items 2 and 3, wherein the reprocessing includes cleaning and disinfecting the rigid part, the first flexible part and the second flexible part.

[0098] 7. The supporting unit according to item 2 or 6, wherein the rigid portion, the first flexible portion, and the second flexible portion of the supporting unit are separable.

[0099] 8. A support unit according to any preceding claim, wherein the second flexible portion of the support unit comprises an inwardly extending recess configured to mate with an outwardly extending protrusion of the rigid portion.

[0100] 9. The support unit according to any one of items 1 to 7, wherein the second flexible portion of the support unit includes an outwardly extending protrusion that fits into the inwardly extending depression of the rigid portion.

[0101] 10. A support unit according to any preceding claim, wherein the rigid portion comprises a recess extending between the first surface and the second surface of the rigid portion.

[0102] 11. The support unit according to any one of items 1 to 9, wherein the rigid portion includes a recess extending along an axis orthogonal to the first surface or the second surface of the rigid portion.

[0103] 12. The support unit according to any one of items 1 to 9, wherein the rigid portion comprises a groove extending between the first surface and the second surface of the rigid portion.

[0104] 13. The support unit according to item 12, wherein the first flexible portion has a first surface and a second surface, wherein:

[0105] The first surface is a concave surface and defines at least one path that corresponds to the shape of the recess of the rigid portion, and wherein

[0106] The second surface is a flat surface and covers the recess in the rigid portion.

[0107] 14. The support unit according to item 12, wherein the depth of the groove is between 0.5 cm and 10 cm, and the width of the groove is between 0.5 cm and 10 cm.

[0108] 15. A support unit according to any preceding claim, wherein the rigid portion comprises an opening in the second surface of the rigid portion.

[0109] 16. The support unit according to any one of items 10 and 11 or item 12, wherein the rigid portion comprises an opening arranged in the recess or the groove.

[0110] 17. A support unit according to any preceding claim, wherein the rigid portion comprises one or more protrusions configured to fit into one or more cavities in the first flexible portion.

[0111] 18. A support unit according to any preceding claim, wherein the first flexible surface is configured to connect flush with the rigid portion.

[0112] 19. A support unit according to any of the preceding items, wherein the rigid part includes a bidirectional groove located at the first surface of the rigid part, and wherein the first flexible part includes a shape corresponding to the shape of the bidirectional groove, and the first flexible part is configured to be connected flush with the bidirectional groove.

[0113] 20. The support unit according to any one of items 1 to 18, wherein the rigid portion comprises a unidirectional groove or a bidirectional groove in the first surface of the rigid portion.

[0114] 21. The support unit according to item 18 or 19, wherein the first flexible portion includes a shape corresponding to the shape of the unidirectional groove or the bidirectional groove of the rigid portion, and the first flexible portion is configured to be connected flush with the unidirectional groove or the bidirectional groove.

[0115] 22. The support unit according to any one of the preceding items 19 to 21, wherein the distance between the edge of the support unit and the intersection between two grooves is between 0.1 cm and 10 cm.

[0116] 23. A support unit according to any preceding claim, wherein all parts of the support unit are suitable for cleaning in an autoclave.

[0117] 24. The support unit according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the rigid part is made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy, and wherein the first flexible part and the second flexible part are made of silicone material.

[0118] 25. A support unit according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first surface of the rigid portion comprises a groove having a geometry corresponding to a geometry of the first flexible portion, and the first flexible portion is configured to connect flush with a first side of the rigid portion.

[0119] 26. A support unit according to any preceding claim, wherein the number of grooves depends on the circumferential distance between distal ends of two adjacent grooves.

[0120] 27. A method for disassembling the support unit for an intraoral scanning device according to item 10 or 11, the method comprising the following steps:

[0121] - bending a region of the first flexible portion towards the recess; and

[0122] - Removing the first flexible portion from the support unit.

[0123] 28. A method for disassembling the support unit for an intraoral scanning device according to items 15 and 27, the method further comprising the following steps:

[0124] - applying a force to a portion of the second flexible portion, the force being directed through the opening; and

[0125] - Removing said second flexible portion from the supporting unit.

[0126] 29. A support unit for an intraoral scanning device according to items 15 and 27, wherein the support unit is configured to be disassembled, wherein the second flexible portion is configured to at least partially remove the second flexible portion from the support unit by applying a force to at least a portion of the second flexible portion, and the direction of the force passes through the opening.

[0127] 30. A method for cleaning the support unit for an intraoral scanning device according to any one of the preceding claims, the method comprising the following steps:

[0128] - separating the rigid portion, the first flexible portion and the second flexible portion;

[0129] - Clean the separated parts with water and soap;

[0130] - Wipe the separated parts with a cleaning and / or disinfecting wipe; and

[0131] - Clean the separated parts in an autoclave.

[0132] 31. A method for cleaning the support unit for an intraoral scanning device according to any one of the preceding claims, the method comprising the following steps:

[0133] - separating the rigid portion, the first flexible portion and the second flexible portion;

[0134] - Wipe the separated parts with a cleaning and / or disinfecting wipe; and

[0135] - Clean the separated parts in an autoclave.

Claims

1. A support unit for an intraoral scanning device, wherein: The support unit comprises: a rigid portion having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface; a first flexible portion configured to be removably attached to the rigid portion; and Wherein, the first flexible portion comprises at least a friction surface configured to hold the intraoral scanning device.

2. The support unit according to claim 1, comprising a second flexible portion, and the second flexible portion is configured to be removably attached to the second surface of the rigid portion, and the first flexible portion is configured to be removably attached to the first surface of the rigid portion.

3. A support unit according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein: The rigid portion includes one or more protrusions configured to fit into one or more cavities in the first flexible portion.

4. A support unit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The rigid portion, the first flexible portion, and the second flexible portion of the supporting unit are separable.

5. A support unit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The rigid portion includes a recess extending between the first surface and the second surface of the rigid portion.

6. A support unit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The rigid portion comprises a recess extending along an axis orthogonal to the first surface or the second surface of the rigid portion.

7. A support unit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The rigid portion includes a groove extending between the first surface and the second surface of the rigid portion.

8. The support unit according to claim 7, wherein: The first flexible portion has a first surface and a second surface, wherein: The first surface is concave and defines at least one path that corresponds to the shape of the recess of the rigid portion, and wherein The second surface is flat and covers the recess in the rigid portion.

9. A support unit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The rigid portion includes an opening defining a hole between the first surface and the second surface of the rigid portion.

10. A support unit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The first flexible portion is configured to connect flush with the rigid portion.

11. A support unit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The rigid portion includes a unidirectional groove or a bidirectional groove in the first surface of the rigid portion.

12. The support unit according to claim 11, wherein: The first flexible portion includes a shape corresponding to a shape of the one-way groove or the two-way groove of the rigid portion, and is configured to be connected flush with the one-way groove or the two-way groove.

13. A support unit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: All parts of the support unit are suitable for cleaning in an autoclave.

14. A support unit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The first surface of the rigid portion includes a groove having a geometry corresponding to a geometry of the first flexible portion, and the first flexible portion is configured to connect flush with a first side of the rigid portion.

15. The support unit for an intra-oral scanning device according to any one of claims 5, 6 or 8, the support unit being configured to be disassembled, wherein: At least a first portion of the first flexible portion is configured to bend toward the recess, and At least the second portion of the first flexible portion is configured to separate from the rigid portion due to bending of at least the first portion of the first flexible portion toward the recess.

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