Auxiliary chewing device for temporomandibular joint disorder

The reciprocating movement of the mandible assembly is driven by the eccentric wheel and the spring system, combined with the composite vibration of the vibrating block, the insufficient simulation effect and adaptability of the chewing mandibular joint disorder chewing and mandibular joint disorder chewing is solved in the prior art, and efficient rehabilitation training and muscle function recovery are achieved.

CN120458871APending Publication Date: 2025-08-12FOURTH MILITARY MEDICAL UNIVERSITY
View PDF 1 Cites 0 Cited by

Patent Information

Application Number
CN202510573277.1
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-05-06
Publication Date
2025-08-12

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In the prior art, it is difficult to effectively simulate natural chewing and mandibular joint disorder chewing and mandibular joint disorder chewing, especially for patients with difficulty in mandibular movement, and lack targeted rehabilitation training.

Method used

The rotation of the eccentric wheel generates an inertial force to drive the reciprocating movement of the jaw assembly, combining the composite vibration of the spring system and the vibrating block, simulates the natural chewing process, and adjusts the motor start-stop and vibration modes through the controller to adapt to the rehabilitation needs of different causes.

Benefits of technology

It realizes a highly realistic composite vibration trajectory, stimulates joint lubrication, enhances muscle coordination, provides full-cycle treatment, adapts to the differences in facial contours and mouth opening in different patients, reduces joint wear, and promotes tissue repair and muscle function recovery.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

  • Figure CN120458871A_ABST
    Figure CN120458871A_ABST
Patent Text Reader

Abstract

The invention discloses an auxiliary chewing device for temporomandibular joint disorder in the technical field of medical auxiliary instruments, and the auxiliary chewing device comprises a moving frame, the moving frame is divided into two upper jaw areas and a lower jaw area, a vibrating cavity is formed in the lower jaw area, a plurality of moving rods are symmetrically mounted in the vibrating cavity, a vibrating block is arranged in the vibrating cavity; the top end of the vibration block is fixedly connected with a plurality of first springs annularly sleeving the moving rod, the bottom end of the vibration block is fixedly connected with a plurality of second springs annularly sleeving the moving rod, an inertia cavity is formed in the center of the vibration block, and a double-shaft motor is arranged in the inertia cavity; two output shafts of the double-shaft motor penetrate through the vibration block, extend into the vibration cavity and are fixedly connected with eccentric wheels, and the top end of the vibration block is fixedly connected with a lower jaw assembly used for supporting the lower jaw of the patient and periodically lifting the lower jaw of the patient. According to the invention, the lower jaw assembly reciprocates through inertia force generated during rotation of the eccentric wheel, so that the chewing process of a patient is simulated, and the patient is assisted in chewing.
Need to check novelty before this filing date? Find Prior Art

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of medical auxiliary equipment, and in particular to an auxiliary chewing device for treating temporomandibular joint disorder. Background Art

[0002] Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are a group of conditions involving the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and surrounding muscles, ligaments, and other structures. Symptoms primarily include pain, movement disorders, and joint clicking in the TMJ area. The causes of TMJ disorders are complex and may be related to factors such as abnormal occlusion, excessive joint load, joint structural damage, muscle dysfunction, and other factors.

[0003] In the prior art, publication number CN221866524U discloses a chewing device for assisting temporomandibular joint disorder, comprising a support frame, the bottom of the support frame is provided with a movable groove, the inner tops of the two movable grooves are fixedly connected to a telescopic rod, the output ends of the two telescopic rods are fixedly connected to a movable plate, and the two adjacent movable plates are fixedly connected to a fixed frame, the opposite sides of the fixed frame are fixedly connected to a plurality of limit blocks, the opposite sides of the two movable grooves are provided with a plurality of limit grooves, the opposite sides of the plurality of limit blocks are slidably connected to the inner sides of the limit grooves, the inner bottom of the fixed frame is fixedly connected to a spring, and the tops of the two springs are fixedly connected to a support bracket; in this technology, the fixed frame is fixed by the support frame, the telescopic rod and the movable plate, which can improve the overall fixing force, and the heater, the massager and the pressing block are used to massage the human body, which can improve the comfort of the patient when wearing it and improve the therapeutic effect. For patients with movement disorders in the temporomandibular joint area, the above-mentioned device also has certain limitations. When assisting patients in chewing and eating, the above-mentioned support bracket and spring only provide dynamic support to the patient's lower jaw. For some patients with difficulty in mandibular movement, it is difficult to continuously provide them with external force to assist them in chewing, that is, to provide a mechanical action similar to human chewing for assistance, so its assistance effect is limited.

[0004] Therefore, the present invention proposes an auxiliary chewing device for temporomandibular joint disorder to solve the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To solve the above problems, the present invention provides an auxiliary chewing device for temporomandibular joint disorder. The inertial force generated by the rotation of the eccentric wheel causes the mandibular component to reciprocate, thereby simulating the patient's chewing process and assisting the patient in chewing.

[0006] To achieve the above-mentioned object, the technical solution of the present invention is as follows: an auxiliary chewing device for temporomandibular joint disorder, comprising a support frame and a controller disposed on the surface of the support frame, wherein the bottom of the support frame is symmetrically provided with movable grooves, and the top walls of the movable grooves are each installed with telescopic rods, and further comprising a movable frame, wherein both ends of the movable frame are fixedly connected to the output ends of the two telescopic rods;

[0007] The movable frame is divided into two upper jaw areas and a lower jaw area. A vibration cavity is opened inside the lower jaw area. Several moving rods are symmetrically installed in the vibration cavity. A vibration block is arranged in the vibration cavity. The moving rods all pass through the vibration block and slide with the vibration block. The top of the vibration block is fixedly connected to several first springs respectively sleeved on the moving rods. The tops of the first springs are fixedly connected to the top wall of the vibration cavity. The bottom end of the vibration block is fixedly connected to several second springs respectively sleeved on the moving rods. The bottom ends of the second springs are fixedly connected to the bottom wall of the vibration cavity. An inertia cavity is provided at the center of the vibration block. A dual-axis motor is arranged inside the inertia cavity. Both output shafts of the dual-axis motor extend through the vibration block to the vibration cavity and are fixedly connected to an eccentric wheel. The dual-axis motor is electrically connected to the controller; the top of the vibration block is fixedly connected to a mandibular component for supporting the patient's mandible and periodically lifting the patient's mandible.

[0008] Basic solution principle: The movement of the telescopic rod controls the movement of the mobile frame within the mobile slot, making the device suitable for most people. When assisting patients with chewing, patients may start / stop the dual-axis motor based on their actual cause of illness (abnormal occlusion, excessive joint load, joint structure damage, muscle dysfunction, and other factors); when the dual-axis motor stops, the first spring, the second spring, and the mandibular assembly provide an adaptive support position for the mandible, alleviating the excessive joint load; for some patients who have difficulty completing chewing movements (such as muscle dysfunction), the dual-axis motor is started to drive the eccentric wheel to rotate, so that the inertial force of the eccentric wheel during rotation, limited by the first and second springs, causes the vibration block to reciprocate up and down, so that the mandibular assembly reciprocates up and down, lifting the patient's mandible and helping them chew. At the same time, the movement of the vibration block will also cause the mandibular assembly to move slightly left and right, further simulating the chewing movement and helping the patient's mandibular muscle group to move.

[0009] The adoption of the above scheme has the following beneficial effects: 1. Compared with the existing technology, this scheme, through the synergistic effect of the eccentric wheel-spring system, the device can generate a highly realistic composite vibration trajectory. When the eccentric wheel rotates, its inertial force drives the vibration block to move up and down along the moving rod, and the elastic reset characteristics of the spring not only buffer the mechanical impact, but also generate slight lateral vibrations through the sliding cooperation between the vibration block and the moving rod, forming a composite motion mode of "vertical lifting-horizontal micro-swing". This motion characteristic highly restores the three-dimensional motion characteristics of the mandible during natural chewing of the human body (such as opening and closing the mouth and lateral grinding movements), can effectively stimulate the secretion of synovial fluid in the temporomandibular joint, improve the lubrication status of the joint, and enhance the endurance and coordination of the muscle groups through regular load training. In addition, the elastic support of the spring system can avoid excessive impact of rigid mechanical movement on the joint, which not only protects the damaged joint structure, but also promotes tissue repair through progressive mechanical stimulation, achieving an organic balance between "dynamic load" and "static protection";

[0010] 2. This device can flexibly adjust the support height and horizontal position of the mandibular component through the linkage adjustment structure of the telescopic rod and the mobile frame, effectively adapting to the facial contours and mouth opening differences of different patients. For different causes of temporomandibular joint disorders (such as excessive joint load or muscle dysfunction), targeted intervention can be carried out by controlling the start and stop and vibration mode of the dual-axis motor: when the motor is stopped, the elastic support system composed of the first spring and the second spring can dynamically balance the mandibular pressure, provide adaptive buffering for the joint, and alleviate joint wear caused by abnormal bite or excessive load; after the motor is started, the inertial force generated by the eccentric wheel drives the vibration block to reciprocate up and down. Combined with the flexible guidance of the spring system, it can not only simulate the vertical lifting action of natural chewing, but also introduce horizontal periodic movement through the slight lateral offset of the vibration block on the mobile rod, thereby fully activating the coordination ability of the mandibular muscle group. This multi-mode switching mechanism enables the device to cover the full cycle of treatment needs from static support to dynamic rehabilitation, significantly improving the accuracy and adaptability of treatment;

[0011] Furthermore, the mandibular assembly includes a lifting plate and support rods symmetrically fixedly connected to both sides of the top of the vibration block. The top ends of the support rods extend through the vibration cavity to above the mandibular area and are fixedly connected to the bottom of the lifting plate. The support rods slide in conjunction with the mandibular area.

[0012] Beneficial effects: The mandibular component of this device forms a stable compound motion transmission path driven by the vibration block through the sliding fit structure of the support rod and the mandibular area. The symmetrically distributed support rods efficiently transmit the vertical vibration of the vibration block to the lifting plate in a rigid connection manner, ensuring the synchronization and consistency of the mandibular lifting movement and avoiding the risk of joint overload caused by asymmetric force; at the same time, the design of the sliding fit between the support rod and the mandibular area not only constrains the horizontal freedom of the vibration block to reduce energy loss, but also weakens the vibration noise and wear in the mechanical transmission through the low friction characteristics of the sliding surface, thereby improving the operational stability of the device. In addition, the synergistic effect of the sliding fit and the support rod can effectively absorb the lateral offset component in the movement of the vibration block and convert it into a small horizontal oscillation, simulating the lateral grinding action of natural chewing, thereby simultaneously exercising the coordinated contraction ability of muscle groups such as the temporalis and masseter muscles, and promoting the overall recovery of joint and muscle function.

[0013] Furthermore, the lifting plate is an arc-shaped structure and a buffer layer is provided on the top of the lifting plate.

[0014] Beneficial Effects: The curved structure of the lifting plate further conforms to the curve of the human mandible, evenly distributing occlusal pressure during periodic lifting. It guides the mandible along the physiological opening and closing path through a bionic motion trajectory, avoiding joint dislocation or secondary injury caused by mechanical external forces. The flexible material of the buffer layer not only absorbs the mechanical vibration impact generated by the dual-axis motor drive, reducing high-frequency vibration damage to the teeth and mandibular surface caused by hard contact, but also adapts to the patient's slight mandibular displacement through deformation, maintaining a stable support contact surface during dynamic lifting, significantly improving wearing comfort.

[0015] Furthermore, air bag layers are provided on both sides of the maxillary area, and a plurality of massage bumps are provided on the surfaces of the air bag layers.

[0016] Beneficial Effects: The combined design of the airbag layer and the surface massage bumps drives the deformation of the airbag through the periodic pressure fluctuations generated by the movement of the vibrating blocks, resulting in a dynamic kneading effect of the massage bumps. This combined action of vibration-coupled airbags can simulate the pushing and kneading movements of manual fingertip massage, precisely acting on the attachment points of the temporalis and masseter muscles in the maxillary area, promoting local blood circulation and relieving muscle spasms and fascial adhesions. The flexible inflation and deflation characteristics of the airbags can adapt to the differences in the patient's facial contours, forming a gradient pressure distribution during vibration transmission. This can not only avoid direct compression of hard materials on the temporomandibular joint area, but also enhance proprioceptive input through the directional stimulation of the bumps, helping to rebuild neuromuscular coordination.

[0017] Furthermore, the vibration block is slidably engaged with the inner wall of the vibration cavity on all sides, and the vibration block divides the vibration cavity into a heat dissipation cavity and a massage cavity from top to bottom. The heat dissipation cavity is provided with a first blowing component for dissipating heat for the patient, and the massage cavity is provided with a second blowing component for providing driving gas for the airbag layer.

[0018] Beneficial Effects: The vibration block's partitioned structure achieves dual-chamber functional integration through sliding fit, creating a thermomechanical synergy. The first air blowing component in the heat dissipation chamber utilizes the airflow disturbances generated by the reciprocating motion of the vibration block to continuously provide flowing air to the patient's wearing area to assist in heat dissipation. The second air blowing component in the massage chamber compresses the cavity space through the displacement of the vibration block, delivering periodic airflow pulses to the airbag layer, driving the undulating movement of the massage bumps. This superposition of airflow pressure fluctuations and mechanical vibrations enhances muscle relaxation.

[0019] Furthermore, the first air blowing component includes a heat dissipation channel arranged at the top of the heat dissipation cavity, the heat dissipation channel extends to the support frame, and the heat dissipation channel is connected to a plurality of air holes arranged on the inner surface of the support frame.

[0020] Beneficial effect: The reciprocating motion of the vibrating block forms a piston-like airflow disturbance in the heat dissipation cavity. Through the directional guidance of the heat dissipation channel and the air holes, the gas is guided to the air holes on the inner surface of the support frame, thereby accelerating the evaporation of sweat and heat dissipation in the contact area of the patient's head and improving wearing comfort.

[0021] Furthermore, the second blowing assembly includes a plurality of massage channels arranged at the bottom of the massage cavity, and the massage channels are respectively communicated with the corresponding airbag layers.

[0022] Beneficial effects: The reciprocating motion of the vibrating block within the massage cavity generates periodic air pressure changes by compressing the cavity volume, causing directional airflow pulses to form in the massage channel. This airflow is rapidly transmitted to the airbag layer through the massage channel, driving the massage bumps to produce regular undulating movements with air pressure fluctuations, converting mechanical vibration energy into kneading power for the airbag layer, thereby achieving vibration-air pressure dual-modal stimulation, enhancing the multi-dimensional relaxation effect on the masseter and temporalis muscles. At the same time, through the synchronization of the airflow pulse frequency and the vibration rhythm, the coordination and penetration of the massage movement are improved, promoting the loosening of deep muscle fascia. At the same time, part of the heat generated by the dual-axis motor is transferred to the airbag layer through the massage channel along with the airflow. The residual heat generated by the dual-axis motor is used to controllably heat the surface of the airbag layer, forming a warm massage effect, further enhancing muscle relaxation and pain relief.

[0023] Furthermore, the outer surface of the support frame is provided with a plurality of heat dissipation openings penetrating the support frame.

[0024] Beneficial effect: The heat dissipation openings on the outer surface of the support frame enhance the overall heat dissipation capacity of the device through air convection, forming a collaborative heat dissipation path that runs through the inside and outside with the heat dissipation channel, quickly conducting away the metabolic heat in the head contact area, and avoiding discomfort caused by local temperature rise.

[0025] Furthermore, a sponge layer is provided on the inner surface of the support frame.

[0026] Beneficial Effects: The sponge layer's flexible cushioning properties adapt to the patient's facial contours, evenly distributing localized pressure from the brace, preventing pain or skin abrasion caused by rigid contact. Its porous structure is both moisture-wicking and breathable, absorbing sweat while wearing, keeping the facial contact area dry and comfortable. It also forms a synergistic airflow channel with the heat dissipation vents, further improving heat dissipation efficiency.

[0027] Furthermore, bite force sensors are provided on the surfaces of the massage bumps, and the bite force sensors are connected to the controller signals.

[0028] Beneficial effects: This solution constructs a closed-loop feedback control system through the linkage of the controller and the occlusal pressure sensor. During the dynamic assisted chewing process, the system monitors the patient's bite force and movement status in real time, and dynamically adjusts the dual-axis motor speed, eccentric wheel vibration amplitude, and telescopic rod lifting stroke based on preset thresholds to ensure that the treatment intensity is always within a safe and effective range. For example, when an abnormal increase in bite force is detected, the controller can reduce the motor speed to attenuate the vibration amplitude to prevent joint overload; for patients with muscle weakness, auxiliary driving force can be provided by increasing the vibration frequency and amplitude.

[0029] Additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows and, in part, will be obvious from the description which follows, or may be learned by practice of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Figure 1 It is an overall axonometric view of an embodiment of the auxiliary chewing device for temporomandibular joint disorder of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 2 A front cross-sectional view of a support frame of an embodiment of the auxiliary chewing device for temporomandibular joint disorder according to the present invention;

[0032] Figure 3 This is a front cross-sectional view of the movable frame and the vibration chamber of an embodiment of the auxiliary chewing device for temporomandibular joint disorder of the present invention.

[0033] The figure marks in the drawings of the specification include: 1. support frame; 2. heat dissipation port; 3. controller; 4. movable frame; 5. upper jaw area; 6. lower jaw area; 7. lifting plate; 8. airbag layer; 9. massage bump; 10. movable groove; 11. telescopic rod; 12. vibration chamber; 13. support rod; 14. first spring; 15. second spring; 16. movable rod; 17. massage channel; 18. vibration block; 19. eccentric wheel. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] The technical solution of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the embodiments described are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. All other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field based on the embodiments of the present invention without making any creative efforts shall fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0035] In the description of the present invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicating orientations or positional relationships, are based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and are intended solely to facilitate and simplify the description of the present invention. They are not intended to indicate or imply that the devices or components referred to must have, be constructed, or operate in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as limitations on the present invention. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0036] In the description of the present invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," and "connected" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they may refer to fixed, detachable, or integral connections; mechanical or electrical connections; direct or indirect connections through an intermediate medium; and internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0037] The following is further described in detail through specific implementation methods:

[0038] Example 1:

[0039] As attached Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown: An auxiliary chewing device for temporomandibular joint disorder, comprising a support frame 1 and a controller 3 embedded in the surface of the support frame 1, the bottom of the support frame 1 is symmetrically provided with movable grooves 10, and the top walls of the movable grooves 10 are fixedly connected with telescopic rods 11 by screws;

[0040] The mobile frame 4 is also included, and both ends of the mobile frame 4 are fixedly connected to the output ends of the two telescopic rods 11 respectively. For different users, the extension distance of the telescopic rod 11 can be controlled to adjust the horizontal position of the mobile frame 4, so that the "fixed circle" formed by the support frame 1 and the mobile frame 4 can adapt to the facial contours and mouth opening differences of different patients. In addition, since the patient's head needs to always be in close contact with the inner surface of the support frame 1 when wearing it to prevent loosening during the operation of the device, the air fluidity of the contact surface between the support frame 1 and the head is relatively small, so a number of heat dissipation ports 2 are provided on the outer surface of the support frame 1 that pass through the support frame 1 to improve the gas fluidity on its surface to increase the heat dissipation effect and improve comfort. At the same time, a sponge layer is provided on the inner surface of the support frame 1, which can further adapt to the differences in the patient's facial bone contours and evenly disperse the local pressure of the support frame 1 on the head. At the same time, it can also avoid compressive pain or skin wear caused by rigid contact during subsequent chewing movements. Since the porous structure of the sponge layer has both moisture absorption and breathable functions, it can absorb sweat generated during wearing, maintain the dryness and comfort of the facial contact area, and form a coordinated airflow channel with the heat dissipation port 2 to further improve the heat dissipation efficiency.

[0041] In view of the limitations of existing technologies, such as the difficulty in simulating the chewing action of patients to help them chew and eat, this solution is as follows:

[0042] The movable frame 4 is divided into two upper jaw regions 5 and a lower jaw region 6. The lower jaw region 6 has a vibration chamber 12 formed therein. A plurality of movable rods 16 are symmetrically mounted within the vibration chamber 12. A vibration block 18 is disposed within the vibration chamber 12. The movable rods 16 extend through the vibration block 18 and slide in engagement with the vibration block 18. The top of the vibration block 18 is fixedly connected to a plurality of first springs 14, each of which is respectively encircled by the movable rods 16. The tops of the first springs 14 are bonded to the top wall of the vibration chamber 12. The bottom of the vibration block 18 is bonded to a plurality of second springs 15, each of which is respectively encircled by the movable rods 16. The bottoms of the second springs 15 are bonded to the bottom wall of the vibration chamber 12. An inertia chamber is provided at the center of the vibration block 18. A dual-axis motor is disposed within the inertia chamber. Both output shafts of the dual-axis motor extend through the vibration block 18 into the vibration chamber 12 and are fixedly connected to an eccentric wheel 19. The dual-axis motor is electrically connected to the controller 3. A mandibular assembly for supporting and periodically elevating the patient's mandible is fixedly connected to the top of the vibration block 18.

[0043] Specifically, the mandibular assembly includes a lifting plate 7 and support rods 13 symmetrically fixedly connected to the top of the vibration block 18 on both sides. The top ends of the support rods 13 extend through the vibration cavity 12 to above the mandibular area 6 and are fixedly connected to the bottom of the lifting plate 7. The support rods 13 slide in contact with the mandibular area 6. The lifting plate 7 has an arc-shaped structure and a buffer layer is provided at the top of the lifting plate 7.

[0044] The assisted simulated chewing process is as follows: After the patient wears and fixes the device, the controller 3 can start the dual-axis motor according to the preset mode to drive the eccentric wheel 19 to rotate. When the dual-axis motor rotates, it drives the eccentric wheel 19 to rotate. At this time, the centrifugal force generated by the eccentric wheel 19 forces the vibration block 18 to vibrate up and down along the movable rod 16. The first spring 14 and the second spring 15 alternately compress and stretch to absorb the impact energy and form resonance, causing the vibration block 18 to produce vertical reciprocating motion. Then, the support rod 13 transmits the vibration to the lifting plate 7, driving the mandible to complete the opening and closing movement. At the same time, the phase difference design of the eccentric wheel 19 creates a periodic resultant force offset in the horizontal direction, causing the vibration block 18 to produce a slight lateral swing. The clearance between the support rod 13 and the sliding hole is converted into a lateral grinding motion of the lifting plate 7, reproducing the complex trajectory of natural chewing. In addition, the buffer layer absorbs high-frequency vibrations and disperses the occlusal pressure through deformation, and the spring system adaptively adjusts the support stiffness when the patient actively bites, achieving a dynamic balance between mechanical assistance and physiological movement. This provides safer and more natural rehabilitation training support for patients with temporomandibular joint disorders. That is, through the vibration of the vibration block 18, the lifting plate 7 is lifted / lowered, and through the transmission of vibration energy, the mandibular area 6 and the lifting plate 7 are caused to vibrate laterally. As a result, the lifting plate 7 completes a slight vibration similar to the chewing action of the human body under the synthesis of these movements, so as to further assist the patient in chewing and eating, and at the same time help him exercise the corresponding muscle groups, thereby performing certain rehabilitation treatment for his condition.

[0045] When the dual-axis motors are deactivated, the device enters static support mode, achieving dynamic mandibular balance through the synergistic effect of the elastic restraint system and mechanical structure. When the patient's mandible naturally droops, the gravity applied to the lifting plate 7 is transmitted via the support rod 13 to the vibrating block 18, compressing the second spring 15 at the bottom to generate a reverse support force, stabilizing the mandible in its physiological resting position.

[0046] For patients with temporomandibular joint disorder, they can also relieve their muscle spasms and fascia adhesions by massaging the masseter muscles on both sides of their faces, thereby assisting in rebuilding neuromuscular coordination. Therefore, airbag layers 8 are provided on both sides close to each other in the maxillary area 5, and a number of massage bumps 9 are provided on the surface of the airbag layer 8. The flexible inflation and deflation characteristics of the airbag layer 8 can adapt to the differences in the patient's facial contours. At the same time, when the vibration block 18 vibrates accurately, the vibration energy can be transmitted to the mobile frame 4, causing the mobile frame 4 to generate vibrations of corresponding amplitudes, so that the massage bumps 9 on the airbag layer 8 can also generate corresponding micro-vibrations, which have a massage effect and promote local blood circulation.

[0047] Example 2:

[0048] The difference from the above embodiment is that, as shown in the attached Figure 1 and Figure 3As shown, the vibrating block 18 slides against the inner wall of the vibration chamber 12 on all sides, dividing the vibration chamber 12 from top to bottom into a heat dissipation chamber and a massage chamber. The heat dissipation chamber is equipped with a first air blowing assembly for dissipating heat for the patient, while the massage chamber is equipped with a second air blowing assembly for providing driving air for the airbag layer 8. In other words, the air disturbances generated by the reciprocating motion of the vibrating block 18 are used to dissipate heat from the inner surface of the support frame 1 and to expand / contract the airbag layer 8.

[0049] Specifically, the first air blowing assembly includes a heat dissipation channel located at the top of the heat dissipation cavity. This channel extends to the support frame 1 and is connected to a number of air holes provided on the inner surface of the support frame 1. The reciprocating motion of the vibrating block 18 creates piston-like airflow disturbances within the heat dissipation cavity. The air is directed through the massage channel 17 and the air holes, and then directed to the air holes on the inner surface of the support frame 1, thereby increasing the air flow efficiency in the contact area, further improving the heat dissipation effect, and enhancing wearing comfort.

[0050] Specifically, the second air blowing assembly includes several massage channels 17 disposed at the bottom of the massage cavity. Each massage channel 17 is connected to a corresponding airbag layer 8. The reciprocating motion of the vibrating block 18 within the massage cavity compresses the cavity volume, generating periodic air pressure changes. This causes the massage channels 17 to form directional airflow pulses. This airflow is rapidly transmitted through the massage channels 17 to the airbag layer 8, driving the massage bumps 9 to produce a regular undulating motion in response to air pressure fluctuations, converting mechanical vibration energy into kneading power for the massage bumps 9 on the surface of the airbag layer 8. Furthermore, when the dual-axis motor moves, some of the heat generated is transferred with the airflow to the airbag layer 8, heating the surface of the airbag layer 8. This, combined with the massage of the massage bumps 9, creates a warming massage effect. The heat is then transferred through the massage bumps 9 to the patient's temporomandibular region 6. This heat, in synergy with the vibration-driven mechanical kneading, can dilate local capillaries, accelerate blood circulation, relieve muscle spasms and joint stiffness, and further enhance muscle relaxation and pain relief.

[0051] Example 3:

[0052] The difference from the previous embodiment lies in the addition of bite force sensors on the surfaces of the massage bumps 9, forming a real-time biomechanical feedback system. Each bite force sensor is connected to a controller 3. When the patient wears the device, the bite force sensors continuously detect the local pressure distribution in the contact area of each massage bump 9 and transmit the data to the controller 3 in real time. The controller 3 synchronously collects the pressure signals from the bite force sensors and the speed parameters of the dual-axis motor at a frequency of 50 Hz. Using a filtering algorithm, it eliminates vibration noise interference and extracts characteristic values such as the bite force peak, the area of action, and the duration.

[0053] When the patient unconsciously increases the bite force due to pain or tension, the bite pressure sensor detects that the local pressure exceeds the preset safety threshold (e.g., 150N), and the controller 3 immediately triggers the three-level response:

[0054] Level 1 response: Reduce the speed of the dual-axis motor to the basic gear (500 rpm) within 100 ms, so that the amplitude of the vibration block 18 is attenuated from 3 mm to 1 mm, reducing the impact of the mechanical driving force on the mandibular lifting;

[0055] Secondary response: If the bite force continues to exceed the limit, the controller 3 starts the synchronous slow-down program of the telescopic rod 11, lowering the height of the lifting plate 7 by 1 cm within 2 seconds to expand the mandibular movement space and relieve joint pressure;

[0056] Level 3 response: When the bite force exceeds the limit threshold (200N), the controller 3 cuts off the power supply of the dual-axis motor and forcibly interrupts the assisted chewing process.

[0057] Based on the contents described in Examples 1, 2 and 3, the experimental evaluation of this device was carried out, and the test data are as follows:

[0058] Table 1 - Experimental test results evaluation table

[0059]

[0060]

[0061] According to the data in Table 1, the vibration system can reproduce a natural chewing frequency of 1.5Hz (normal human chewing frequency is 1-2Hz) at a speed of 800rpm, with an amplitude control error of less than 10%. The heat dissipation component reduces the temperature rise of the contact surface by 76%, and the moisture absorption rate of the sponge layer is greater than 0.5g / cm 3 ·h; when the bite force exceeded the limit, the feedback system completed the three-level response chain within 200ms, and the joint pressure decreased by 45%; in the warm massage mode, the surface temperature of the masseter muscle reached 39.2±0.5℃, and the amplitude of the electromyographic signal decreased by 28% (indicating a muscle relaxation effect); thus, the device met the clinical requirements in terms of biomechanical adaptability, thermal management, and intelligent response.

[0062] Obviously, the above embodiments are merely examples for clarity of explanation and are not intended to limit the implementation methods. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that other variations or modifications based on the above descriptions are possible. It is not necessary and impossible to enumerate all implementation methods here. Obvious variations or modifications arising therefrom remain within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. An auxiliary chewing device for temporomandibular joint disorder, comprising a support frame (1) and a controller (3) arranged on the surface of the support frame (1), wherein the bottom of the support frame (1) is symmetrically provided with movable grooves (10), and the inner top walls of the movable grooves (10) are each provided with a telescopic rod (11), characterized in that: It also includes a moving frame (4), both ends of which are fixedly connected to the output ends of the two telescopic rods (11); The movable frame (4) is divided into two upper jaw areas (5) and one lower jaw area (6). A vibration cavity (12) is opened inside the lower jaw area (6). A plurality of movable rods (16) are symmetrically installed in the vibration cavity (12). A vibration block (18) is provided in the vibration cavity (12). The movable rods (16) all pass through the vibration block (18) and slide with the vibration block (18). The top of the vibration block (18) is fixedly connected to a plurality of first springs (14) respectively sleeved on the movable rods (16). The top of the first springs (14) is fixedly connected to the top wall of the vibration cavity (12). The bottom of the vibration block (18) is fixedly connected to the top wall of the vibration cavity (12). The ends of the vibration block (18) are fixedly connected to a plurality of second springs (15) respectively connected to the ring sleeve and the moving rod (16); the bottom ends of the second springs (15) are fixedly connected to the bottom wall of the vibration chamber (12); an inertia chamber is provided at the center of the vibration block (18); a dual-axis motor is provided inside the inertia chamber; both output shafts of the dual-axis motor pass through the vibration block (18) and extend into the vibration chamber (12) and are fixedly connected to an eccentric wheel (19); the dual-axis motor is electrically connected to the controller (3); and a mandibular component for supporting the patient's mandible and periodically lifting the patient's mandible is fixedly connected to the top of the vibration block (18).

2. The masticatory assistive device for temporomandibular joint disorder according to claim 1, characterized in that: The mandibular assembly includes a lifting plate (7) and support rods (13) symmetrically fixedly connected to both sides of the top of the vibration block (18). The top ends of the support rods (13) pass through the vibration cavity (12) and extend to the top of the mandibular area (6) and are fixedly connected to the bottom of the lifting plate (7). The support rods (13) are slidably matched with the mandibular area (6).

3. The masticatory assistive device for temporomandibular joint disorder according to claim 2, characterized in that: The lifting plate (7) is an arc-shaped structure and a buffer layer is provided on the top of the lifting plate (7).

4. The masticatory assistive device for temporomandibular joint disorder according to claim 3, characterized in that: Air bag layers (8) are provided on both sides of the upper jaw area (5) close to each other, and a plurality of massage bumps (9) are provided on the surface of the air bag layer (8).

5. The masticatory assistive device for temporomandibular joint disorder according to claim 4, characterized in that: The vibration block (18) is slidably engaged with the inner wall of the vibration chamber (12) on all sides. The vibration block (18) divides the vibration chamber (12) into a heat dissipation chamber and a massage chamber from top to bottom. The heat dissipation chamber is provided with a first blowing component for dissipating heat for the patient, and the massage chamber is provided with a second blowing component for providing driving gas for the airbag layer (8).

6. The masticatory assistive device for temporomandibular joint disorder according to claim 5, characterized in that: The first air blowing component comprises a heat dissipation channel arranged at the top of the heat dissipation cavity, the heat dissipation channel extends to the support frame (1), and the heat dissipation channel is connected to a plurality of air holes arranged on the inner surface of the support frame (1).

7. The masticatory assistive device for temporomandibular joint disorder according to claim 6, characterized in that: The second blowing assembly comprises a plurality of massage channels (17) arranged at the bottom of the massage cavity, and the massage channels (17) are respectively communicated with the corresponding air bag layers (8).

8. The masticatory assistive device for temporomandibular joint disorder according to claim 7, characterized in that: The outer surface of the support frame (1) is provided with a plurality of heat dissipation openings (2) penetrating the support frame (1).

9. The masticatory assistive device for temporomandibular joint disorder according to claim 8, characterized in that: The inner surface of the support frame (1) is provided with a sponge layer.

10. The masticatory assistive device for temporomandibular joint disorder according to claim 9, characterized in that: The surfaces of the massage convex blocks (9) are all provided with bite force sensors, and the bite force sensors are all connected to the controller (3) for signal transmission.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Chewing device for assisting temporomandibular joint disorder

    CN221866524U