Method for establishing connection in wireless digital impression instrument system and wireless digital impression instrument system

Abstract

A method for establishing a connection in a wireless digital impression instrument system comprises the following steps: a data processing device opens a wireless network; detecting an available wireless digital impression instrument; selecting one wireless digital impression instrument from the available wireless digital impression instruments as a target wireless digital impression instrument; and automatically establishing a connection between a data processing device and the target wireless digital impression instrument. By means of the method, automatic connection establishment between the data processing device and the digital impression instrument in the same space can be achieved without manual operation, the connection establishment process is simplified, and the waiting time of a user and a patient is shortened. The invention further provides a wireless digital impression instrument system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of wireless digital impression instruments. Specifically, this invention relates to a method for establishing a connection in a wireless digital impression instrument system having at least one data processing device and at least one wireless digital impression instrument. This invention also proposes a wireless digital impression instrument system. Background Technology

[0002] Existing wireless digital imprinters offer two main methods for establishing a connection with a computer to transmit scan data: manual selection and touch-based connection.

[0003] For manual connection selection, the computer will scan and display nearby available wireless digital impression devices, and the user needs to manually select the wireless digital impression device to connect to from the available wireless digital impression devices to establish a connection.

[0004] For touch-to-establish a connection, if the computer has an external transceiver (e.g., a wireless transceiver), the user needs to touch the wireless digital impression device that wants to establish a connection with the computer to the transceiver before the computer can connect to the wireless digital impression device and establish a connection.

[0005] The following problems have been found with these two existing methods for establishing a connection between a wireless digital impression device and a computer.

[0006] When manually selecting to establish a connection, the user needs to click and select the desired wireless digital impression device on the computer to establish a connection. This connection establishment process involves several steps. If the user forgets to select the desired wireless digital impression device on the computer, a connection cannot be established between the computer and the device. Until the user realizes this and makes the selection, both the user and the patient will have to wait.

[0007] When establishing a connection via touch, the user must also hold the wireless digital impression device towards the computer and touch the transceiver located on the computer's end for the computer to establish a connection with the wireless digital impression device. This connection establishment process also requires the user to hold the wireless digital impression device towards and touch the transceiver on the computer, which increases the number of steps and time required for the user to establish a connection.

[0008] Therefore, it is desirable in the art to propose an improved method for establishing a connection between a wireless digital impression device and a computer in a wireless digital impression device system, especially a method for establishing a connection that is suitable for various application scenarios of wireless digital impression devices. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned technical problems, and its object is to provide a method for establishing a connection more quickly in a wireless digital impression system.

[0010] The method according to the present invention includes the following steps: the data processing device activates the network; detects available wireless digital impression devices; selects one wireless digital impression device from the available wireless digital impression devices as the target wireless digital impression device; and automatically establishes a connection between the data processing device and the target wireless digital impression device.

[0011] The method for establishing a connection between a wireless digital impression device and a data processing device in a wireless digital impression device system according to the present invention can automatically establish a connection between a data processing device and a wireless digital impression device in the same space without manual operation, such as without touching, attaching to a receiving device or placing it on a base on the wireless digital impression device end, and without clicking or other operations on the data processing device end. There is no necessary historical connection between the data processing device and the wireless digital impression device.

[0012] The present invention also proposes a method for establishing a connection in a wireless digital impression system, the wireless digital impression system including at least one wireless digital impression device and at least one data processing device, the method comprising the following steps: the wireless digital impression device activating the network; detecting available data processing devices; selecting one data processing device from the available data processing devices as the target data processing device; and automatically establishing a connection between one wireless digital impression device and the target data processing device.

[0013] The method according to the present invention simplifies the process of establishing a connection between the data processing device and the wireless digital impression device in a wireless digital impression device system. Ideally, it enables the automatic establishment of a connection between the data processing device and the wireless digital impression device after the user has enabled the network in the same space, allowing for immediate scanning operations. This reduces the time required for users and patients to wait to establish a connection between the wireless digital impression device and the data processing device, improves the user's operating experience and the patient's medical experience, and avoids the possibility of prolonged waiting time caused by, for example, the user forgetting to select the wireless digital impression device to connect on the computer, as mentioned at the beginning of this article.

[0014] Here, the wireless digital impression device can be configured to automatically send wireless message broadcasts after power-on, for example, and the program stored in the data processing device can detect "available" wireless digital impression devices within a certain range after startup.

[0015] Here, the wireless digital impression device and the data processing equipment that establish the connection are in the same point-to-point network, or in the same local area network or wide area network.

[0016] In the context of this application, the "usable" wireless digital impression device can be verified and determined by a program stored in the data processing device. This verification requires no manual operation. For example, the wireless message broadcast sent by the wireless digital impression device contains a unique device identifier. The program stored in the data processing device can determine whether the corresponding wireless digital impression device is usable for the data processing device by reading this identifier, or the program stored in the data processing device can consider the wireless digital impression device that sent the wireless message broadcast to be usable for the data processing device as long as it can receive the wireless message broadcast.

[0017] In the context of this application, a data processing device is a device that has at least a signal receiving device and a data storage device, capable of receiving signals from a wireless digital impression instrument and storing data, such as temporary or non-temporary storage, and processing the received or stored data locally or with the aid of a cloud server, thereby storing and / or reflecting the patient's oral condition to the user. Data processing devices include, but are not limited to: computers, tablets, and data processing units with signal receiving devices connected to a cloud server.

[0018] In the context of this application, "the wireless digital impression device and the data processing device are in the same space" means that the wireless digital impression device and the data processing device, especially the means for receiving signals included in the data processing device, are in the same physical space and the distance between them is reasonable to a person skilled in the art when operating the wireless digital impression device.

[0019] In one embodiment of the present invention, when multiple available wireless digital impression devices are detected, one of the wireless digital impression devices is selected as the target wireless digital impression device and establishes a connection with a data processing device based on at least one connection judgment index.

[0020] Here, the method according to the present invention enables a data processing device to select the most suitable wireless digital impression device as the target wireless digital impression device based on connection judgment indicators such as the operating status or physical attributes of the wireless digital impression device when multiple available wireless digital impression devices exist in the same space for a single data processing device. A connection is then established with the target wireless digital impression device, enabling data transmission. The operating status or physical parameters of the wireless digital impression device that can serve as connection judgment indicators include the signal strength received by the specific data processing device from the wireless digital impression device, the connection history between the specific data processing device and the wireless digital impression device, the number of times the wireless digital impression device has been used, the remaining battery power of the wireless digital impression device, and the special type identification of the wireless digital impression device (e.g., specifically suitable for adults or specifically suitable for children).

[0021] Of the aforementioned indicators, at least the signal strength received by the data processing device from the wireless digital impression instrument can be obtained through existing communication protocols before a connection is established between the data processing device and the wireless digital impression instrument.

[0022] In another embodiment of the present invention, when there are multiple available data processing devices, one of the data processing devices is selected as the target data processing device based on at least one connection judgment index, and a connection is established with a wireless digital impression instrument.

[0023] In the context of this application, unless otherwise stated, "usable" data processing equipment means data processing equipment that has been networked and has stored the corresponding wireless digital impression instrument operating program.

[0024] Here, the method according to the invention enables a wireless digital imprinter to select the most suitable target data processing device based on its operating status or physical properties when multiple available data processing devices exist in the same space. A connection is established with this wireless digital imprinter, thereby enabling data transfer between the target data processing device and the wireless digital imprinter. Real-time scanning information can be transmitted, stored, and presented to the user, for example, for subsequent operations. The operating status or physical parameters of the data processing device that can serve as connection criteria include the signal strength received by the wireless digital imprinter from the data processing device, the connection history of the data processing device, and the special type identifier of the data processing device (e.g., a specific identifier of a computer due to a display malfunction).

[0025] Preferably, the connection determination index includes at least one of the following: the connection history between the data processing device and the wireless digital impression device, the strength of the signal received by the data processing device from the wireless digital impression device, and the strength of the signal received by the wireless digital impression device from the data processing device.

[0026] In the context of this application, connection history refers to whether a specific wireless digital imprinter has ever established a connection with a specific data processing device. If a connection has been established, it includes specific information about the past connection. This connection history is stored in the storage unit of the data processing device and in the control unit or storage unit of the wireless digital imprinter, and can be retrieved before a connection is established between the wireless digital imprinter and the data processing device. Signal strength refers to the strength of the wireless signal received by the data processing device from the wireless digital imprinter; conversely, a weak signal indicates a weak signal. Since wireless signal strength is generally related to physical distance, signal strength reflects the distance between a specific wireless digital imprinter and a specific data processing device.

[0027] Preferably, the connection history includes: the time when a wireless digital impression device last established a connection with a specific data processing device, the average duration of the connection establishment, and whether there have been any unexpected connection interruptions.

[0028] In a particularly preferred embodiment, when multiple available wireless digital impression devices exist, the wireless digital impression device whose most recent connection time is closest to the current time is selected as the target wireless digital impression device to establish a connection with a data processing device.

[0029] In a particularly preferred embodiment, when multiple available data processing devices exist, the data processing device whose most recent connection time is closest to the current time is selected as the target data processing device to establish a connection with a wireless digital impression device.

[0030] Additionally, if multiple available wireless digital imprinters are detected, and the signal strength received by the data processing device from the target wireless digital imprinter is less than a pre-defined signal strength threshold, then one wireless digital imprinter will be selected from the multiple available wireless digital imprinters as the target wireless digital imprinter and a connection will be established with it based on the connection judgment index.

[0031] As explained above, signal strength typically reflects the direct physical distance between a data processing device and a specific wireless digital impressionr. In other words, if the signal strength received by a data processing device from a specific wireless digital impressionr does not meet a pre-defined signal strength threshold, it indicates that the distance between the wireless digital impressionr and the data processing device may be too great. Therefore, it is unsuitable for treatment scenarios where the wireless digital impressionr needs to be operated close to the data processing device, which could affect user experience and potentially hinder data transfer between the two. In this case, a new target wireless digital impressionr needs to be selected, for example, one that also meets the connection criteria, but whose value is lower than the previously selected target wireless digital impressionr. For instance, when using connection history as the connection criterion, the following wireless digital impressionr can be selected as the target: the most recent connection time between this wireless digital impressionr and this data processing device is only earlier than the most recent connection time between the previously selected target wireless digital impressionr and this data processing device.

[0032] Specifically, when a data processing device has already established a connection with the target wireless digital imprinter, the handover judgment index is retrieved; when the handover judgment index meets the preset conditions, the established connection is automatically disconnected; another wireless digital imprinter is selected as the target wireless digital imprinter based on the handover judgment index, and a connection is established between the data processing device and the new target wireless digital imprinter.

[0033] Specifically, it is also stipulated that when a wireless digital imprinter has already established a connection with a target data processing device, the switching judgment index is retrieved; when the switching judgment index meets the preset conditions, the established connection is automatically disconnected; another data processing device is selected as the target data processing device according to the switching judgment index, and a connection is established between the wireless digital imprinter and the new target data processing device.

[0034] With the method according to the present invention, when a connection has been established between a data processing device and a wireless digital impression instrument, the established connection can be disconnected from the data processing device side or from the wireless digital impression instrument side based on whether the switching judgment index is met, and a new connection can be established between another data processing device and a specific wireless digital impression instrument or between a specific data processing device and another wireless digital impression instrument.

[0035] Throughout the entire connection switching process—including disconnecting, selecting a new connection target, and establishing a connection with the new target—no manual operation from the user is required. Therefore, the connection between the data processing device and the wireless digital impressionr can automatically switch to the new connection target, further improving the efficiency of using the wireless digital impressionr. This is especially beneficial when a user moves between different treatment locations or rooms with the same wireless digital impressionr to treat different patients, enabling the wireless digital impressionr to switch to the target data processing device as needed.

[0036] Preferably, the handover judgment index includes at least one of the following indices: the difference in signal strength between the wireless digital impression device and the currently connected data processing device; the difference in signal strength between the data processing device and the currently connected wireless digital impression device; the trend of signal strength change between the data processing device and the unconnected wireless digital impression device within a predetermined first time window; the trend of signal strength change between the wireless digital impression device and the unconnected data processing device within a predetermined first time window; and the data activity between the connected data processing device and the wireless digital impression device within a predetermined second time window.

[0037] Here, for the data processing device side, the handover judgment criterion can be the signal strength difference between the signal strength of other wireless digital imprinters within the wireless broadcast reception range of the data processing device and the signal strength of the connected wireless digital imprinter; for the wireless digital imprinter side, the handover judgment criterion can be the signal strength difference between the signal strength of other data processing devices within the wireless broadcast range of the wireless digital imprinter and the signal strength of the connected data processing device. When the aforementioned signal strength difference is non-zero, that is, when there is a wireless digital imprinter or data processing device with a stronger emitted signal, the current connection between the wireless digital imprinter and the data processing device is disconnected.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment, the established connection between the wireless digital imprinter and the data processing device is disconnected only when the signal strength difference is non-zero and exceeds a pre-defined signal strength difference threshold. This requirement that the signal strength difference must exceed the pre-defined threshold before disconnecting further ensures the stability of the established connection between the data processing device and the wireless digital imprinter, preventing overly frequent switching from affecting user experience. Instead, switching occurs only when the signal strength change is sufficiently large.

[0039] Regarding the trend of signal strength changes from the data processing device or the wireless digital impression device within a pre-defined time window, for the wireless digital impression device side, this trend reflects whether the signal emitted by the data processing device relative to that specific wireless digital impression device is becoming stronger or weaker, thus indicating whether the data processing device is moving closer to the wireless digital impression device, and vice versa for the data processing device side. Therefore, the aforementioned trend of signal strength changes reflects the relative movement trend between the wireless digital impression device and the data processing device, i.e., whether they are moving away from or closer to each other. Users can specify that switching should only occur when both the wireless digital impression device and the data processing device move closer to each other, ensuring connection stability.

[0040] This simplifies the process of switching the connection object of the wireless digital impression device between different data processing devices.

[0041] For example, when a user completes an operation near the first data processing device and moves the wireless digital impression device away from the first data processing device and closer to the second data processing device, the wireless digital impression device disconnects from the first data processing device and establishes a new connection with the second data processing device. The disconnected "idle" first data processing device automatically detects available wireless digital impression devices again, selects the target wireless digital impression device, and establishes a connection with it, realizing the "on-the-go switching" of the wireless digital impression device.

[0042] Data activity within a pre-defined time window is characterized, for example, by the amount of data exchanged and transmitted between the established data processing device and the wireless digital impression device within that time window. If data activity is low within the pre-defined time window, meaning the amount of data transmitted based on the connection between the data processing device and the wireless digital impression device is less than a pre-defined data transmission threshold or is zero, it indicates that the wireless digital impression device is, for example, no longer in use or at least not in the vicinity of that particular data processing device, and is in an idle state. In this case, the established "idle" connection can be disconnected from either the data processing device side or the wireless digital impression device side, and available wireless digital impression devices or data processing devices can be re-detected, a new connection target can be selected and a connection established, thereby improving the utilization efficiency of the connection between the wireless digital impression device and the data processing device.

[0043] Specifically, when the switching judgment indicators include multiple indicators, these multiple indicators are configured to be independent of each other, so that when one of the indicators meets the corresponding preset conditions, the established connection between the data processing device and the wireless digital impression instrument will be automatically disconnected.

[0044] The method according to the present invention enables the simultaneous setting of multiple indicators to determine whether to switch the connected target wireless digital impression device or target data processing device. Users can configure the switching judgment indicators as needed, thereby improving the efficiency of establishing and switching connections between the wireless digital impression device and the data processing device, and ultimately enhancing the utilization efficiency of the connection.

[0045] Optionally, users can customize the priority of different switching criteria.

[0046] Alternatively, when the handover judgment criteria include the signal strength difference, the signal strength difference is specified as the primary handover judgment criterion, and the connection between the established data processing equipment and the wireless digital imprinter is automatically disconnected when the primary handover judgment criterion meets the preset conditions.

[0047] This method prioritizes the signal strength difference as the primary handover criterion among multiple handover judgment indicators. This means that when the distance between the wireless digital impression device and the data processing device changes significantly (which will cause a change in the strength of the emitted signal), the method will prioritize switching to the target wireless digital impression device or the target data processing device to ensure connection stability and quality, and also improve the efficiency of users scanning with the wireless digital impression device.

[0048] The present invention also proposes a wireless digital impression system, comprising: at least one wireless digital impression device having a control unit and at least one data processing device having a readable memory, wherein the control unit is configured to perform the method described in any of the above embodiments, and / or wherein the readable memory of the data processing device stores a program that, when executed, performs the method described in any of the above embodiments.

[0049] In the wireless digital impression system according to the present invention, after the wireless digital impression device and the data processing device are connected to the network, the program stored in the data device can automatically connect the data device to the wireless digital impression device. This simplifies the operation required to establish a connection between the two, saves waiting time for users and patients, improves the user's operating experience and the patient's medical experience, and avoids the possibility of prolonged waiting time due to the user, for example, forgetting to select the wireless digital impression device to connect on the data processing device.

[0050] Preferably, the wireless digital impression system includes multiple wireless digital impression devices and multiple data processing devices. Each data processing device has a corresponding readable memory, on which a program is stored. When the program is executed, it performs the method according to any of the above schemes, and / or the control unit of each digital impression device is configured to perform the method according to any of the above schemes.

[0051] Therefore, in the wireless digital imprinting system according to the present invention, it is possible to intelligently establish connections and intelligently switch connections between multiple wireless digital imprinters and multiple data processing devices, thereby enabling the switching of the data processing device connected to a specific wireless digital imprinter and / or the switching of the wireless digital imprinter connected to a specific data processing device as the operating status and / or physical location of the wireless digital imprinter and data processing device change. Attached Figure Description

[0052] With reference to the above objectives, the technical features of the present invention are clearly described in the following claims, and its advantages will be apparent from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate preferred embodiments of the invention by way of example, without limiting the scope of the inventive concept.

[0053] Figure 1 A wireless digital impression system according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0054] Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating the establishment of a connection between a wireless digital impression device and a data processing device according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0055] Figure 3 A wireless digital impression system according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0056] Figure 4A A flowchart illustrating the establishment of a connection between a wireless digital impression device and a data processing device according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0057] Figure 4B A flowchart illustrating an alternative embodiment of the second embodiment of the present invention for establishing a connection between a wireless digital impression device and a data processing device;

[0058] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating the establishment of a connection between a wireless digital impression device and a data processing device according to another alternative embodiment of the second embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0059] Figure 6 A wireless digital impression system according to a third embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0060] Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating the establishment of a connection between a wireless digital impression device and a data processing device according to a third embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0061] Figure 8 A wireless digital impression system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0062] Figure 9A flowchart illustrating the establishment of a connection between a wireless digital impression device and a data processing device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0063] Figure 10 A flowchart illustrating the establishment of a connection between a wireless digital impression device and a data processing device according to an alternative embodiment of the invention is shown;

[0064] Figure 11 A wireless digital impression system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0065] Figure 12 A flowchart illustrating the establishment of a connection between a wireless digital impression device and a data processing device according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention is shown; and

[0066] Figure 13 A flowchart illustrating the establishment of a connection between a wireless digital impression device and a data processing device according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0067] Appendix label category:

[0068] 10, 11, 12 Wireless Digital Imprint Machines

[0069] Data processing equipment 20, 21, and 22 Detailed Implementation

[0070] Reference will now be made in detail to various embodiments of the invention, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings and described below. Although the invention will be described in conjunction with exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that this specification is not intended to limit the invention to those exemplary embodiments. Rather, the invention is intended to cover not only these exemplary embodiments, but also various alternatives, modifications, equivalents, and other embodiments that may be included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0071] A wireless digital impression system includes at least one data processing device (e.g., a desktop computer, laptop, tablet, or other smart terminal) and at least one wireless digital impression device. When using the wireless digital impression device, a connection needs to be established between the device and the data processing device near the patient. This allows the real-time data obtained from scanning the patient's oral cavity to be transmitted to the nearby data processing device via a point-to-point connection. The scanned images are then displayed in real-time for the user to view, and necessary subsequent operations, such as simulating the effects of dental treatment, can be performed.

[0072] A typical wireless digital impression system includes multiple data processing devices and multiple wireless digital impression devices. For example, a single examination room may have multiple treatment locations and therefore multiple computers, and a clinic may include multiple such examination rooms. Similarly, multiple wireless digital impression devices may be provided in the same examination room, and due to their portability, they may move between different treatment locations within the same examination room as the user moves, or even to different examination rooms within the same clinic. For such application scenarios, the goal is to enable rapid connection establishment between the wireless digital impression device and the data processing device at the corresponding treatment location.

[0073] The following text combines Figures 1 to 13 This section further explains the process of establishing a connection between a wireless digital impression device and a computer within a wireless digital impression device system. When using a wireless digital impression device, each device should only be connected to one data processing device at a time; that is, there should be no situation where one wireless digital impression device is connected to multiple data processing devices simultaneously. Conversely, a data processing device should only be connected to one wireless digital impression device, and there should be no situation where multiple wireless digital impression devices are connected to one data processing device simultaneously.

[0074] Example 1

[0075] like Figure 1 As shown, the wireless digital impression system includes a wireless digital impression device 10 and a data processing device 20, such as a desktop computer or tablet computer. This scenario, for example, involves a clinic space with only one data processing device and one wireless digital impression device.

[0076] The method for establishing a connection between the wireless digital impression device 10 and the data processing device 20 is as follows: Figure 2 As shown:

[0077] Step 101: The wireless digital impression device 10 and the data processing device 20 respectively turn on their wireless networks and start the software in the data processing device 20 for running the wireless digital impression device or the software specifically used to select and establish a connection with the wireless digital impression device.

[0078] Step 102: The software used for running or for selecting and establishing connections in the data processing device 20 detects whether there is a usable wireless digital impression device in the space near the data processing device 20.

[0079] Step 103: The software in the data processing device 20 detects that there is only one available wireless digital impression device 10 in the nearby space and selects this wireless digital impression device 10 as the target wireless digital impression device.

[0080] Step 104: Establish a connection between the data processing device 20 and the target wireless digital impression device 10.

[0081] In step 102, if the detection finds that there is no available wireless digital imprinter in the space near the data processing device 20, the process jumps to step 105 and no connection is established.

[0082] For clarity, steps similar to step 105 will not be repeated below.

[0083] Example 2

[0084] In a wireless digital impression system, multiple wireless digital impression devices 10, 11, and 12, as well as a data processing device 20, may be provided. For example, a clinic room might be equipped with only one data processing device but multiple wireless digital impression devices. Figure 3 As shown.

[0085] When the aforementioned multiple wireless digital impression machines 10, 11, and 12 are within a certain spatial range of this data processing device 20, the method for establishing a connection between the wireless digital impression machines 10, 11, and 12 and the data processing device 20 is described below. Figure 4A As shown:

[0086] Step 201: The wireless digital impression devices 10, 11, and 12 and the data processing device 20 respectively turn on the network and start the software in the data processing device 20 for running the wireless digital impression devices or the software specifically used to select and establish connections with the wireless digital impression devices.

[0087] Step 202: The software used for running or for selecting and establishing connections in the data processing device 20 detects whether there is a usable wireless digital impression device in the space near the data processing device 20.

[0088] Step 203: The software in the data processing device 20 detects that there is more than one wireless digital impression device 10, 11, 12 in the space it is in;

[0089] Step 204-1: The software in the data processing device 20 obtains the connection history of more than one wireless digital impression device 10, 11, 12;

[0090] Step 204-2: If the data processing device 20 has a connection history with more than one wireless digital impression device 10, 11, 12, the connection history is compared.

[0091] Step 205: If the connection history of each wireless digital impression device is different, the software in the data processing device 20 selects the wireless digital impression device with the most recent connection time to the data processing device 20 as the target wireless digital impression device.

[0092] Step 206: Establish a connection between the data processing device 20 and the target wireless digital impression device.

[0093] In steps 204-1 and 204-2, the connection history includes the last connection time and duration between the data processing device and the wireless digital impression device. If none of the wireless digital impression devices 10, 11, and 12 have established a connection with the data processing device 20, or if two or more wireless digital impression devices have established a connection with the data processing device 20 at the same time, then proceed to step 204a. Figure 4B As shown.

[0094] Step 204a: The software in the data processing device 20 reads and compares the signal strength currently emitted by the wireless digital impression devices 10, 11, and 12 in the wireless network.

[0095] Step 205a: The data processing device 20 selects the wireless digital imprinter with the strongest signal strength from the plurality of wireless digital imprinters 10, 11, and 12 as the target wireless digital imprinter.

[0096] Step 206: Establish a connection between the data processing device 20 and the aforementioned target wireless digital impression device.

[0097] Here, in step 204, the same connection time between two or more wireless digital impression devices and the data processing device 20 means that, within the judgment metric of the software of the data processing device 20, the connection time between the two or more wireless digital impression devices is the same. For example, if the software judgment metric of the data processing device 20 is in days, and the most recent connection time between the two wireless digital impression devices 10 and 11 and the data processing device 20 is on the same day, then the most recent connection time between the two wireless digital impression devices 10 and 11 and the data processing device 20 is considered to be the same. As another example, if the software judgment metric of the data processing device 20 is in minutes, and the most recent connection time between the two wireless digital impression devices 10 and 11 and the data processing device 20, measured in minutes, is at the same moment, then the most recent connection time between the two wireless digital impression devices 10 and 11 and the data processing device 20 is considered to be the same.

[0098] This method provides a way for data processing device 20 to select a target wireless digital impression device from among multiple available wireless digital impression devices and establish a connection with it. In this process, the primary criterion for establishing a connection is the most recent connection time between each wireless digital impression device and the data processing device, ensuring that the target wireless digital impression device was used by the user during their most recent medical procedure at a nearby location near the data processing device 20. A secondary criterion is the signal strength received by the data processing device 20 from the wireless digital impression device, for example, the wireless digital impression device closest to the data processing device 20.

[0099] Example 3

[0100] Based on the two implementations described above in Example 2, in order to ensure the quality of the connection between the established data processing device 20 and the wireless digital impression instrument, it can be stipulated that the signal strength received by the data processing device 20 from the target wireless digital impression instrument is checked after the target wireless digital impression instrument is selected and before the connection is established. This avoids the signal strength from the target wireless digital impression instrument not meeting the signal strength threshold, which would affect the quality of the connection between the established wireless digital impression instrument and the data processing device 20, and thus affect the signal transmission between the wireless digital impression instrument and the data processing device 20. This would affect the user's operating experience and the efficiency of diagnosis and treatment.

[0101] Specifically, such as Figure 5 As shown, after step 205, which detects the presence of multiple available wireless digital imprinters in the vicinity of the location and selects the wireless digital imprinter that has a historical connection with the data processing device 20 and is the one most recently connected to the data processing device 20, the following steps are also performed:

[0102] Step 205b: The software of the data processing device 20 for running or for selecting and establishing a connection acquires the signal strength from the target wireless digital impression device;

[0103] Step 205c: Compare the signal strength from the target wireless digital imprinter with a pre-defined signal strength threshold. If the signal strength from the target wireless digital imprinter cannot reach the signal strength threshold, proceed to step 205d. If the signal strength from the target wireless digital imprinter is higher than the signal strength threshold, return to step 206 to establish a connection between the data processing device 20 and the target wireless digital imprinter.

[0104] Step 205d: Select the wireless digital imprinter that has a connection history with the data processing device 20 and has the second most recent connection time from the multiple available wireless digital imprinters as the target wireless digital imprinter. Then return to step 205b and obtain the signal strength from the new target wireless digital imprinter again and compare it with the signal strength threshold.

[0105] In step 205d, "nearest connection time" means that when there are multiple available wireless digital imprinters, the most recent connection time of the wireless digital imprinter, such as wireless digital imprinter 11, with the data processing device 20 is only earlier than the most recent connection time of the previous target wireless digital imprinter, such as wireless digital imprinter 10, with the data processing device 20.

[0106] This embodiment provides a method for a data processing device 20 to select one available wireless digital impression device from multiple available wireless digital impression devices to establish a connection and to ensure the reliability of the connection by verifying the signal strength from the wireless digital impression device. The primary indicator for establishing a connection is the most recent connection time between the wireless digital impression device and the data processing device, and the secondary indicator for establishing a connection is the signal strength of the wireless digital impression device.

[0107] In an alternative embodiment not shown, when the signal strength received by the data processing device 20 from each of the plurality of available wireless digital imprinters is lower than a predetermined signal strength threshold, the data processing device 20 selects the wireless digital imprinter with the most recent connection time to the data processing device 20 as the target wireless digital imprinter.

[0108] Example 4

[0109] The wireless digital impression system may also include multiple data processing devices 20, 21, and 22, and one wireless digital impression device 10. For example, a consultation room may have multiple treatment positions, with a data processing device 20, 21, or 22 near each position, but only one wireless digital impression device 10 in the entire room. For instance, a user may move between the treatment positions holding this wireless digital impression device. Figure 6 As shown.

[0110] When the aforementioned multiple data processing devices 20, 21, and 22 are within a certain spatial range of the wireless digital impression device 10, the method for establishing a connection between the multiple data processing devices 20, 21, and 22 and the wireless digital impression device 10 is as described below, and refers to... Figure 7 :

[0111] Step 301: The wireless digital impression device 10 turns on the wireless network, and the data processing devices 20, 21, and 22 turn on the wireless network and start their respective software for running the wireless digital impression device or software specifically for selecting and establishing connections with the wireless digital impression device.

[0112] Step 302: The wireless digital impression device 10 detects whether there are any available data processing devices in the nearby space;

[0113] Step 303: The wireless digital impression device 10 detects whether there are multiple available data processing devices in the nearby space;

[0114] If only one data processing device is available, proceed to step 3:4: Select this data processing device as the target data processing device. If multiple data processing devices are available, proceed to step 304.

[0115] Step 305: When the control unit of the wireless digital imprinter 10 receives a connection request from multiple data processing devices 20, 21, and 22, it selects the data processing device that first sent the request as the target data processing device.

[0116] Step 306: Establish a connection between the target data processing device and the wireless digital impression device 10.

[0117] This method provides a way for a wireless digital impressionr 10 to establish a connection with a target data processing device among multiple data processing devices attempting to establish a connection with it. The connection establishment index of the control unit of the wireless digital impressionr 10 is the order in which the data processing devices initiate connection establishment requests to the wireless digital impressionr 10. If necessary, it can also be specified that the connection establishment index is the order in which the control unit of the wireless digital impressionr 10 receives the connection establishment requests.

[0118] During the operation of the wireless digital impression system, the following situations may occur: If a connection has already been established between the first data processing device 20 and the first wireless digital impression device 10, other data processing devices in the system may attempt to connect to the first wireless digital impression device 10, or the wireless digital impression device 10 may need to switch to establishing a connection with other data processing devices, such as the second data processing device 21. Figure 8 As shown.

[0119] At this point, the first wireless digital impression device 10 can automatically determine whether it is necessary to redefine the target data processing device and switch connections accordingly. This method refers to... Figure 9 And as explained below.

[0120] Example 5

[0121] Step 401: The second data processing device 21 turns on the network and starts the software used for the operation of the wireless digital impression device or the software specifically used for selecting and establishing a connection with the wireless digital impression device. In this step, the second data processing device 21 and the wireless digital impression device 10 with which a connection has been established are within a certain range of space.

[0122] Step 402: The software used for running or for selecting and establishing connections in the data processing device 21 detects whether there is an available wireless digital impression device in the nearby space.

[0123] Step 403: The corresponding software in the data processing device 21 detects the existence of a wireless digital impression device 10 that has already established a connection with other data processing devices but is available;

[0124] Step 404: The software in the data processing device 21 sends a request to the wireless digital impression device 10 to establish a connection.

[0125] Step 405: When the control unit of the wireless digital impression device 10 receives a request to establish a connection from the data processing device 21, it acquires the signal strength from the data processing device 21.

[0126] Step 406: Compare the signal strength from data processing device 21 with the signal strength from the first data processing device 20 with which a connection has been established;

[0127] Step 407a: If the signal strength from the data processing device 21 is greater than the signal strength from the data processing device 20 with which the connection has been established, the data processing device 21 is redefined as the target data processing device, and the connection between the current wireless digital imprinter 10 and the first data processing device 20 is disconnected.

[0128] Step 408: Establish a connection between the target data processing device and the wireless digital impression device 10;

[0129] Step 407b: If the signal strength from data processing device 21 is less than or equal to the signal strength from data processing device 20 with an established connection, then maintain the current connection.

[0130] In step 404' of an alternative embodiment (not shown), the signal strength from data processing device 21 can alternatively be differentially processed with the signal strength from the established data processing device 20, and the actual signal strength difference is compared with a pre-defined signal strength difference threshold. The signal strength difference threshold can be configured when specifically deploying the data processing device and the wireless digital impression device, or based on a typical clinic environment equipped with both. An actual signal strength difference higher than the pre-defined signal strength difference threshold indicates that the signal strength from the second data processing device 21 is sufficiently high. To ensure connection stability and signal quality, and to avoid frequent switching affecting the user experience, it is generally stipulated that the control unit of the wireless digital impression device 10 will only define the second data processing device 21 as the target data processing device when the signal strength from the new data processing device is significantly higher than the signal strength from the established data processing device.

[0131] This method provides a mechanism for determining and switching the connection between a wireless digital impressionr 10 and a data processing device 20 when another data processing device initiates a connection request to the wireless digital impressionr 10, even though the latter has already established a connection with the former. The primary switching criterion in this method is whether, for the same wireless digital impressionr, the signal strength from the newly requesting data processing device is higher than, and particularly significantly higher than, the signal strength from the already established data processing device.

[0132] This method specifically ensures that when scanning with a wireless digital impressionr, the wireless digital impressionr connected to the data processing device is close to the data processing device; otherwise, the user would not be able to scan with the wireless digital impressionr while simultaneously viewing the scanning status on the screen of the data processing device.

[0133] Alternatively or additionally, during the operation of the wireless digital impression system, when a second data processing device 21 initiates a connection request to the wireless digital impression device 10, which has already established a connection with the first data processing device 20, there is also a method that uses the motion trajectory of the data processing device relative to the wireless digital impression device 10 as a judgment indicator. This method is described below in conjunction with... Figure 10 A detailed explanation will be provided.

[0134] Example 6

[0135] Step 501: The second data processing device 21 turns on the network and starts the software for running the wireless digital impression device or the software specifically for selecting and establishing a connection with the wireless digital impression device. In this step, the data processing device 21 and the first wireless digital impression device 10, which has already established a connection, are within a certain range of space.

[0136] Step 502: The software used for running or for selecting and establishing connections in the data processing device 21 detects whether there is an available wireless digital impression device in the nearby space.

[0137] Step 503: The software in the data processing device 21 detects the existence of a wireless digital impression device 10 that has already established a connection with other data processing devices but is available;

[0138] Step 504: The software in the data processing device 21 sends a request to the wireless digital impression device 10 to establish a connection.

[0139] Step 505: When the control unit of the wireless digital impression device 10 receives the request to establish a connection from the data processing device 21, it retrieves the motion trajectory of the data processing device 21 within a predetermined time window.

[0140] Step 506: The control unit of the wireless digital impression device 10 determines whether the data processing device 21 is moving closer to the wireless digital impression device 10;

[0141] Step 507a: If the data processing device 21 moves closer to the wireless digital imprinter 10, then define the data processing device 21 as the target data processing device and disconnect the current connection;

[0142] Step 508: Establish a connection between the target data processing device and the wireless digital impression device 10;

[0143] Step 507b: If the data processing device 21 moves away from or at least does not approach the wireless digital impressionr 10, maintain the current connection.

[0144] In step 505, the length of the predetermined time window can be configured according to the usage environment and user needs, such as within the past 30 seconds, within the past 120 seconds, or within a longer period of time.

[0145] The motion trajectory of the data processing equipment specifically refers to the motion trajectory of the data processing equipment relative to the wireless digital impression instrument, which can be characterized by the changing trend of the signal strength received by the wireless digital impression instrument from a specific data processing equipment.

[0146] If, within a predetermined time window, the signal strength received by the wireless digital impression device from a specific data processing device generally increases, then the data processing device can be considered to be moving closer to the wireless digital impression device. Conversely, if, within the predetermined time window, the signal strength received by the wireless digital impression device from a specific data processing device generally decreases or remains unchanged, then the data processing device can be considered to be moving further away from the wireless digital impression device or at a distance that remains approximately constant. To ensure the connection quality and signal transmission quality between the data processing device and the wireless digital impression device, there is no need to switch the connection between the wireless digital impression device and the data processing device in either of these cases.

[0147] This method also provides a way to determine and switch the connection between a wireless digital impressionr 10 and a data processing device 20 after the wireless digital impressionr 10 has already established a connection with a data processing device 20, when other data processing devices continue to initiate connection requests to the wireless digital impressionr 10.

[0148] The dynamic trend of signal strength change can reflect the movement trend of the data processing device and the wireless digital impression device relative to each other. This method is particularly advantageous, for example, after the user finishes using the wireless digital impression device, as the user moves away from the data processing device 20 at the treatment location where the treatment was performed, the wireless digital impression device 10 and the user gradually move towards another data processing device 21, thereby disconnecting from the data processing device 20 and establishing a connection with the second data processing device 21. The data processing device 20, which has been disconnected from the wireless digital impression device 10, can also establish a connection with another wireless digital impression device, such as the wireless digital impression device 12, through the method described above. This is suitable for situations where the user moves the wireless digital impression device 10 within the examination room or between different examination rooms.

[0149] During the operation of the wireless digital impression system, the following situations may also occur: Even though a connection has been established between the first data processing device 20 and the first wireless digital impression device 10, there may be a second wireless digital impression device 21 or more wireless digital impression devices within the scannable range of the data processing device 20, such as... Figure 11 As shown.

[0150] In one embodiment, the first data processing device 20 can automatically determine among the plurality of wireless digital impression devices 20, 21 or more whether to redefine the target wireless digital impression device, and automatically switch the established wireless digital impression device accordingly. This method is described below in conjunction with... Figure 12 What is being explained.

[0151] Example 7

[0152] Step 601: The second wireless digital impression device 11 turns on the network, and the wireless digital impression device 11 and the first data processing device 20, which has already established a connection, are within a certain range of space.

[0153] Step 602: The software in the data processing device 20 used to run the wireless digital impression device or the software used to select and establish a connection with the wireless digital impression device detects in real time whether the data exchange activity between the device and the first wireless digital impression device 10 is high within a predetermined second time window.

[0154] Step 603a: If the data exchange activity between the data processing device 20 and the wireless digital impression device 10 is high within a predetermined second time window, for example, if the amount of data exchange between the two reaches a predetermined data exchange volume threshold, then maintain the connection between the data processing device 20 and the wireless digital impression device 10.

[0155] Step 603b: If the data exchange activity between the data processing device 20 and the wireless digital imprinter 10 is low during a predetermined second time window, for example, the amount of data exchange between the two does not reach a predetermined data exchange threshold, the software in the data processing device 20 detects whether there are other available wireless digital imprinters in its space.

[0156] Step 604: The software in the data processing device 20 detects that there is still an available wireless digital imprinter 11, then defines the wireless digital imprinter 11 as the target wireless digital imprinter and disconnects the current connection.

[0157] Step 605: Establish a connection between the data processing device 20 and the target wireless digital impression device.

[0158] In step 602, the length of the predetermined second time window can be configured according to the usage environment and user needs, such as the past 5 seconds, the past 10 seconds, or a longer period. This method allows the data processing device 20 to automatically switch to other wireless digital impression devices 11 when there is a lack of active data interaction between the wireless digital impression device 10 and the connected data processing device 20. This improves the efficiency of the data processing device 20 in switching and establishing connections between different wireless digital impression devices and makes it more in line with user habits without requiring manual operation by the user.

[0159] After step 604, steps 205b to 205d as described above may be performed if necessary to ensure that the signal strength from the newly selected target wireless digital imprinter is sufficient relative to the data processing device 20, thereby enabling the establishment of a connection between them that guarantees stable transmission.

[0160] Alternatively, the aforementioned active switching of the connection between the data processing device and the wireless digital impression device can also be initiated from the wireless digital impression device side, as described below. Figure 13 The following is stated:

[0161] Example 8

[0162] Step 701: The data processing device 21 turns on the network and starts the software in the data processing device 21 for running the wireless digital impression instrument or the software specifically for selecting and establishing a connection with the wireless digital impression instrument. In this step, the data processing device 21 and the wireless digital impression instrument 10 with which the connection has been established are within a certain range of space.

[0163] Step 702: The control unit of the wireless digital impression device 10, which has established a connection with the data processing device 20, detects whether the data exchange activity between the two is high within a predetermined second time window;

[0164] Step 703a: If the data exchange activity between the data processing device 20 and the wireless digital impression device 10 is high within a predetermined second time window, then maintain the current connection;

[0165] Step 703b: If the data activity between the data processing device 20 and the wireless digital impression device 10 is low during the predetermined second time window, the target data processing device can be switched, and the wireless digital impression device 10 detects available data processing devices.

[0166] Step 704: The software in the data processing device 21 detects the presence of an available wireless digital impression device 10 in the vicinity;

[0167] Step 705: The wireless digital impression device 10 regards the data processing device 21 as the target data processing device and disconnects the current connection;

[0168] Step 706: Establish a connection between the target wireless digital imprinter and the target.

[0169] After step 705 above, if necessary, similar steps as described above to steps 205b to 205d may be specified to ensure that the signal from the new target data processing device has sufficient signal strength for the wireless digital impressionr 10, so as to establish a stable data transmission connection between them.

[0170] In the above embodiments, "nearby" of the data processing device or wireless digital impression device refers to the range of distance from the data processing device or wireless digital impression device that is within the range of wireless broadcasts or wireless signals emitted by the data processing device or wireless digital impression device.

[0171] In the above embodiments, the lengths of the first predetermined time window and the second predetermined time window have been exemplarily described, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0172] In the above embodiments, the signal strength difference threshold has been exemplarily described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The signal strength difference threshold can be set to be lower than 5dB or higher than 10dB according to the actual application scenario of the wireless digital imprinter and the frequency of connection changes expected by the user.

[0173] In the above embodiments, when it is necessary to determine whether to switch the connection target and establish a new connection when a connection between the wireless digital imprinter and the data processing device has been established, especially when switching to a new target data processing device or target wireless digital imprinter, the steps of verifying the target data processing device and target wireless digital imprinter as described above when describing the initial establishment of the connection between the data processing device and the wireless digital imprinter can be performed, such as verifying whether their signal strength is suitable, to ensure that the target data processing device or target wireless digital imprinter to be switched to is suitable. If, for example, the signal strength is not suitable, the currently established connection can be maintained.

[0174] Within the scope of this invention, various embodiments can be freely combined, or appropriately modified or omitted.

Claims

1. A method for establishing a connection in a wireless digital impression system, the wireless digital impression system comprising at least one wireless digital impression device and at least one data processing device, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: The data processing equipment has the network enabled; Test available wireless digital impression devices; Select one of the available wireless digital impression devices as the target wireless digital impression device; A connection is automatically established between a data processing device and the target wireless digital impression instrument.

2. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, When multiple wireless digital impression devices are detected, one of them is selected as the target wireless digital impression device based on at least one connection judgment indicator, and a connection is established with the data processing device.

3. A method for establishing a connection in a wireless digital impression system, the wireless digital impression system comprising at least one wireless digital impression device and at least one data processing device, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: The wireless digital impression machine is connected to the network. Detect available data processing equipment; Select one of the available data processing devices as the target data processing device; Automatically establish a connection between a wireless digital impression device and the target data processing device.

4. The method as described in claim 3, characterized in that, When multiple data processing devices are available, one of them is selected as the target data processing device based on at least one connection judgment indicator, and a connection is established with the wireless digital impression instrument.

5. The method as described in claim 2 or 4, characterized in that, The connection determination criteria include at least one of the following: the connection history between the data processing device and the wireless digital impression device, the strength of the signal received by the data processing device from the wireless digital impression device, and the strength of the signal received by the wireless digital impression device from the data processing device.

6. The method as described in claim 5, characterized in that, If multiple available wireless digital impression devices are detected, and the signal strength received by the data processing device from the target wireless digital impression device is less than a pre-defined signal strength threshold, then, based on the connection judgment index, one wireless digital impression device is selected again from the multiple available wireless digital impression devices as the target wireless digital impression device, and a connection is established with it.

7. The method as described in claim 2, characterized in that, Once a connection has been established between the data processing device and the target wireless digital imprinter, the switching judgment indicators are retrieved. When the switching judgment index meets the preset conditions, the established connection is automatically disconnected; Based on the switching judgment criteria, another wireless digital impression device is selected as the target wireless digital impression device, and a connection is established between the data processing device and the target wireless digital impression device.

8. The method as described in claim 4, characterized in that, Once a connection has been established between the wireless digital imprinter and the target data processing device, the switching judgment indicators are retrieved. When the switching judgment index meets the preset conditions, the established connection is automatically disconnected; Based on the switching judgment criteria, another data processing device is selected as the target data processing device, and a connection is established between the wireless digital impression instrument and the target data processing device.

9. The method as described in claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, The switching judgment index includes at least one of the following indicators: the difference between the signal strength received by the wireless digital impression instrument from an unconnected data processing device and the signal strength received from a currently connected data processing device; The difference in signal strength between the data processing device and the currently connected wireless digital impression device; the trend of signal strength variation between the data processing device and the unconnected wireless digital impression device within a predetermined first time window; the trend of signal strength variation between the wireless digital impression device and the unconnected data processing device within a predetermined first time window; and the data activity between the connected data processing device and the wireless digital impression device within a predetermined second time window.

10. The method as described in claim 9, characterized in that, When the switching judgment index includes multiple indicators, the multiple indicators are configured to be independent of each other, so that when one of the indicators meets the corresponding preset conditions, the established connection between the data processing device and the wireless digital impression instrument is automatically disconnected.

11. The method as described in claim 9, characterized in that, When the switching judgment index includes the signal strength difference, the signal strength difference is used as the preferred switching judgment index. When the preferred switching judgment index meets the preset conditions, the established connection between the data processing device and the wireless digital imprinter is automatically disconnected.

12. A wireless digital impression device system, comprising: At least one wireless digital impression device, wherein the wireless digital impression device has a control unit; At least one data processing device, said data processing device having a readable storage device, The feature is that the readable storage device stores a program that, when executed, performs the method as described in any one of claims 1, 2, 5, and 6, and / or the control unit is configured to perform the method as described in any one of claims 3, 4, 5, and 6.

13. The wireless digital impression instrument system as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The wireless digital impression system includes multiple wireless digital impression machines and multiple data processing devices. Each of the data processing devices has a corresponding readable storage device, and the program stored on the readable storage device, when executed, can also perform the method as described in any one of claims 7, 9, 10, and 11, and / or Each of the digital impression machines is configured to also perform the method as described in any one of claims 8, 9, 10, and 11.

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