Detector
The detection device addresses the challenge of distinguishing teeth grinding from other mouth movements by synchronizing the outputs of a pressure sensor and a myoelectric sensor, enhancing the accuracy of teeth grinding detection.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2023172697
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2023-10-04
- Publication Date
- 2025-04-16
AI Technical Summary
Existing methods for detecting teeth grinding using pressure sensors or electromyonic sensors struggle to accurately distinguish between data from teeth grinding and data from other mouth movements or muscle activities.
A detection device comprising a pressure sensor in a mouthpiece and a myoelectric sensor on the human cheek, with a control unit synchronizing the outputs from both sensors to enhance differentiation between teeth grinding and other activities.
The device achieves more accurate differentiation between teeth grinding and other mouth or muscle activities by synchronizing the pressure sensor output with the myoelectric sensor output, improving the reliability of teeth grinding detection.
Smart Images

Figure 2025063470000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
[Technical field]
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a detection device. [Background technology]
[0002] Known methods for detecting human teeth grinding include a method that uses a mouthpiece equipped with a pressure sensor (eg, Patent Document 1) and a method that uses an electromyographic sensor (eg, Patent Document 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]
[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6634567 [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 6618482 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]
[0004] Whether using only a pressure sensor or only an electromyographic sensor, there were cases where the data obtained from the sensor could not be distinguished between data caused by teeth grinding and data not caused by teeth grinding. For example, with a pressure sensor, it was difficult to distinguish between pressure caused by teeth grinding and pressure caused by the tongue or lips hitting the pressure sensor. Also, with an electromyographic sensor, closing the eyelids tightly sometimes produced an output similar to that of teeth grinding.
[0005] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a detection device that can output data that can distinguish with higher accuracy between data due to teeth grinding and data that is not due to teeth grinding. [Means for solving the problem]
[0006] A detection device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a pressure sensor disposed in a mouthpiece, an electromyographic sensor attached to a human cheek, and a control unit that outputs an output of the pressure sensor and an output of the electromyographic sensor that are synchronized. [Brief description of the drawings]
[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the main configuration of a detection system having a detection device. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the outer shape of the detection device. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic exploded perspective view showing an example of the configuration of main components of the first portion. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic side view showing a mechanism for bonding the first component and the second component. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic plan view showing an example of the configuration of main components of the first portion. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of how the detection device is attached to a human. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing the placement of the first portion in the mouth shown in FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing the attachment positions of the first electrode, the second electrode, and the third electrode. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a time-series relationship between a human bite force indicated by an output from a pressure sensor and a myoelectric potential indicated by an output from an electromyographic sensor. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a first pattern, a second pattern, and a third pattern as examples of outputs that occur when there is no bruxism. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data structure of the sensing data in the form of a table. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a process flow related to the operation of the detection device. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a process flow related to the operation of the detection device, which is different from the flow shown in FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of a process flow related to the operation of the detection device, which is different from the example of FIG. 12 and FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0008] Hereinafter, each embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the disclosure is merely an example, and those who are skilled in the art can easily come up with appropriate modifications while maintaining the gist of the invention are naturally included in the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, in order to make the explanation clearer, the drawings may be schematic in terms of the width, thickness, shape, etc. of each part compared to the actual embodiment, but they are merely examples and do not limit the interpretation of the present disclosure. In addition, in this specification and each figure, elements similar to those described above with respect to the previous figures may be given the same reference numerals, and detailed explanations may be omitted as appropriate.
[0009] 1 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of a detection system 100 having a detection device 10. The detection system 100 has the detection device 10 and a terminal 60.
[0010] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the outer shape of the detection device 10. As shown in FIG. 2, the detection device 10 has a first portion P1, a second portion P2, and a third portion P3. The first portion P1 includes a mouthpiece 21, a first sensor element 221, a second sensor element 222, a third sensor element 223, an FPC 25, and the like. A more detailed configuration of the first portion P1 will be described later in the description of the pressure sensor 20. The second portion P2 includes an FPC 30. The third portion P3 includes a housing 41, a first electrode 42, a second electrode 43, and a third electrode 44. The first electrode 42, the second electrode 43, and the third electrode 44 are made of, for example, silver-silver chloride (Ag-AgCl), but may also be made of gold, platinum, silver, carbon, or the like.
[0011] 1 includes a sensor unit 11, a control unit 12, and a communication unit 13. The sensor unit 11 includes a pressure sensor 20 and an electromyographic sensor 40. The pressure sensor 20 and the electromyographic sensor 40 will be described below in order. First, the pressure sensor 20 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 7.
[0012] 3 is a schematic exploded perspective view showing an example of the main component configuration of the first portion P1. The mouthpiece 21 is formed by bonding a first component 21a and a second component 21b together. A first sensor element 221, a second sensor element 222, a third sensor element 223, and an FPC 25 are sandwiched between the first component 21a and the second component 21b.
[0013] The first sensor element 221, the second sensor element 222, and the third sensor element 223 are configured to generate an electrical effect in response to pressure. As a specific example, the first sensor element 221, the second sensor element 222, and the third sensor element 223 are piezoelectric sensors. As a more specific example, thin plate-like ceramic elements that generate a piezoelectric effect are arranged as the first sensor element 221, the second sensor element 222, and the third sensor element 223. The first sensor element 221, the second sensor element 222, and the third sensor element 223 individually generate electric charges in response to the pressure applied thereto.
[0014] The FPC 25 is a flexible thin-film substrate on which wiring is formed. As a specific example, the FPC 25 is a flexible printed circuit board (FPC: Flexible Printed Circuits), but may be another structure that functions in a similar manner. The first sensor element 221, the second sensor element 222, and the third sensor element 223 are wirings formed on the FPC 25, and are each connected to individual wirings.
[0015] Fig. 4 is a schematic side view showing a mechanism for bonding the first component 21a and the second component 21b. The sensor element 22 shown in Fig. 4 is any one of the first sensor element 221, the second sensor element 222, and the third sensor element 223. Hereinafter, when the sensor element 22 is described, it is a description that collectively includes the first sensor element 221, the second sensor element 222, and the third sensor element 223.
[0016] 4, one surface of the FPC 25 is bonded to the first component 21a via an adhesive 26, and the other surface of the FPC 25 is bonded to the second component 21b. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the sensor element 22 is provided on the other surface of the FPC 25, but may be provided on one surface of the FPC 25.
[0017] Mouthpiece 21 is a mouthpiece that corresponds to the curved shape of the bifurcated portion of FPC 25 where first sensor element 221, second sensor element 222, and third sensor element 223 are provided. As shown in Fig. 4, FPC 25 is bonded and fixed inside mouthpiece 21 so that a gap is generated between FPC 25 and mouthpiece 21.
[0018] Mouthpiece 21 is formed, for example, using a resin having a certain degree of flexibility (for example, resin or silicone), but is not limited thereto, and the specific composition can be appropriately changed as long as it is configured to transmit pressure to first sensor element 221, second sensor element 222, and third sensor element 223. Mouthpiece 21 is desirably manufactured by obtaining a tooth shape for each wearer and molding it.
[0019] 5 is a schematic plan view showing an example of the main components of the first portion P1. As shown in FIGS. 2, 3, 5, and 7, the FPC 25 has a forked shape at one end where the first sensor element 221 and the second sensor element 222 are provided. The first sensor element 221 and the second sensor element 222 are provided near the tip of the first portion P1. The FPC 25 has a single-strand shape at the end of the first portion P1 that is continuous with the FPC 30 of the second portion P2. The third sensor element 223 is provided near the connection position between the forked portion and the single-strand portion.
[0020] As shown in FIG. 5, for example, most of the adhesive 26 is applied to the area between the first sensor element 221, the second sensor element 222, and the third sensor element 223 that are arranged in the forked portion, but this is not limited to this, and it is sufficient that the adhesive 26 is applied in such a manner that the integrity of the mouthpiece 21 and the FPC 25 is maintained.
[0021] 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of how the detection device 10 is attached to a human. As shown in FIG. 6, when the detection device 10 is attached to a human, the housing 41 of the third part P3 is attached so that the surface on which the first electrode 42, the second electrode 43, and the third electrode 44 are exposed is close to or in contact with the outer side of the cheek of the human HF. Specifically, for example, conductive gels 42a, 43a, and 44a are provided on the first electrode 42, the second electrode 43, and the third electrode 44 of the housing 41, and a double-sided tape 45 for skin is provided on the other parts of the housing 41, making it possible to attach the housing 41 to the human HF. The material of the double-sided tape is preferably silicone.
[0022] In the embodiment, a double-sided tape 45 for skin is attached to the surface of the housing 41 on the side of the first electrode 42, the second electrode 43, and the third electrode 44. The double-sided tape 45 for skin is attached over one surface of the housing 41 around the first electrode 42, the second electrode 43, and the third electrode 44. The conductive gels 42a, 43a, and 44a are provided so as to cover the outer electrode surfaces of the first electrode 42, the second electrode 43, and the third electrode 44, respectively. When the detection device 10 is attached to a human, the first portion P1 is included in the mouth M of the human. The FPC 30 of the second portion P2 is extended to a length that can connect the first portion P1 and the housing 41 when the detection device 10 is attached to a human.
[0023] The FPC 30, which is a component provided in the second portion P2, is an FPC that continues from the end side of the first portion P1 of the FPC 25. The FPC 30 functions as wiring that connects the first sensor element 221, the second sensor element 222, and the third sensor element 223 with a circuit provided in the housing 41 of the third portion P3. A circuit that converts the output of each of the first sensor element 221, the second sensor element 222, and the third sensor element 223 into individually manageable digital data and the like are provided in the housing 41. The pressure sensor 20 of the embodiment includes the circuit and the like in its configuration.
[0024] 7 is a schematic diagram showing the arrangement of the first portion P1 in the mouth M shown in FIG. 6. As shown in FIG. 7, the first portion P1 is held by a person so that the first sensor element 221 is located near one of the molars M1, which is the innermost tooth in the mouth M, the second sensor element 222 is located near the other molar M2, which is the innermost tooth in the mouth M, and the third sensor element 223 is located near the incisor M3, which is the frontmost tooth in the mouth M. In other words, the shape and extension length of the bifurcated mouthpiece 21 and FPC 25 in the first portion P1 and the arrangement of the first sensor element 221, the second sensor element 222, and the third sensor element 223 are determined in advance so that such a positional relationship between the molars M1, M2, and the incisor M3 and the first sensor element 221, the second sensor element 222, and the third sensor element 223 is established. Of course, since there may be individual differences in the size of a human mouth M and the positions of the molars M1, M2 and incisors M3 in the mouth M, the first part P1 may be customized for each person, or the design of the first part P1 assuming a relationship with a model of a general adult human tooth may be adopted as a standard design. The first part P1 is for the upper jaw and is attached to the teeth of the upper jaw. However, it may also be for the lower jaw, which is attached to the teeth of the lower jaw. Strictly speaking, whether it is for the upper jaw or the lower jaw is determined for each individual person based on the judgment of a dentist. In this way, the mouthpiece 21 may be attached to either the upper or lower jaw inside the human mouth M.
[0025] When the upper and lower teeth of the jaw move to collide with each other at the position of the molar M1, the pressure caused by the collision is detected by the first sensor element 221. When the upper and lower teeth of the jaw move to collide with each other at the position of the molar M2, the pressure caused by the collision is detected by the second sensor element 222. When the upper and lower teeth of the jaw move to collide with each other at the position of the incisor M3, the pressure caused by the collision is detected by the third sensor element 223. Therefore, in the embodiment, the first sensor element 221, the second sensor element 222, and the third sensor element 223 act as a pressure sensor 20 that functions in the human mouth.
[0026] The shapes of the mouthpiece 21 and the FPC 25 shown in Figs. 2 and 7 and the shapes of the mouthpiece 21 and the FPC 25 shown in Figs. 3 to 5 may be adopted. The shapes of the components of the first part P1 shown in Figs. 3 to 5 are schematic for explaining the relative positional relationship between the components of the first part P1, and do not show a specific form. The specific form of the first part P1 is not limited to the form shown in Figs. 2 and 7, and may be a mouthpiece form in which a pressure sensor capable of detecting pressure according to the occlusion of teeth in a human mouth can be arranged. In addition, although the case where three sensor elements 22 functioning as the pressure sensor 20 are illustrated here, pressure sensors corresponding to each of the teeth may be arranged. For example, if there are 14 teeth in the upper jaw, 14 pressure sensors may be arranged.
[0027] Next, the myoelectric sensor 40 shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIGS.
[0028] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing the attachment positions of the first electrode 42, the second electrode 43, and the third electrode 44. In the third part P3, the housing 41 is attached to the human HF so that the first electrode 42, the second electrode 43, and the third electrode 44 are aligned along the direction D in the area W shown in FIG. 8. The area W is an area located near the ear Y in the vicinity of the cheek of the human HF between the mouth M and the ear Y of the human HF. The direction D is, for example, a direction that is approximately perpendicular to a straight line connecting the ear Y and the mouth M, and approximately overlaps with a straight line from the corner of one of the two eyes of the human HF to the neck. For example, as described with reference to FIG. 6 above, the housing 41 of the third part P3 is attached so that the surface on which the first electrode 42, the second electrode 43, and the third electrode 44 are exposed is placed close to or in contact with the cheek of the human HF, thereby realizing an arrangement in which the first electrode 42, the second electrode 43, and the third electrode 44 are aligned along the direction D in the area W.
[0029] The above-mentioned features of the area W and the direction D are merely general examples, and may be adjusted for each individual person. It is preferable that such adjustment is performed on the assumption that the positions of the first electrode 42, the second electrode 43, and the third electrode 44 of the third portion P3 overlap with the shallow part (shallow layer) of the human masseter muscle with high accuracy.
[0030] The myoelectric sensor 40 shown in FIG. 1 includes a function as a differential amplifier using a first electrode 42, a second electrode 43, and a third electrode 44. One of the first electrode 42, the second electrode 43, and the third electrode 44 is a reference electrode (REF). One of the first electrode 42, the second electrode 43, and the third electrode 44 that is not a reference electrode is an exploring electrode. One of the first electrode 42, the second electrode 43, and the third electrode 44 that is not a reference electrode or an exploring electrode is a ground electrode (GND). The ground electrode is an electrode that indicates a ground potential (0V). Ideally, it is desirable for the reference electrode to indicate the same potential (0V) as the ground potential, but in reality, it is an electrode that indicates a potential that is affected by a noise component (noise) at the position where the third portion P3 is arranged. The exploring electrode is an electrode that is arranged in the area W to capture a myoelectric potential and indicate a potential corresponding to the myoelectric potential. The myoelectric potential refers to an electrical signal generated in a muscle corresponding to the superficial part (superficial layer) of the above-mentioned human masseter muscle.
[0031] In reality, the above-mentioned noise may be mixed into the potential of the searching electrode. Therefore, in the embodiment, the reference electrode detects the same noise, and the potential corresponding to the myoelectric potential can be detected with higher accuracy based on the difference between the potential of the searching electrode and the potential of the reference electrode. More specifically, an electric signal corresponding to the difference between the potential of the searching electrode and the potential of the ground electrode is input to one of two inputs of an amplifier composed of an operational amplifier or the like. Also, an electric signal corresponding to the difference between the potential of the reference electrode and the potential of the ground electrode is input to the other of the two inputs of the amplifier. As a result, the electric signals of the same phase among the two inputs of the amplifier cancel each other out, and signals that are different between one and the other, such as reverse phase signals, are amplified. Therefore, according to the myoelectric sensor 40 of the embodiment, the myoelectric potential can be captured with higher accuracy.
[0032] A circuit for converting the output of the myoelectric sensor 40 serving as the amplifier described above into digital data and the like are provided inside the housing 41. The myoelectric sensor 40 of the embodiment includes the circuit and the like in its configuration.
[0033] 1 performs processing based on a signal output from the sensor unit 11. The processing performed by the control unit 12 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 and 9 to 11.
[0034] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a time-series relationship between the bite force of a person indicated by the output of the pressure sensor 20 and the myoelectric potential indicated by the output of the myoelectric sensor 40. Of the four lines in the graph shown in FIG. 9, the lower three lines L2, L3, and L4 indicate the strength of the output of the pressure sensor 20, i.e., the strength of the bite force of a person. In addition, the lower three lines L2, L3, and L4 each indicate the individual output of the first sensor element 221, the second sensor element 222, and the third sensor element 223. Here, the line L2 indicates the output of the first sensor element 221, the line L3 indicates the output of the second sensor element 222, and the line L4 indicates the output of the third sensor element 223. Of the four lines, the upper line L1 indicates the strength of the output of the myoelectric sensor 40, i.e., the strength of the myoelectric potential. In Fig. 9, the dashed lines between the three lower lines L2, L3, and L4 and the upper line L1 separate the range of the graph showing the bite force from the range of the graph showing the myoelectric potential. The vertical axis of the graphs in Fig. 9 and Fig. 10, which will be described later, indicates the strength of the output. The horizontal axis of the graphs in Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 indicates the passage of time.
[0035] During periods T1 and T2 in the graph shown in FIG. 9, one of the three lines L2, L3, and L4 at the bottom, which indicate the strength of the bite force, (line L2) indicates a significantly stronger bite force than the other two lines (lines L3 and L4). This indicates that a situation occurs in which the upper and lower teeth of the jaw are close enough to abut at one of the positions of the molar M1, molar M2, or incisor M3, and a pressing force is applied to the sensor element 22. If line L2 indicates the output of the first sensor element 221, then a situation occurs in which the upper and lower teeth of the jaw are close enough to abut at the molar M1, and a pressing force is applied to the sensor element 22. This situation can occur when teeth grinding occurs. In addition, the upper line L1, which indicates the strength of the myoelectric potential, also shows significantly larger fluctuations in output during periods T1 and T2 compared to other periods. This suggests that the movement of the masseter muscle, that is, a force in the direction of drawing the lower jaw to the upper jaw, is acting. Such an indication provides more reliable confirmation that bruxism is occurring.
[0036] In this manner, in the embodiment, the occurrence of bruxism can be identified based on data in which the output of the pressure sensor 20 and the output of the myoelectric sensor 40 are synchronized in time. In contrast, it is difficult to accurately identify the occurrence of such bruxism using only one of the output of the pressure sensor 20 or the output of the myoelectric sensor 40. Below, a reference example in which a false detection occurs using only one of the output of the pressure sensor 20 or the output of the myoelectric sensor 40 will be described with reference to FIG.
[0037] FIG. 10 shows a first pattern, a second pattern, and a third pattern as examples of outputs that occur when there is no teeth grinding. The first pattern is a pattern when a person tightly closes their eyelids. The second pattern is a pattern when a person's tongue hits their teeth in the mouth. The third pattern is a pattern when a person's lips hit their teeth. "Electromyographic sensor output" in FIG. 10 shows the strength of the output of a configuration similar to that of the electromyographic sensor 40. "Pressure sensor output" in FIG. 10 shows the output of a configuration similar to that of the pressure sensor 20 having the first sensor element 221, the second sensor element 222, and the third sensor element 223. In the reference example, only one of the "electromyographic sensor output" or the "pressure sensor output" is obtained.
[0038] As shown in the "first pattern" in Fig. 10, the "electromyographic sensor output" shows a significantly large fluctuation in output even when a person tightly closes their eyelids, as in the case of teeth grinding. Therefore, in the reference example in which only the "electromyographic sensor output" is obtained, it is difficult to distinguish between the occurrence of teeth grinding and the occurrence of a person tightly closing their eyelids.
[0039] As shown in the "second pattern" and "third pattern" in Fig. 10, the output of the pressure sensor 20 also fluctuates significantly when the tongue or lips hit the teeth. Therefore, in the reference example in which only the "pressure sensor output" is obtained, it is difficult to distinguish between the occurrence of teeth grinding and the occurrence of the tongue or lips hitting the teeth.
[0040] In contrast, in the embodiment, even if a situation similar to "pattern 1" occurs, the output of the pressure sensor 20 does not change significantly. As a result, in the embodiment, it is possible to distinguish between cases where teeth grinding occurs and cases where a person tightly closes their eyelids. Also, in the embodiment, even if a situation similar to "pattern 2" and "pattern 3" occurs, the output of the myoelectric sensor 40 does not change significantly. As a result, in the embodiment, it is possible to distinguish between cases where teeth grinding occurs and cases where the tongue or lips hit the teeth. Therefore, in the embodiment, it is possible to distinguish between teeth grinding and events other than teeth grinding with a higher degree of accuracy.
[0041] 9, in order to distinguish between bruxism, it is important to synchronize the output of the pressure sensor 20 and the output of the myoelectric sensor 40 in time. In the embodiment, the control unit 12 of the detection device 10 shown in FIG 1 generates data in which the output of the pressure sensor 20 and the output of the myoelectric sensor 40 are synchronized in time.
[0042] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the sensing data 620 in the form of a table. The sensing data 620 includes myoelectric data 621, pressure data 622, synchronization data 623, and time data 624. The myoelectric data 621 is data indicating the output of the myoelectric sensor 40. The pressure data 622 is data indicating the output of the pressure sensor 20. The synchronization data 623 is data indicating the elapsed time after the start of sensing by the detection device 10. After the start of sensing, the control unit 12 generates a record to which the parameters of the new synchronization data 623 are added each time a unit time elapses. In addition, the control unit 12 associates the data of the pressure sensor 20 and the data of the myoelectric sensor 40 generated during the unit time with the parameters of the synchronization data 623. In the example shown in FIG. 11, the unit time is one second, but the unit time is not limited to this and can be changed as appropriate.
[0043] In the embodiment, the pressure sensor 20 generates an output at a cycle of 8 times per second (8 Hz), and the myoelectric sensor 40 generates an output at a cycle of 512 times per second (512 Hz). The control unit 12 acquires the output of the pressure sensor 20 and the output of the myoelectric sensor 40, and generates data that can be managed for each unit time. Each record in the table shown in FIG. 11 shows the data for each unit time thus generated by the control unit 12 in a format that can be interpreted by humans, and is not an actual data structure itself. In addition, the numerical values of the myoelectric data 621 and the numerical values of the pressure data 622 shown in FIG. 11 are merely illustrative, and the output format of the myoelectric data 621 and the output format of the pressure data 622 are not limited thereto. In addition, the output cycle of the pressure sensor 20 and the output cycle of the myoelectric sensor 40 are merely illustrative, and are not limited thereto, and can be changed as appropriate.
[0044] The time during which the data was obtained in the series of time periods during which sensing was performed by the pressure sensor 20 and the electromyogram sensor 40 can be distinguished by the parameters of the synchronization data 623. For example, a record in which the parameter of the synchronization data 623 is "00:00.0" is data indicating the output of the pressure sensor 20 and the output of the electromyogram sensor 40 from immediately after the start of sensing until one second has elapsed. A record in which the parameter of the synchronization data 623 is "00:01.0" is data indicating the output of the pressure sensor 20 and the output of the electromyogram sensor 40 from one second after the start of sensing until two seconds have elapsed. The same interpretation applies to other records to which the parameters of the synchronization data 623 are added.
[0045] 11 includes time data 624 in addition to myoelectric data 621, pressure data 622, and synchronization data 623. The time data 624 indicates the time at which sensing was performed. That is, the parameter of the time data 624 added to each record indicates the time that coincides with the time of the synchronization data 623. The process of adding the time data 624 to the data may be performed by the control unit 12, but is performed by the SoC 65 of the terminal 60 in this embodiment.
[0046] As shown in FIG. 1, the control unit 12 has a data processing program 12a and a memory 12b. The data processing program 12a is a software program for generating manageable data for each unit time based on the output of the pressure sensor 20 and the output of the myoelectric sensor 40. The control unit 12 includes an arithmetic circuit for reading and executing the data processing program 12a. The memory 12b functions as a storage area capable of temporarily storing data indicating the output of the pressure sensor 20 and the output of the myoelectric sensor 40, as well as data generated using the data processing program 12a. The control unit 12 may be a circuit in which the function of the data processing program 12a is implemented in the form of hardware and which has a storage area for functioning as the memory 12b.
[0047] The communication unit 13 shown in FIG. 1 performs processing related to communication with an external device such as a terminal 60. Specifically, the communication unit 13 has a circuit for functioning as a NIC (Network Interface Controller) or the like. The communication unit 13 communicates with the external device using a predetermined communication protocol. The predetermined communication protocol may be a known communication protocol such as the Internet Protocol and various protocols for implementing the protocol, or may be a dedicated protocol defined between the communication unit 13 and the terminal 60. The communication line between the communication unit 13 and the terminal 60 may be wired, wireless, or a combination of wired and wireless, and may include a public communication line as a part of the communication line.
[0048] In the embodiment, the control unit 12 acquires, for example, output from the pressure sensor 20 and output from the electromyography sensor 40, packages the output by adding parameters of synchronization data 623 for each unit time, and transmits the packaged output to the terminal 60 via the communication unit 13.
[0049] In the embodiment, the control unit 12 and the communication unit 13 are provided within the housing 41 (see Figures 2 and 6), but the specific manner in which the control unit 12 and the communication unit 13 are implemented in the detection device 10 is arbitrary within the scope in which their functions are realized.
[0050] Furthermore, a battery or the like that supplies and stores power necessary for the operation of the sensor unit 11, the control unit 12, and the communication unit 13 may be provided inside the housing 41. Furthermore, the housing 41 may further be provided with an interface or the like that enables a power line for supplying the power to be connected to the housing 41.
[0051] Next, the terminal 60 shown in Fig. 1 will be described. The terminal 60 is a mobile terminal such as a smartphone, but is not limited thereto, and may be an information processing device having another form, such as a stationary information processing device such as a personal computer. The terminal 60 includes a communication unit 61, a storage unit 62, a display unit 63, an operation unit 64, and an SoC 65.
[0052] The communication unit 61 performs processing related to communication with an external device such as the communication unit 13. The communication unit 61 has a circuit or the like for functioning as a NIC, similar to the communication unit 13. In the embodiment, a communication protocol adopted by the terminal 60 and a communication protocol adopted by the communication unit 13 are selected so that communication between the terminal 60 and the communication unit 13 is established.
[0053] The storage unit 62 stores the sensing data 620 described with reference to Fig. 11. Specifically, the storage unit 62 has a storage circuit such as a flash memory provided in the terminal 60. As described with reference to Fig. 11, the sensing data 620 includes myoelectric data 621 and pressure data 622. Although not shown in Fig. 1, the sensing data 620 of the embodiment further includes synchronization data 623 and time data 624.
[0054] The display unit 63 performs display output according to the processing performed by the terminal 60. The display unit 63 has a display device such as an organic electroluminescence (EL) display or a liquid crystal display, and performs display output according to the processing performed by the SoC 65. The display unit 63 of the embodiment performs display output according to the contents of the sensing data 620, for example, as shown in graph 63a in Fig. 1. The graph 63a in Fig. 1 is similar to the graph shown in Fig. 9, for example, but is not limited thereto, and reflects the actual output of the pressure sensor 20 and the output of the myoelectric sensor 40.
[0055] The graph 63a is drawn by, for example, graphing a plurality of records included in the sensing data 620 shown in FIG. 11 in chronological order.
[0056] The operation unit 64 accepts input to the terminal 60 from the user of the terminal 60. The operation unit 64 is, for example, a touch panel provided integrally with the display unit 63, but is not limited thereto and may be an input device for which other input methods are assumed.
[0057] The SoC 65 performs information processing performed by the terminal 60. The SoC 65 is a configuration in which multiple functions are implemented in one integrated circuit (SoC: System on a Chip), but may be configured by multiple circuits that function in the same way. The SoC 65 receives data transmitted from the detection device 10 via the communication unit 61, for example. The SoC 65 adds time data 624 to the data received from the detection device 10 and stores the data in the storage unit 62 as sensing data 620. The SoC 65 causes the display unit 63 to perform display output in response to an input operation by a user via the operation unit 64. A specific form of such display output includes, for example, a graph 63a.
[0058] Next, the process flow relating to the operation of the detection device 10 mounted as shown in Fig. 6 will be described with reference to Fig. 12 to Fig. 14. The process described with reference to Fig. 12 to Fig. 14 is realized by the control unit 12 executing the data processing program 12a. In the flowcharts of Fig. 12 to Fig. 14, the operation of the components is described as "ON" and the non-operation is described as "OFF".
[0059] 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a process flow related to the operation of the detection device 10. After starting the operation, the control unit 12 operates the myoelectric sensor 40 at a low frequency cycle (step S1). In addition, in the process of step S1, the control unit 12 sets the pressure sensor 20 and the communication unit 13 to a state in which they are not operated.
[0060] 12 to 14, the operation at a low frequency cycle refers to an operation in which sensing is performed at a time cycle that is 10 times the above-mentioned unit time, for example, and an output is generated. Note that the relationship between the low frequency cycle and the unit time is not limited to this, and can be changed as appropriate. However, according to the operation at a low frequency cycle, the time interval at which sensing is performed is longer than in the operation at a high frequency cycle described later.
[0061] The control unit 12 checks the output of the myoelectric sensor 40 that operates at a low frequency cycle by the process of step S1 (step S2). As a result of checking the output of the myoelectric sensor 40 by the process of step S2, the control unit 12 determines whether the output of the myoelectric sensor 40 exceeds a threshold value (step S3). If it is determined that the output of the myoelectric sensor 40 does not exceed the threshold value (step S3; No), the process proceeds to step S1 unless the operation of the detection device 10 is terminated (step S4; No). That is, the operation state of the myoelectric sensor 40 at a low frequency cycle and the non-operation state of the pressure sensor 20 and the communication unit 13 are continued. An example of a condition that is treated as the end of operation in the process of step S4 is when the user who is the wearer of the detection device 10 performs an operation to terminate the detection device 10 using a terminal app executed on the terminal 60. More specifically, it is assumed that the user activates the terminal app before going to sleep, and performs an operation to terminate the terminal app after waking up. The terminal may be configured to automatically terminate the app after a preset time has elapsed (e.g., 10 hours) since the app was started. The same conditions for terminating the operation may also be applied to the process of step S8, step S14, step S24, and step S28, which will be described later.
[0062] The threshold in the process of step S3 and the process of step S7 described later is, for example, a first threshold Th1 shown in Fig. 9. When an output that exceeds the range of the first threshold Th1 occurs, it is determined that the output of the myoelectric sensor 40 exceeds the threshold. When an output that falls within the range of the first threshold Th1 occurs, it is determined that the output of the myoelectric sensor 40 is less than the threshold. Note that an output that overlaps with a line that defines the range of the first threshold Th1 does not have to be considered as either, or may be included in either.
[0063] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S3 that the output of the myoelectric sensor 40 exceeds the predetermined threshold (step S3; Yes), the control unit 12 operates the myoelectric sensor 40 at a high-frequency cycle (step S5). Furthermore, in the process of step S5, the control unit 12 operates the pressure sensor 20 and the communication unit 13. The operating cycle of the pressure sensor 20 in the process of step S5 is a high-frequency cycle, similar to that of the myoelectric sensor 40.
[0064] 12 to 14, the operation at a high frequency cycle refers to an operation that generates a sensing output at the cycle of the unit time described above, for example. In the embodiment, sensing is performed for one second according to the output regardless of whether the cycle is a low frequency cycle or a high frequency cycle, but the extent to which sensing is performed at each cycle can be changed as appropriate.
[0065] The control unit 12 synchronizes the output of the myoelectric sensor 40, which operates at a high frequency cycle, with the output of the pressure sensor 20, and transmits the synchronized output to the terminal 60 at a predetermined cycle (step S6). The predetermined cycle is, for example, the same cycle as the high frequency cycle (every second in the embodiment), but is not limited thereto and can be changed as appropriate. In addition, "synchronization" in the description with reference to Figs. 12 to 14 refers to a process of adding synchronization data 623 to the myoelectric data 621 and pressure data 622, for example, and generating data corresponding to the record in units of one second described with reference to Fig. 11. The data generated in this manner is transmitted via the communication unit 13.
[0066] The control unit 12 also determines whether the output of the myoelectric sensor 40 has remained below the threshold for a predetermined period of time (step S7). If it is determined that the output of the myoelectric sensor 40 has not remained below the threshold for the predetermined period of time (step S7; No), the process proceeds to step S6 unless the operation of the detection device 10 ends (step S8; No). That is, the operating state of the pressure sensor 20 and the myoelectric sensor 40 at a high frequency period, the generation of data, and the transmission of data via the communication unit 13 continue.
[0067] The predetermined time in the description with reference to Figures 12 to 14 is, for example, 5 minutes, but is not limited to this and can be changed as appropriate. However, it is desirable for the predetermined time to be significantly longer than the unit time of the high frequency period.
[0068] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S7 that the output of the myoelectric sensor 40 has been below the threshold for a predetermined period of time (step S7; Yes), the process proceeds to step S4. If the operation of the detection device 10 has not ended (step S4; No), the process proceeds to step S1. That is, the detection device 10 transitions to an operating state of the myoelectric sensor 40 at a low frequency period and a non-operating state of the pressure sensor 20 and the communication unit 13.
[0069] When the operation of the detection device 10 is completed in step S4 (step S4; Yes) and when the operation of the detection device 10 is completed in step S8 (step S8; Yes), the processing of the control unit 12 is completed.
[0070] Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a process flow related to the operation of the detection device 10, which is different from Fig. 12. After starting the operation, the control unit 12 operates the pressure sensor 20 at a low frequency cycle (step S11). In addition, in the process of step S1, the control unit 12 sets the myoelectric sensor 40 and the communication unit 13 to a state in which they are not operated.
[0071] The control unit 12 checks the output of the pressure sensor 20 operating at a low frequency cycle by the process of step S11 (step S12). As a result of checking the output of the pressure sensor 20 by the process of step S12, the control unit 12 determines whether the output of the pressure sensor 20 exceeds a threshold value (step S13). If it is determined that the output of the pressure sensor 20 does not exceed the threshold value (step S13; No), the process proceeds to step S11 unless the operation of the detection device 10 is terminated (step S14; No). That is, the operating state of the pressure sensor 20 at a low frequency cycle and the non-operating states of the electromyography sensor 40 and the communication unit 13 are continued.
[0072] The threshold value in the process of step S13 and the process of step S17 described later is, for example, a second threshold value Th2 shown in Fig. 9. When an output that exceeds the second threshold value Th2 occurs, it is determined that the output of the pressure sensor 20 exceeds the threshold value. When an output that remains below the second threshold value Th2 occurs, it is determined that the output of the pressure sensor 20 is less than the threshold value. Note that an output that overlaps with the line that defines the second threshold value Th2 does not have to be considered as either, or may be included in either.
[0073] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S13 that the output of the pressure sensor 20 exceeds the predetermined threshold (step S13; Yes), the control unit 12 operates the pressure sensor 20 at a high frequency cycle (step S15). Furthermore, in the process of step S15, the control unit 12 operates the myoelectric sensor 40 and the communication unit 13. The operation cycle of the myoelectric sensor 40 in the process of step S15 is a high frequency cycle, similar to that of the pressure sensor 20.
[0074] The control unit 12 synchronizes the output of the myoelectric sensor 40, which operates at a high frequency cycle, with the output of the pressure sensor 20, and transmits the synchronized output to the terminal 60 at a predetermined cycle (step S16).
[0075] The control unit 12 also determines whether the output of the pressure sensor 20 has remained below the threshold for a predetermined period of time (step S17). If it is determined that the output of the pressure sensor 20 has not remained below the threshold for the predetermined period of time (step S17; No), the process proceeds to step S16 unless the operation of the detection device 10 is terminated (step S18; No). That is, the operating state of the pressure sensor 20 and the electromyography sensor 40 at a high frequency period, the generation of data, and the transmission of data via the communication unit 13 are continued.
[0076] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S17 that the output of the pressure sensor 20 has been below the threshold for a predetermined period of time (step S17; Yes), the process proceeds to step S14. If the operation of the detection device 10 has not ended (step S14; No), the process proceeds to step S11. That is, the detection device 10 transitions to a low-frequency cycle operation state of the pressure sensor 20 and a non-operation state of the myoelectric sensor 40 and the communication unit 13.
[0077] When the operation of the detection device 10 is completed in step S14 (step S14; Yes) and when the operation of the detection device 10 is completed in step S18 (step S18; Yes), the processing of the control unit 12 is completed.
[0078] Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of a process flow related to the operation of the detection device 10, which is different from Fig. 12 and Fig. 13. After starting the operation, the control unit 12 operates the pressure sensor 20 and the myoelectric sensor 40 (step S21). In addition, in the process of step S21, the control unit 12 sets the communication unit 13 to a state in which it is not operated.
[0079] The operation cycle of the pressure sensor 20 and the myoelectric sensor 40 in the process of step S21 may be a low-frequency cycle or a high-frequency cycle.
[0080] The control unit 12 generates data in which the output of the pressure sensor 20 and the output of the myoelectric sensor 40, which are operated by the process of step S21, are synchronized, and temporarily stores the data in the memory 12b (step S22). The temporary storage of the data in the memory 12b by the process of step S22 holds, for example, only the most recent 5 minutes of data, and discards data older than 5 minutes, but the length of the holding period can be changed as appropriate.
[0081] The control unit 12 determines whether either the pressure sensor 20 or the myoelectric sensor 40 satisfies the condition (step S23). In the process of step S23 and the process of step S28 described below, for example, in the case of the pressure sensor 20, the condition is deemed to be satisfied when the output of the pressure sensor 20 exceeds a predetermined threshold, similar to the determination of step S13 described above. In the case of the myoelectric sensor 40, the condition is deemed to be satisfied when the output of the myoelectric sensor 40 exceeds a predetermined threshold, similar to the determination of step S3 described above.
[0082] If it is determined in step S23 that none of the sensors satisfies the condition (step S23; No), the process proceeds to step S21 unless the operation of the detection device 10 is terminated (step S24; No). That is, the operation of the pressure sensor 20 and the myoelectric sensor 40 and the temporary storage of data in the memory 12b are continued.
[0083] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S23 that any of the sensors satisfies the condition (step S23; Yes), the control unit 12 operates the communication unit 13 (step S25). Also, the control unit 12 transmits the data temporarily stored in the memory 12b in the process of step S22 to the terminal 60 via the communication unit 13 (step S26).
[0084] If the pressure sensor 20 and the myoelectric sensor 40 are operating at a low frequency cycle in the process of step S21, the operation cycle of the pressure sensor 20 and the myoelectric sensor 40 becomes a high frequency cycle at the time of step S25.
[0085] The control unit 12 synchronizes the output of the myoelectric sensor 40 and the output of the pressure sensor 20 and transmits them to the terminal 60 at a predetermined cycle (step S27).
[0086] The control unit 12 also determines whether the time during which both the pressure sensor 20 and the myoelectric sensor 40 do not satisfy the conditions has continued for a predetermined time (step S28). If it is determined that the time during which both sensors do not satisfy the conditions has not continued for the predetermined time (step S28; No), the process proceeds to step S27 unless the operation of the detection device 10 is terminated (step S29; No). That is, the operating states of the pressure sensor 20 and the myoelectric sensor 40, data generation, and data transmission via the communication unit 13 at a high frequency cycle continue.
[0087] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S28 that the time during which both the pressure sensor 20 and the myoelectric sensor 40 do not satisfy the condition has continued for a predetermined time (step S28; Yes), the process proceeds to step S24. If the operation of the detection device 10 has not ended (step S24; No), the process proceeds to step S21. That is, the detection device 10 transitions to a state in which the pressure sensor 20 and the myoelectric sensor 40 operate and the data is temporarily stored in the memory 12b.
[0088] When the operation of the detection device 10 is completed in step S24 (step S24; Yes) and when the operation of the detection device 10 is completed in step S29 (step S29; Yes), the processing of the control unit 12 is completed.
[0089] As described above, with reference to Figs. 12 to 14, three processing flows of the control unit 12 are illustrated, and the control unit 12 of the embodiment operates according to any one of these three. Which processing flow is applied may be determined in advance, or may be provided to be selectable. For example, the detection device 10 may be provided to be able to change the processing flow applied to the control unit 12 via an operation on an operation unit such as the switch 46 shown in Fig. 6. Also, the detection device 10 may be provided to be able to change the processing flow applied to the control unit 12 via an operation on the operation unit 64 of the terminal 60 and communication between the communication unit 61 and the communication unit 13.
[0090] As described above, according to the embodiment, the detection device 10 includes a pressure sensor (e.g., the first sensor element 221, the second sensor element 222, and the third sensor element 223) disposed in a mouthpiece (e.g., the mouthpiece 21), an electromyogram sensor (e.g., the electromyogram sensor 40) attached to a person's cheek, and a control unit (e.g., the control unit 12) that outputs the output of the pressure sensor and the output of the electromyogram sensor in synchronization with each other. This makes it possible to show the relationship between the output of the pressure sensor and the output of the electromyogram sensor generated at each time point during the period in which the output of the pressure sensor and the output of the electromyogram sensor were generated. Therefore, compared to the case of only a pressure sensor and the case of only an electromyogram sensor, it is possible to output data that can distinguish between data due to teeth grinding and data that is not due to teeth grinding with a higher degree of accuracy.
[0091] Furthermore, a plurality of pressure sensors (e.g., first sensor element 221, second sensor element 222, third sensor element 223) are arranged in a mouthpiece (e.g., mouthpiece 21), and a control unit (e.g., control unit 12) outputs data that allows the outputs of the plurality of pressure sensors to be individually identified (e.g., see FIG. 9). This makes it possible to determine with high accuracy where in the human mouth pressure is occurring, based on the relationship between the respective arrangements of the plurality of pressure sensors assumed in the human mouth (e.g., see FIG. 6) and the respective outputs of the plurality of pressure sensors in the data.
[0092] Furthermore, the pressure sensors (e.g., first sensor element 221, second sensor element 222, third sensor element 223) are provided on a flexible substrate (e.g., FPC 25), which is attached to a mouthpiece (e.g., mouthpiece 21). This allows the output of the pressure sensor to be transmitted via the flexible substrate. Furthermore, the flexibility of the flexible substrate makes it easier to achieve both flexibility in response to the movements of the human mouth and a configuration for more reliable output transmission of the pressure sensor.
[0093] In addition, the flexible substrate (e.g., FPC 25) is bonded and fixed inside the mouthpiece (e.g., mouthpiece 21) so as to create a gap between the mouthpiece and the flexible substrate (e.g., see FIG. 4). This makes it easier to prevent pressure on the mouthpiece from acting directly on the flexible substrate. It also makes it easier to increase the flexibility and engagement of the mouthpiece with the unevenness of teeth in the human mouth.
[0094] Furthermore, the myoelectric sensor (e.g., myoelectric sensor 40) has electrodes (e.g., first electrode 42, second electrode 43, and third electrode 44), and gel (e.g., conductive gels 42a, 43a, 44a) and double-sided tape (e.g., double-sided tape for skin 45) are attached to the attachment surface of the myoelectric sensor on which the electrodes are provided. This makes it easier for a person to attach the myoelectric sensor with the electrodes more reliably placed close to the person's cheek.
[0095] Furthermore, the control unit (e.g., control unit 12) operates the myoelectric sensor (e.g., myoelectric sensor 40) in a first cycle until the output of the myoelectric sensor exceeds a first threshold (e.g., first threshold Th1), and operates the myoelectric sensor in a second cycle after the output of the myoelectric sensor exceeds the first threshold. The second cycle is a cycle with a higher frequency than the first cycle. The first cycle here is the low-frequency cycle in the description with reference to FIG. 12, for example. The second cycle here is the high-frequency cycle in the description with reference to FIG. 12, for example. This allows power saving to be given priority until an output of the myoelectric sensor that may be an output corresponding to teeth grinding is generated. Furthermore, after an output of the myoelectric sensor that may be an output corresponding to teeth grinding is generated, more accurate sensing can be performed with a more frequent output.
[0096] Furthermore, the control unit (e.g., control unit 12) operates the pressure sensor (e.g., pressure sensor 20) in a third cycle until the output of the pressure sensor exceeds a second threshold (e.g., second threshold Th2), and operates the pressure sensor in a fourth cycle after the output of the pressure sensor exceeds the second threshold. The fourth cycle is a cycle with a higher frequency than the third cycle. The third cycle here is the low-frequency cycle in the description with reference to FIG. 13, for example. The fourth cycle here is the high-frequency cycle in the description with reference to FIG. 13, for example. This allows power saving to be prioritized until an output of the pressure sensor that may be an output corresponding to teeth grinding is generated. Furthermore, after an output of the pressure sensor that may be an output corresponding to teeth grinding is generated, more accurate sensing can be performed with a more frequent output.
[0097] The detection device 10 also includes a communication unit (e.g., communication unit 13) that communicates with an external device (e.g., terminal 60). A control unit (e.g., control unit 12) does not operate the communication unit when both the first condition and the second condition are not satisfied, and operates the communication unit when at least one of the first condition and the second condition is satisfied. The first condition is that the output of the myoelectric sensor (e.g., myoelectric sensor 40) exceeds a first threshold value (e.g., first threshold value Th1). The second condition is that the output of the pressure sensor (e.g., pressure sensor 20) exceeds a second threshold value (e.g., second threshold value Th2). This allows power saving to be prioritized until an output that may be an output corresponding to teeth grinding from at least one of the myoelectric sensor and the pressure sensor is generated. After an output that may be an output corresponding to teeth grinding is generated, more accurate sensing can be performed with more frequent outputs.
[0098] In addition, a display unit (e.g., display unit 63) that displays and outputs the output of a pressure sensor (e.g., pressure sensor 20) and the output of an electromyogram sensor (e.g., electromyogram sensor 40) in synchronization with each other can output data that can be visually understood by a user who can see the display unit.
[0099] In the detection system 100, the display unit 63 that displays and outputs the graph 63a is provided in the terminal 60, but the detection device 10 may have such a configuration. That is, the detection device 10 may have a display unit that displays and outputs the output of the pressure sensor 20 and the output of the myoelectric sensor 40 in synchronization with each other. In this case, for example, the display unit may be provided on a surface of the housing 41 of the detection device 10 described with reference to FIG. 2 on which the first electrode 42, the second electrode 43, and the third electrode 44 are not provided. In addition, the display unit connected via a wire extending from the housing 41 may be included in the configuration of the detection device 10.
[0100] In addition, the specific configuration of the pressure sensor 20 is not limited to that based on the piezoelectric effect described above. For example, the specific configuration of the sensor element 22 may be a strain gauge, and a circuit including a Wheatstone bridge may be provided in the housing 41. In this case, the strain generated in each of the first sensor element 221, the second sensor element 222, and the third sensor element 223 generates an output indicating pressure. In addition, it is not essential to provide a plurality of sensor elements such as the first sensor element 221, the second sensor element 222, and the third sensor element 223, and a sensor element having a curved shape that conforms to the shape of a human tooth may be adopted. In addition, the specific configuration of the pressure sensor 20 may be a resistive film pressure sensor. However, it is preferable that the pressure sensor 20 is a film-type pressure sensor.
[0101] Furthermore, other advantageous effects brought about by the aspects described in this embodiment that are obvious from the description in this specification or that can be appropriately thought of by a person skilled in the art are naturally understood to be brought about by the present disclosure. [Explanation of symbols]
[0102] 10. Detection Device 12 Control section 20 Pressure Sensor 21 Mouthpiece 221 First sensor element 222 Second sensor element 223 Third Sensor Element 25 FPC 40 EMG Sensor 42 1st electrode 42a, 43a, 44a Conductive gel 43 2nd electrode 44 3rd electrode 45 Double-sided skin tape 60 terminals 620 Sensing Data 621 EMG data 622 Pressure Data 623 Synchronization Data
Claims
1. A pressure sensor disposed in the mouthpiece; An electromyographic sensor attached to a person's cheek; A control unit that outputs an output of the pressure sensor and an output of the myoelectric sensor in synchronization with each other. Detection device.
2. A plurality of pressure sensors are disposed in the mouthpiece; The control unit outputs data that enables outputs of the plurality of pressure sensors to be individually identified. The detection device according to claim 1 .
3. The pressure sensor is provided on a flexible substrate, The flexible substrate is attached to the mouthpiece.
3. A detection device according to claim 1 or 2.
4. The flexible substrate is bonded and fixed inside the mouthpiece so that a gap is formed between the flexible substrate and the mouthpiece.
4. The detection device according to claim 3.
5. The myoelectric sensor has electrodes, A gel and a double-sided tape are attached to the mounting surface of the myoelectric sensor on which the electrodes are provided.
3. A detection device according to claim 1 or 2.
6. The control unit is Operate the myoelectric sensor in a first cycle until an output of the myoelectric sensor exceeds a first threshold value; operating the myoelectric sensor in a second cycle after the output of the myoelectric sensor exceeds the first threshold; The second cycle is a cycle with a higher frequency than the first cycle.
6. The detection device according to claim 5.
7. The control unit is operating the pressure sensor in a third period until an output of the pressure sensor exceeds a second threshold; operating the pressure sensor for a fourth period after the output of the pressure sensor exceeds the second threshold; The fourth period is a period having a higher frequency than the third period.
6. The detection device according to claim 5.
8. A communication unit is provided for communicating with external devices. The control unit is When both the first condition and the second condition are not satisfied, the communication unit is not operated; activating the communication unit when at least one of the first condition and the second condition is satisfied; the first condition is that an output of the myoelectric sensor exceeds a first threshold; The second condition is that the output of the pressure sensor exceeds a second threshold value.
6. The detection device according to claim 5.
9. a display unit that displays and outputs an output of the pressure sensor and an output of the myoelectric sensor in synchronization with each other; 3. A detection device according to claim 1 or 2.
Citation Information
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