Bite force gauge

Abstract

This occlusive force meter (10) is provided with a handle (11), an arm (13), and a pressure sensor (12) attached to the arm (13). The occlusive force meter (10) is rod-shaped overall. The pressure sensor (12) is provided with a pressure-receiving surface (12D) for receiving pressure from an object of contact during measurement of an occlusive force. The pressure sensor (12) also has guide surfaces (121) rising from the outer edge of the pressure-receiving surface (12D).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a bite force meter. [Background technology]

[0002] The bite force meter of Patent Document 1 includes a pressure sensor that detects pressure. The pressure sensor has a pair of plate-shaped members arranged opposite each other. The bite force meter of Patent Document 1 measures the pressure when the pair of plate-shaped members are bitten down as bite force. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Publication number 2-25379 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] When measuring occlusal force using an occlusal force meter such as that in Patent Document 1, even for the same person, the measurement results will differ depending on where in the oral cavity the pressure sensor is bitten. Therefore, in order to compare the measured occlusal force with a reference value or past measurement results, it is preferable to always bite the pressure sensor in the same position in the oral cavity. However, it is difficult to visually check the state of the oral cavity when the pressure sensor is bitten. Therefore, there is a limit to determining the position of the pressure sensor in the oral cavity by relying on visual inspection. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In order to solve the above problems, a bite force meter according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes: The device comprises a handle, an arm extending from the handle, and a pressure sensor attached to the arm, the pressure sensor having a pressure receiving surface that receives pressure from a contact object when measuring bite force, and when an axis along the direction of pressure detected by the pressure sensor is defined as a pressure detection axis, an axis extending from a connection point between the handle and the arm to a connection point between the arm and the pressure sensor is defined as a first axis, and an axis perpendicular to both the pressure detection axis and the first axis is defined as a second axis, the pressure sensor protrudes from the arm in a direction along the second axis, and the end of the arm opposite the connection point with the handle is exposed and is parallel or inclined to the pressure detection axis, and is a guide surface that positions the pressure receiving surface within the oral cavity by contacting it with a specific location within the oral cavity.

[0007] According to the above configuration, the pressure receiving surface can be easily positioned in the oral cavity by contacting the guide surface with specific locations such as the sides of the teeth, the gums, and the inside of the cheeks. The contact of the guide surface with a specific location can be determined by the sense of touch in the oral cavity or the sense of touch of the fingers holding the bite force meter. Therefore, it is easy to position the pressure receiving surface in the oral cavity without visually inspecting the oral cavity. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the present disclosure, the pressure receiving surface of the pressure sensor can be easily positioned without relying on visual inspection. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a bite force meter according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a pressure sensor according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 3] 3A to 3C are views for explaining a method for measuring occlusal force using the occlusal force meter of the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a bite force meter according to a second embodiment. [Diagram 5] 13A to 13C are views for explaining a method for measuring occlusal force using the occlusal force meter of the second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a bite force meter according to a third embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a pressure sensor of a modified example of the bite force meter. [Figure 9] FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a partial perspective view of a modified example of the bite force meter. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a partial perspective view of a modified example of the bite force meter. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] First Embodiment Hereinafter, an embodiment of the bite force meter will be described. In the attached drawings, components may be enlarged to facilitate understanding. Also, the dimensional ratios of the components may differ from those in the actual drawings or from those in other drawings.

[0011] <Overall configuration of the bite force meter according to the first embodiment> As shown in FIG. 1, the bite force meter 10 includes a handle 11, a pressure sensor 12, an arm 13, and a display 14.

[0012] The bite force meter 10 is rod-shaped overall. The handle 11 constitutes approximately one half of the bite force meter 10 in the longitudinal direction. The handle 11 is approximately rectangular parallelepiped-shaped. The handle 11 is held by a user when measuring bite force.

[0013] The arm 13 extends from the other end face of the handle 11 in the longitudinal direction. The arm 13 has a flattened rectangular column shape. The arm 13 extends in substantially the same direction as the handle 11. The arm 13 is thinner than the handle 11.

[0014] The display 14 is located inside the handle 11. The display surface of the display 14 is exposed to the outside of the handle 11. The display 14 displays information such as the pressure detected by the pressure sensor 12.

[0015] The pressure sensor 12 is attached to the end of the arm 13 opposite to the handle 11. In other words, the pressure sensor 12 is located at the tip of the bite force meter 10. The pressure sensor 12 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape.

[0016] Here, the axis extending from the connection point between the handle 11 and the arm 13 to the connection point between the arm 13 and the pressure sensor 12 is defined as the first axis X. In this embodiment, the first axis X is an axis parallel to the longitudinal direction of the handle 11 and the arm 13. An axis perpendicular to the first axis X and along the display 14 is defined as the second axis Y. An axis perpendicular to both the first axis X and the second axis Y is defined as the third axis Z. Of the two directions along the first axis X, the direction toward the pressure sensor 12 as viewed from the handle 11 is defined as the first positive direction X1, and the opposite direction of the first positive direction X1 is defined as the first negative direction X2. Of the two directions along the second axis Y, one is defined as the second positive direction Y1, and the opposite direction of the second positive direction Y1 is defined as the second negative direction Y2. Of the two directions along the third axis Z, the direction toward the display 14 as viewed from the center of gravity of the handle 11 is defined as a third positive direction Z1, and the opposite direction to the third positive direction Z1 is defined as a third negative direction Z2.

[0017] As shown in FIG. 2, the pressure sensor 12 includes a pair of plate materials 12A, a first resin material 12B, and a pair of second resin materials 12C. The pair of plate materials 12A is made of a conductive metal. Each plate material 12A has a rectangular shape when viewed from a direction along the third axis Z. The main surfaces of the pair of plate materials 12A face each other. The main surfaces of each plate material 12A are perpendicular to the third axis Z. The pair of plate materials 12A are connected to wiring (not shown). The pair of plate materials 12A function as electrodes of a capacitor.

[0018] The first resin material 12B is located between the main surfaces of the pair of plate materials 12A. That is, the first resin material 12B fills the gap between the pair of plate materials 12A. The first resin material 12B is a plate material. In a plan view, the first resin material 12B has the same rectangular shape as the main surfaces of the plate material 12A. When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the main surfaces of the plate material 12A, the first resin material 12B overlaps the plate material 12A without protruding therefrom.

[0019] The second resin material 12C is located on the opposite side of the plate material 12A to the first resin material 12B. One second resin material 12C exists for each plate material 12A. That is, one second resin material 12C is located on the opposite side of the main surface of one plate material 12A. The other second resin material 12C is located on the opposite side of the main surface of the other plate material 12A. That is, the pair of second resin materials 12C sandwich the pair of plate materials 12A. Each second resin material 12C is substantially rectangular. When viewed in a plan view from a direction along the third axis Z, each side of the second resin material 12C is parallel to the first axis X or the second axis Y.

[0020] In this embodiment, the pressure sensor 12 detects pressure in a direction perpendicular to the main surfaces of the pair of plate materials 12 A. That is, the third axis Z is a pressure detection axis along the direction of pressure detected by the pressure sensor 12.

[0021] <About the guide surface> 2, the pressure sensor 12 has a plurality of protrusions 120 protruding from the outer surface of each of the second resin materials 12C. The protrusions 120 protrude from an outer surface of the second resin material 12C that is perpendicular to the third axis Z. That is, the protrusions 120 protrude from the outer surface of the second resin material 12C on the third positive direction Z1 side on the third positive direction Z1 side. The protrusions 120 also protrude from the outer surface of the second resin material 12C on the third negative direction Z2 side on the third negative direction Z2 side.

[0022] Two protrusions 120 are present for each second resin material 12C. Each protrusion 120 extends parallel to the first axis X. One protrusion 120 extends over the entire edge of the second resin material 12C on the second positive direction Y1 side. The other protrusion 120 extends over the entire edge of the second resin material 12C on the second negative direction Y2 side. These two protrusions 120 are separated in the direction along the second axis Y. Therefore, the area between the two protrusions 120 of the outer surface of the second resin material 12C perpendicular to the third axis Z is exposed. This exposed surface is the pressure-receiving surface 12D of the pressure sensor 12 that receives pressure from contact objects such as teeth and gums when measuring the bite force.

[0023] The shape of the protrusions 120 is a rectangular parallelepiped. As described above, the area sandwiched between the two protrusions 120 is the pressure receiving surface 12D. Therefore, the pressure sensor 12 has a pair of guide surfaces 121 rising from the outer edge of each pressure receiving surface 12D. The guide surfaces 121 are located on both sides of each pressure receiving surface 12D in the direction along the second axis Y.

[0024] The guide surface 121 extends parallel to the first axis X, reflecting the extending direction of the protrusion 120. The guide surface 121 exists over the entire area of ​​the pressure receiving surface 12D in the direction along the first axis X. The angle between the guide surface 121 and the pressure receiving surface 12D is a right angle. That is, the guide surface 121 is a surface parallel to the third axis Z. When viewed from the direction along the first axis X, the pair of guide surfaces 121 and the pressure receiving surface 12D are recessed with the pressure receiving surface 12D as the bottom surface. In this embodiment, the two protrusions 120 and the second resin material 12C are made of the same material. The two protrusions 120 and the second resin material 12C may be integrally molded.

[0025] The pressure receiving surfaces 12D of the two second resin materials 12C are opposite to each other in the direction along the third axis Z. The pressure receiving surfaces 12D of the two second resin materials 12C are parallel to each other. The distance LM in the direction along the third axis Z between the pressure receiving surface 12D located in the third positive direction Z1 and the pressure receiving surface 12D opposite to the pressure receiving surface 12D is 13 mm or more, for example 20 mm.

[0026] <Operation of the First Embodiment> When measuring occlusal force with the occlusal force meter 10, the handle 11 is held so that the display 14 faces upward. Then, as shown in Fig. 3, a part of the occlusal force meter 10 on the first positive direction X1 side where the pressure sensor 12 is attached is inserted into the oral cavity. For example, when measuring the occlusal force on the right side of the subject, the occlusal force meter 10 is inserted so that the pressure sensor 12 is located near the back tooth on the right side of the subject.

[0027] Next, the position of the bite force meter 10 is adjusted so that the tooth fits inside the recess defined by the pair of guide surfaces 121 and one pressure receiving surface 12D. At this time, the position of the bite force meter 10 is adjusted so that one or both of the pair of guide surfaces 121 contact the side of the tooth fitted inside the recess.

[0028] In the above state, when the subject bites his / her teeth and applies pressure to the pair of pressure-receiving surfaces 12D, the first resin material 12B of the pressure sensor 12 receives the force and deforms. The deformation of the first resin material 12B changes the capacitance between the pair of plate materials 12A. The occlusal force meter 10 detects the change in capacitance of the pressure sensor 12 as a change in pressure. The display 14 then displays the detected pressure as an occlusal force.

[0029] In the above description, the subject has upper and lower teeth, but there are cases where the subject is missing one or both of the upper and lower teeth. In such cases, the pressure sensor 12 is bitten between the gums and teeth, or between the upper and lower gums.

[0030] <Advantages of the First Embodiment> (1-1) In the above embodiment, the pressure sensor 12 has a guide surface 121 rising from the outer edge of the pressure receiving surface 12D. By bringing this guide surface 121 into contact with a contact object such as the side of a tooth, the pressure receiving surface 12D can be easily positioned in the oral cavity. The contact of the guide surface 121 with the side of a tooth can be determined by the sense of touch in the oral cavity or the sense of touch of the fingers holding the bite force meter 10. Therefore, it is easy to position the pressure receiving surface 12D at a specific location in the oral cavity without visually inspecting the oral cavity.

[0031] (1-2) In the above embodiment, the pair of guide surfaces 121 and the single pressure receiving surface 12D are recessed with the pressure receiving surface 12D as the bottom surface. With this configuration, the teeth can be sandwiched between three surfaces, the pair of guide surfaces 121 and the single pressure receiving surface 12D, so that the pressure sensor 12 is less likely to shift position after being positioned by the guide surfaces 121.

[0032] (1-3) In the above embodiment, the guide surface 121 is a surface parallel to the first axis X. Therefore, when the bite force meter 10 is inserted into the oral cavity approximately parallel to the row of molars, the tip of the projection 120 is unlikely to interfere with the molars. In addition, the pressure sensor 12 can be moved along the row of teeth while the guide surface 121 is in contact with the side of the teeth.

[0033] (1-4) If the subject is an edentulous person who is missing both upper and lower teeth, the pressure sensor 12 is to be bitten by the upper and lower gums. Here, a plurality of test examples in which the distance LM of the pair of pressure receiving surfaces 12D in the pressure sensor 12 is different were prepared. Specifically, five types of test examples were prepared as the distance LM of the pair of pressure receiving surfaces 12D: 5 mm, 10 mm, 13 mm, 16 mm, and 20 mm. Then, a sensory test was conducted on these five types of test examples to determine whether or not the edentulous person was easy to bite, specifically, a test was conducted in which the edentulous person was asked to select which test example was the easiest to bite among the five types of test examples.

[0034] As a result, the percentage of people who were rated as "easiest to bite" among the five types of test examples was 0% for 5 mm, 0% for 10 mm, about 33% for 13 mm, about 25% for 16 mm, and about 41% for 20 mm. From these results, it was found that for edentulous people, it is difficult to bite when the distance LM of the pair of pressure-receiving surfaces 12D is 10 mm or less, and it is somewhat easy to bite when it exceeds at least 13 mm. In the above embodiment, since the distance LM of the pair of pressure-receiving surfaces 12D is secured to be 13 mm or more, it is expected that even edentulous people can bite easily and accurately measure the bite force.

[0035] <Second embodiment> The second embodiment of the bite force meter will be described below. In addition, the drawings may show components enlarged to facilitate understanding. The dimensional ratios of the components may differ from the actual ones or from those in other drawings. In addition, the description of the same configuration as the first embodiment may be simplified or omitted.

[0036] <Overall configuration of the bite force meter according to the second embodiment> As shown in Fig. 4, the bite force meter 10 includes a handle 11, a pressure sensor 12, an arm 13, and a display 14. The bite force meter 10 is rod-shaped as a whole. The handle 11 constitutes approximately half of the bite force meter 10 on one side in the longitudinal direction.

[0037] The arm 13 extends from the other end face in the longitudinal direction of the handle 11. The arm 13 is rod-shaped as a whole. The arm 13 includes a first arm member 13A, a second arm member 13B, and a third arm member 13C.

[0038] The first arm member 13A has a flattened rectangular column shape. The first arm member 13A extends in the same direction as the longitudinal direction of the handle 11. The first arm member 13A extends from the end face on the other side of the longitudinal direction of the handle 11. The first arm member 13A is thinner than the handle 11.

[0039] The second arm material 13B is generally rod-shaped. The second arm material 13B extends in the same direction as the longitudinal direction of the handle 11. The second arm material 13B extends from the end face on the other side of the longitudinal direction of the first arm material 13A. The second arm material 13B is thinner than the first arm material 13A.

[0040] The third arm material 13C is connected to the other end face of the second arm material 13B in the longitudinal direction. The third arm material 13C is substantially rectangular. The dimension of the third arm material 13C in the direction along the second axis Y is slightly larger than the dimension of the second arm material 13B in the direction along the second axis Y. Furthermore, the dimension of the third arm material 13C in the direction along the third axis Z is slightly larger than the dimension of the second arm material 13B in the direction along the third axis Z. The third arm material 13C covers the entire end face of the second arm material 13B. The material of the third arm material 13C is softer than the material of the second arm material 13B.

[0041] The pressure sensor 12 is connected to a surface of the second arm member 13B on the second positive direction Y1 side. That is, the pressure sensor 12 protrudes from the second arm member 13B in the second positive direction Y1. The pressure sensor 12 is located on the third arm member 13C side relative to the center of the second arm member 13B in the longitudinal direction of the second arm member 13B.

[0042] Here, the axis extending from the connection point between the handle 11 and the first arm member 13A to the connection point between the second arm member 13B and the pressure sensor 12 is defined as the first axis X. In this embodiment, the first axis X is an axis parallel to the longitudinal direction of the handle 11 and the arm 13. The second axis Y and the third axis Z are similar to those in the first embodiment. The first positive direction X1, the first negative direction X2, the second positive direction Y1, the second negative direction Y2, the third positive direction Z1, and the third negative direction Z2 are also similar to those in the first embodiment.

[0043] The pressure sensor 12 is substantially rectangular. When viewed from a plan view along the third axis Z, each side of the second resin material 12C is parallel to the first axis X or the second axis Y. Although not shown in FIG. 4, the pressure sensor 12 includes a pair of plate materials 12A, a first resin material 12B, and a pair of second resin materials 12C, similar to the first embodiment. However, the pressure sensor 12 of the second embodiment does not have a configuration corresponding to the protrusion 120 of the first embodiment. Therefore, the entire two outer surfaces of each second resin material 12C that are perpendicular to the third axis Z are pressure-receiving surfaces 12D.

[0044] The pressure receiving surfaces 12D of the two second resin materials 12C are opposite to each other in the direction along the third axis Z. The pressure receiving surfaces 12D of the two second resin materials 12C are parallel to each other. The distance LM in the direction along the third axis Z between the pressure receiving surface 12D located in the third positive direction Z1 and the pressure receiving surface 12D opposite to the pressure receiving surface 12D is 13 mm or more, for example 20 mm.

[0045] <Guide surface and contact sensor> 4, the end of the third arm member 13C on the first positive direction X1 side, i.e., the end opposite the connection point of the arm 13 with the handle 11, is a guide surface 121. The guide surface 121 is exposed to the outside. The guide surface 121 is a plane perpendicular to the first axis X and parallel to the third axis Z.

[0046] The occlusal force meter 10 includes a contact sensor 70. In this embodiment, the contact sensor 70 is a pressure sensor that detects contact of an object by a change in pressure. Therefore, the sensitivity of the contact sensor 70 is higher than that of the pressure sensor 12. On the other hand, the pressure that the contact sensor 70 can measure is lower than the pressure that the pressure sensor 12 can measure. The contact sensor 70 includes a measurement surface 71 that detects contact of an object. The measurement surface 71 is located within the above-mentioned guide surface 121. In this embodiment, the entire guide surface 121 functions as the measurement surface 71.

[0047] The occlusal force meter 10 also includes an indicator lamp 72. The indicator lamp 72 is exposed from the outer surface of the handle 11. The indicator lamp 72 turns on when the contact sensor 70 detects contact between the measurement surface 71 and an object. That is, the indicator lamp 72 is an alarm that issues an alarm by light on the condition that the contact sensor 70 detects contact with an object. In this embodiment, the pressure sensor 12 starts measuring the occlusal force on the condition that the contact sensor 70 detects contact with an object.

[0048] <Operation of the Second Embodiment> When measuring the bite force with the bite force meter 10, the handle 11 is held so that the display 14 is on the upper side. Then, as shown in FIG. 5, a part of the bite force meter 10 on the first positive direction X1 side where the guide surface 121 is located is inserted into the oral cavity. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, when measuring the bite force on the right side of the person to be measured, the bite force meter 10 is inserted into the oral cavity so that the pressure sensor 12 is located between the upper and lower molars on the right side of the person to be measured. At this time, the bite force meter 10 is inserted so that the pressure receiving surface 12D of the pressure sensor 12 is along the occlusal surface of the teeth on the right side of the person to be measured. Here, the pressure sensor 12 protrudes from the second arm member 13B in the second positive direction Y1. Therefore, when the pressure sensor 12 is placed between the upper and lower molars, a part of the second arm member 13B and the third arm member 13C are located between the right teeth and the inner surface of the cheek of the person to be measured.

[0049] When the occlusal force meter 10 is gradually inserted deeper into the subject's mouth, the guide surface 121 comes into contact with the wall surface at the back of the subject's mouth. That is, the measurement surface 71 of the contact sensor 70 comes into contact with the wall surface at the back of the mouth. The pressure sensor 12 is located on the side closer to the end of the first positive direction X1 of the second arm member 13B. Therefore, when the guide surface 121 comes into contact with the wall at the back of the subject's mouth, the pressure sensor 12 is located near the back teeth of the subject.

[0050] When the measurement surface 71 comes into contact with the back wall of the subject's mouth, the indicator lamp 72 lights up. When the measurement surface 71 comes into contact with the back wall of the subject's mouth, the pressure sensor 12 starts detecting the pressure on the pressure-receiving surface 12D. In the above state, the subject bites his or her teeth and applies pressure to the pressure-receiving surface 12D, causing the pressure sensor 12 to detect the pressure. The display 14 then displays the detected pressure as occlusal force.

[0051] <Effects of the second embodiment> Next, the effects of the second embodiment will be described. The occlusal force meter 10 of the second embodiment has the following effects in addition to the effects (1-4) of the first embodiment.

[0052] (2-1) In the above embodiment, the end of the arm 13 opposite to the connection point with the handle 11 is the guide surface 121 that is exposed parallel to the third axis Z. By bringing this guide surface 121 into contact with a contact object such as the back wall of the mouth, the pressure receiving surface 12D can be easily positioned within the oral cavity. Furthermore, the contact of the guide surface 121 with the back of the mouth can be determined by the sense of touch within the oral cavity, the sense of touch of the fingers holding the bite force meter 10, or the like. Therefore, it is easy to position the pressure receiving surface 12D at a specific location within the oral cavity without visually inspecting the oral cavity.

[0053] (2-2) In the above embodiment, the measurement surface 71 of the contact sensor 70 is located within the guide surface 121. Therefore, the contact sensor 70 can detect that the guide surface 121 has come into contact with the contact object, in other words, that the guide surface 121 has correctly positioned the pressure-receiving surface 12D.

[0054] (2-3) In the above embodiment, the indicator lamp 72 is turned on on the condition that contact with an object is detected by the contact sensor 70. Therefore, when measuring the bite force, the measurer can know that the pressure-receiving surface 12D is placed in an appropriate position by checking the indicator lamp 72.

[0055] (2-4) In the above embodiment, the pressure sensor 12 starts measuring the bite force on the condition that contact with an object is detected by the contact sensor 70. Therefore, it is difficult to cause a situation in which the bite force is unintentionally measured even if the positioning of the pressure-receiving surface 12D by the guide surface 121 is incomplete.

[0056] (2-5) In the above embodiment, the guide surface 121 is the end surface of the third arm member 13C on the first positive direction X1 side. The dimensions of the third arm member 13C in the directions along the third axis Z and the second axis Y are slightly larger than the respective dimensions of the second arm member 13B. In addition, the material of the third arm member 13C is softer than the material of the second arm member 13B. Therefore, when the guide surface 121 of the third arm member 13C comes into contact with the back wall of the mouth of the person to be measured, it is less likely to damage the inside of the oral cavity than if the end surface of the second arm member 13B were the guide surface.

[0057] <Third embodiment> The third embodiment of the occlusal force meter will be described below. The structure of the occlusal force meter 10 of the third embodiment is substantially the same as that of the occlusal force meter of the first embodiment, but the electrical configuration is different. Therefore, the electrical configuration of the third embodiment will be mainly described below.

[0058] <Electrical configuration of the bite force meter according to the third embodiment> As shown in Fig. 6, the bite force meter 10 includes a control device 100, a pressure sensor 12, a display 14, a communication device 80, and a plurality of operation buttons 90. Although not shown in Fig. 6, the control device 100 is built into the handle 11. The pressure sensor 12 and the display 14 are the same as those described in the first embodiment. The control device 100, the pressure sensor 12, the display 14, the communication device 80, and the plurality of operation buttons 90 are capable of communicating with each other via wiring, cables, etc.

[0059] The control device 100 includes an arithmetic unit 101, a peripheral circuit 102, a storage unit 103, and an internal bus 104. The arithmetic unit 101, the peripheral circuit 102, and the storage unit 103 are capable of communicating with each other via the internal bus 104.

[0060] The arithmetic device 101 executes a predetermined program to control pressure detection by the pressure sensor 12 and display content on the display 14. The arithmetic device 101 also executes a predetermined program to control storage of data in the storage unit 103 and transmission and reception of data by the communication device 80.

[0061] The peripheral circuit 102 includes a power supply circuit for driving the arithmetic unit 101 and the communication device 80, and a clock circuit for measuring time. One example of the clock circuit is an oscillation circuit that uses a quartz crystal oscillator.

[0062] The storage unit 103 stores various programs executed by the arithmetic unit 101. The storage unit 103 stores ID data for identifying each individual occlusal force meter 10. The storage unit 103 stores data on the value of pressure detected by the pressure sensor 12 as first data based on a command from the arithmetic unit 101. The storage unit 103 also stores second data on the time when the first data was acquired in association with the first data. The storage unit 103 stores medical data on the subject's body received by the communication device 80 in association with the first data and the second data.

[0063] The communication device 80 is capable of wireless communication with an external device. Although not shown in Fig. 6, the communication device 80 is built into the handle 11. Based on a command from the arithmetic device 101, the communication device 80 transmits the first data, the second data, and the ID data stored in the storage unit 103 to a destination device. The communication device 80 receives medical data of the subject corresponding to the transmitted ID data from the destination device.

[0064] The operation button 90 is a button for operating the occlusal force meter 10. Examples of the operation button 90 include a power button for turning on the occlusal force meter 10, a start button for starting measurement of occlusal force, and a switching button for switching information displayed on the display 14. Note that one operation button 90 may have multiple functions.

[0065] The control device 100 is capable of wireless communication with a server 200 serving as an external device. The server 200 includes a control device 210 and a communication device 220. The control device 210 and the communication device 220 are capable of communicating with each other via wiring, cables, or the like.

[0066] The control device 210 includes an arithmetic unit 211, a peripheral circuit 212, a storage unit 213, and an internal bus. The arithmetic unit 211, the peripheral circuit 212, and the storage unit 213 are capable of communicating with each other via the internal bus.

[0067] The arithmetic unit 211 executes a predetermined program to control storage of data in the memory unit 213 and transmission and reception of data by the communication device 220. The peripheral circuit 212 includes a power supply circuit for driving the arithmetic unit 211 and the communication device 220, and a clock circuit for measuring time.

[0068] The storage unit 213 stores medical data for each subject. Examples of the medical data include age, sex, height, weight, whether the subject is edentulous or not, and past results of occlusal force measurements. The medical data stored in the storage unit 213 may be data input by an administrator, or data measured by a measuring device other than the occlusal force meter 10 and transmitted to the server 200. The server 200 also stores the medical data in association with ID data.

[0069] The above-mentioned control device 100 and control device 210 may be configured as a circuit including one or more processors that execute various processes according to a computer program (software). The control device 100 and control device 210 may also be configured as a circuit including one or more dedicated hardware circuits, such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), that execute at least a part of the various processes, or a combination thereof. The processor includes a CPU and memories such as RAM and ROM. The memory stores program codes or instructions that are configured to cause the CPU to execute processes. The memory, i.e., computer-readable medium, includes any available medium that can be accessed by a general-purpose or dedicated computer.

[0070] <Regarding the bite force measurement process of the bite force meter of the third embodiment> The bite force measuring process in the bite force meter 10 of the third embodiment will be described. When the operator operates the operation button 90, the control device 100 starts the occlusal force measurement process. At this time, the control device 100 acquires the time when the operation button 90 is operated as the measurement start time. This measurement start time includes the year, month, and day. The control device 100 also stores the acquired measurement start time in the memory unit 103. The measurement start time is an example of second data.

[0071] When the control device 100 starts the occlusal force measurement process, it acquires the pressure detected by the pressure sensor 12. The control device 100 acquires the pressure at a predetermined control cycle until a predetermined fixed period has elapsed since the start of the occlusal force measurement process. The fixed period is, for example, several seconds. The control device 100 calculates the average and maximum values ​​of the pressure values ​​acquired during the fixed period. The control device 100 also stores the calculated average and maximum values ​​in the memory unit 103 in association with the measurement start time stored in the memory unit 103 at the start of the occlusal force measurement process. The average and maximum pressure values ​​are an example of first data.

[0072] The control device 100 instructs the display 14 to display the first data stored in the storage unit 103 on the display 14. At this time, the control device 100 may instruct the display 14 to display second data associated with the first data together with the first data.

[0073] In parallel with the command to the display 14, the control device 100 commands the communication device 80 to transmit the first data, the second data, and the ID data stored in the storage unit 103 to the server 200. Then, the communication device 80 transmits the first data, the second data, and the ID data stored in the storage unit 103 to the server 200 in association with each other.

[0074] The server 200 receives the data by the communication device 220. The control device 210 stores the first data and the second data corresponding to the received ID data in the storage unit 213. The server 200 also stores the received first data and the second data in association with the medical data corresponding to the received ID data.

[0075] The server 200 instructs the communication device 220 to transmit the medical data corresponding to the ID data to the occlusal force meter 10. Then, the communication device 220 transmits the medical data to the occlusal force meter 10.

[0076] The control device 100 of the occlusal force meter 10 receives the medical data via the communication device 80. The medical data is data associated with the first data and the second data by the server 200. The control device 100 stores the received medical data in the memory unit 103. The control device 100 displays the medical data on the display 14. For example, the control device 100 displays the results of past occlusal force measurements, as well as the height and weight of the person being measured on the display 14.

[0077] <Effects of the third embodiment> Next, the effects of the third embodiment will be described. The occlusal force meter 10 of the third embodiment has the following effects in addition to the effects of the first embodiment.

[0078] (3-1) In the above embodiment, the control device 100 stores the first data related to the pressure value and the second data related to the time when the first data was acquired in association with each other. For example, if the control device 100 stores the maximum pressure value in a measurement in association with the date of the measurement, it is possible to confirm the occlusal force of the person being measured according to the time of the measurement.

[0079] (3-2) In the above embodiment, the control device 100 has a communication device 80 capable of wirelessly communicating with the server 200. The communication device 80 can transmit the first data and the second data to the server 200. This allows the server 200 to collectively manage multiple data, such as the first data and the second data for a certain period in the past, and the first data and the second data for multiple subjects.

[0080] (3-3) In the above embodiment, the communication device 80 can receive medical data related to the subject's body from the server 200. The storage unit 103 of the control device 100 stores the received first data, second data, and medical data in association with one another. This allows the user to check not only the measured occlusal force, but also related medical data of the subject on the display 14, such as the results of past occlusal force measurements, height, weight, and other data that cannot be measured by the occlusal force meter 10.

[0081] <Example of change> The above embodiment can be modified as follows: The above embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other to the extent that no technical contradiction occurs.

[0082] In the above embodiment, the pressure sensor 12 may include a sensor body that measures pressure and a bag-shaped cover that covers the sensor body. When the pressure sensor 12 has a cover, the cover may cover the pressure receiving surface 12D and the guide surface 121 of the pressure sensor 12. Even in this case, if the cover has flexibility, the cover can deform to follow the shapes of the pressure receiving surface 12D and the guide surface 121.

[0083] In an example in which the pressure sensor 12 has a cover, the cover may have a pressure receiving surface 12D and a guide surface 121. For example, in the example shown in Fig. 7, the pressure sensor 12 of the bite force meter 10 includes a pair of plate materials 12A, a first resin material 12B, and a pair of second resin materials 12C, similar to the above embodiment. These plate materials 12A, first resin material 12B, and second resin material 12C constitute a sensor body 20 that measures pressure. The sensor body 20 is substantially rectangular parallelepiped in shape.

[0084] The pressure sensor 12 also includes a cover 40 that covers the sensor body 20. The cover 40 covers the entire sensor body 20. The cover 40 includes a bag-shaped cover material 50, two elastic bodies 60 joined to the outer surface of the cover material 50, and four protrusions 120.

[0085] The cover material 50 has a generally rectangular shape that is elongated in the direction along the first axis X when viewed from the direction along the third axis Z. The cover material 50 is open on the first negative direction X2 side and closed on the first positive direction X1 side, the second positive direction Y1 side, and the second negative direction Y2 side. The cover material 50 covers the sensor body 20 as well as substantially the entire arm 13.

[0086] One elastic body 60 is bonded to the outer surface of the cover material 50 on the third positive direction Z1 side. The other elastic body 60 is bonded to the outer surface of the cover material 50 on the third negative direction Z2 side. The elastic body 60 is a plate material. The elastic body 60 has a rectangular shape when viewed from the direction along the third axis Z. When viewed from the direction along the third axis Z, each side of the elastic body 60 is parallel to the first axis X or the second axis Y. The two elastic bodies 60 are located at symmetrical positions across the cover material 50.

[0087] The cover 40 has a plurality of protrusions 120 protruding from the outer surface of the elastic body 60. The protrusions 120 protrude from the outer surface of the elastic body 60 on the third positive direction Z1 side on the third positive direction Z1 side. The protrusions 120 also protrude from the outer surface of the elastic body 60 on the third negative direction Z2 side on the third negative direction Z2 side.

[0088] There are two protrusions 120 for each elastic body 60. Each protrusion 120 extends parallel to the first axis X. One protrusion 120 extends over the entire edge of the elastic body 60 on the second positive direction Y1 side. The other protrusion 120 extends over the entire edge of the elastic body 60 on the second negative direction Y2 side. These two protrusions 120 are separated in the direction along the second axis Y. Therefore, the area between the two protrusions 120 on the outer surface of the elastic body 60 perpendicular to the third axis Z is exposed. This exposed surface is the pressure-receiving surface 12D of the pressure sensor 12 that receives pressure from contact objects such as teeth and gums when measuring the bite force.

[0089] The shape of the protrusion 120 is a rectangular parallelepiped. As described above, the area sandwiched between the two protrusions 120 is the pressure receiving surface 12D. Therefore, the pressure sensor 12 has a pair of guide surfaces 121 rising from the outer edge of each pressure receiving surface 12D. That is, the cover 40 has the pressure receiving surface 12D and the guide surface 121. The guide surfaces 121 are located on both sides of each pressure receiving surface 12D in the direction along the second axis Y. The material of the protrusion 120 is the same as that of the elastic body 60, and the protrusion 120 may be, for example, an integrally molded product with the elastic body 60.

[0090] In the example shown in FIG. 7, the cover 40 is provided, so that the pressure-receiving surface 12D can be kept always sanitary by replacing or cleaning the cover 40 every time a measurement is performed.

[0091] 7, the cover material 50 needs to cover at least the sensor body 20. In other words, a part or the whole of the arm 13 may be exposed from the cover 40.

[0092] 7, the elastic body 60 may be omitted, and the protrusion 120 may protrude from the cover material 50. In this case, the protrusion 120 may be integrally molded with the cover material 50. As described above, as long as the cover 40 has the pressure-receiving surface 12D and the guide surface 121, the configuration of the cover 40 is not limited to the example shown in FIG.

[0093] In the above embodiment, the pressure sensor 12 may have a variable mechanism that can change the dimension of the third axis Z. As in the example of the pressure sensor 12 of the bite force meter 10 shown in Fig. 8, the variable mechanism may be a balloon 12E that has a cavity therein and allows fluid to be introduced into and removed from the cavity.

[0094] 8, the pressure sensor 12 includes a pair of plate materials 12A, a first resin material 12B, and a second resin material 12C. As in the first embodiment, the second resin material 12C includes a pair of protrusions 120 on the outer surface on the third positive direction Z1 side. As in the first embodiment, the area sandwiched between the two protrusions 120 is the pressure-receiving surface 12D.

[0095] A balloon 12E is attached to the surface of the second resin material 12C facing the third negative direction Z2. The balloon 12E is made of an elastic resin material that is stretchable. The surface of the balloon 12E facing the third negative direction Z2 is a pressure-receiving surface 12D that receives pressure from a contact object when measuring the bite force.

[0096] The balloon 12E has a hollow inside. In this embodiment, the hollow is filled with oil as a fluid. The balloon 12E also has a through hole penetrating the inside and outside of the balloon 12E. Note that the through hole is not shown in FIG. 8. By inserting a tube or the like into the through hole, oil can be introduced into and removed from the hollow of the balloon 12E. Note that when it is not necessary to insert a tube, such as when measuring the bite force, the through hole is plugged. By introducing and removing oil into and from the balloon 12E, the balloon 12E expands and contracts, and the maximum distance LM in the direction along the third axis Z between the pressure receiving surface 12D facing the third positive direction Z1 and the pressure receiving surface 12D on the opposite side can be changed.

[0097] In the example of the pressure sensor 12 shown in Fig. 8, the distance LM can be freely changed to a distance that the subject feels comfortable biting by adding or removing oil. In this case, by setting the distance LM to an appropriate distance for the subject, it is possible to prevent the bite force from being measured in an unstable state.

[0098] 8, the object filled in the cavity of the balloon 12E does not have to be oil as long as it is a fluid. For example, the inside of the balloon 12E may be filled with a gas. In the example shown in Fig. 8 above, as long as the balloon 12E is in a position where it receives pressure from a contact object during measurement of the bite force, the arrangement of the balloon 12E is not limited to the example in Fig. 8. For example, the balloon 12E may be located inside the second resin material 12C.

[0099] For example, when the pressure sensor 12 having the balloon 12E of FIG. 8 is applied to the bite force meter 10 of the second embodiment, the protrusion 120 can be omitted. The variable mechanism does not have to be the balloon 12E. For example, a plurality of resin layers may be detachably bonded to the surface of the second resin material 12C facing the third axis Z. The layers of resin are also detachably bonded to each other. In this case, the maximum distance LM can be changed by attaching and detaching the layers of resin.

[0100] In the second embodiment, the direction in which the pressure sensor 12 protrudes from the arm 13 may be either the second positive direction Y1 or the second negative direction Y2, and these directions may be switchable.

[0101] Specifically, in the example shown in FIG. 9, the first arm member 13A of the arm 13 is connected to the handle 11 via the shaft S. The shaft S is parallel to the direction along the first axis X. The first arm member 13A can rotate 180 degrees around the central axis of the shaft S. Therefore, the entire arm 13 can rotate with respect to the handle 11. In this example, a state in which the pressure sensor 12 protrudes from the arm 13 in the second positive direction Y1 is defined as a first state. From this first state, the arm 13 is rotated 180 degrees with respect to the handle 11 as shown by the dashed arrow P in FIG. 9. At this time, in accordance with the rotation of the arm 13, the pressure sensor 12 moves toward the third positive direction Z1 and then displaces toward the second negative direction Y2. As a result, the pressure sensor 12 switches to a second state in which the pressure sensor 12 protrudes from the arm 13 in the second negative direction Y2. That is, in the example shown in FIG. 9, by rotating the arm 13, the occlusal force meter 10 can be switched between a first state and a second state.

[0102] For example, if the occlusal force of the subject's left side is measured in the first state, the surface of the handle 11 having the display 14 faces the third negative direction Z2. In this state, it is difficult to check the occlusal force displayed on the display 14. On the other hand, if the occlusal force of the subject's left side is measured in the second state, the surface of the handle 11 having the display 14 faces the third positive direction Z1. In this state, it is easy to check the occlusal force displayed on the display 14. In other words, whether the subject's teeth are to be measured on the left or right side, the occlusal force can be measured while checking the display 14 by switching between the first state and the second state.

[0103] 9, the rotational position of the arm 13 relative to the handle 11 may be appropriately adjusted when measuring the bite force. For example, the bite force may be measured in an intermediate state between the first state and the second state.

[0104] 9, the arm 13 may be rotatable 360 ​​degrees. If the arm 13 is rotatable at least 180 degrees or more, it is possible to switch between the first state and the second state.

[0105] In the above embodiment, the shape of the pressure sensor 12 is not limited to the example of the above embodiment. For example, the pressure receiving surface 12D may be inclined with respect to the third axis Z, not perpendicular to the third axis Z. In the example shown in Fig. 10, the pressure sensor 12 includes a pair of plate materials 12A, a first resin material 12B, and a pair of second resin materials 12C, as in the above embodiment. These plate materials 12A, first resin material 12B, and second resin material 12C constitute a sensor body 20 that measures pressure.

[0106] 10, similarly to the first embodiment, one second resin material 12C is provided with two protrusions 120. Each protrusion 120 is a quadrangular prism. The two protrusions 120 are spaced apart in the direction along the second axis Y. Therefore, of the outer surface of the second resin material 12C intersecting with the third axis Z, the area sandwiched between the two protrusions 120 is exposed. This exposed surface is the pressure-receiving surface 12D of the pressure sensor 12 that receives pressure from contact objects such as teeth and gums when measuring the occlusal force.

[0107] 10, the surface opposite to the pressure-receiving surface 12D facing the third positive direction Z1 in the direction along the third axis Z is defined as the opposite surface 12DD. Note that the opposite surface 12DD is also a pressure-receiving surface that receives pressure from a contact object when measuring the occlusal force.

[0108] The closer the pressure receiving surface 12D is to the handle 11 in the direction along the first axis X, i.e., toward the first negative direction X2, the greater the distance from the opposite surface 12DD. In other words, the pressure receiving surface 12D is inclined with respect to the opposite surface 12DD. Note that, in the example shown in FIG. 10, the opposite surface 12DD is also inclined with respect to the third axis Z in the same manner as the inclination of the pressure receiving surface 12D. That is, in the example shown in FIG. 10, the pressure receiving surface 12D and the opposite surface 12DD are inclined with respect to a plane including both the first axis X and the second axis Y. Also, the inclination angles of the pressure receiving surface 12D and the opposite surface 12DD with respect to the third axis Z are the same.

[0109] 10, the surface of the protrusion 120 facing the third axis Z is also inclined, similar to the pressure receiving surface 12D. That is, the surface of the protrusion 120 on the third positive direction Z1 side that is located furthest in the third positive direction Z1 becomes farther away from the opposite surface 12DD as it approaches the handle 11 in the direction along the first axis X. As a result, the dimension along the third axis Z of the guide surface 121 rising from the outer edge of each pressure receiving surface 12D becomes longer as it approaches the handle 11 in the direction along the first axis X.

[0110] The subject's mouth opens in a fan shape with the temporomandibular joint as a fulcrum. Therefore, when the subject bites, it is easier to bite if the thickness of the object is smaller as it is closer to the temporomandibular joint. In the bite force meter 10 shown in FIG. 10, the closer to the handle 11 in the direction along the first axis X, i.e., toward the first negative direction X2, the greater the distance from the opposite surface 12DD. In other words, the dimension of the pair of pressure receiving surfaces 12D in the direction along the third axis Z becomes smaller as it is closer to the first positive direction X1.

[0111] In the modified example shown in FIG. 10, the distance between the pressure receiving surface 12D and the opposite surface 12DD becomes smaller toward the back of the oral cavity when the bite force meter 10 is used. When the subject opens his / her mouth, the vertical space in the oral cavity is generally smaller toward the back of the oral cavity. Therefore, when the bite force meter 10 is inserted into the oral cavity of the subject, the subject is likely to feel that it is easy to bite. In addition, since the dimensions of the pressure sensor 12 are designed according to the vertical space when the subject opens his / her mouth, the teeth are unlikely to shift from the pressure receiving surface 12D when the subject presses the teeth against the pressure receiving surface 12D along the guide surface 121.

[0112] The above-mentioned configuration regarding the inclination of the pressure receiving surface 12D may be applied to the second embodiment. For example, in the example shown in Fig. 11, the pressure sensor 12 includes a pair of plate materials 12A, a first resin material 12B, and a pair of second resin materials 12C, similar to the example shown in Fig. 10. However, the pressure sensor 12 in the example shown in Fig. 11 does not have a configuration corresponding to the protrusion 120 in the example shown in Fig. 10.

[0113] 11, the surface opposite to the pressure-receiving surface 12D facing the third positive direction Z1 in the direction along the third axis Z is defined as the opposite surface 12DD. Note that the opposite surface 12DD is also a pressure-receiving surface that receives pressure from a contact object when measuring the occlusal force.

[0114] 10, the pressure receiving surface 12D is spaced farther from the opposite surface 12DD as it approaches the handle 11 in the direction along the first axis X. That is, the pressure receiving surface 12D is inclined with respect to the opposite surface 12DD.

[0115] In the above embodiment, the configuration of the bite force meter 10 is not limited to the example of the above embodiment as long as it includes the handle 11, the pressure sensor 12, and the arm 13. For example, the bite force meter 10 may have a configuration other than the handle 11, the pressure sensor 12, the arm 13, and the display 14. Furthermore, the shapes of the handle 11, the pressure sensor 12, the arm 13, and the display 14 can also be changed as appropriate.

[0116] In the above embodiment, the configuration of the pressure sensor 12 is not limited to the example of the above embodiment. For example, the pressure sensor 12 may be of a diaphragm type that detects the pressure of the fluid by a pressure-sensitive element via a diaphragm, or a gauge type that uses a strain sensor.

[0117] In the first embodiment, the shape of the protrusion 120 is not limited to the example of the embodiment. As long as a part of the outer surface of the protrusion 120 is a surface rising from the pressure-receiving surface 12D, i.e., the guide surface 121, the shape of the protrusion 120 is not important.

[0118] The shapes of the pressure receiving surface 12D and the guide surface 121 are not limited to flat surfaces. For example, in the first embodiment, the shape of the depression formed by the pressure receiving surface 12D and the guide surface 121 may be a shape that matches the shape of the teeth of the person to be measured. In this case, there is a low possibility that the pressure receiving surface 12D will become misaligned in the oral cavity after being positioned by the guide surface 121. Also, in the second embodiment, the guide surface 121 may be a hemispherical surface that is convex outward.

[0119] In the first embodiment, the number of the protrusions 120 may be one or three or more. The arrangement of the protrusions 120 is not limited to the example of the first embodiment. For example, the protrusions 120 may not be provided on the edges of the second resin material 12C in the second positive direction Y1 and the second negative direction Y2, but may be located along the edge in the first positive direction X1. Even in this case, the pressure-receiving surface 12D can be positioned by hooking the inner side of the tooth or the like to be measured on the surface of the protrusion 120 facing the first negative direction X2. In this modification, the guide surface 121 is a surface that intersects with the first axis X.

[0120] In the first embodiment, the protrusion 120 may be made of a material different from the second resin material 12C. Also, a member including the protrusion 120 may be attached to the second resin material 12C. In other words, the pressure-receiving surface 12D does not have to be the outer surface of the second resin material 12C.

[0121] In the above embodiment, the pressure receiving surface 12D may be curved. For example, the central portion of the pressure receiving surface 12D located in the third positive direction Z1 may protrude in the third positive direction Z1. In this case, the above-mentioned distance LM is the maximum distance LM between the pressure receiving surface 12D located in the third positive direction Z1 and the pressure receiving surface 12D on the opposite side to the pressure receiving surface 12D.

[0122] In the above embodiment, the distance LM in the direction along the third axis Z between the pressure receiving surface 12D located in the third positive direction Z1 and the pressure receiving surface 12D opposite to the pressure receiving surface 12D may be smaller than 13 mm.

[0123] In the second embodiment, the position at which the pressure sensor 12 is attached to the arm 13 can be changed as appropriate. Depending on the overall length of the arm 13, the pressure sensor 12 may be attached closer to the handle 11 than the center of the second arm member 13B.

[0124] In the second embodiment, the pressure sensor 12 may start measuring the occlusal force without being required to detect contact of an object by the contact sensor 70. In other words, the pressure sensor 12 may be in a state where it always detects the pressure of the pressure-receiving surface 12D. In this case, an appropriate occlusal force can be measured by continuing measurement until the value displayed on the display 14 becomes stable.

[0125] In the second embodiment, the measurement surface 71 of the contact sensor 70 may be located outside the range of the guide surface 121. However, from the viewpoint of detecting that the guide surface 121 has come into contact with a specific location in the oral cavity by the contact sensor 70, it is preferable that the measurement surface 71 and the guide surface 121 are located as close as possible to each other.

[0126] In the second embodiment, the contact sensor 70 is not limited to a sensor that detects pressure. For example, the contact sensor 70 may be a sensor that detects the adhesion of moisture to the measurement surface 71. The contact sensor 70 may also be a sensor that detects the temperature of an object that the measurement surface 71 comes into contact with. In other words, the contact sensor 70 only needs to be able to detect that an object has come into contact with the measurement surface 71. In the second embodiment, the occlusal force meter 10 does not need to be equipped with the contact sensor 70.

[0127] In the second embodiment, it is sufficient to have an alarm that notifies by at least one of sound, vibration, and light. That is, in the above embodiment, the alarm is not limited to the indicator lamp 72. For example, the display 14 may function as an alarm that notifies by light. When the display 14 functions as an alarm, the screen of the display 14 may be changed or the screen may be lit up on the condition that the contact sensor 70 detects contact with an object. In addition, for example, the bite force meter 10 may have a speaker as an alarm. In that case, the speaker issues a sound to notify on the condition that the contact sensor 70 detects contact with an object. In addition, the bite force meter 10 may have a vibration motor as an alarm. In that case, the vibration motor rotates on the condition that the contact sensor 70 detects contact with an object, and notifies by vibration generated by the rotation.

[0128] The communication-related configuration of the third embodiment may be applied to the occlusal force meter 10 of the second embodiment. In the third embodiment, the first data can be changed as appropriate as long as it is data related to pressure, i.e., occlusal force. For example, the first data may be only either the average or maximum pressure. Also, the first data is not limited to the average and maximum pressure values, and may be all pressure values ​​acquired in a predetermined control cycle.

[0129] In the third embodiment, the second data can be changed as appropriate as long as it is data related to the time when the first data was acquired. For example, the second data may include the elapsed time from the measurement start time. In that case, the control device 100 can store the pressure value acquired by the pressure sensor 12 in association with each elapsed time. In such a configuration, for example, the control device 100 can store the occlusal force of the person being measured every second. Then, the control device 100 can display the occlusal force every second as a graph on the display 14. In this example, the change over time in the occlusal force of the person being measured can be displayed in the form of, for example, a bar graph or a line graph.

[0130] The second data may also include the end time of the measurement by the bite force meter 10 and the elapsed time from the start time of the measurement to the end time of the measurement. For example, the start time of the measurement can be the time when the pressure sensor 12 starts to detect the pressure, and the end time of the measurement can be the time when the pressure detected by the pressure sensor 12 becomes 0. With this configuration, it is possible to measure the time that the subject can continue biting.

[0131] In the third embodiment, the control device 100 may acquire other data in addition to the first data and the second data. The control device 100 may acquire environmental data. The environmental data is, for example, the outside temperature and humidity. The control device 100 may also apply the environmental data to the correction of the first data. The environmental data may be acquired from a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor provided in the occlusal force meter 10, or may be acquired from an external communication device by the communication device 80. With this configuration, it is possible to respond to characteristic changes in the circuits of the control device 100 and the pressure sensor 12 due to, for example, temperature and humidity.

[0132] In the third embodiment, the destination to which the communication device 80 transmits the first data, the second data, and the ID data is not limited to the server 200. For example, it may be a communication device such as a smartphone.

[0133] In the third embodiment, the bite force meter 10 does not have to include the communication device 80. Even in this case, the control device 100 can store the first data and the second data in association with each other. In the third embodiment, the control device 100 of the occlusal force meter 10 may acquire the second data from an external device such as the server 200. For example, when the operation button 90 is pressed, the communication device 80 transmits a request signal to the server 200, and the timing at which the server 200 receives the request signal is transmitted to the occlusal force meter 10 as the measurement start time. Then, the control device 100 acquires the measurement start time received from the server 200. [Explanation of symbols]

[0134] 10. Bite force gauge 11…Handle 12...Pressure sensor 12A…Plate material 12B…First resin material 12C…Second resin material 12D…Pressure surface 13…Arm 14…Display 120...Protrusion 121...Guide surface LM…Distance X... the first axis Y... the second axis Z... the third axis

Claims

1. a handle, an arm extending from the handle, and a pressure sensor attached to the arm; the pressure sensor has a pressure receiving surface that receives pressure from a contact object when measuring a bite force; When an axis along the direction of the pressure detected by the pressure sensor is defined as a pressure detection axis, an axis extending from the connection point between the handle and the arm to the connection point between the arm and the pressure sensor is defined as a first axis, and an axis perpendicular to both the pressure detection axis and the first axis is defined as a second axis, the pressure sensor protrudes from the arm in a direction along the second axis, The end of the arm opposite to the connection point with the handle is parallel or inclined to the pressure detection axis, is exposed, and is a guide surface that positions the pressure receiving surface in the oral cavity by contacting it with a specific point in the oral cavity. Bite force meter.

2. A contact sensor is provided to detect when an object comes into contact with the measurement surface. The measurement surface is located within the guide surface. The bite force meter according to claim 1.

3. An alarm is provided that issues an alarm by at least one of sound, vibration, and light, The alarm performs an alarm on condition that the contact of an object is detected by the contact sensor. The bite force meter according to claim 2.

4. The pressure sensor starts measuring the bite force on condition that the contact of an object is detected by the contact sensor. The bite force meter according to claim 2 or 3.

5. When an axis along the direction of the pressure detected by the pressure sensor is defined as a pressure detection axis, and a surface of the outer surface of the pressure sensor opposite to the pressure receiving surface in a direction along the pressure detection axis is defined as an opposite surface, The maximum distance between the pressure receiving surface and the opposite surface in the direction along the pressure detection axis is 13 mm or more. The bite force meter according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. When an axis along the direction of the pressure detected by the pressure sensor is defined as a pressure detection axis, an axis extending from the connection point between the handle and the arm to the connection point between the arm and the pressure sensor is defined as a first axis, and the surface of the outer surface of the pressure sensor that is opposite to the pressure receiving surface in the direction along the pressure detection axis is defined as an opposite surface, The pressure receiving surface is inclined with respect to the opposite surface such that the distance from the opposite surface increases as the pressure receiving surface approaches the handle in the direction along the first axis. The bite force meter according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. When an axis along the direction of pressure detected by the pressure sensor is defined as a pressure detection axis, The pressure sensor has a variable mechanism that can vary a dimension along the pressure detection axis. The bite force meter according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The variable mechanism is a balloon having a cavity therein and capable of feeding fluid into and out of the cavity. The bite force meter according to claim 7.

9. When an axis along the direction of pressure detected by the pressure sensor is defined as a pressure detection axis, an axis extending from the connection point between the handle and the arm to the connection point between the arm and the pressure sensor is defined as a first axis, an axis perpendicular to both the pressure detection axis and the first axis is defined as a second axis, and one of the directions along the second axis is defined as a positive direction and a direction opposite to the positive direction is defined as a negative direction, The pressure sensor is switchable between a first state in which the pressure sensor protrudes from the arm in the positive direction and a second state in which the pressure sensor protrudes from the arm in the negative direction. The bite force meter according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. A storage unit stores first data relating to a pressure value detected by the pressure sensor and second data relating to a time when the first data was acquired in association with each other. The bite force meter according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. A communication device capable of wirelessly communicating with an external device, The communication device is capable of transmitting the first data and the second data. The bite force meter according to claim 10.

12. the communication device is capable of receiving medical data relating to the body of the subject from an external device; The storage unit stores the first data, the second data, and the medical data in association with each other. The bite force meter according to claim 11.

Images