Orthodontic force measurement apparatus and orthodontic force measurement method

Abstract

An orthodontic force measurement apparatus, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, comprises: a tooth model including teeth; an orthodontic appliance fitted onto the tooth model to surround the teeth; a sensor connected to the tooth model; an adapter that connects the sensor to the teeth; and a controller connected to the sensor, wherein, when the orthodontic appliance applies a force / torque to the tooth model, the adapter may displace the sensor, the sensor may measure the force / torque on the basis of a change in capacitance according to the displacement, and the controller may convert the force / torque measured by the sensor into a force / torque for a point of interest in the teeth.

Description

Orthodontic force measuring device and orthodontic force measuring method

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a device for measuring orthodontic force and a method for measuring orthodontic force.

[0002] Orthodontics is a procedure that straightens crooked or protruding teeth and malocclusions by fixing them with braces. Because each person's teeth vary in size, shape, and alignment, photographs and X-rays of the face and teeth are taken before orthodontic treatment to ensure the right braces are created for each individual.

[0003] However, conventional orthodontic methods focus only on the condition of the teeth, such as size, shape, and arrangement, by manufacturing braces using images or photographs. This makes it difficult to predict the orthodontic force that the actual braces will exert on the teeth when fitted, and can lead to excessive force being applied to the patient's teeth or, conversely, insufficient force being applied. Furthermore, conventional techniques include methods for pre-measuring the orthodontic force on braces. However, since the orthodontic force applied to each tooth is individually measured, it is difficult to consider the orthodontic force applied to other teeth when measuring the braces to cover the entire tooth. Furthermore, conventional techniques using strain gauge sensors have the problem of increasing the size of the measuring device due to the size of the strain gauge, and the structure for connecting the strain gauge to the tooth model becomes complicated.

[0004] The above-described information disclosed in the background technology of this invention is only intended to improve understanding of the background of the present invention, and therefore may include information that does not constitute prior art.

[0005] The orthodontic force measuring device and the orthodontic force measuring method according to embodiments of the present disclosure can provide a orthodontic force measuring device that can accurately and simply measure the orthodontic force applied by the orthodontic device to a tooth model, including a force / torque sensor, and can reduce the size of the measuring device and simplify the connection structure between the tooth model and the force / torque sensor.

[0006] However, the technical problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the problems described above, and other problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention described below.

[0007] An orthodontic force measuring device according to embodiments of the present disclosure includes a tooth model including a tooth, a braces placed on the tooth model to surround the tooth, a sensor connected to the tooth model, an adapter connecting the sensor and the tooth, and a controller connected to the sensor, wherein when the braces apply a force / torque to the tooth model, the adapter displaces the sensor, the sensor measures the force / torque based on a change in electrostatic capacity according to the displacement, and the controller can convert the force / torque measured by the sensor into a force / torque for a point of interest of the tooth.

[0008] The sensor includes a lead connected to the adapter, a displacement unit, a body including electrodes therein, and a substrate connected to the displacement unit and including electrodes facing the electrodes of the body, and when the orthodontic device applies force / torque to the tooth model, the displacement unit moves by the adapter, and the sensor can measure force / torque based on a change in capacitance formed between the electrodes of the body and the electrodes of the substrate.

[0009] The body may include at least a portion of an inner surface thereof with electrodes, and the substrate may include a plurality of protrusions spaced apart from the inner surface of the body but extending toward the inner surface of the body, each of which may include a plurality of electrodes.

[0010] The body includes a plurality of connecting portions connecting the displacement portion to a fixed portion, the displacement portion having an upper surface connected to a lower surface of the lead and an outer circumferential surface connected to the fixed portion of the body by the plurality of connecting portions and formed radially on the inner side of the body, and an electrode of the body is formed on the fixed portion of the body, and when the orthodontic device applies a force / torque to the tooth model, the lead is moved by the adapter, and the displacement portion can displace the electrode of the substrate with respect to the electrode of the body.

[0011] The adapter may have a lower surface of the first end connected to the upper surface of the sensor and an upper surface of the second end connected to the lower surface of the tooth.

[0012] The above adapter may include a mounting portion connected to the upper surface of the sensor and a support portion extending from the mounting portion and connected to the lower surface of the tooth model and having a narrower width than the mounting portion.

[0013] The controller can convert a force / torque measured with respect to a coordinate system for the center point of the sensor into a force / torque with respect to a coordinate system for the point of interest of the tooth based on a position vector between the center point of the sensor and the point of interest of the tooth.

[0014] The point of interest of the tooth may be the center of resistance or the center of surface of the tooth.

[0015] The above tooth model includes a plurality of teeth, the sensor includes a number of sensors equal to the number of teeth, and the adapter includes a plurality of adapters and can connect the plurality of sensors and the plurality of teeth one-to-one.

[0016] The plurality of sensors may include a plurality of outer sensors arranged on the outside of the tooth model and a plurality of inner sensors arranged on the inside of the tooth model.

[0017] A virtual line connecting the centers of the plurality of outer sensors and a virtual line connecting the centers of the plurality of inner sensors may have a curvature corresponding to a virtual line connecting the centers of the plurality of teeth.

[0018] The plurality of outer sensors and the plurality of inner sensors may be arranged alternately along the plurality of teeth.

[0019] The plurality of inner sensors may not be arranged on the plurality of teeth corresponding to the central portion of the tooth model, but may be arranged only on the outer portion corresponding to the molar portion of the tooth model or on teeth adjacent to the outer portion.

[0020] The above tooth model includes a plurality of gums corresponding to the plurality of teeth and spaced apart from each other, and the plurality of adapters are connected to the plurality of gums and can be spaced apart from each other.

[0021] A method for measuring orthodontic force according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include a step of assembling a device for measuring orthodontic force by connecting a plurality of sensors, a plurality of adapters, and a controller, a step of connecting the plurality of adapters one-to-one to a plurality of teeth included in a tooth model, a step of placing an orthodontic device on the tooth model, a step of measuring a force / torque applied by the orthodontic device to the plurality of teeth by the plurality of sensors, and a step of converting a force / torque at a center point of the measured sensors into a force / torque at a point of interest of the teeth by the controller.

[0022] The orthodontic force measuring device and the orthodontic force measuring method according to embodiments of the present disclosure can provide a orthodontic force measuring device that can accurately and simply measure the orthodontic force applied by the orthodontic device to a tooth model, including a force / torque sensor, and can reduce the size of the measuring device and simplify the connection structure between the tooth model and the force / torque sensor.

[0023] However, the effects that can be obtained through the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and other technical effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention described below.

[0024] The following drawings, attached to this specification, illustrate embodiments of the present invention and, together with the description of the invention described below, serve to facilitate understanding of the technical concepts of the present invention. The present invention is not limited to the matters described in the drawings.

[0025] Figure 1 illustrates a tooth orthodontic force measuring device according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 2 shows a plan view of a tooth orthodontic force measuring device according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 3 shows an exploded perspective view of a tooth orthodontic force measuring device according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 4 shows an assembled perspective view of a sensor according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 5 shows an exploded perspective view of a sensor according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 6 shows a cross-section of a sensor according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 7 illustrates a tooth model, a sensor, and an adapter according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 8 illustrates a state in which an outer sensor and an inner sensor are connected to a tooth model according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 9 illustrates a connection structure of a tooth model and a sensor and an adapter according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 10 shows an enlarged view of X in Figure 7.

[0035] Figure 11 shows the sequence of a method for measuring orthodontic force according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0036] An orthodontic force measuring device according to embodiments of the present disclosure includes a tooth model including a tooth, a braces placed on the tooth model to surround the tooth, a sensor connected to the tooth model, an adapter connecting the sensor and the tooth, and a controller connected to the sensor, wherein when the braces apply a force / torque to the tooth model, the adapter displaces the sensor, the sensor measures the force / torque based on a change in electrostatic capacity according to the displacement, and the controller can convert the force / torque measured by the sensor into a force / torque for a point of interest of the tooth.

[0037] Embodiments of the present disclosure and methods for achieving them can be more easily understood by referring to the detailed description of the embodiments together with the accompanying drawings. Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the described embodiments can be variously modified and implemented in different forms, and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, each feature of the various embodiments of the present disclosure can be combined, partially or fully combined with each other, and various technically related and operational functions are possible. Each embodiment can be implemented independently of each other or can be implemented together in combination. The described embodiments are provided as examples so that the present disclosure can be complete and fully convey the spirit of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. It should be understood that the present disclosure encompasses all modifications, equivalents, and equivalents, and substitutions are possible within the spirit and technical scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, processes, components, and techniques that are not necessary for a person skilled in the art to fully understand aspects of the present disclosure may not be described.

[0038] Unless otherwise specified, the same reference numbers, letters, or combinations thereof throughout the attached drawings and descriptions represent the same components, and their descriptions are omitted. Furthermore, in describing the embodiments, irrelevant parts may not be illustrated for clarity.

[0039] The relative sizes of elements, layers, and areas in the drawings may be exaggerated for clarity. Furthermore, hatching and / or shading in the accompanying drawings may generally be used to clarify boundaries between adjacent elements. Therefore, unless specifically stated otherwise, the presence or absence of hatching or shading does not convey or imply any preference or requirement for any particular material, material property, dimension, proportion, commonality between the illustrated elements, or / and any other characteristic, property, or feature.

[0040] Various embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional examples that are schematic illustrations of embodiments and / or intermediate structures. Therefore, the shapes of the drawings may vary, for example, as a result of manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Furthermore, any specific structural or functional descriptions disclosed herein are merely examples for illustrating embodiments according to the concepts of the present disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed herein are not limited to the shapes of the illustrated regions, and should be construed to include, for example, variations in shape due to manufacturing processes.

[0041] The areas depicted in the drawings are schematic in nature and their shapes are not intended to be limiting and are not intended to be illustrative of the actual shape of the device area. Furthermore, as those skilled in the art will recognize, the described embodiments may be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure.

[0042] Numerous specific details are set forth in the specification to provide a thorough understanding of various embodiments. However, various embodiments may be practiced without these specific details or with one or more of these details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the various embodiments.

[0043] To facilitate discussion herein, spatially relative terms such as "below," "above," "lower," "top," and the like may be used to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another, as illustrated in the drawings. Spatially relative terms are intended to encompass various orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientations depicted in the drawings. For example, if the device in the drawings were flipped over, another element or feature described as "below" or "lower" would face "above" the other element or feature. Thus, as exemplary terms, "below" and "lower" can encompass both above and below orientations. The device can be oriented in other orientations (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other directions), and the spatially relative descriptions used herein should be interpreted accordingly. Similarly, if it is described that a first part is disposed "above" a second part, this means that the first part is disposed above or below the second part.

[0044] Also, the expression "in plan view" means when an object is viewed from above, and the expression "in schematic cross-section" means when a schematic cross-section is taken by cutting the object vertically or horizontally. The term "in side view" means that the first object can be above, below, or to the side of the second object, and vice versa. Additionally, the term "overlapping" or "superimposing" can include layer, laminate, plane, extension, covering, or partially covering, or any other suitable term that a person of ordinary skill in the art would understand and understand. The expression "does not overlap" can include meanings such as "away from" or "spaced from", and any other suitable equivalents that a person of ordinary skill in the art would recognize and understand. The terms "plane" and "surface" can mean that the first object can directly or indirectly face the second object. When a third object is between a first object and a second object, the first object and the second object face each other, but can be understood as indirectly opposing each other.

[0045] When an element, layer, region, or component is referred to as being "formed by," "connected to," or "coupled to," another element, layer, region, or component, it may be directly formed by, connected to, or coupled to, another element, layer, region, or component, or indirectly formed by, connected to, or coupled to another element, layer, region, or component. Furthermore, "formed by," "connected to," or "coupled to" may collectively refer to direct or indirect combinations or connections of elements, layers, regions, or components, and integral or non-integral combinations or connections, such that one or more elements, layers, regions, or components may be present. For example, when an element, layer, region, or component is referred to as being "electrically connected to" or "electrically coupled to" another element, layer, region, or component, it may be directly electrically connected to or coupled to, or may be electrically coupled to, another element, layer, region, or component. However, "direct connection" or "direct bonding" means that one component is directly connected or bonded to another component without an intermediate component, or is on another component. In addition, in the present specification, when a part of a layer, film, region, guide plate, etc. is formed on another part, the direction of formation is not limited to the upper direction, and includes that the part is formed on the side or bottom. Conversely, when a part of a layer, film, region, guide plate, etc. is formed "under" another part, it includes not only the case where the part is "directly under" the other part, but also the case where another part is between the part and the other part. Meanwhile, other expressions that describe the relationship between components, such as "between," "directly between," or "adjacent to" and "directly adjacent to", can be interpreted similarly.Additionally, when an element or layer is referred to as being "between" two elements or layers, it may be the only element between the two elements or layers, or there may be other elements between them.

[0046] For the purposes of this specification, phrases such as "at least one or more" or "either" do not limit the order of the individual elements. For example, phrases such as "at least one of X, Y, and Z," "at least one of X, Y, or Z," or "at least one selected from the group consisting of X, Y, and Z" can include X alone, Y alone, Z alone, or any combination of two or more of X, Y, and Z. Similarly, phrases such as "at least one of A and B" and "at least one of A or B" can include A, B, or A and B. As used herein, the term "and / or" generally includes any combination of one or more associated list items. For example, phrases such as "A and / or B" can include A, B, or A and B.

[0047] Although the terms "first," "second," "third," and the like may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or cross-sections, such elements, components, regions, layers, and / or cross-sections are not limited by such terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or cross-section from another element, component, region, layer, or cross-section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or cross-section described below may be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer, or cross-section without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Describing an element as a "first" element does not require or imply the presence of a second element or other elements. The terms "first," "second," and the like may also be used herein to distinguish different categories or sets of elements. For clarity, the terms "first," "second," and the like may each represent a "first category (or first set)," a "second category (or second set)," etc.

[0048] The terminology used in this application is for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the present invention. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms, and the plural forms are intended to include the singular forms as well, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The terms "comprise," "include," and "have," when used herein, are meant to specify the presence of specified features, integers, and steps. These expressions do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other functions, steps, operations, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0049] If one or more embodiments can be implemented differently, a particular process sequence may be performed differently from the order described. For example, two processes described in succession may be performed substantially simultaneously or in the reverse order from the described order.

[0050] The terms "substantially," "about," "approximately," and similar terms are used as terms of approximation, not degree, and imply that the measured or calculated value satisfies the inherent range of variation (e.g., variation due to limitations of the measurement system). For example, "about" could mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ±30%, 20%, 10%, or 5% of the stated value.

[0051] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. Terms defined in commonly used dictionaries, for example, should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the relevant art and / or the context of this specification, and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined herein.

[0052] FIG. 1 illustrates a tooth orthodontic force measuring device (10) according to embodiments of the present disclosure, FIG. 2 illustrates a plan view of a tooth orthodontic force measuring device (10) according to embodiments of the present disclosure, FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a tooth orthodontic force measuring device (10) according to embodiments of the present disclosure, FIG. 4 illustrates an assembled perspective view of a sensor (100) according to embodiments of the present disclosure, FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a sensor (100) according to embodiments of the present disclosure, FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-section of a sensor (100) according to embodiments of the present disclosure, FIG. 7 illustrates a tooth model (TM), a sensor (100), and an adapter (200) according to embodiments of the present disclosure, FIG. 8 illustrates a state in which an outer sensor (101) and an inner sensor (102) and a tooth model (TM) are connected according to embodiments of the present disclosure, and FIG. 9 illustrates a connection structure of a tooth model (TM), a sensor (100), and an adapter (200) according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. 10 shows an enlarged view of X in Fig. 7, and Fig. 11 shows the sequence of a method for measuring orthodontic force according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0053] The orthodontic force measuring device (10) may be a device that measures the force, i.e., the orthodontic force, applied to the tooth model (TM) when the orthodontic appliance (OA) is placed on the tooth model (TM). The orthodontic force measuring device (10) can measure the orthodontic force applied to the tooth model (TM) by placing the orthodontic appliance (OA) on the user's tooth model (TM) in advance. The orthodontic force measuring device (10) can check in advance whether excessive force is applied to the tooth model (TM) or whether force is applied at a level necessary for orthodontic treatment. The orthodontic force measuring device (10) can measure the orthodontic force by connecting the tooth model (TM) to the sensor (100) and placing the orthodontic appliance (OA) on the tooth model (TM), and then detecting the force / torque applied by the orthodontic appliance (OA) to the tooth model (TM) by the sensor (100). In addition, the controller (600) can calculate the force / torque based on the data detected by the sensor (100).

[0054] A tooth model (TM) can be created based on the teeth of a user who is to be fitted with an orthodontic appliance (OA). For example, the condition of the user's teeth can be checked using X-rays, CT, photographs, videos, etc., and a tooth model (TM) can be created based on this using 3D printing, etc. The tooth model (TM) is made of ceramic, etc., and can include each tooth (TH) and a gum (G) supporting the tooth (TH). Each tooth (TH) included in the tooth model (TM) can be connected to each sensor (100) (e.g., connected through the gum (G)). For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the tooth (TH) includes a root (TR) and a crown (TC), and the part exposed outside the gum (G) corresponds to the crown (TR), and the root (TC) can be inserted into the gum (G).

[0055] An orthodontic appliance (OA) is a device that a user actually wears for orthodontic treatment. It can be placed on a tooth model (TM) to cover the teeth (TH) and gums of the tooth model (TM). For example, an orthodontic appliance (OA) may include a transparent material, such as silicone. An orthodontic appliance (OA) is designed to provide the orthodontic force required for orthodontic treatment to the tooth model (TM), and when placed on the tooth model (TM), it can apply a predetermined force / torque to each tooth (TH).

[0056] The orthodontic force measuring device (10) can individually measure the force / torque that each tooth (TH) included in the tooth model (TM) receives from the orthodontic appliance (OA). For example, the orthodontic force measuring device (10) includes the same number of sensors (100) as the number of teeth (TH), and each sensor (100) can be individually (or one-to-one or independently) connected to each tooth (TH).

[0057] For example, a device for measuring orthodontic force (10) includes a tooth model (TM) including a tooth (TH), an orthodontic appliance (OA) that is placed on the tooth model (TM) to surround the tooth (TH), a sensor (100) arranged around the tooth model (TM), an adapter (200) that connects the sensor (100) and the tooth (TH), and a controller (600) that is connected to the sensor (100). When the orthodontic appliance (OA) applies force / torque to the tooth model (TM), the adapter (200) displaces the sensor (100), and the sensor measures the force / torque based on a change in electrostatic capacity according to the displacement, and the controller (600) can convert the force / torque measured by the sensor (100) into a force / torque for a point of interest of the tooth (TH).

[0058] The orthodontic force measuring device (10) may include a sensor (100), an adapter (200), a base (300), a connection plate (400), a connector (500), and a controller (600).

[0059] The sensor (100) can be connected to the tooth model (TM) to detect the orthodontic force that the braces (OA) apply to the tooth model (TM). For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the sensor (100) can be connected to the lower part of the tooth model (TM) (e.g., the gums (G) of the tooth model (TM)) when the braces (OA) are placed on the tooth model (TM). The sensor (100) can include a plurality of sensors (100). For example, the sensor (100) can include the same number of sensors (100) as the number of teeth (TH) included in the tooth model (TM). The plurality of sensors (100) can be connected one-to-one with the plurality of teeth (TH). For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the sensor (100) is a 6-axis force / torque sensor and can measure forces Fx, Fy, and Fz and torques Tx, Ty, and Tz. For example, the sensor (100) may be a capacitive sensor.

[0060] The sensor (100) may include a plurality of sensors (100) arranged on the outer and inner sides of the tooth model (TM). For example, the plurality of sensors (100) may be arranged along the outer surface of the tooth model (TM) and may be arranged along the inner surface of the tooth model (TM). The sensor (100) may include a plurality of outer sensors (101) and inner sensors (102). For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the plurality of outer sensors (101) are arranged along the outer surface of the tooth model (TM) and may each have a center point P1. In addition, the plurality of inner sensors (102) are arranged along the inner surface of the tooth model (TM) so as to face the outer sensors (101) with the tooth model (TM) as the center, and may each have a center point P2. The virtual line L1 connecting each center point P1 and the virtual line L2 connecting each center point P2 may have a curvature corresponding to the virtual line L3 connecting each center point P3 of the teeth (TH) of the tooth model (TM). For example, as shown in Fig. 7, a plurality of sensors (100) may be arranged around the tooth model (TM) such that the virtual lines L1 and L2 form a U-shaped curve having a shape similar to the virtual line L3.

[0061] A plurality of outer sensors (101) and inner sensors (102) can be arranged alternately and repeatedly. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, along the arrangement direction of the teeth (TH), one tooth (TH) can be connected to the outer sensor (101) and the adjacent tooth (TH) can be connected to the inner sensor (102). Accordingly, a sufficient distance can be secured between adjacent sensors (100) and adapters (200) in the circumferential direction of the tooth model (TM), so that the sensors (100) and adapters (200) can be positioned closer to the tooth model (TM). In addition, the length and size of the adapter (200) for connecting the tooth model (TM) and the sensor (100) can be reduced.

[0062] The inner sensor (102) may not be arranged in the central portion (or proximal portion) corresponding to the front teeth portion of the tooth model (TM). For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the inner sensor (102) may be arranged only in the outer portion (or distal portion) corresponding to the molar portion of the tooth model (TM) or in the teeth (TH) adjacent to the outer portion, and only the outer sensor (101) may be arranged in the central portion. Therefore, only the outer sensor (101) may be arranged in the central portion of the tooth model (TM) where the teeth (TH) are relatively small and densely packed and the inner space of the tooth model (TM) is narrow. Therefore, by sufficiently securing the distance between the sensors (100) and adapters (200) adjacent in the circumferential direction of the tooth model (TM), the sensors (100) and adapters (200) may be positioned closer to the tooth model (TM). In addition, the length and size of the adapter (200) for connecting the tooth model (TM) and the sensor (100) may be reduced. In addition, by ensuring sufficient spacing between the sensor (100) and the adapter (200), a measurement error due to interference between adjacent sensors (100) and adapters (200) can be prevented.

[0063] The sensor (100) may include a body (110), a substrate (120), a lower cover (130), and a lead (140).

[0064] The body (110) can hold and support other components of the sensor (100) (e.g., the substrate (120), the lower cover (130), and the lid (140)). For example, the body (110) includes an internal space in which the substrate (120) can be accommodated. A lid (140) can be connected to the upper surface of the body (110), and a lower cover (130) can be mounted on the lower surface. For example, the body (110) can have a flat cylindrical shape. The body (110) can include a portion (or a moving portion) that is deformed by an external force (e.g., a force applied by the orthodontic appliance (OA) to the tooth model (TM)) and a fixed portion (or a non-moving portion).

[0065] The body (110) may include a displacement portion (111) and a connecting portion (112).

[0066] The displacement part (111) is a part that displaces when an external force is applied to the sensor (100), and can be displaceably connected to another fixed part of the body (110) by a connecting part (112). For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the displacement part (111) is located inside the body (110) and can be connected to the fixed part of the body (110) by a T-shaped connecting part (112). The displacement part (111) can be connected to the adapter (200) through the lead (140) or directly. In addition, the displacement part (111) can be connected to the substrate (120). Therefore, the force applied by the aligner (OA) to the tooth model (TM) is transmitted to the displacement part (111) through the adapter (200), and the substrate (120) can move as the displacement part (111) moves. And a change may occur in the electrostatic capacitance formed between the substrate (120) and another fixed part of the body (110).

[0067] For example, the displacement portion (111) has a flat disc shape located on the inside of the body (110) in the radial direction of the body (110), and can be displaceably connected to a fixed portion of the body (110) by four connecting portions (112). In addition, the upper surface of the displacement portion (111) can be connected to the lead (140), and the lower surface of the displacement portion (111) can be connected to the substrate (120). A plurality of connecting portions (112) can be arranged at equal intervals along the periphery of the displacement portion (111).

[0068] The body (110) further includes an inner surface (113), and at least a portion of the inner surface (113) can form a first electrode (1131) corresponding to a second electrode (121) of a substrate (120). For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the inner surface (113) is formed on the inside of the body (110) to face the substrate (120), and at least a portion of the inner surface (113) can form the first electrode (1131). A predetermined potential can be applied to the entire body (110) or at least a region of the inner surface (113) corresponding to the first electrode (1131). For example, a reference potential can be applied to the first electrode (1131), and a detection potential can be applied to the second electrode (121). The reference potential and the detection potential can have opposite signs. The second electrode (121) and the first electrode (1131) facing the second electrode (121) can each form a sensing cell. For example, the entire body (110) or at least the inner circumferential surface (113) can include a conductive material such as a metal.

[0069] The substrate (120) is located in the inner space of the body (110) and can be connected to the displacement member (111). For example, the substrate (120) is a printed circuit board and can include a plurality of protrusions toward the inner surface (113). For example, the substrate (120) can have a cross shape, as shown in FIG. 5. When the displacement member (111) moves, the substrate (120) also moves, and as the distance between the inner surface (113) and the substrate (120) changes, the electrostatic capacitance formed between the inner surface (113) and the substrate (120) can change. The substrate (120) can calculate the force / torque applied to the sensor (100) based on the change in electrostatic capacitance.

[0070] The substrate (120) may include a second electrode (121). For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the second electrode (121) may include a plurality of second electrodes (121) on the substrate (120) facing the first electrode (1131). For example, two second electrodes (121) are formed on each protrusion of the substrate (120), and the substrate (120) may include eight second electrodes (121). Each of the second electrodes (121) is spaced apart from each other and may form a capacitance between itself and the first electrode (1131) of the inner surface (113). The second electrode (121) may include a conductive material such as a metal.

[0071] The lower cover (130) is mounted on the lower part of the body (110) and can cover the open lower part of the body (110). A connector (500) connected to the substrate (120) can be pulled out through the lower cover (130) or between the body (110) and the lower cover (130).

[0072] The lead (140) is mounted on the upper part of the body (110) and can be connected to the displacement part (111). In addition, the lead (140) can be connected to the adapter (200). Therefore, the force applied by the orthodontic appliance (OA) to the tooth model (TM) is transmitted to the lead (140) through the adapter (200), so that the sensor (100) can detect it. For example, the lead (140) can include a portion connected to the displacement part (111) and a portion extending from the portion to cover the connection part (112). Alternatively, the sensor (100) can be directly connected to the adapter (200) on the upper surface of the body (110) (e.g., the displacement part (111)) without the lead (140).

[0073] The body (110), substrate (120), lower cover (130) and lead (140) can be arranged coaxially with each other on the central axis Ax of the sensor (100).

[0074] The adapter (200) can connect the sensor (100) and the tooth model (TM). For example, one part (the first end) of the adapter (200) can be connected to the upper surface of the sensor (100) and the other part (the second end) can be connected to the lower surface (the lower surface of the gums (G)) of the tooth model (TM). The adapter (200) can transmit the force / torque applied by the braces (OA) to the tooth model (TM) to the sensor (100). The adapter (200) can overlap with the tooth model (TM) at a portion thereof and protrude outward from the tooth model (TM) to overlap with the sensor (100).

[0075] The adapter (200) may include a plurality of adapters (200) equal to the number of sensors (100) and teeth (TH). For example, as shown in FIG. 1, a plurality of adapters (200) may be mounted on a plurality of outer sensors (101) and a plurality of inner sensors (102), respectively.

[0076] The adapters (200) may be spaced apart from each other. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, the teeth (TH) and gums (G) of the tooth model (TM) are spaced apart from each other by a distance D, and each adapter (200) connected to the tooth model (TM) may also be spaced apart by the distance D. Accordingly, the teeth (TH) and gums (G) may not interfere with each other due to the force / torque applied to the tooth model (TM).

[0077] The adapter (200) may include a mounting portion (210) and a support portion (220).

[0078] The mounting portion (210) is a portion where the adapter (200) is connected to the sensor (100), and may have a size and shape corresponding to the sensor (100). For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the mounting portion (210) may be connected to the upper surface of the sensor (100) (e.g., the upper surface of the lead (140)) using a bolt or the like. For example, the mounting portion (210) may be circular to correspond to the sensor (100).

[0079] The support member (220) may extend from the mounting member (210) and be connected to the tooth model (TM). For example, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the support member (220) may have a narrower width than the mounting member (210) so as not to interfere with each other, and the upper surface may be connected to the lower surface of the tooth model (TM) (e.g., gums (G)). For example, the support member (220) may have a cross-sectional area corresponding to the gums (G) at the portion connected to the tooth model (TM).

[0080] The base (300) can support other components of the orthodontic force measuring device (10), such as a sensor (100), an adapter (200), a connection plate (400), and a tooth model (TM). For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the base (300) has a flat plate shape, on which a plurality of sensors (100) and a plurality of adapters (200) can be sequentially mounted. In addition, a tooth model (TM) can be connected on the plurality of adapters (200), and an aligner (OA) can surround the tooth model (TM).

[0081] The connecting plate (400) is rotatably connected to the base (300) and supports the connector (500) on the lower surface, and the position and angle of the base (300) can be adjusted while the connector (500) and the controller (600) are connected. The connecting plate (400) can be excluded from the orthodontic force measuring device (10).

[0082] The connector (500) can connect each sensor (100) and the controller (600). For example, the connector (500) may be a cable in which one end is inserted into the interior of the sensor (100) and connected to the substrate (120), and then is pulled out of the sensor (100), and the other end is connected to the controller (600). The connector (500) can be pulled out of the sensor (100) through the lower cover (130).

[0083] The controller (600) is connected to the sensor (100) through the connector (500), applies a potential to the sensor (100), and can receive the force / torque measured by the sensor (100). The controller (600) can convert the force / torque measured by the sensor (100) into a force / torque in a desired coordinate system. For example, the controller (600) can convert the force / torque value at the center point of the sensor (100) measured by the sensor (100) (for example, the center point P1 of the outer sensor (101) and the center point P2 of the inner sensor (102) in FIG. 7) into a force / torque value at the point of interest of the tooth (TH) (for example, the center point P3 in FIG. 7). The controller (600) can use a known 6-axis force / torque coordinate system conversion formula.

[0084] For example, as shown in FIG. 8, an outer sensor (101) connected to a certain tooth (TH) can measure a force / torque applied to the tooth (TH) with respect to the center point P1. Since the force / torque is a value measured with respect to a coordinate system centered on the center point P1, it is necessary to convert it to a value with respect to a coordinate system centered on the center point P3o of the tooth (TH). The controller (600) can calculate a position vector P13 and a rotation matrix between the center point P3o of the tooth (TH) and the center point P1, and convert the measured force / torque based on this into a force / torque at the center point P3o of the tooth (TH). In addition, an inner sensor (102) connected to a certain tooth (TH) can measure a force / torque applied to the tooth (TH) with respect to the center point P2. Since the force / torque is a value measured with respect to a coordinate system centered around the center point P2, it is necessary to convert it into a value with respect to a coordinate system centered around the center point P3i of the tooth (TH). The controller (600) calculates the position vector P23 and the rotation matrix between the center point P3i and the center point P2 of the tooth (TH), and based on this, can convert the measured force / torque into a force / torque at the center point P3i of the tooth (TH).

[0085] Here, the point of interest of the tooth (TH) may be the center of resistance (the point of application of force that can cause bodily movement of the tooth or group of teeth) Pr of the tooth (TH) or the center of surface (the center of the surface of the crown (TC)) Ps. The position information of the point of interest of each tooth (TH) may be pre-stored in the controller (600) or may be input into the controller (600) by the user. The center of resistance Pr may be on the root (TC). For example, as shown in FIG. 9, when the point of interest is the center of resistance Pr, the controller (600) may calculate the position vector Pr and the rotation matrix between the center point P and the center of resistance Pr. And based on this, the force / torque measured at the center point P of the sensor (100) may be converted into the force / torque at the center of resistance Pr. Alternatively, when the point of interest is the center of surface Ps, the controller (600) may calculate the position vector Ps and the rotation matrix between the center point P and the center of surface Ps. And based on this, the force / torque measured at the center point P of the sensor (100) can be converted into the force / torque at the surface center Ps.

[0086] The controller (600) may utilize a direct circuit structure that executes each control function through one or more microprocessors or other control devices, such as memory, processors, logic circuits, and look-up tables. The controller (600) may be implemented as a part of a module, program, or code that includes one or more executable instructions for executing a specific logic function. The controller (600) may include or be implemented by a processor, such as a central processing unit, that executes each function or a microprocessor, etc. The controller (600) is a communication device that can transmit and receive data with an external device, etc., and may include one or more combinations of a digital modem, an RF modem, an antenna circuit, a Wi-Fi chip, and related software and / or firmware. For example, the controller (600) may be implemented in a user terminal such as a desktop, laptop, tablet PC, or smartphone, or a server, etc.

[0087] Next, an example of a method for measuring orthodontic force using a orthodontic force measuring device (10) is described.

[0088] For example, a method for measuring orthodontic force may include a step of assembling a device for measuring orthodontic force (10) by connecting a plurality of sensors (100), a plurality of adapters (200), and a controller (600), a step of connecting the plurality of adapters (200) one-to-one to a plurality of teeth (TH) included in a tooth model (TM), a step of placing an orthodontic appliance (OA) on the tooth model (TM), a step of measuring a force / torque applied by the orthodontic appliance (OA) to the plurality of teeth (TH) by the plurality of sensors (100), and a step of converting a force / torque at a center point of the measured sensor (100) into a force / torque at a point of interest of the tooth (TH) by the controller (600).

[0089] First, a sensor (100) is fixed on a base (300) and an adapter (200) is connected to the sensor (100). For example, a number of sensors (100) equal to the number of teeth (TH) of a tooth model (TM) are fixed to the upper surface of the base (300) using bolts, welding, bonding, etc., and an adapter (200) is connected to each sensor (100) using bolts. Then, a tooth model (TM) is fixed to the adapter (200). For example, the gums (G) of the tooth model (TM) are placed on a support (220) and fixed using bolts, welding, bonding, etc. Next, a connector (500) is connected to a controller (600).

[0090] The following tooth model (TM) is covered with an orthodontic appliance (OA). The orthodontic appliance (OA) applies orthodontic force to each tooth (TH), and the sensor (100) can detect the orthodontic force. For example, the adapter (200) connected to the tooth (TH) moves due to the orthodontic force applied by the orthodontic appliance (OA) to each tooth (TH), and the lead (140) of the sensor (100) moves. Then, the displacement part (111) of the body (110) connected to the lead (140) is deformed, and the sensor (100) detects the change in electrostatic capacity and measures the force / torque based on this. The measured force / torque value here corresponds to the value at the center point P of the sensor (100).

[0091] The following controller (600) converts the force / torque value at the center point of the sensor (100) into the force / torque value at the point of interest. The controller (600) can convert the force / torque value at the center point of the sensor (100) into the force / torque value at the point of interest of the tooth (TH) using a 6-axis force / torque coordinate system conversion formula. For example, the controller (600) can calculate the position vector between the center point of the sensor (100) and the point of interest of the tooth (TH) and the rotation matrix between the coordinate system of the sensor (100) and the coordinate system of the tooth (TH), and based on this, convert the force / torque value at the center point of the sensor (100) into the force / torque value at the point of interest. Therefore, the force / torque that the aligner (OA) actually applies to the point of interest of each tooth (TH) can be measured, and the shape of the aligner (OA) can be modified or a new aligner (OA) can be manufactured based on the measurement results.

[0092] While the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, these are merely examples. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and equivalent alternative embodiments are possible based on the embodiments described herein. Therefore, the true scope of technical protection of the present invention should be determined based on the appended claims.

[0093] The orthodontic force measuring device and the orthodontic force measuring method according to the embodiments of the present disclosure can be used in the orthodontic industry.

Claims

1. Dental model including teeth; A brace placed on the tooth model to surround the teeth; A sensor connected to the above tooth model; an adapter connecting the sensor and the tooth; and a controller connected to the above sensor; When the above orthodontic device applies force / torque to the above tooth model, the adapter displaces the sensor, and the sensor measures the force / torque based on the change in electrostatic capacity according to the displacement. The above controller is a tooth orthodontic force measuring device that converts the force / torque measured by the sensor into a force / torque for a point of interest of the tooth.

2. In paragraph 1, The above sensor A lead connected to the above adapter; A body including a displacement member and including an electrode therein; and A substrate including an electrode connected to the displacement unit and facing the electrode of the body; A device for measuring orthodontic force, wherein when the orthodontic device applies force / torque to the tooth model, the displacement part moves by the adapter, and the sensor measures force / torque based on a change in electrostatic capacity formed between the electrode of the body and the electrode of the substrate.

3. In paragraph 2, The above body includes at least a portion of the inner surface of the electrode, A device for measuring orthodontic force, wherein the substrate includes a plurality of protrusions that are spaced apart from the inner surface of the body but extend toward the inner surface of the body, and each protrusion includes a plurality of electrodes.

4. In paragraph 2, The above body includes a plurality of connecting parts connecting the displacement part to the fixed part, The displacement member has an upper surface connected to the lower surface of the lead, an outer surface connected to a fixed portion of the body by the plurality of connecting parts, and is formed radially on the inside of the body. The electrode of the above body is formed in a fixed part of the above body, A device for measuring orthodontic force, wherein when the orthodontic device applies force / torque to the tooth model, the lead is moved by the adapter, and the displacement unit displaces the electrode of the substrate relative to the electrode of the body.

5. In paragraph 1, The above adapter is a device for measuring orthodontic force, wherein the lower surface of the first end is connected to the upper surface of the sensor and the upper surface of the second end is connected to the lower surface of the tooth.

6. In paragraph 5, The above adapter is a mounting portion connected to the upper surface of the sensor; and A device for measuring orthodontic force, comprising: a support portion extending from the mounting portion, connected to the lower surface of the tooth model, and having a narrower width than the mounting portion.

7. In paragraph 1, A tooth orthodontic force measuring device, wherein the controller converts a force / torque measured with reference to a coordinate system for the center point of the sensor into a force / torque with reference to a coordinate system for the point of interest of the tooth, based on a position vector between the center point of the sensor and the point of interest of the tooth.

8. In paragraph 7, A device for measuring orthodontic force, wherein the point of interest of the tooth is the center of resistance or the center of surface of the tooth.

9. In paragraph 1, The above tooth model includes a plurality of teeth, The above sensor includes a number of sensors equal to the number of teeth, A tooth orthodontic force measuring device, wherein the adapter includes a plurality of adapters and connects the plurality of sensors and the plurality of teeth one-to-one.

10. In paragraph 9, The above multiple sensors a plurality of external sensors arranged on the outside of the tooth model; and A device for measuring orthodontic force, comprising a plurality of inner sensors arranged on the inner side of the tooth model.

11. In paragraph 10, A device for measuring orthodontic force, wherein a virtual line connecting the centers of the plurality of outer sensors and a virtual line connecting the centers of the plurality of inner sensors have curvatures corresponding to the virtual lines connecting the centers of the plurality of teeth.

12. In paragraph 11, A device for measuring orthodontic force, wherein the plurality of outer sensors and the plurality of inner sensors are arranged alternately along the plurality of teeth.

13. In paragraph 12, A device for measuring orthodontic force, wherein the plurality of inner sensors are not arranged on the plurality of teeth corresponding to the central portion of the tooth model, but are arranged only on the outer portion corresponding to the molar portion of the tooth model or on teeth adjacent to the outer portion.

14. In paragraph 9, The above tooth model includes a plurality of gums spaced apart from each other and corresponding to the plurality of teeth, A tooth orthodontic force measuring device, wherein the plurality of adapters are connected to the plurality of gums and are spaced apart from each other.

15. A step of assembling a tooth orthodontic force measuring device by connecting multiple sensors, multiple adapters, and controllers; A step of connecting the plurality of adapters one-to-one to each of the plurality of teeth included in the tooth model; A step of placing braces on the above tooth model; A step in which the plurality of sensors measure the force / torque applied by the orthodontic device to the plurality of teeth; and A method for measuring orthodontic force, comprising: a step of converting a force / torque at the center point of the measured sensor into a force / torque at a point of interest of the tooth;

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