Oral camera
By designing a variable-shape oral camera, combined with a camera module and an opening component, the problem of difficulty in capturing teeth from all angles in existing technologies has been solved. This enables comprehensive imaging of the outer, inner, and occlusal surfaces of teeth, improving ease of operation and image quality.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- GUANGZHOU STARS PULSE CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-01-27
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-30
AI Technical Summary
Existing oral cameras struggle to balance comprehensive tooth imaging with ease of operation. Inlet-type oral cameras are difficult to capture panoramic images of teeth and are easily obscured by the lips, while mouth-opening type oral cameras struggle to obtain images of the inner surfaces of teeth.
An oral camera was designed, comprising a main unit, a camera module, and an opening assembly. The camera module includes a camera and a support, which can support the lips to open the outer surface of the teeth for shooting in the first mode, and extend into the oral cavity to shoot images of the inner surface of the teeth and the occlusal surface in the second mode. The camera can achieve all-round shooting by switching modes.
It enables comprehensive imaging of the occlusal surface, inner surface, and outer surface of teeth, providing a better shooting angle and ease of operation, reducing user fatigue, and improving shooting efficiency and image clarity.
Smart Images

Figure CN2025075539_30072026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
Oral camera Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of oral detection technology, specifically to an oral camera. Background Technology
[0002] Oral cameras typically include in-mouth cameras and mouth-opening cameras. In-mouth cameras are used to photograph the tooth surfaces inside the mouth, usually capturing single or a few teeth. They struggle to capture panoramic images of the teeth, are prone to missing images, and are easily obstructed by the lips when photographing the outer surfaces of the teeth. Mouth-opening cameras are used to photograph teeth outside the mouth, obtaining better images of the outer surfaces. However, because the occlusal surfaces of teeth are vertical and the inner surfaces are inside the oral cavity, mouth-opening cameras have difficulty capturing images of parts of the inner surfaces of the teeth.
[0003] Currently, in order to obtain better images of the outer, occlusal, and inner surfaces of teeth, and to obtain panoramic images of the occlusal surfaces that are easy to observe, professionals, such as dentists, use mouth openers combined with professional SLR cameras and mirrors to take pictures, which is a relatively complex process.
[0004] The oral imaging solutions in related technologies struggle to achieve a balance between comprehensive imaging of teeth and ease of operation. Summary of the Invention
[0005] In view of the above problems, this application provides an oral camera.
[0006] The oral camera provided in this application includes a main unit, a camera module, and an opening assembly. The camera module includes a camera and a support member. The support member is connected to the main unit, and the camera is disposed on the support member. The opening assembly includes an opening device, which includes a first end and a second end opposite to each other, and the opening device is provided with a through hole penetrating the first end and the second end. The oral camera has at least a first form and a second form. In the first form, the opening device is connected to the main unit, the through hole is opposite to the camera, and the camera does not extend beyond the second end in the depth direction of the through hole. In the second form, the support member protrudes and extends relative to the main unit so as to be able to be inserted into the oral cavity.
[0007] In the oral camera of this application, in its first form, the mouth opener abuts against the gums and supports the lips, opening the lips and exposing the outer surfaces of the teeth. The outer surfaces of the user's teeth are aligned with the through-hole, and the camera module can at least receive the light reflected back from the outer surfaces of the teeth and capture an image. In its second form, the camera module can extend into the oral cavity to capture images of the inner surfaces and occlusal surfaces of the teeth. Because the camera module can extend into the oral cavity, it can obtain a better shooting angle. This oral camera can achieve comprehensive imaging of the occlusal surfaces, inner surfaces, and outer surfaces of the teeth through both extraoral and intraoral imaging, and has a good shooting angle.
[0008] In some embodiments, in the first configuration, the camera is used to capture images outside the oral cavity; in the second configuration, the camera is used to capture images inside the oral cavity; and / or, in the first configuration, the camera is used to capture at least the lateral surface of the dental arch; in the second configuration, the camera is used to capture at least the occlusal and medial surfaces of the dental arch.
[0009] In some implementations, at least one of the opening components is positional relative to the host, such that the oral camera can switch between the first and second configurations.
[0010] In some embodiments, in the first configuration, the camera is aligned with the through-hole of the opening device; in the second configuration, the opening device is connected to the host computer, and the camera is offset from the through-hole of the opening device; or, in the second configuration, the opening device is connected to the host computer, and the support member protrudes from the through-hole of the opening device, so that the opening device is located between the camera and the host computer; or, in the second configuration, the opening device is separated from the host computer, and the support member protrudes relative to the host computer.
[0011] In some embodiments, the positional relationship between the opening assembly and the host is changed, and the connection position of the opening device's connecting portion to the host is at least partially offset relative to the connection position of the connecting portion to the opening portion.
[0012] In some embodiments, in the first configuration, the camera moves along a first path; in the second configuration, the camera moves along a second path, wherein the plane containing the first path intersects the plane containing the second path. Further, the plane containing the first path is perpendicular to the plane containing the second path.
[0013] In some embodiments, the support member has a length dimension greater than or equal to 30 mm; and / or, the support member has a width dimension less than or equal to 20 mm; and / or, the support member has a thickness dimension less than or equal to 10 mm.
[0014] In some implementations, the field of view of the camera is greater than or equal to 120°.
[0015] In some embodiments, the camera has a rectangular field of view, the shorter side of which is perpendicular to the length extension direction of the support.
[0016] In some embodiments, the support member is provided with a limiting structure for abutting against teeth and / or periodontal tissue and limiting the relative position of the support member to the teeth.
[0017] The above description is merely an overview of the technical solution of this application. In order to better understand the technical means of this application and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, and to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of this application more obvious and understandable, specific embodiments of this application are given below. Attached Figure Description
[0018] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of this application will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, wherein:
[0019] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the first form of the oral camera according to the first embodiment of this application;
[0020] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the second form of the oral camera of the first embodiment shown in Figure 1;
[0021] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a scene captured by the oral camera of this application located outside the oral cavity;
[0022] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a scene where the camera of the oral camera of this application is located inside the oral cavity for shooting.
[0023] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of another scene of the oral camera of this application being located inside the oral cavity;
[0024] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of another scenario where the camera of the oral camera of this application is located inside the oral cavity for shooting.
[0025] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a scene captured inside the oral cavity, according to another embodiment of the camera of the oral camera of this application.
[0026] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the oral camera of this application;
[0027] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the first form of the oral camera according to the second embodiment of this application;
[0028] Figure 10 is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the second form of the oral camera according to the second embodiment shown in Figure 9;
[0029] Figure 11 is a perspective view of the first form of the oral camera according to the third embodiment of this application;
[0030] Figure 12 is a perspective view of the second form of the oral camera according to the third embodiment shown in Figure 11;
[0031] Figure 13 is a perspective view of the first form of the oral camera according to the fourth embodiment of this application;
[0032] Figure 14 is a perspective view of the second form of the oral camera according to the fourth embodiment shown in Figure 13;
[0033] Figure 15 is a perspective view of the first form of the oral camera according to the fifth embodiment of this application;
[0034] Figure 16 is a perspective view of the second form of the oral camera according to the fifth embodiment shown in Figure 15;
[0035] Figure 17 is a perspective view of the first form of the oral camera according to the sixth embodiment of this application;
[0036] Figure 18 is a perspective view of the second form of the oral camera according to the sixth embodiment shown in Figure 17.
[0037] Key component symbols: Oral camera 100; Main unit 10; First surface 101; Second surface 102; First magnetic component 13; Third surface 103; Fifth surface 105; Sixth surface 106; Camera module 30; Support component 31; First end face 311; Second end face 312; Side surface 313; Limiting structure 315; Groove 3150; First sub-part 3151; Second sub-part 3152; Third sub-part 3153; Camera 33; Opening assembly 50; Opening device 51; Opening portion 511; Through hole 5111; Connecting part 513; First side surface 5131; Receiving groove 51311; Second side surface 5132; Second magnetic component 5135; Third side surface 5133; Flanged edge 5137; First end 501; Second end 502; Isolation cover 53. Detailed Implementation
[0038] The embodiments of this application are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the embodiments of this application, and should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of this application.
[0039] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "thickness," "upper," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, are used only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Therefore, features defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more features. In the description of this application, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.
[0040] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation", "connection" and "linkage" should be interpreted broadly. In one example, they can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can be a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows communication between them; they can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can be the internal connection of two elements or the interaction between two elements.
[0041] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). The oral cavity camera 100 of this application includes a main unit 10, a camera module 30, and an opening assembly 50. The camera module 30 is connected to the main unit 10, and the opening assembly 50 is connected to the main unit 10, or both.
[0042] The oral cavity camera 100 has a variable form, having at least a first form and a second form. In the first form, the camera module 30 of the oral cavity camera 100 is positioned corresponding to the opening component 50, allowing the entire outer surface of the subject's teeth to be exposed when the opening component 50 opens the lips. In this form, the oral cavity camera is used to capture images of the outer surfaces of the teeth, obtaining a relatively comprehensive view and a good perspective, such as a relatively level view. In the second form, the camera module 30 of the oral cavity camera 100 can extend into the subject's oral cavity, thereby capturing images of the occlusal and inner surfaces of the teeth. Since the camera module 30 can enter the mouth, it can acquire images of the inside of the oral cavity, such as images of the occlusal surfaces of molars.
[0043] The camera module 30 includes a camera 33 and a support member 31. The support member 31 is connected to the host 10, and the camera 33 is disposed on the support member 31. The opening assembly 50 includes an opening device 51, which has a through hole 5111 passing through a first end 501 and a second end 502.
[0044] The oral cavity camera 100 can switch between two modes. In the first mode, the mouth opening 51 is connected to the main unit 10 and supports the lips. The camera module 30 is opposite to the through hole 5111 and does not extend beyond the second end 502 of the mouth opening 51 in the depth direction of the through hole 5111. In the second mode, the camera module 30 protrudes and extends relative to the main unit 10 and can be inserted into the oral cavity.
[0045] Specifically, the oral camera 100 is used to capture images of a user's oral cavity to obtain oral images, which may include images of oral tissues such as teeth, gums, oral mucosa, and tongue. In some embodiments, the oral camera 100 is equipped with a display screen that can directly display the oral images captured by the camera. In other embodiments, the oral camera 100 is connected to a separate display device, thereby displaying the oral images captured by the camera on the display device. Furthermore, the oral camera or display device can analyze the user's current oral condition based on the acquired images. For example, when the captured oral image is a tooth image, the tooth image may include, but is not limited to, images of the occlusal surface of the teeth, images of the inner surface of the teeth, and images of the outer surface of the teeth.
[0046] The main unit 10 is used to power and control the camera module, and to transmit or store images acquired by the camera module. For example, the main unit 10 includes a controller, battery, memory, and communication components. When the oral camera 100 is operating, the camera module 30 can capture images of teeth and / or gums within the oral cavity. Other components inside the main unit 10 can analyze the images captured by the camera module 30 to determine the current condition of the user's oral cavity, and the user can also intuitively understand the current oral cavity condition through the images captured by the camera module 30. The main unit 10 is also the part of the oral camera 100 that the user holds.
[0047] The camera module 30 is capable of capturing and receiving light reflected from inside the oral cavity, and the light is processed by the camera module 30 to form an image. The light received by the camera module 30 includes, but is not limited to, natural light, infrared light, and ultraviolet light. There can be one or more camera modules 30 (two or more), which is not limited in this application.
[0048] The opening assembly 50 is detachably or non-detachably connected to the host 10. The opening assembly 50 includes a first end 501 and a second end 502 opposite to each other. The first end 501 is used to connect to the host 10, and the second end 502 is a free end capable of contacting the user's lips, gums, or other areas. A through-hole 5111 passes through the first end 501 and the second end 502 of the opening assembly 50. The opening assembly 50 has a generally annular structure, allowing the camera module 30 to capture images of the area to be scanned through the through-hole 5111.
[0049] The oral camera 100 has at least a first form and a second form. In the first form, the oral camera 100 is connected to the host 10, and the second end 502 of the opening component 50 can abut against the user's gums or other areas to open the user's lips. The camera 33 is used to capture images outside the oral cavity. When the user's mouth contains at least a portion of the opening component 50, at least a portion of the opening component 50 is located between the lips and gums. The opening component 50 can prevent the lips from touching the gums. At this time, at least the outer surface of the teeth can correspond to the through-hole 5111, and at least the outer surface of the teeth is within the imaging range of the camera module 30. The camera module 30 can obtain the reflected signal from the area to be scanned (at least the outer surface of the dental arch) through the through-hole 5111 to generate an image or video. Furthermore, the opening component 50 can also maintain a certain distance between the camera module 30 and the area to be scanned, avoiding problems such as blurring due to the distance between the camera module 30 and the area to be scanned being too close. When the oral cavity camera 100 needs to scan the oral cavity, the opening assembly 50 creates a certain distance between the area to be scanned and the camera module 30, allowing the area to be scanned to be located within the imaging range of the camera module 30, thereby making the images and / or videos captured by the camera module 30 clearer.
[0050] In the second configuration of the oral camera 100, the camera module 30 protrudes from the main unit 10, allowing the user to hold the main unit 10 and insert the camera module 30 into the oral cavity for imaging. In this second configuration, the camera module 30 is located outside the mouth opener 51. Exemplarily, the camera module 30 can extend from the mouth opener 51, or the mouth opener 51 can be removed from the main unit 10. That is, in the second configuration, the mouth opener 50 can be connected to or not connected to the main unit 10. The camera module 30 can move within the oral cavity and freely change its distance and angle from the teeth to capture different images. For example, the camera module 30 can be aligned with the inner surface of the dental arch to capture images of at least the inner surface of the teeth, and it can also extend into the oral cavity to capture images of the occlusal surface of the dental arch.
[0051] In the oral camera 100 of this application, in the first state, the mouth opener 51 can abut against the gums and support the lips, the outer surface of the user's teeth can be opposite to the through hole 5111, and the camera module 30 can at least receive the energy reflected back from the outer surface of the teeth and capture images; in the second state, the camera module 30 can extend into the oral cavity to capture images of the inner surface of the teeth and the occlusal surface of the teeth, as well as local images of a single tooth, thereby realizing comprehensive imaging of the occlusal surface, inner surface and outer surface of the teeth.
[0052] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, the camera module 30 includes a camera 33 and a support member 31. The support member 31 is connected to the host 10, and the camera 33 is disposed on the support member 31.
[0053] Specifically, camera 33 is used to capture images. In one example, camera 33 can be a two-dimensional camera module. In this case, camera 33 collects light within its field of view (light from the area to be scanned) and transmits the light to an image sensor. The image sensor converts the light signal into an electrical signal, and after a series of conversions, a two-dimensional image is finally formed. It is understood that the image sensor can be located in camera module 30 or in host 10, and is not limited in this application. For example, camera 33 can be a two-dimensional infrared camera module. In this case, camera 33 can emit infrared light. When the infrared light shines on the area to be scanned, a portion of the infrared light is reflected. Camera 33 can capture the reflected infrared light, and the image sensor converts it into a digital signal. After digital signal processing, an infrared image can be generated. For example, camera 33 can be a two-dimensional ultraviolet camera module. In this case, camera 33 can emit ultraviolet light. When the ultraviolet light shines on the area to be scanned, the inside of the oral cavity will reflect some of the ultraviolet light. Camera 33 can capture the reflected ultraviolet light. After the ultraviolet light is converted into a digital signal by the image sensor and processed, an ultraviolet image can be generated.
[0054] In another example, camera 33 can be a time-of-flight camera. The time-of-flight camera first emits a laser pulse that illuminates the area to be scanned. This laser pulse reaches the object being photographed and is reflected back. The time-of-flight camera can calculate the distance from the area to be scanned to the camera by the time the pulse is emitted and the time it reflects back, thereby forming a three-dimensional image. This application uses a two-dimensional camera module as an example for illustration.
[0055] The support member 31 is used to connect the host 10 and the camera 33, and provides a mounting position for the camera 33. In one example, the support member 31 and the host 10 can be connected in a detachable manner, including but not limited to snap-fit connections or threaded connections. In another example, the support member 31 and the host 10 can be connected in a non-detachable manner, including but not limited to adhesive or welding. The mounting relationship between cameras 33 can also be detachable or non-detachable, which will not be elaborated here. The support member 31 connects the host 10 and the camera 33, enabling an indirect connection between the camera 33 and the host 10. Compared to the camera 33 being directly connected to the host 10, the connection position between the camera 33 and the host 10 changes, meaning that the connection position of the camera 33 and the host 10 is not related to the position of the opening 511. The camera 33 can protrude relative to the host 10, meaning that the camera 33 can extend beyond the coverage area of the host 10. The position of the camera 33 relative to the host 10 is more versatile, making it easier for the camera 33 to enter the oral cavity.
[0056] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, the support member 31 includes a first end face 311 and a second end face 312 opposite to each other and a side face 313. The side face 313 connects the first end face 311 and the second end face 312, and the camera 33 is disposed on the side face 313.
[0057] Specifically, the second end face 312 is the position on the support 31 furthest from the first end face 311. For example, the second end face 312 is perpendicular to the length direction X of the main unit 10. It can be understood that the size of the main unit 10 in the length direction X is the largest size of the main unit 10 in the three directions. In the ideal case where a user uses the oral camera 100, the main unit 10 is held by the user in a roughly vertical grip. A vertical grip means that when the main unit 10 is held, the length direction X of the main unit 10 is roughly perpendicular to the horizontal plane, and the width direction Y and thickness direction Z are roughly parallel to the horizontal plane. If the camera 33 is located on the second end face 312, in the first configuration, it is difficult to align the camera 33 and the through hole 5111, and the user needs to raise their arm and maintain a certain angle when using the oral camera 100 so that the second end face 312 of the main unit 10 faces the inside of the oral cavity for shooting. This posture results in the largest surface of the main unit 10 facing downwards, requiring the user to continuously exert force to maintain the position of their arm and the main unit 10, which easily causes fatigue and makes it difficult to maintain a stable shooting state.
[0058] If the camera 33 is positioned on the side 313, the user can hold the main unit 10 vertically, so that the length direction X of the main unit 10 is approximately perpendicular to the horizontal plane, and the width direction Y and thickness direction Z are approximately parallel to the horizontal plane. In this position, the side 313 where the camera 33 is located is naturally aligned with the human mouth, allowing the user to take pictures without raising their arm or adjusting the angle of the main unit 10. This comfortable grip reduces arm fatigue and helps the camera 33 to be more stably aligned with the target, resulting in clearer and more stable images of the mouth.
[0059] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, the minimum distance from the camera 33 to the first end face 311 of the support member 31 is greater than or equal to 20 mm. Specifically, the first end face 311 is the position on the support member 31 that is farthest from the second end face 312. The minimum distance from the camera 33 to the first end face 311 of the support member 31 can be 20 mm, 22 mm, 24 mm, 26 mm, 28 mm, 30 mm, 32 mm, 34 mm, 36 mm, or 40 mm. If the minimum distance from the camera 33 to the first end face 311 of the support member 31 is less than 20 mm, the length of the support member 31 protruding relative to the host 10 is relatively short. In the second configuration, the camera 33 may not be able to fully extend into the oral cavity, making it difficult for the camera 33 to acquire images deep inside the oral cavity, thus limiting the shooting range.
[0060] The minimum distance between the camera 33 and the first end face 311 of the support 31 is greater than 20mm, which ensures that the support 31 protrudes and extends sufficiently relative to the host 10, allowing the camera 33 to extend into the oral cavity and obtain more comprehensive and in-depth images of the oral cavity, such as images of the inner surface and occlusal surface of the molars near the throat.
[0061] The host 10 has two perpendicular length directions (X), width directions (Y), and thickness directions (Z). It is understood that the support member 31 also has two perpendicular length directions (X), width directions (Y), and thickness directions (Z). In this application, the three directions of the host 10 and the support member 31 are the same; that is, the length direction (X) of the host 10 is also the length direction (X) of the support member 31, the width direction (Y) of the host 10 is also the width direction (Y) of the support member 31, and the thickness direction (Z) of the host 10 is also the thickness direction (Z) of the support member 31.
[0062] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of the support member 31 is not greater than 300 mm². 2 .
[0063] The cross-sectional area of the support member 31 can be 213 mm². 2 220mm 2 230mm 2 240mm 2 250mm 2 260mm 2 270mm 2 280mm 2 290mm 2 Or 300mm 2 If the cross-sectional area of the support member 31 is greater than 300 mm² 2 This could result in the support component 31 becoming too large, making it difficult to move within the mouth, and potentially causing it to collide with teeth, affecting the shooting effect and user experience.
[0064] The cross-sectional area of the support member 31 is not greater than 300 mm². 2 On the one hand, it reduces the risk of the support 31 hitting the teeth, and on the other hand, the smaller width makes the support 31 move more flexibly in the oral cavity, improving the comfort and safety of using the camera module 30.
[0065] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, the width C1 of the support member 31 is not greater than 20 mm, and the thickness C2 of the support member 31 is not less than 15 mm. The width of the support member 31 is its dimension C1 in the width direction Y, which can be 10 mm, 11 mm, 12 mm, 13 mm, 14 mm, 15 mm, 16 mm, 17 mm, 18 mm, or 20 mm. If the dimension C1 of the support member 31 in the width direction Y is greater than 20 mm, the support member 31 may be too large, making it difficult to move flexibly in the oral cavity, and may even collide with teeth or other oral structures, affecting the shooting effect and user experience.
[0066] The support member 31 has a width dimension C1 of less than or equal to 20mm. This reduces the risk of the support member 31 colliding with teeth, and the smaller width allows for more flexible movement of the support member 31 within the oral cavity, improving the comfort and safety of using the camera module 30. The support member 31 has a thickness dimension C2 of 6mm, 7mm, 8mm, 9mm, 10mm, 11mm, 12mm, 13mm, 14mm, or 15mm. If the thickness dimension C2 of the support member 31 is greater than 15mm, the support member 31 may become too large, making it difficult to move within the oral cavity and potentially causing it to collide with teeth, affecting the shooting effect.
[0067] The dimension C2 of the support member 31 in the thickness direction Z is less than or equal to 15mm. On the one hand, this reduces the risk of the support member 31 colliding with teeth or other oral structures, and on the other hand, the smaller thickness makes the support member 31 move more flexibly in the oral cavity.
[0068] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, the plane formed by the long side and the wide side of the host 10 is the largest surface of the host 10.
[0069] Specifically, the long side of the main unit 10 has a maximum dimension A1 in the length direction X, and the wide side of the main unit 10 has a maximum dimension B1 in the width direction Y. The plane formed by the long and wide sides of the main unit 10 is perpendicular to the thickness direction Z of the main unit 10. As mentioned above, the dimension A1 of the main unit 10 in the length direction X is the maximum dimension of the main unit 10 in all three directions, and the plane formed by the long and wide sides of the main unit 10 is the largest surface of the main unit 10. Therefore, the main unit 10 has a relatively flat shape. When the user holds it, the largest surface is in contact with more of the palm, making it more comfortable to hold and easier for the user to maintain the grip, thus ensuring the stability of the camera 33. Furthermore, the lens of the camera 33 can be roughly parallel to the largest surface of the body, making it easier to hold during use.
[0070] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, the dimension A2 of the support member 31 in its length direction X is greater than or equal to 30 mm.
[0071] Specifically, the dimension A2 of the support member 31 in its length direction X can be 30mm, 32mm, 34mm, 36mm, 38mm, 40mm, 42mm, 44mm, 46mm, or 50mm. If the dimension A2 of the support member 31 in its length direction X is less than 30mm, the length of the support member 31 protruding relative to the host 10 is relatively short. In the second configuration, the camera 33 may not be able to fully extend into the oral cavity, making it difficult for the camera 33 to acquire images deep inside the oral cavity, thus limiting the shooting range.
[0072] The support member 31 has a dimension A2 greater than 30mm in its length direction X, which ensures that the support member 31 protrudes and extends sufficiently relative to the host 10, allowing the camera 33 to extend into the oral cavity and obtain more comprehensive and in-depth images of the oral cavity, such as images of the inner surface and occlusal surface of the molars near the throat.
[0073] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, the dimension B2 of the support member 31 in its width direction Y is less than or equal to 20 mm.
[0074] Specifically, the dimension B2 of the support member 31 in the width direction Y can be 5mm, 7mm, 9mm, 11mm, 12mm, 14mm, 15mm, 17mm, 19mm, or 20mm. If the dimension B2 of the support member 31 in the width direction Y is greater than 20mm, the support member 31 may be too large, making it difficult to move in the oral cavity, and may bump into the teeth, affecting the shooting effect and user experience.
[0075] The dimension B2 of the support member 31 in the width direction Y is less than or equal to 20mm. On the one hand, this reduces the risk of the support member 31 colliding with the teeth, and on the other hand, the smaller width makes the support member 31 move more flexibly in the oral cavity.
[0076] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, the dimension C2 of the support member 31 in its thickness direction Z is less than or equal to 10 mm.
[0077] Specifically, the dimension C2 of the support member 31 in the thickness direction Z can be 1mm, 2mm, 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, 6mm, 6.5mm, 7mm, 8mm, or 10mm. If the dimension C2 of the support member 31 in the thickness direction Z is greater than 10mm, the support member 31 may become too large, making it difficult to move flexibly in the oral cavity, and may even collide with teeth or other oral structures, affecting the shooting effect and user experience.
[0078] The dimension C2 of the support member 31 in the thickness direction Z is less than or equal to 10mm. On the one hand, this reduces the risk of the support member 31 hitting teeth or other oral structures. On the other hand, the smaller thickness makes the support member 31 move more flexibly in the oral cavity, improving the comfort and safety of using the camera module 30.
[0079] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, the plane formed by the long side and the wide side of the support member 31 is the maximum surface of the support member 31, and the camera 33 is on the same side or opposite side of the maximum surface of the oral camera 100.
[0080] Specifically, the long side of the support member 31 has a maximum dimension A2 in the length direction X, and the wide side of the support member 31 has a maximum dimension B2 in the width direction Y. The plane formed by the long and wide sides of the support member 31 is perpendicular to the thickness direction Z of the support member 31. The dimension A2 in the length direction X of the support member 31 is the maximum dimension of the support member 31 in the three directions, and the plane formed by the long and wide sides of the support member 31 is the largest surface of the support member 31. Therefore, the support member 31 has a relatively flat shape. Thus, in the second form, the support member 31 is easier to insert into the mouth, reducing the possibility of bumping into teeth or soft tissues (such as the palate and tongue) after being inserted into the user's mouth, thereby improving the user's comfort. Secondly, the largest surface of the flat support member 31 can be placed on the teeth, which can better limit the distance between the camera 33 and the area to be scanned (such as the occlusal surface or inner surface of the teeth) in the left and right directions, ensuring that the captured images and / or videos are more uniform and clear. The camera 33 and the largest surface are on the same side or opposite side of the oral camera 100, which allows the light output direction (imaging direction) of the camera to always be opposite to the largest surface. When the user holds the oral camera 100, the largest surface can face the user's oral cavity, which is ergonomic and provides good holding stability.
[0081] Please refer to Figure 4. In some embodiments, the field of view α of the camera 33 is greater than or equal to 120°.
[0082] Specifically, the field of view α of the camera 33 can be 120°, 122°, 134°, 135°, 140°, 153°, 155°, 160°, 164°, or 170°. If the field of view α of the camera 33 is less than 120°, the imaging range of the camera 33 will be limited when photographing the area to be scanned inside the oral cavity. It will be unable to capture enough tooth surfaces at once, which may require multiple adjustments to the shooting angle or position to obtain a complete oral cavity image, increasing the shooting time and complexity and reducing shooting efficiency.
[0083] The camera 33 has a field of view α greater than or equal to 120°, providing a wider shooting range and combining comprehensiveness and efficiency. The camera 33 can cover more tooth surfaces in a single shot, including the occlusal surface, inner surface, and outer surface, and can also capture images of multiple teeth simultaneously. This reduces the number of shots required and improves shooting efficiency.
[0084] Please refer to Figure 4. The camera 33 has a rectangular field of view, and the short side of the rectangular field of view is perpendicular to the length extension direction of the support.
[0085] A rectangular field of view (HFoV) refers to an image area captured by a camera that is rectangular in shape. The rectangular field of view can be divided into the horizontal field of view (HFoV) and the vertical field of view (VFoV). The horizontal field of view determines the maximum angle visible to the left and right of the camera, while the vertical field of view determines the maximum angle visible to the top and bottom. For certain applications, especially in medical imaging such as dental endoscopy, a rectangular field of view provides wider visual coverage, helping to capture more detailed information.
[0086] The short side of the rectangular field of view is perpendicular to the length of the support, and the vertical field of view of the camera extends along the direction of the support, allowing the camera to better cover the occlusal surface or inner surface of the teeth. Users can adjust the angle of the mouth opener to obtain the best viewing angle.
[0087] Please refer to Figure 6. In some embodiments, the camera 33 includes at least two cameras, which are respectively disposed on both sides of the support member 31 in the thickness direction Z.
[0088] Specifically, and exemplarily, the cameras 33 may be two, three, or four, etc., and are not limited in this application. The properties of the multiple cameras 33 themselves and their distribution positions on the support 31 may differ. Exemplarily, there are two cameras 33.
[0089] The two cameras 33 further improve shooting efficiency, capturing a sufficient number of tooth surfaces at once, thus capturing more inner surfaces and occlusal surfaces in the oral cavity in a single shot. This reduces the number of shots and the difficulty of shooting, avoiding the low image acquisition efficiency caused by multiple adjustments to the shooting angle. In the second configuration, the two cameras 33 are respectively positioned on both sides of the support member 31 in the thickness direction Z, enabling simultaneous capture of images of teeth in the maxilla and teeth in the mandible, ensuring that the viewing angle and shooting angle of the images are similar. Therefore, the images of teeth in the maxilla and teeth in the mandible have the same spatial reference, facilitating occlusal analysis, assessment of tooth alignment, and identification of potential problems.
[0090] Please refer to Figure 6. In some embodiments, the optical axes M of the two cameras 33 have an angle, the opening of the angle is away from the host 10, and the angle M of the two cameras 33 is not less than 60°.
[0091] The angle between the optical axes M of the two cameras 33 can be 61°, 72°, 84°, 95°, 140°, 153°, 155°, 160°, 164°, or 170°. Specifically, an angle between the optical axes M means that the imaging directions (i.e., optical axes M) of the two cameras 33 are not perfectly parallel, but form an angle. For example, when the two cameras 33 are respectively positioned on opposite sides of the thickness direction Z of the support member 31, the optical axes M of the two cameras 33 are completely opposite, pointing in opposite directions, and the angle between the optical axes M of the two cameras 33 is 180°. The opening of the angle away from the host 10 means that the direction of the angle formed by the optical axes M of the two cameras 33 is away from the host 10. That is, the imaging direction (optical axis M) of the cameras 33 extends outward, causing the direction of the light received by the cameras 33 to be away from the host 10. If the angle between the optical axes M is less than 60°, the imaging range of the two cameras 33 will be limited on the one hand, and they will also easily overlap on the other. The included angle of the optical axis M is not less than 60°, which can make full use of the imaging range of the two cameras 33 and improve the imaging efficiency of the camera module 30.
[0092] Two cameras 33 with an angled optical axis M can simultaneously cover a wider area. For example, one camera 33 can capture the upper teeth, and the other camera 33 can capture the lower teeth, thus capturing a sufficient number of tooth surfaces at once. This allows for the simultaneous capture of more inner surfaces and occlusal surfaces in the oral cavity, reducing the number of shots and the need for angle adjustments, thereby improving shooting efficiency. The angled opening facing away from the host 10 prevents the host 10 from obstructing the camera 33, allowing light reflected from inside the oral cavity to enter the camera 33.
[0093] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, the support 31 is provided with a limiting structure 315, which is used to abut against the tooth and limit the relative position of the support 31 and the tooth.
[0094] Specifically, there can be one or more limiting structures 315, which is not limited in this application. The limiting structure 315 restricts the position and range of movement of the support member 31 in the oral cavity by abutting against the teeth, lips, or other parts, ensuring that the support member 31 maintains a relatively stable and accurate relative position with the teeth. The limiting structure 315 can be a groove 3150, a protrusion, or other shaped limiting device.
[0095] In the second configuration, the limiting structure 315 abuts against the teeth, thereby limiting the depth and angle of the support member 31. This ensures that the camera 33 can be aligned with the occlusal surface and inner surface of the teeth, improving the stability and accuracy of the image capture and preventing image blurring or shooting angle deviations caused by the wobbling or improper positioning of the support member 31. Simultaneously, the limiting structure 315 also prevents the support member 31 from excessively extending into the oral cavity, reducing interference and potential damage to the soft tissues within the oral cavity, and enhancing the comfort and safety of using the oral camera 100.
[0096] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, the support member 31 includes a side surface 313, and a limiting structure 315 and a camera 33 are disposed on the side surface 313 at intervals. The limiting structure 315 and the camera 33 are located on opposite sides, adjacent sides, or the same side of the support member 31. Specifically, the interval between the limiting structure 315 and the camera 33 means that there is a certain distance between the limiting structure 315 and the camera 33. The limiting structure 315 and the camera 33 are located on opposite sides of the support member 31. In the second configuration, the limiting structure 315 can abut against the canines or other parts of the teeth. After the limiting structure 315 abuts against the teeth, the camera 33 can be aligned with the maxillary teeth and / or mandibular teeth from a direction opposite to the limiting structure 315, thereby acquiring images of the occlusal surface and medial surface of the maxillary teeth and / or mandibular teeth.
[0097] The limiting structure 315 and the camera 33 are located on adjacent sides. In the second configuration, the limiting structure 315 can abut against the canines or other parts of the teeth. After the limiting structure 315 abuts against the teeth, the camera 33 can be aimed at both sides of the oral cavity, thereby capturing images of the inner surfaces of the teeth on the left and right sides of the oral cavity. Here, "both sides" refers to the human body, such as the left and right ears located on both sides.
[0098] When the limiting structure 315 and the camera 33 are located on the same side, in the second configuration, the limiting structure 315 can abut against the canines or other parts of the teeth, limiting the position and range of movement of the support 31 in the oral cavity, and preventing the support 31 from extending excessively into the oral cavity.
[0099] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, the limiting structure 315 is a groove 3150, which is provided on the side 313.
[0100] Specifically, in one configuration of the limiting structure 315, the limiting structure 315 can be a groove 3150 formed on the support member 31. There can be one or more grooves 3150, which is not limited in this application. When the groove 3150 can accommodate canines or other parts of the teeth, it limits the position and range of movement of the support member 31 within the oral cavity, and also allows the camera 33 to be further away from the area to be scanned, maintaining a certain imaging range. The groove 3150 can also limit the depth to which the camera 33 extends into the oral cavity, preventing the support member 31 from excessively extending into the oral cavity, reducing interference and potential damage to soft tissues in the oral cavity (such as gums and tongue).
[0101] Please refer to Figures 3 to 7. In some embodiments, the support member 31 includes a first sub-part 3151, a second sub-part 3152, and a third sub-part 3153. The second sub-part 3152 connects the first sub-part 3151 and the third sub-part 3153. The camera 33 is disposed on the first sub-part 3151. The second sub-part 3152 protrudes relative to the first sub-part 3151 and the second sub-part 3152 to form a groove 3150.
[0102] Specifically, in another configuration of the limiting structure 315, the limiting structure 315 can be formed by bending the support member 31. The support member 31 includes a first sub-part 3151, a second sub-part 3152, and a third sub-part 3153. The first sub-part 3151 is used to mount the camera 33, the second sub-part 3152 protrudes relative to the first sub-part 3151 and the second sub-part 3152 to form a groove 3150, and the third sub-part 3153 connects to the host 10. The function of the groove 3150 includes at least the effects described above, which will not be repeated here.
[0103] Referring to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18), in some embodiments, there are multiple grooves 3150, which are sequentially distributed along the length direction X of the support member 31. Specifically, in embodiments where there are multiple grooves 3150, the multiple grooves 3150 are sequentially distributed along the length direction X of the support member 31. Multiple grooves 3150 can accommodate individual differences in the oral cavity of different users, especially the size of the dental arch and the arrangement of teeth. Since the size and shape of the dental arch vary among different users, such as the different tooth arrangements and oral cavity depths of adults and children, the design of multiple grooves 3150 can provide a variety of limiting options, allowing the support member 31 to select the appropriate groove 3150 for positioning according to the user's oral cavity structure. For example, when photographing the occlusal surface near the palatal side of the posterior teeth, a groove 3150 relatively closer to the main unit 10 can be selected to ensure that the support member 31 has sufficient length to extend into the oral cavity.
[0104] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In the implementation of multiple grooves 3150, at least some of the grooves 3150 have different depths, and the grooves 3150 closer to the camera 33 have a smaller depth.
[0105] Specifically, in the implementation of multiple recesses 3150, at least some of the recesses 3150 have different depths, with the recesses 3150 closer to the camera 33 being shallower. This allows for better adaptation to users with different dental arch sizes, such as adults and children. Shallower recesses 3150 closer to the camera 33 are suitable for photographing the anterior teeth area because anterior teeth (such as incisors and canines) are typically smaller and shallower. Shallower recesses 3150 ensure that the camera 33 maintains an appropriate distance from the anterior teeth, avoiding excessive distance between the camera 33 and the teeth due to excessively deep recesses 3150, which would affect the photographic effect.
[0106] The deeper groove 3150 is suitable for photographing the posterior teeth area, such as molars. Posterior teeth are usually larger and located deeper, and the deeper groove 3150 can better accommodate the posterior teeth, while limiting the depth of the support 31, ensuring that the camera 33 can be aligned with the occlusal surface and inner surface.
[0107] Users can select the appropriate groove 3150 for positioning based on the desired tooth location, thereby controlling the relative position and angle between the camera 33 and the tooth. For example, when photographing a child's teeth, a shallower groove 3150 can be selected to accommodate the shallower oral structure; while when photographing an adult's teeth, a deeper groove 3150 can be selected to accommodate the deeper oral structure.
[0108] Please refer to Figures 1, 2, and 4 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, the groove 3150 includes a first abutment surface and a second abutment surface connected together. When the groove 3150 accommodates a tooth, the first abutment surface and / or the second abutment surface abuts against the inner or outer surface of the tooth. The angle β formed by the optical axis M of the camera 33 and the occlusal surface is greater than or equal to 60° and less than or equal to 90°.
[0109] Specifically, when the tooth is accommodated in the groove 3150, the first and / or second contact surfaces can contact the inner or outer surface of the tooth to prevent the tooth from shifting or wobbling within the groove 3150, ensuring that the optical axis M is as perpendicular as possible to the occlusal surface during imaging. The angle β formed by the optical axis M of the camera 33 and the human occlusal surface can be 60°, 63°, 66°, 70°, 71°, 75°, 76°, 77°, 88°, or 90°. If the angle β formed by the optical axis M of the camera 33 and the occlusal surface is less than 60°, the shooting angle may be too low, and the pit and fissure area of the occlusal surface may be obscured by the contact surfaces of the upper and lower teeth, thus failing to fully display the characteristics of the occlusal surface.
[0110] The angle β formed by the optical axis M of the camera 33 and the human occlusal surface is greater than or equal to 60° and less than or equal to 90°, which can effectively avoid excessive shooting angle and prevent the pits and fissures of the occlusal surface from being blocked by the tip of the occlusal surface. This ensures that the camera 33 can capture the occlusal surface while also capturing the inner surface of the teeth.
[0111] Please refer to Figures 1, 2 and 4 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, the angle γ between the optical axis M of the camera 33 and the length direction X of the support member 31 is greater than or equal to 40° and less than or equal to 90°.
[0112] Specifically, in some embodiments, the angle γ between the optical axis M of the camera 33 and the length direction X of the support 31 is greater than or equal to 55° and less than or equal to 65°. Depending on this angle range, possible angle values include: 55°, 56°, 57°, 58°, 59°, 60°, 61°, 62°, 63°, 64°, and 65°.
[0113] If the angle γ between the optical axis M of camera 33 and the length direction X of support 31 is less than 40°, the shooting angle of camera 33 may be too close to horizontal, causing the optical axis M of camera 33 to be unable to effectively align with the occlusal surface, resulting in an inaccurate shooting angle and difficulty in clearly obtaining details of the occlusal surface and some information of the inner surface. If the angle γ between the optical axis M of camera 33 and the length direction X of support 31 is greater than 90°, the angle of camera 33 may be too tilted. During shooting, not only is it easy for the optical axis M to be unable to accurately align with the occlusal surface, but it may also cause the shooting angle of the inner surface to be too offset, resulting in blurred or incomplete images of the inner surface. An excessively tilted shooting angle may also affect the contrast and clarity of the image, affecting the comprehensiveness of the dental imaging.
[0114] The angle γ between the optical axis M of the camera 33 and the length direction X of the support 31 is greater than or equal to 40° and less than or equal to 90°, which can provide a moderate angle fine-tuning function to ensure that the camera 33 can be aligned with the occlusal surface and capture the inner side surface, and can also effectively avoid excessive tilting or too gentle shooting angles, ensuring that the camera 33 can be aligned with the occlusal surface and the inner side surface during shooting.
[0115] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, the opening 51 includes an opening 511 and a connecting portion 513. The connecting portion 513 is connected to the main unit 10. The opening 511 includes a first end 501 and a second end 502 opposite to each other. The first end 501 is connected to the connecting portion 513. A through hole 5111 passes through the first end 501 and the second end 502.
[0116] Specifically, the opening 511 is used to open the lips. When the oral camera 100 is in its first configuration, the user holds the opening 511 in their mouth, and the opening 511 can press against the user's gums or other areas to open the user's lips. At least a portion of the opening 511 is located between the lips and the gums, which can prevent the lips from touching the gums. At this time, at least the outer surface of the teeth on the gums can correspond to the through hole 5111. At least the outer surface of the teeth is within the imaging range of the camera module 30. The camera module 30 can obtain the reflected signal of the area to be scanned (at least the outer surface of the teeth) through the through hole 5111 to generate an image or video.
[0117] The connecting portion 513 is used to connect the main unit 10 and the mouth opener 51. The connecting portion 513 can change the connection position between the mouth opener 51 and the main unit 10, thereby allowing the position of the opening portion 511 relative to the main unit 10 to be more flexible. In some embodiments, the connecting portion 513 and the opening portion 511 are an integral structure, that is, the connecting portion 513 and the opening portion 511 are a single unit, which can improve the bonding strength between the connecting portion 513 and the opening portion 511, preventing separation of the connecting portion 513 and the opening portion 511 during operation, thereby ensuring the stability and reliability of the mouth opener 51's operation. In other embodiments, the connecting portion 513 and the opening portion 511 are separate structures, that is, the connecting portion 513 and the opening portion 511 are two different structures. In one example, the connecting portion 513 and the opening portion 511 can be joined together by a detachable connection method, including but not limited to snap-fit connections or threaded connections. In another example, the connecting part 513 and the opening part 511 can be joined together by a non-removable connection method, including but not limited to bonding or welding.
[0118] The opening 511 of the mouth opener 51 is connected to the main unit 10 of the oral camera 100 through the connecting part 513, thereby realizing the indirect connection between the opening 511 and the main unit 10. Compared with the opening 511 being directly connected to the main unit 10, the connection position between the mouth opener 51 and the main unit 10 is shifted, and the connection position between the mouth opener 51 and the main unit 10 is decoupled from the position of the opening 511 (the position of the through hole 5111). That is, the connection position between the mouth opener 51 and the main unit 10 is not related to the position of the opening 511. On the one hand, the through hole 5111 can be within the coverage area of the main unit 10, or it can protrude relative to the main unit 10, that is, extend beyond the coverage area of the main unit 10. The position of the through hole 5111 of the opening 511 relative to the main unit 10 is more versatile.
[0119] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, the size of the host 10 in the length direction X is greater than the size of the host 10 in the width direction Y, and the size of the opening 511 in the length direction X is smaller than the size of the opening 511 in the width direction Y.
[0120] Specifically, it can be understood that the cross-section of the mouth opener 51 is approximately elliptical, and the cross-section of the mouth opener 51 includes a longer major axis and a shorter minor axis. The main unit 10 has a larger dimension in the length direction X than in the width direction Y, and the opening 511 has a smaller dimension in the length direction X than in the width direction Y. Therefore, the major axis of the mouth opener 51 (the maximum distance B2 of the opening 511 in the width direction Y) lies on the minor axis of the main unit 10 (the maximum distance B1 of the main unit 10 in the width direction Y), and the minor axis of the mouth opener 51 (the maximum distance A2 of the opening 511 in the length direction X) lies on the major axis of the main unit 10 (the maximum distance A1 of the main unit 10 in the length direction X). When the user has the mouth opener 51 in their mouth, the major axis of the mouth opener 51 needs to be inserted into the oral cavity parallel to the horizontal plane to adapt to the shape of the mouth after opening. Therefore, in the first configuration, when using the oral camera 100, the user can hold it vertically. With this vertical grip, the long axis of the main unit 10 is perpendicular to the horizontal plane. If the camera 33 is positioned on the side 313, the user can hold the main unit 10 vertically, making its length direction X approximately perpendicular to the horizontal plane, and its width direction Y and thickness direction Z approximately parallel to the horizontal plane. At this time, the side 313 where the camera 33 is located naturally aligns with the human oral cavity, allowing the user to take pictures without raising their arm or adjusting the angle of the main unit 10. This more natural and comfortable grip reduces arm fatigue and helps the camera 33 to more stably align with the target, resulting in clearer and more stable oral images.
[0121] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, in the first configuration, the distance between the camera 33 and the first end 501 in the direction from the first end 501 to the second end 502 is less than or equal to 20 mm.
[0122] Specifically, in the first configuration, the distance between the camera 33 and the first end 501 in the direction from the first end 501 to the second end 502 can be 0mm, 2mm, 4mm, 6mm, 8mm, 10mm, 12mm, 14mm, 16mm, or 20mm. If the distance between the camera 33 and the first end 501 is greater than 20mm, it will cause the overall depth of the mouth opener 51 (i.e., the dimension in the direction from the first end 501 to the second end 502) to increase, thus making the mouth opener 51 larger and less adaptable to narrower oral spaces. Simultaneously, the distance between the camera 33 and the second end 502 is insufficient. In the first configuration, the camera 33 is too close to the outer surface of the teeth, limiting the camera 33's shooting distance and preventing the acquisition of a wider shooting range, thereby affecting shooting efficiency and effectiveness.
[0123] The distance between camera 33 and the first end 501 is less than or equal to 20mm, which ensures that camera 33 has a certain distance from the second end 502, and that camera 33 has an appropriate distance from the outer surface of the tooth, thus ensuring that camera 33 has a certain imaging distance and imaging range, and guaranteeing shooting efficiency. It also allows control over the depth of the mouth opening device 51, thereby ensuring the imaging distance and imaging range of camera 33 without setting the depth of the mouth opening device 51 too large, and avoiding the design of an oversized mouth opening device 51.
[0124] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, the distance between the camera 33 and the second end 502 is greater than or equal to 10 mm.
[0125] Specifically, in the first configuration, the distance between the camera 33 and the second end 502 can be 10mm, 11mm, 13mm, 14mm, 15mm, 16mm, 17mm, 18mm, 19mm, or 20mm. If the distance between the camera 33 and the second end 502 is less than 10mm, it will cause the overall depth of the mouth opener 51 (i.e., the dimension in the direction from the first end 501 to the second end 502) to increase, thus making the mouth opener 51 larger and less adaptable to narrower oral spaces. Simultaneously, the distance between the camera 33 and the second end 502 is insufficient. In the first configuration, the camera 33 is too close to the outer surface of the teeth, limiting the camera 33's shooting distance and preventing the acquisition of a wider shooting range, thereby affecting shooting efficiency and effectiveness.
[0126] The distance between camera 33 and the second end 502 is greater than or equal to 10mm, which ensures that there is a certain distance between camera 33 and the second end 502, and an appropriate distance between camera 33 and the outer surface of the tooth, ensuring that camera 33 has a certain imaging distance and imaging range, and ensuring shooting efficiency. It also allows control over the depth of the mouth opening 51, thus ensuring the imaging distance and imaging range of camera 33 without setting the depth of the mouth opening 51 too large, and avoiding the design of an oversized mouth opening 51.
[0127] Please refer to Figures 1, 2 and 8 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, the opening assembly 50 further includes a shield 53 that covers the outer and inner sides of the opening 511.
[0128] Specifically, the isolation cover 53 is used to isolate the user's mouth from the opening 511, preventing direct contact between the mouth and the opening 511. The isolation cover 53 covers the outer and inner sides of the opening 511. In the first configuration, when the user uses the oral camera 100, the isolation cover 53 can prevent the user's mouth from contacting the outer and inner sides of the opening 511, thereby effectively avoiding hygiene problems that may arise when multiple users share the oral camera 100.
[0129] The isolation cover 53 provides good isolation between different users, preventing cross-infection or bacterial transmission caused by direct contact with the opening 511, and improving the hygiene and safety of the oral camera 100.
[0130] Please refer to Figures 1, 2 and 8 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, the shield 53 covers at least a portion of the connection portion 513.
[0131] Specifically, the isolation cover 53 can also cover at least part of the connecting part 513. In the first configuration, when a user uses the oral camera 100, the isolation cover 53 can prevent the user's oral cavity from contacting at least part of the connecting part 513, thereby effectively avoiding hygiene problems that may arise when multiple users use the oral camera 100 interchangeably.
[0132] The isolation cover 53 can cover at least part of the connection part 513, preventing the user's oral cavity from contaminating the connection part 513, preventing cross-infection or bacterial transmission caused by the user's direct contact with the connection part 513, and improving the hygiene and safety of the oral camera 100.
[0133] Please refer to Figures 1, 2 and 8 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, the shield 53 covers at least a portion of the host 10.
[0134] Specifically, the isolation cover 53 can also cover at least part of the host 10. In the first configuration, when the user uses the oral camera 100, the isolation cover 53 can prevent the user's oral cavity from contacting at least part of the host 10, thereby avoiding cross-infection problems.
[0135] The isolation cover 53 can cover at least part of the main unit 10, preventing the user's oral cavity from contaminating the main unit 10, preventing cross-infection or bacterial transmission caused by the user's direct contact with the connection part 513, and improving the hygiene and safety of the oral camera 100.
[0136] Please refer to Figures 1, 2 and 8 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, the isolation cover 53 is made of a thermoformed material.
[0137] Specifically, the isolation cover 53 only needs to meet the requirements of the inlet material. Since the isolation cover 53 covers the outer and inner sides of the opening 511, and the opening 511 can support the isolation cover 53, the requirements for hardness and thickness of the isolation cover 53 are relatively low. For example, the isolation cover 53 is made of a thermoforming material. Thermoforming materials include, but are not limited to, polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, or polystyrene.
[0138] The isolation cover 53 made of blister material can be used as a disposable item, which can be discarded after each user's use, avoiding the risk of cross-infection. The cost of blister material is also low, which can reduce the cost of the isolation cover 53.
[0139] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, the opening device 51 is made of blister material. Specifically, the opening device 51 is made of blister material, meaning that the opening device 51 itself can also be a disposable material. Blister materials include, but are not limited to, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, or polystyrene, etc., and are not limited in this application. The opening device 51 made of blister material can be used as a disposable item, which can be discarded after use, avoiding the risk of cross-infection. Blister materials are also less expensive, which can reduce costs.
[0140] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, the host 10 is also provided with a power supply device (not shown) for electrical connection with the camera module 30. In both the first and second embodiments, the power supply device and the camera module 30 are electrically connected.
[0141] Specifically, the power supply device can provide power to the camera module 30 at least, ensuring that the camera module 30 can operate normally in different working states (first mode and second mode), enabling the camera module 30 to function properly. For example, the power supply device can be a built-in rechargeable battery, such as a lithium-ion battery.
[0142] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, the oral cavity camera 100 can switch between a first mode and a second mode when the positional relationship between at least one of the opening assembly 50 and the camera module 30 and the host 10 changes.
[0143] Specifically, the switching between the first and second forms of the oral cavity camera 100 can be based on changes in the positional relationship between the opening assembly 50 and the host 10, changes in the positional relationship between the camera module 30 and the host 10, or changes in the positional relationship between the opening assembly 50 and the power connector and the host 10. Specifically, for example, changes in positional relationship can include disassembling or moving the opening assembly 50 relative to the host 10, and extending, folding, or sliding the camera module 30 relative to the host 10.
[0144] In the first configuration, the opening assembly 50 supports the lips, facilitating the imaging of the outer surfaces of the teeth; while in the second configuration, the camera module 30 extends into the oral cavity, enabling the imaging of the inner surfaces and occlusal surfaces of the teeth. The oral camera 100 can switch between the first and second configurations, thereby capturing images of at least the outer surfaces, inner surfaces, and occlusal surfaces of the teeth. This allows for the capture of multiple different images on a single oral camera 100, enabling it to meet the need for comprehensive imaging of all parts of the oral cavity.
[0145] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, in the first configuration, the camera 33 is located outside the oral cavity and is capable of capturing images of the outer surfaces of the teeth. Because the camera 33 is located outside the oral cavity, the user does not need to insert the device deep into the oral cavity, reducing interference with the soft tissues and potential discomfort. Furthermore, the external position of the camera 33 in the first configuration makes the device easier to operate and suitable for quickly checking the health of the outer surfaces of the teeth, such as cavities, plaque buildup, or tooth alignment. In some embodiments, in the second configuration, the camera 33 is located inside the oral cavity and is capable of aligning with the inner surfaces and occlusal surfaces of the teeth to acquire images of these surfaces.
[0146] Referring to Figures 13 and 14, in some embodiments, in a first configuration, the camera 33 is aligned with the through-hole 5111 of the opening device 51. In a second configuration, the opening device 51 is connected to the host 10, and the camera 33 is misaligned with the through-hole 5111 of the opening device 51.
[0147] Specifically, in the first configuration, the camera 33 is aligned with the through-hole 5111 of the mouth opener 51, and the camera 33 is located outside the oral cavity. The camera 33 can directly target the outer surface of the teeth through the through-hole 5111, thereby receiving the signal reflected back from the through-hole 5111 on the outer surface of the teeth. At this time, the through-hole 5111 serves as an optical channel, ensuring that the camera 33 can clearly capture the image of the outer surface of the teeth. At the same time, the mouth opener 51 supports the lips, providing a stable shooting environment for the camera 33.
[0148] In the second configuration, the mouth opener 51 is connected to the host 10, but the camera 33 is misaligned with the through hole 5111 of the mouth opener 51. Therefore, the through hole 5111 is no longer within the imaging range of the camera 33, avoiding interference from the mouth opener 51 to the camera 33. At this time, the camera 33 can be inserted into the oral cavity to capture images of the inner surface and occlusal surface of the teeth.
[0149] Referring to Figures 15 and 16, in some embodiments, in the second configuration, the mouth opening device 51 is connected to the host 10, and the support member 31 protrudes from the through hole 5111 into the mouth opening device 51, so that the mouth opening device 51 is located between the camera 33 and the host 10. Specifically, in the second configuration, the support member 31 protrudes from the through hole 5111 into the mouth opening device 51, and the portion of the support member 31 protruding from the through hole 5111 can extend into the oral cavity to capture images of the inner surfaces and occlusal surfaces of the teeth.
[0150] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, in the second configuration, the mouth opener 51 is separated from the main unit 10, and the support member 31 protrudes relative to the main unit 10. Specifically, the mouth opener 51 is separated from the main unit 10, that is, the mouth opener 51 is detached from the main unit 10, and the support member 31 protrudes relative to the main unit 10, thereby allowing the camera 33 to freely extend into the oral cavity to photograph the inner surfaces and occlusal surfaces of the teeth.
[0151] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12). In one embodiment, when the oral camera 100 switches between a first mode and a second mode, the positional relationship between the opening assembly 50 and the host 10 changes, and the connection position of the connecting part 513 of the mouth opener 51 and the host 10 is at least partially offset from the connection position of the connecting part 513 and the opening part 511.
[0152] Specifically, the connection position of the connecting part 513 of the opening device 51 to the host 10 is at least partially offset from the connection position of the connecting part 513 to the opening part 511, thereby realizing an indirect connection between the opening part 511 and the host 10. Compared with the opening part 511 being directly connected to the host 10, the connection position of the opening device 51 to the host 10 is shifted, and the position of the opening device 51 to the host 10 and the position of the opening part 511 are decoupled (the position of the through hole 5111). That is, the position of the opening device 51 to the host 10 and the position of the opening part 511 are not related, eliminating the requirement for the location of the camera 33, and the position of the camera 33 can be more flexible.
[0153] Referring to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12), in some embodiments, the opening assembly 50 is detachably connected to the host 10. In a first configuration, the opening assembly 50 is connected to the host 10, and the camera 33 and the through-hole 5111 of the opening assembly 50 are aligned. In a second configuration, the opening assembly 50 is separated from the host 10, and the support member 31 protrudes relative to the host 10.
[0154] Specifically, the opening assembly 50 is detachably connected to the main unit 10, and the detachable connection method includes, but is not limited to, snap-fit connection or threaded connection. In the first configuration, the opening assembly 50 is connected to the main unit 10, and the camera 33 can receive signals from the inner surface of the teeth passing through the through hole 5111. In some embodiments, the opening assembly 50 is detachably connected to the main unit 10, thereby allowing the oral camera 100 to flexibly switch between two different configurations to meet different shooting needs. In the first configuration, the opening assembly 50 is connected to the main unit 10, and the camera 33 is aligned with the through hole 5111 of the opening assembly 50. Since the through hole 5111 extends through both ends of the opening assembly 50, when the mouth opener 51 is placed in the oral cavity, the outer surface of the user's teeth will be opposite to the through hole 5111. The camera 33 receives the light signals reflected from the outer surface of the teeth through the through hole 5111, thereby capturing an image of the outer surface of the teeth, and thus achieving image acquisition.
[0155] In the second configuration, the opening assembly 50 is separated from the main unit 10, and the support member 31 protrudes relative to the main unit 10. At this time, the camera 33 is no longer opposite the through hole 5111 of the opening assembly 50. Since the support member 31 has a certain length, the camera 33 can freely extend into the oral cavity to obtain signals reflected from the inner surface and occlusal surface of the teeth and form an image.
[0156] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2, or Figures 9 and 10. In some embodiments, the opening assembly 50 is detachably connected to the host 10 by magnetic attraction and / or snap-fit.
[0157] Specifically, in one embodiment, the opening assembly 50 is detachably connected to the main unit 10 using a magnetic and / or snap-fit method. The magnetic connection utilizes magnetic force to connect and separate the opening assembly 50 and the main unit 10, automatically aligning and connecting without external force, saving time and manpower, and reducing wear and loosening problems that may occur with mechanical latches. In another embodiment, the opening assembly 50 and the main unit 10 achieve quick assembly and disassembly through the engagement of snap-fit mechanisms. Snap-fit connections eliminate the need for additional locking accessories, saving costs; furthermore, snap-fit connections offer high connection strength and reliability, capable of withstanding multiple assembly and disassembly cycles.
[0158] The opening assembly 50 is detachably connected to the main unit 10 by magnetic attraction and / or snap-fit. When in use, the oral camera 100 can connect and separate the opening assembly 50 and the main unit 10, thereby switching between the first and second modes.
[0159] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2. In some embodiments, the connecting portion 513 of the opening device 51 includes an adjacent and connected first side 5131 and a second side 5132. The opening portion 511 is provided on the first side 5131, and the second side 5132 is connected to the host 10.
[0160] Specifically, the first side 5131 is perpendicular to the thickness direction Z, and the second side 5132 is perpendicular to the length direction X. In some embodiments, the connecting portion 513 of the opening device 51 is designed to include adjacent and connected first side 5131 and second side 5132. The opening 511 of the opening device 51 is located on the first side 5131, while the second side 5132 is connected to the main unit 10. The opening device 51 is connected to the main unit 10 via its second side 5132, rather than occupying a large surface area of the main unit 10. The "large surface area" refers to the main plane on the main unit 10 used for mounting or connecting other components, typically the front or side 313 of the main unit 10. By placing the connection point of the opening device 51 on the end face of the main unit 10 instead of on a large surface area, the main body of the main unit 10 can maintain a simple and flat design, providing a more comfortable grip for the user while reducing the overall size, facilitating prolonged holding and operation.
[0161] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2. In some embodiments, the host 10 includes a first surface 101 and a second surface 102 opposite each other in the length direction X. The first surface 101 is provided with a first magnetic element 13, and the second surface 102 is provided with a second magnetic element 5135. The host 10 and the connecting part 513 are detachably connected by the first magnetic element 13 and the second magnetic element 5135.
[0162] Specifically, the first magnetic element 13 can be one or more, which is not limited in this application. Similarly, the second magnetic element 5135 can be one or more, which is not limited in this application. The number of the first magnetic element 13 and the second magnetic element 5135 can be the same or different. When the mouth opener 51 needs to be connected to the host 10, the first magnetic element 13 and the second magnetic element 5135 attract each other and combine, thereby completing the connection between the mouth opener 51 and the host 10. When the mouth opener 51 needs to be separated from the host 10, it is only necessary to overcome the magnetic force and manually separate the mouth opener 51 from the host 10.
[0163] The first magnetic component 13 and the second magnetic component 5135 are connected by magnetic attraction and fixed by magnetic force. The connection is stable and reliable, which can effectively prevent the mouth opener 51 from loosening or falling off due to external force during use. In addition, the magnetic connection also has a certain self-alignment function, which can ensure that the mouth opener 51 and the main unit 10 are quickly aligned when connected, improving the efficiency and accuracy of equipment assembly.
[0164] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2. In some embodiments, the first side 5131 is provided with a receiving groove 51311. In the first configuration, the support member 31 is at least partially received in the receiving groove 51311.
[0165] Specifically, the receiving groove 51311 is used to receive at least a portion of the structure of the support member 31 in the first configuration. The cross-sectional shape of the receiving groove can be rectangular, circular, or other shapes. Preferably, the shape and size of the receiving groove match the outer contour of the support member 31, thereby ensuring a clearance fit between the support member 31 and the inner wall of the receiving groove, enhancing the fixing and support of the support member 31 by the receiving groove, thus ensuring the stable installation of the support member 31, making it less prone to displacement, and preventing shifting or loosening. The receiving groove also has a positioning effect, facilitating the installation of the support member 31. In addition, the receiving groove 51311 is only provided on the first side 5131, clearly defining the connection position and direction between the opening device 51 and the support member 31, making the connection position and direction of the opening device 51 unique, providing a better foolproof effect and avoiding incorrect installation.
[0166] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2. In some embodiments, on the projection plane perpendicular to the length direction X of the host 10, the area of the projection plane of the host 10 is larger than the area of the projection plane of the support 31, and the opening assembly 50 is connected to the end of the host 10 near the support 31 in the length direction X.
[0167] Specifically, on the projection plane perpendicular to the length direction X of the host 10, the area of the projection plane of the host 10 is larger than the area of the projection plane of the support 31. In some embodiments, the cross-section of the host 10 is larger than the cross-section of the support 31. As a result, the opening 51 can obtain a larger connection area and improve the stability of the connection.
[0168] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2. In some embodiments, on the same side as the camera 33, the area of the host 10 is larger than the area of the support 31. The camera 33 is oriented in the direction of light emission from the camera, which in this application is the thickness direction Z. Having a larger area for the host 10 than for the support 31 increases the connection area between the mouthpiece 51 and the host 10, while the smaller area of the support 31 facilitates insertion into the oral cavity.
[0169] Please refer to Figures 9 and 10. In some embodiments, in the thickness direction Z of the host 10, the host 10 includes a third side 103 and a fourth side facing away from each other. The connecting part 513 includes a first side 5131 and a third side 5133 facing away from each other. An opening 511 is provided on the first side 5131, and the third side 5133 is connected to the third side 103 of the host 10.
[0170] Specifically, it can be understood that the third surface 103 and the fourth surface are parallel to the XY plane, forming the largest plane of the host 10. The third side surface 5133 is connected to the third surface 103 of the host 10, resulting in a larger connection area and better connection stability. The connection between the third side surface 5133 and the third surface 103 restricts the relative movement of the opening assembly 50 in the thickness direction Z, ensuring that the opening assembly 50 and the host 10 do not shift. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the connecting part 513 is made of magnetic material, and the third side surface 5133 is magnetically connected to the third surface 103. Specifically, the magnetic connection between the third side surface 5133 and the third surface 103 is simple and convenient, and the larger area of the third side surface 5133 and the third surface 103 allows for the application of more magnetic material, resulting in stronger connection stability.
[0171] Please refer to Figures 9 and 10. In some embodiments, in the width direction Y of the host 10, the host 10 includes a fifth surface 105 and a sixth surface 106 facing away from each other. The connecting part 513 is also provided with a flange 5137, which is at least partially connected to the fifth surface 105 and / or the sixth surface 106. The flange 5137 is bent toward the fifth surface 105 and / or the sixth surface 106.
[0172] Specifically, the flange 5137 is connected to the periphery of the connecting portion 513 and extends from the connecting portion 513 in a direction away from the connecting portion 513 and the opening portion 511. The flange 5137 is connected to at least a portion of the fifth surface 105 and / or the sixth surface 106, which can restrict the relative movement of the opening assembly 50 in the width direction Y and fix the opening assembly 50 to the main unit 10.
[0173] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, the through hole 5111 of the mouthpiece 51 is an oblong hole, an elliptical hole, a rectangular hole, or a flattened oval hole. The minor axis A2 of the cross-section of the through hole 5111 is parallel to the length extension direction of the host 10 and the oral camera 100.
[0174] Specifically, there can be one or more through holes 5111. On the cross-section obtained by the plane perpendicular to the thickness direction Z, the shape of the through hole 5111 includes, but is not limited to, an oblong, a circle, an ellipse, a rectangle, or a flattened circle. The minor axis A2 of the cross-section of the through hole 5111 is the minimum dimension of the cross-section in any direction.
[0175] The minor axis A2 of the cross-section of the through hole 5111 is parallel to the length extension direction of the main unit 10 and the oral camera 100. Therefore, when the user holds the oral camera 100 and adjusts the position of the mouth opener 51, the orientation of the through hole 5111 can better adapt to the user's natural hand gestures. For example, when the oral camera 100 is held vertically (i.e., the length direction X of the oral camera 100 is perpendicular to the horizontal plane), the major axis of the through hole 5111 allows for greater freedom of movement, enabling the mouth opener 51 to move smoothly along the direction of tooth alignment while maintaining a stable connection. The user can more easily slide the mouth opener 51 in the up-down or left-right directions without worrying that the mouth opener 51 will fall off the oral camera 100 due to lateral forces.
[0176] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18). In some embodiments, on the projection plane perpendicular to the extension direction of the through hole 5111, the geometric center of the through hole 5111 does not coincide with the geometric center of the connection portion 513.
[0177] Specifically, in some embodiments, the geometric center of the through-hole 5111 does not coincide with the geometric center of the connecting portion 513 on the projection plane perpendicular to the extension direction of the through-hole 5111. The opening 511 of the aperture 51 is indirectly connected to the host 10 of the camera device 100 via the connecting portion 513, rather than directly connected to the host 10. The connection position between the aperture 51 and the host 10 shifts, causing the projection of the opening 511 to lie within the projection plane of the connecting portion 513. This achieves separation between the connection position of the aperture 51 to the host 10 and the position of the opening 511 (i.e., the position of the through-hole 5111). The relative positions of the two are no longer closely related. Therefore, the through-hole 5111 can be adjusted within the coverage area of the host 10, or it can protrude relative to the host 10, extending beyond its coverage area. This increases the positional selectivity of the through-hole 5111 relative to the host 10, allowing users to flexibly adjust the shooting angle and position according to specific needs, improving the adaptability and accuracy of imaging. Secondly, through indirect connection, the connecting part 513 acts as a buffer, reducing the impact of external forces on the opening 511 and enhancing the overall stability of the device. Even in the event of slight collisions or movement, it can maintain a good working condition. In addition, disposable consumables (such as the isolation cover 53) are easier to fit onto the opening device 51 because the geometric center of the through hole 5111 does not coincide with that of the connecting part 513, making the installation process of consumables smoother and simplifying the operation steps.
[0178] The geometric center of the through hole 5111 does not coincide with the geometric center of the connecting part 513. The part of the connecting part 513 that is not located around the geometric center of the through hole 5111 can be used to connect to the host 10. On the one hand, the position of the through hole 5111 on the host 10 can be flexibly adjusted. On the other hand, the position of the through hole 5111 does not occupy the space of the host 10, allowing the user to hold the host 10 more, thus improving the stability of the user's grip.
[0179] Referring to Figures 11 and 12, in some embodiments, the opening assembly 50 is slidably engaged with the main unit 10. When the opening assembly 50 is slid to a first position, the oral camera 100 is in a first configuration, with the camera 33 aligned with the through-hole 5111 of the mouth opener 51. When the opening assembly 50 is slid to a second position, the oral camera 100 is in a second configuration, with the mouth opener 51 separated from the main unit 10, and the support member 31 protruding relative to the main unit 10.
[0180] Specifically, the opening component 50 can slide along a certain direction (e.g., the length direction X) of the host 10, realizing the connection and separation of the opening component 50 and the host 10. The opening component 50 of this application can slide in the length direction X of the host 10. There are various sliding connection methods, which are not limited in this application. For example, a groove or guide rail can be provided on the host 10, and the connecting portion 513 of the opening component 50 is equipped with a corresponding slider or guide, allowing the opening component 50 to slide on the host 10.
[0181] In the first position, the opening assembly 50 slides to engage with the main unit 10. At this time, the oral camera 100 is in its first form, with the camera 33 aligned with the through-hole 5111 of the mouth opener 51. The camera 33 can then capture images of the outer surface of the teeth through the through-hole 5111 of the mouth opener 51. When switching to the second form, the user simply pushes or pulls the opening assembly 50 along the sliding direction to slide it to the second position. The mouth opener 51 separates from the main unit 10, and the support 31 protrudes relative to the main unit 10, allowing the camera 33 to extend into the oral cavity to capture images of the inner surface and occlusal surface of the teeth. The sliding connection structure is relatively simple, low-cost, quick, and flexible, allowing users to switch between the first and second forms according to different shooting needs.
[0182] Referring to Figures 11 and 12, in some embodiments, the connecting portion 513 is sleeved on the main unit 10 and forms a sliding connection with the main unit 10. Specifically, the opening device 51 is sleeved on the main unit 10 via the connecting portion 513 and forms a sliding connection with the main unit 10. The connecting portion 513 of the opening device 51 slides on the main unit 10, while the opening portion 511 does not need to directly bear the frictional force during the sliding process. This can reduce the mechanical wear of the opening portion 511 and extend its service life.
[0183] Referring to Figures 13 and 14, in some embodiments, the support member 31 of the camera module 30 is foldably connected to the host 10. When the support member 31 is rotated to a first position, the oral camera 100 is in a first configuration, the support member 31 is at least partially located within the through hole 5111, and the camera 33 is aligned with the through hole 5111 of the mouth opening 51; when the support member 31 is rotated to a second position, the oral camera 100 is in a second configuration, the mouth opening assembly 50 is connected to the host 10, and the support member 31 protrudes relative to the host 10.
[0184] Specifically, the support member 31 of the camera module 30 is connected to the host 10 in a foldable manner. Exemplarily, the support member 31 and the host 10 can be rotatably connected via a pivot. The extension direction of the pivot in this application is consistent with the width direction Y, and the support member 31 can rotate in the XZ plane. Specifically, when the support member 31 is in the first position, the oral camera 100 is in a first form. At this time, the support member 31 is at least partially housed within the third surface 103 (maximum surface) of the host 10 and aligned with the through hole 5111 of the opening assembly 50. The camera 33 captures images of the outer surface of the teeth through the through hole 5111. The support member 31 is at least partially located within the through hole 5111 of the opening assembly 50, which not only saves space but also protects the support member 31 from external damage and extends its service life. When the oral camera 100 needs to switch from the first form to the second form, the support member 31 rotates relative to the pivot, unfolds outward from the through hole 5111, gradually forms a certain angle with the host 10, and finally rotates to the second position, protruding relative to the host 10. This rotation mechanism allows the support 31 to extend into the oral cavity, enabling the camera 33 to capture images of the inner surface and occlusal surface of the teeth.
[0185] The support member 31 is foldably connected to the main unit 10, which reduces the size occupied by the support member 31, thereby reducing the volume of the oral camera 100, which is conducive to the miniaturization of the oral camera 100 and makes it easier to carry and store. The support member 31 is at least partially located within the through hole 5111 of the opening assembly 50, and also provides protection for the support member 31 to avoid damage caused by accidental collision or compression.
[0186] Please refer to Figures 11 and 12. In some embodiments, the opening 51 has a notch that penetrates the periphery of the through hole 5111. One end of the support 31 is rotatably connected to the main unit 10 to achieve folding or unfolding. The support 31 extends into the through hole 5111 through the notch and is folded and mounted on the main unit 10. When the support 31 is unfolded, the support 31 is offset from the opening 51.
[0187] Specifically, the notch is located in the rotation direction of the support member 31, providing space for the support member 31 to rotate. In the first state, the support member 31 is located inside the through hole 51111. When the first state changes to the second state, the support member 31 rotates from inside the through hole 5111 through the notch to outside the through hole 5111. When the second state changes to the first state, the support member 31 rotates from outside the through hole 5111 through the notch to inside the through hole 5111.
[0188] Referring to Figures 15 and 16, in some embodiments, the support member 31 is telescopically connected to the host 10, and the support member 31 is linearly movable in the direction from the first end 501 of the through hole 5111 to the second end 502 of the through hole 5111. When the support member 31 is telescopically extended to the first position, the oral camera 100 is in a first configuration, and the camera 33 is aligned with the through hole 5111 of the mouth opener 51; when the support member 31 is telescopically extended to the second position, the oral camera 100 is in a second configuration, the mouth opener 51 is connected to the host 10, and the support member 31 protrudes from the through hole 5111 into the mouth opener 51, so that the mouth opener 51 is located between the host 10 and the camera 33.
[0189] Specifically, the driving force for the extension and retraction of the support member 31 can come from a linear motor or the like, and is not limited thereto. For example, a linear motor is a device that can directly convert electrical energy into linear motion; it has a simple structure and fast response speed, and can control the extension and retraction position of the support member 31 within the pupil. Specifically, the linear motor drives the support member 31 to move linearly in the thickness direction Z, that is, the support member 31 can move linearly from the first end 501 of the through hole 5111 to the second end 502 of the through hole 5111.
[0190] When the oral camera 100 is in its first configuration, the linear motor drives the support member 31 to retract into the main unit 10. The support member 31 does not extend from the second end 502, aligning the camera 33 portion of the support member 31 with the through hole 5111 of the mouth opener 51. At this time, most of the support member 31 is housed inside the main unit 10, and the camera 33 is aimed at the outer surface of the teeth through the through hole 5111 to capture images of the outer side of the teeth. This design gives the oral camera 100 a compact structure in its first configuration, facilitating handheld operation while ensuring image stability and clarity.
[0191] When the oral camera 100 needs to switch to the second mode, the linear motor drives the support member 31 to extend outward. The support member 31 moves from the first end 501 of the through hole 5111 towards the second end 502, eventually protruding from the through hole 5111 beyond the second end 502 of the mouth opener 51. At this time, the mouth opener 51 is still connected to the main unit 10, but the support member 31 is fully extended, allowing the camera 33 to be inserted into the oral cavity to photograph the inner surfaces and occlusal surfaces of the teeth. This telescopic mechanism not only enables rapid switching between the two modes but also ensures the stability and reliability of the support member 31 during extension and retraction. Therefore, the oral camera 100 can flexibly switch between the two modes to meet different shooting needs.
[0192] Referring to Figures 17 and 18, in some embodiments, the camera module 30 is slidably connected to the host 10. When the camera module 30 is slid to be connected to the host 10, the oral camera 100 is in a first state, with the camera 33 aligned with the through hole 5111 of the mouth opener 51; when the camera module 30 is slid to be separated from the host 10, the oral camera 100 is in a second state, with the support member 31 protruding relative to the host 10.
[0193] Specifically, the camera module 30 can slide along a certain direction (usually the length direction X) of the host 10, thereby realizing the connection and separation of the camera module 30 and the host 10. Further, the camera module 30 of this application can slide in the length direction X of the host 10. There are various sliding connection methods, which are not limited in this application. For example, a groove or guide rail can be provided on the host 10, and the connecting part 513 of the camera module 30 is equipped with a corresponding slider or guide.
[0194] In the first position, the camera module 30 slides until the camera 33 is aligned with the through-hole 5111 of the energy receiver. The camera 33 can capture images of the outer surface of the teeth through the through-hole 5111 of the energy receiver. When switching to the second position, the user simply pushes or pulls the camera module 30 along the sliding direction to slide it to the second position. The energy receiver separates from the host 10, and the support 31 protrudes relative to the host 10, allowing the camera 33 to extend into the oral cavity to capture images of the inner surface and occlusal surface of the teeth. The sliding connection structure is simple, low-cost, quick, and flexible, allowing users to switch between the first and second positions according to different shooting needs.
[0195] Referring to Figures 17 and 18, in some embodiments, the camera module 30 is sleeved on the host 10 and forms a sliding connection with the host 10. Specifically, the camera module 30 is sleeved on the host 10 and can slide on the host 10 along a specific direction (such as the length direction X), thereby realizing the rapid switching of the oral camera 100 between different forms.
[0196] Specifically, when the oral camera 100 is in its first configuration, the camera module 30 is slidably stored inside or near the main unit 10, making the overall size of the oral camera 100 smaller and easier to handle and store. At this time, the camera 33 is aligned with the through-hole 5111 of the mouth opener 51 to capture images of the outer surface of the teeth.
[0197] When it is necessary to switch to the second mode, the camera module 30 extends outward through a sliding connection, and the camera 33 protrudes from the host 10. The camera 33 can be inserted into the oral cavity to take pictures of the inner surface and occlusal surface of the teeth.
[0198] It is understood that the camera module 30 can be connected to different positions on the host 10, and this application is not limited thereto. For example, different connection methods (telescopic connection, folding connection, etc.) may correspond to different connection positions on the host 10. Thus, the camera module 30 can select the connection position with the host 10 according to different connection methods, making the layout of the oral camera 100 more reasonable.
[0199] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18), and Figures 3 and 4. In some embodiments, in a first configuration, the camera 33 moves along a first path, and in a second configuration, the camera 33 moves along a second path, wherein the plane containing the first path intersects the plane containing the second path.
[0200] The first path is the movement trajectory of the camera 33 outside the oral cavity when the user holds the oral camera 100 and moves the camera 100 to capture images of the outer surface of the teeth. The second path is the movement trajectory of the camera 33 inside the oral cavity when the user holds the oral camera 100 and moves the camera 100 to capture images of the outer surface of the teeth. For example, the plane of the first path is approximately parallel to the outer surface of the teeth. Under the first path, the camera 33 moves along the first path outside the oral cavity to capture images of the outer surface of the teeth, which is more intuitive and easier to operate. Since the camera 33 / first path is located outside the oral cavity, this not only reduces patient discomfort but also avoids the risk of infection or damage caused by direct contact with the inside of the oral cavity.
[0201] For example, the plane containing the second path is approximately parallel to the occlusal surface, and the second path allows the camera 33 to move flexibly inside the oral cavity without bumping the gums and teeth, thereby capturing images of the inner surface or occlusal surface of the teeth.
[0202] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2 (or Figures 9 and 10, or Figures 11 and 12, or Figures 13 and 14, or Figures 15 and 16, or Figures 17 and 18), and Figures 3 and 4. In some embodiments, the plane containing the first path is perpendicular to the plane containing the second path.
[0203] The plane containing the first path is perpendicular to the plane containing the second path, allowing the camera 33 to move and adjust in two different directions, providing users with greater operational freedom. For example, in the first path (located outside the oral cavity), the camera 33 can move along a horizontal or near-horizontal plane to capture images of the outer surfaces of the teeth; while in the second path (located inside the oral cavity), the camera 33 can move in a plane perpendicular to the first path to capture images of the inner surfaces or occlusal surfaces of the teeth. The two paths do not interfere with each other, allowing users to quickly switch perspectives according to specific needs without complex adjustment steps, improving operational efficiency and convenience. The camera 33 can acquire image data in different dimensions under both paths, providing a more comprehensive and detailed view, ensuring that the camera 33 can capture images from multiple angles and reducing blind spots or information omissions caused by a single perspective.
[0204] Although embodiments of this application have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting this application. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of this application.
Claims
1. An oral cavity camera, characterized in that, include: Host; A camera module is installed on the host computer. The camera module includes a camera and a support. The support is connected to the host computer, and the camera is installed on the support. and An opening assembly, the opening assembly including an opening device, the opening device including a first end and a second end opposite to each other, and the opening device being provided with a through hole penetrating the first end and the second end; The oral camera has at least a first form and a second form; In the first configuration, the opening is connected to the host, the through hole is opposite to the camera, and the camera does not extend beyond the second end in the depth direction of the through hole; In the second configuration, the support extends protrudingly relative to the main unit to allow it to be inserted into the oral cavity.
2. The oral camera according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the first configuration, the camera is used to capture images outside the oral cavity; in the second configuration, the camera is used to capture images inside the oral cavity; and / or, In the first configuration, the camera is used to capture at least the outer surface of the dental arch; in the second configuration, the camera is used to capture at least the occlusal surface and the inner surface of the dental arch.
3. The oral camera according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one of the opening components is positional relative to the host to allow the oral camera to switch between the first and second configurations.
4. The oral camera according to claim 3, characterized in that, In the first configuration, the camera is aligned with the through hole of the opening device; In the second configuration, the opening is connected to the host, and the camera is offset from the through hole of the opening; or, In the second configuration, the opening is connected to the main unit, and the support protrudes from the through hole into the opening, so that the opening is positioned between the camera and the main unit; or, In the second configuration, the opening is separated from the main unit, and the support protrudes relative to the main unit.
5. The oral camera according to claim 3, characterized in that, The camera module can be retractably connected to the host computer; or, The camera module can be foldably connected to the host computer; or, The camera module can be connected to different locations on the host computer.
6. The oral camera according to claim 3, characterized in that, The opening assembly is detachable relative to the host; or... The opening assembly is slidably connected to the host.
7. The oral camera according to claim 6, characterized in that, The opening assembly is magnetically connected to the host or detachably connected via a snap-fit.
8. The oral camera according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, In the second form The opening is separate from the main unit, the support protrudes relative to the main unit, and the cross-sectional area of the support is less than or equal to 300 square millimeters; and / or, the width of the support perpendicular to the length extension direction is less than or equal to 20 millimeters, and the thickness is less than or equal to 15 millimeters.
9. The oral camera according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, In the second configuration, the camera is offset from the through hole of the opening; or, the support extends from the through hole into the opening.
10. The oral camera according to claim 8, characterized in that, The opening is slidably connected to the host so that the through hole is offset from or corresponds to the camera; or, the camera module is retractable or foldable connected to the host so that the through hole is offset from or corresponds to the camera.
11. The oral camera according to claim 9, characterized in that, The support member extends and protrudes in a first direction relative to the host, and the opening slides relative to the host in the first direction.
12. The oral camera according to claim 9, characterized in that, The support member is retractably connected to the host and extends and retracts in the through hole to allow the camera to extend from the second end or not extend.
13. The oral camera according to claim 11, characterized in that, The number of cameras is at least two, and the optical axes of the two cameras are set at an angle.
14. The oral camera according to claim 12, characterized in that, The included angle between the optical axes of the two cameras is not less than 60°.
15. The oral camera according to claim 9, characterized in that, The opening device has a notch that penetrates the peripheral wall of the through hole. One end of the support member is rotatably connected to the main unit to achieve folding or unfolding. The support member extends into the through hole through the notch and is folded and mounted on the main unit. When the support member is unfolded, the support member is offset from the opening device.
16. The oral camera according to any one of claims 1-15, characterized in that, The positional relationship between the opening assembly and the host changes, and the connection position between the opening device's connecting part and the host is at least partially offset relative to the connection position between the connecting part and the opening part.
17. The oral camera according to claim 16, characterized in that, The connecting part of the opening device includes an adjacent and connected first side and a second side, the opening of the opening device is located on the first side, and the second side is connected to the host.
18. The oral camera according to claim 17, characterized in that, The host includes a first side and a second side opposite to each other in the length direction. The first side is provided with a first magnetic element, and the second side is provided with a second magnetic element. The host and the connecting part are detachably connected through the first magnetic element and the second magnetic element.
19. The oral camera according to claim 17, characterized in that, The first side is provided with a receiving groove, and in the first configuration, the support member is at least partially received in the receiving groove.
20. The oral camera according to claim 17, characterized in that, On a projection plane perpendicular to the length direction of the host, the area of the projection plane of the host is larger than the area of the projection plane of the support member, and the opening assembly is connected to the end of the host near the support member in the length direction.
21. The oral camera according to claim 16, characterized in that, The opening is connected to the host, and the cross-section of the host perpendicular to the length extension direction is greater than or equal to the cross-section of the support member; or, on the same side facing the camera, the area of the host is greater than the area of the support member.
22. The oral camera according to any one of claims 1-15, characterized in that, In the thickness direction of the host, the host includes a third side and a fourth side facing away from each other, the connecting part includes a first side side and a third side side facing away from each other, the opening is disposed on the first side side, and the third side side is connected to the third side side of the host.
23. The oral camera according to claim 22, characterized in that, At least a portion of the connecting portion is made of magnetic material, and the third side is magnetically connected to the third surface.
24. The oral camera according to claim 23, characterized in that, In the width direction of the host, the host includes a fifth side and a sixth side facing away from each other, and the connecting part is also provided with a flange, the flange is connected to the fifth side and / or the sixth side, and the flange is bent in a direction close to the fifth side and / or the sixth side.
25. The oral camera according to any one of claims 1-24, characterized in that, The through hole can be an oblong hole, an elliptical hole, a rectangular hole, or a flattened oval hole, and the minor axis of the cross-section of the through hole is approximately parallel to the length extension direction of the oral camera.
26. The oral camera according to any one of claims 1-24, characterized in that, On a projection plane perpendicular to the extension direction of the through hole, the geometric center of the through hole does not coincide with the geometric center of the mouth opening, or the geometric center of the through hole does not coincide with the geometric center of the oral camera.
27. The oral camera according to claim 16, characterized in that, The opening assembly also includes an isolation shield that covers the outer and inner sides of the opening.
28. The oral camera according to claim 27, characterized in that, The isolation shield covers at least a portion of the connection; and / or, The shielding covers at least a portion of the host unit.
29. The oral camera according to any one of claims 1-28, characterized in that, The support member includes a first end face and a second end face opposite to each other, and a side face. The side face connects the first end face and the second end face, and the camera is disposed on the side face.
30. The oral camera according to claim 29, characterized in that, The minimum distance from the camera to the first end face of the support is greater than or equal to 20mm.
31. The oral camera according to any one of claims 1-28, characterized in that, The host has two perpendicular length directions, width directions, and thickness directions. The surface formed by the long side and the wide side of the host is the largest surface of the host. The camera is on the same side or opposite side of the oral camera.
32. The oral camera according to any one of claims 1-31, characterized in that, The support member has a length dimension greater than or equal to 30 mm; and / or, The support member has a width dimension of less than or equal to 20 mm; and / or, The dimension of the support member in its thickness direction is less than or equal to 10 mm.
33. The oral camera according to any one of claims 1-32, characterized in that, The field of view of the camera is greater than or equal to 120°.
34. The oral camera according to any one of claims 1-33, characterized in that, The camera has a rectangular field of view, and the shorter side of the rectangular field of view is perpendicular to the length extension direction of the support member.
35. The oral camera according to any one of claims 1-34, characterized in that, The support member is provided with a limiting structure, which is used to abut against the teeth and / or periodontal tissues and limit the relative position of the support member and the teeth.
36. The oral camera according to claim 35, characterized in that, The support member includes a side surface, and the limiting structure and the camera are disposed on the side surface at intervals. The limiting structure and the camera are located on opposite sides, adjacent sides, or the same side of the support member.
37. The oral camera according to claim 35, characterized in that, The limiting structure includes at least one of a groove, a protrusion, or a bending structure.
38. The oral camera according to claim 37, characterized in that, The limiting structure includes multiple grooves, which are distributed sequentially along the length of the support member.
39. The oral camera according to claim 38, characterized in that, At least some of the grooves have different depths, with the grooves closer to the camera having a smaller depth.
40. The oral camera according to claim 37, characterized in that, The groove includes a first abutting surface and a second abutting surface connected together. When the groove accommodates a tooth, the first abutting surface and / or the second abutting surface abut against the occlusal surface or outer surface of the tooth. When the groove accommodates a tooth, the angle formed between the optical axis of the camera and the human occlusal surface is greater than or equal to 60° and less than or equal to 90°.
41. The oral camera according to any one of claims 1-40, characterized in that, The angle between the optical axis of the camera and the length direction of the support is greater than or equal to 40° and less than or equal to 90°.
42. The oral camera according to any one of claims 1-41, characterized in that, The host is also equipped with a power supply device, which is used to electrically connect with the camera module. In both the first and second states, the power supply device and the camera module are electrically connected.
43. The oral camera according to any one of claims 1-23, characterized in that, When the positional relationship between at least one of the opening assembly and the camera module and the host changes, the oral cavity camera can switch between the first mode and the second mode.
44. The oral camera according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the first configuration, the camera moves along a first path; in the second configuration, the camera moves along a second path, and the plane containing the first path intersects with the plane containing the second path.
45. The oral camera according to claim 44, characterized in that, The plane containing the first path is perpendicular to the plane containing the second path.