Customized Mouthpiece Case Inserts for Precise Circuit Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fitness trackers are cumbersome and sensitive to user motion, requiring users to remain still for accurate readings, and creating customized case inserts for mouthpieces with embedded circuit boards prolongs the manufacturing process and can lead to misalignment issues affecting charging efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for fabricating customized case inserts for mouthpieces with embedded circuit boards using a digital representation of a teeth model, involving the creation of shell models and placement of circuit board objects, ensuring precise fit and alignment, and incorporating features like spacers and deformations for easy insertion and charging efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If customized case inserts are created after mouthpieces are manufactured, then the mouthpiece customization is achieved, but the manufacturing process is prolonged and misalignment issues occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by creating the case insert model concurrently with the mouthpiece model during the same manufacturing process. The case insert model is generated using the same digital teeth model and shell model that define the mouthpiece geometry, ensuring that the charging coil position is predetermined and aligned with the mouthpiece structure before physical manufacturing begins. This eliminates sequential processing delays and prevents misalignment issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the case insert manufacturing process with the mouthpiece manufacturing process by using a unified digital modeling approach. Both components are generated from the same digital teeth model and share the same coordinate system and reference frames, allowing simultaneous production and ensuring precise alignment between the charging coil in the case insert and the corresponding components in the mouthpiece.
2Manufacturing precision
If the case insert is designed to fit tightly for precision, then alignment is improved, but insertion and removal becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by introducing a latch mechanism that divides the case insert into functional zones: a tight-fitting main body for precision alignment and a separate latch component for easy operation. The latch acts as an independent segment that can be actuated to release the mouthpiece, allowing users to easily insert and remove the mouthpiece despite the tight overall fit of the case insert.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism serves as an intermediary element between the user and the tightly fitted case insert. Instead of requiring direct force to overcome the tight fit, the user interacts with the latch, which mediates the insertion and removal process by providing a mechanical advantage and reducing the effort needed to engage or disengage the mouthpiece.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for making a case insert for a mouthpiece having an embedded circuit board is disclosed. The method includes receiving a digital representation of a teeth model, creating a first shell model based at least in part on the digital representation of the teeth model, placing one or more objects modeling the embedded circuit board on the first shell model, creating a second shell model covering the first shell model and the one or more objects, and creating a case insert model based at least in part on the second shell model.