Head Tracker Frame for Dental Navigation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dental navigation systems face challenges in accurately tracking the jaw due to line of sight interruptions and require cumbersome retainer appliances that obstruct the mouth and cause discomfort, while head frames can move relative to the head and impede surgical access.
Innovation Solution
A head tracker system with a frame, nose pad, and adjustable ear coupling members that apply a clamping force to maintain a stable spatial relationship with trackable targets, allowing for precise jaw tracking without obstructing the surgical field or causing patient discomfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a retainer appliance is rigidly coupled to the jaw surface to provide tracking, then jaw tracking stability is improved, but the appliance blocks mouth opening and covers jaw surface, impeding surgical access
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking system is segmented into two separate components: a retainer appliance for jaw tracking and a head frame for head tracking. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function without interfering with surgical access, as the head frame can be positioned to not obstruct the mouth opening while the retainer appliance remains on the jaw surface for accurate tracking.
2Measurement precision
If a head frame with plugs in ear canals is used for tracking, then head tracking is achieved, but patient discomfort increases due to pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The harmful element (plugs in ear canals) is extracted and replaced with an alternative attachment method. The head frame uses a strap around the back of the head instead of ear canal plugs, eliminating the pressure-induced discomfort while maintaining head tracking accuracy through the strap's secure fit.
3Measurement precision
If a head frame with strap around head is used for tracking, then head tracking is achieved, but the frame moves relative to head due to jaw movement and facial expressions
Solution Approach 1:
The head frame and retainer appliance are merged into a coupled system where the retainer appliance is rigidly attached to the jaw and the head frame is rigidly attached to the head. This merging ensures that both components move together as a unified system, maintaining stable spatial relationships and accurate tracking even during jaw movement and facial expressions.
4Measurement precision
If a head frame is used for tracking, then head tracking is achieved, but hand and arm movements by user around cheeks and temples are impeded
Solution Approach 1:
The head frame design incorporates dynamic adjustability with an adjustable strap that can be tightened or loosened. This allows the frame to adapt to different head sizes and shapes, providing secure tracking while maintaining flexibility in positioning to avoid obstructing surgical access around the cheeks and temples.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods of tracking a head of a patient are provided. The system includes a motion tracking system and a head tracker. The head tracker includes a frame, at least one trackable target coupled to the frame, at least one nose pad coupled to the frame, and a pair of adjustable ear coupling members coupled to the frame and shaped for engaging with at least a portion of a back surface of an ear of the patient. The head tracker is configured to apply a clamping force to hold the trackable target in a stable spatial relationship with a location of interest in the head. The motion tracking system includes a sensor for tracking the trackable target and a processor configured for determining a position of the location of interest from the position and orientation of the trackable target and the stable spatial relationship.