Intraoral Sensor Platform for Standardized Tongue Function Evaluation
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a lack of standardized methodology for evaluating tongue muscle performance, which affects the assessment and advancement of clinical practices related to healthy lingual function, leading to increased risks of disorders such as dysphagia and sleep apnea.
Innovation Solution
An intraoral apparatus with sensors and a remote computing system for measuring tongue pressure, position, movement, and muscle fiber activation, providing standardized data collection and analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If various intraoral and surface orofacial methods are used to assess lingual measures, then assessment capability is improved, but lack of standardized methodology causes evaluation complexity and slows clinical practice advancement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms qualitative lingual assessment into quantitative measurement by incorporating specific sensors (pressure sensors, proximity sensors, accelerometers) that measure physical parameters such as pressure, position, and movement. This standardization of measurement parameters enables systematic evaluation while maintaining assessment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The intraoral apparatus is designed as a universal device that can assess multiple lingual measures (pressure, position, movement, muscle fiber activity) simultaneously through integrated sensors. This multi-functional approach consolidates various assessment methods into a single standardized system, reducing evaluation complexity while improving comprehensive measurement capability.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are integrated in the intraoral apparatus, then measurement capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensor types (pressure sensors, proximity sensors, accelerometers, EMG sensors) into a single integrated intraoral apparatus. By merging these measurement functions into one device rather than using separate instruments, the system improves comprehensive measurement capability while managing complexity through integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The intraoral apparatus utilizes a flexible oral media structure that can accommodate multiple sensors while maintaining comfort and adaptability to individual patient anatomy. This flexible shell approach allows complex sensor integration without compromising wearability or measurement accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
An intraoral apparatus for evaluating oral function of a patient. The intraoral apparatus comprises a dental-engagement element configured to engage with one or more teeth of the patient. The intraoral apparatus additionally comprises an oral media configured to be positioned adjacent to a palate of the patient. The intraoral apparatus further comprises a plurality of sensors associated with the oral media.