Oral Appliance Holder With Optical Aligner Compliance Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing orthodontic aligner compliance tracking devices are inadequate in determining whether a patient is wearing the aligners as prescribed, leading to non-successful treatment outcomes due to non-compliance.
Innovation Solution
An aligner case with integrated electronics that detects the presence or absence of aligners through sensors, communicates with external devices, and adjusts the treatment protocol based on compliance data, including altering the prescribed use of aligners or reevaluating the patient for a new series.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If simple sensors are used for compliance tracking, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates because they cannot determine whether a current aligner is present or some other object
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical sensors that detect color or optical property changes to identify the presence of aligners. The aligners have specific optical characteristics that distinguish them from other objects, allowing the sensor to accurately determine whether an aligner is present in the case through optical reflection or absorption properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces simple mechanical or contact-based sensors with optical sensing technology. This substitution allows for non-contact detection of aligner presence while maintaining device simplicity, as the optical sensor can detect the aligner's unique optical signature without physical interaction.
2Measurement precision
If real-time monitoring and communication systems are integrated into the aligner case, then compliance tracking accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into a single compact case structure: the case serves as both a storage container and a monitoring device. The electronic components (sensors, processors, communication modules) are embedded within the case housing, allowing the case to simultaneously store aligners, detect their presence, process compliance data, and communicate with external devices through a unified system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the aligner storage case with compliance tracking electronics into a single integrated unit. The sensor module, processing unit, memory, and communication interface are all merged within the case structure, eliminating the need for separate monitoring devices and reducing overall system complexity despite adding advanced functionality.
3Loss of information
If detailed compliance data is collected and transmitted to external devices, then treatment monitoring capability is improved, but loss of time for data processing and transmission increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local processing and filtering of compliance data within the case's embedded processor. The system preliminarily analyzes sensor data to determine compliance status before transmission, pre-processing the information to identify only relevant compliance events that need to be communicated to external devices or healthcare providers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a feedback loop where compliance data is continuously monitored, processed, and transmitted to external devices or healthcare providers. The system provides real-time feedback on aligner wear compliance, allowing for immediate intervention or adjustment of treatment protocols based on the collected data without requiring lengthy processing delays.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances compliance tracking by accurately monitoring aligner wear, allowing for real-time adjustments to treatment plans and improving orthodontic outcomes by ensuring proper aligner usage.
Implementation Method 1
presence or non-presence of volatilized compounds emanating from an oral appliance
Data Source
AI summary
In certain aspects, devices and methods for an oral appliance holder that can detect analyte information originating from oral appliances stored in the appliance holder. The analyte information can be derived from found in volatilized compounds detected within the appliance holder. The appliance holder can directly or indirectly communicate with a server that is configured to process the analyte information. The analyte information can be processed to develop a wellness profile.