Oral Cavity Position Detection via Multi-Frequency Impedance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current oral care devices lack effective and cost-efficient methods for precise real-time position detection during tooth brushing, leading to inadequate brushing quality and potential oral health issues such as plaque accumulation and gum recession.
Innovation Solution
A fastenable device with a housing containing a frequency generator and electrode pair that applies voltage at different frequencies to accurately detect oral cavity positions by measuring impedance variations, allowing for precise contact information and position determination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If position detection technology is integrated into oral care implements, then brushing quality and position detection accuracy are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical position detection systems with an electrical impedance-based detection system. Instead of using mechanical sensors or cameras to detect oral cavity position, the invention uses electrode pairs that measure electrical impedance changes in the oral environment, which vary depending on the toothbrush position and contact with oral tissues. This substitution dramatically simplifies the device while maintaining detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in electrical impedance parameters to detect position information. By measuring impedance magnitude and phase angle at different frequencies, the system can distinguish between different oral cavity positions and tissue types without requiring complex mechanical or optical detection systems. This parameter-based approach simplifies the overall device architecture.
2Measurement precision
If position detection technology is integrated into oral care implements, then brushing quality is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive mechanical or optical position detection systems with simple electrical impedance measurement circuits. The use of basic electrical components (electrodes, oscillators, impedance measurement circuits) significantly reduces manufacturing costs compared to mechanical sensors, cameras, or complex electronic systems, while still providing accurate position detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive electrical components such as electrode pairs, simple oscillators, and basic measurement circuits that can be manufactured at low cost. These components are suitable for disposable or frequently replaced oral care devices, making position detection technology accessible in mass-market products without requiring expensive durable components.
3Measurement precision
If single frequency voltage is applied between electrode pair, then device simplicity is maintained, but position detection accuracy is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic alternating voltage at multiple different frequencies between electrode pairs to enhance position detection accuracy. By measuring impedance responses at multiple frequencies, the system can better distinguish between different oral cavity positions and tissue types. This periodic multi-frequency approach improves measurement precision without requiring complex continuous multi-parameter systems.
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
The solution provides non-intrusive, accurate, and cost-effective oral area position detection, improving brushing quality by ensuring all areas are adequately cleaned, thus reducing the risk of oral health issues.
Implementation Method 1
applying a voltage with at least two different frequencies between the electrode pair
Data Source
AI summary
A fastenable device includes a housing having a base portion, a head portion opposite to the base portion, and a body portion between the base portion and the head portion. The base portion has a first fastener in the form of a full ring integral to the housing and defining a through-hole. The head portion has a second fastener in the form of an open ring integral to the housing and defining a snappable recess. The device includes a frequency generator housed in the housing and electrically connected to an electrode pair disposed on the housing, for applying a voltage with at least two different frequencies between the electrodes.