Piezoelectric Structural Measurement System with Disposable Tip
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for evaluating the structural integrity of objects, particularly after energy application, lack precision and repeatability, especially in measuring damping capacities and detecting defects in materials like teeth and industrial structures, which are crucial for assessing health and stability.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a handpiece with a tapping rod and a sleeve that allows for reproducible energy application and measurement, using a piezoelectric force sensor and electromagnetic drive mechanism, along with a disposable membrane and tip for minimizing contamination, to assess structural characteristics such as damping capacities, defects, and osseointegration levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current methods are used for evaluating structural integrity, then measurement can be performed, but precision and repeatability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the measurement process into distinct functional modules: energy application tool for impact delivery, piezoelectric force sensor for signal detection, and computer for data analysis. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, improving overall measurement precision and repeatability
Solution Approach 2:
The piezoelectric force sensor provides real-time feedback on the force applied during impact, allowing the system to compensate for variations in energy application. This feedback mechanism ensures consistent measurement conditions across multiple tests, enhancing repeatability
2Productivity
If energy application tool is reused without sterilization, then measurement efficiency increases, but contamination and cross-contamination occur
Solution Approach 1:
The energy application tool is designed as a disposable component that is discarded after a single use or single patient treatment. This eliminates the need for sterilization while preventing cross-contamination, maintaining both high measurement efficiency and patient safety
Solution Approach 2:
The energy application tool is extracted as a separate, replaceable component from the main measurement system. This allows the tool to be easily disposed of after use while the expensive main system remains reusable, balancing productivity and contamination prevention
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
Enables precise and repeatable measurement of structural characteristics, effectively detecting defects and assessing health and stability of objects by analyzing energy return data, providing accurate insights into material integrity and compatibility.
Implementation Method 1
a piezoelectric force sensor adapted for measuring the deceleration of the energy application tool upon impact
Implementation Method 2
electromagnetic drive mechanism
Data Source
Figure 1~1b
Figure 2a~2e
Figure 3~4b
AI summary
The present invention relates generally to a system and method for measuring the structural characteristics of an object. The object is subjected to an energy application processes and provides an objective, quantitative measurement of structural characteristics of an object. The system may include a device, for example, a percussion instrument, capable of being reproducibly placed against the object undergoing such measurement for reproducible positioning. The structural characteristics as defined herein may include vibration damping capacities, acoustic damping capacities, structural integrity or structural stability