Stream Probe Plaque Detection via Fluid Flow Obstruction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dental plaque detection devices are not configured to automatically detect when they are placed inside the mouth, leading to potential eye damage from excessive light exposure and inability to distinguish between old and young plaque fluorescence.
Innovation Solution
A stream probe apparatus with a proximal pump and distal probe portions, configured to detect substances on a surface by measuring pressure or strain signals when a fluid passes through an open port, allowing for real-time detection of dental plaque without exposing the user to harmful radiation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If irradiated light is used to illuminate tooth material and gums to identify plaque areas, then plaque detection capability is improved, but eye safety deteriorates due to potential harmful radiation exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the optical detection system (light illumination and fluorescence detection) with a fluid-based mechanical sensing system. A stream of fluid is directed through the probe tip onto the tooth surface, and plaque presence is detected by measuring changes in fluid flow characteristics, pressure, or other mechanical parameters when the fluid interacts with plaque versus clean tooth surfaces. This substitution eliminates the need for potentially harmful irradiated light while maintaining plaque detection capability through a different physical mechanism.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If manual operation of plaque detection apparatus is required to ensure proper placement before activation, then eye safety is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to complex handling precautions
Solution Approach 1:
The probe incorporates automatic detection of proper placement within the oral cavity, eliminating the need for manual verification by the user. The system uses sensors to detect when the probe is correctly positioned and automatically activates or adjusts operation parameters, making the device self-regulating and removing the burden of complex handling precautions from the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor probe placement and operational conditions. When the probe detects proper insertion and positioning within the mouth, the feedback system automatically enables safe operation. This closed-loop control ensures eye safety without requiring manual intervention, as the device self-adjusts based on real-time sensing of its operational environment.
3Measurement precision
If fluorescence detection is used to identify plaque areas, then detection capability for old plaque is improved, but ability to distinguish between old and young plaque deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multiple fluid flow parameters and measurement modes to characterize plaque properties. By varying fluid pressure, flow rate, viscosity, or other parameters and analyzing the resulting interactions with the tooth surface, the system can differentiate between plaque of different ages and compositions. Older plaque typically has different mechanical and surface properties compared to younger plaque, allowing differentiation through multi-parameter fluid-based sensing rather than relying on a single fluorescence measurement.
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 safe and accurate detection of dental plaque, distinguishing between old and young plaque, and provides real-time feedback during brushing, improving oral hygiene practices.
Implementation Method 1
measuring pressure or strain signals when a fluid passes through an open port
Implementation Method 2
passage of the second fluid through the distal tip enables detection of a substance that may be present on the surface based on measurement of a signal correlating to a substance at least partially obstructing the passage of fluid through the open port
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4A~4B
Figure 4C
AI summary
An apparatus (100, 100') is configured such that passage of a fluid (30) through an open port (136, 2604) of a distal probe tip (112, 112') enables detection of a substance (116) that may be present on a surface (31, 33), e.g., a surface of a tooth, based on measurement of a signal correlating to a substance at least partially obstructing the passage of fluid (30) through the open port (136, 2604). The apparatus (100, 100') includes a proximal pump portion (124) and at least one distal probe portion (110) configured to be immersed in another fluid (11), e.g., water in toothpaste foam. A corresponding system (3000) includes one or two such apparatuses (3100, 3200). A method of detecting the presence of a substance on a surface includes probing an interaction zone (17) for at least partial obstruction of flow of the fluid (30) through the distal probe tip (112, 112'). The distal probe tip (112, 112') may have a structural configuration for preventing blocking of the open port (136, 2604). The distal probe tip (112, 112') may also have a non -uniform wear profile. The at least one distal probe portion (110) may include two or multiple components to improve performance and reliability.