Wearable Camera Measurement for Automated Periodontal Pocket Depth
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing periodontal probes face challenges in accurately measuring pocket depth due to difficulties in reading color-coding or graduations under insufficient illumination, dependence on user skill, and manual entry of measurements, which are prone to error and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a wearable frame with a camera and processor that captures 2D images of the intraoral area, applies image processing techniques to determine periodontal pocket depth, and automatically records measurements, ensuring ergonomic posture and reducing user dependence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional periodontal probes with color-coding or graduations are used, then measurement capability is provided, but reading accuracy deteriorates due to insufficient illumination from overhead dental lights
Solution Approach 1:
A camera acts as an intermediary device to capture images of the probe tip and intraoral structures. The camera transfers the visual information from the difficult-to-observe probe tip to a display screen, where the measurement can be read accurately without being constrained by the illumination conditions in the oral cavity.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera creates a visual copy (image) of the probe tip and its position relative to the gingiva margin. This copy is displayed on a screen where the measurement can be observed clearly, eliminating the need for direct visual reading under insufficient oral illumination.
2Productivity
If manual reading and entry of measurements are required, then measurement capability is provided, but time consumption and error probability increase
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical process of reading and writing measurements is replaced by an automated digital system. The camera captures the measurement, the processor automatically determines the pocket depth by analyzing the image, and the result is electronically recorded, eliminating the manual reading and writing steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-measurement and self-recording functions. The camera automatically captures the probe position, the processor automatically calculates the depth, and the system automatically stores the measurement in the patient record, without requiring manual intervention for these tasks.
3Reliability
If conventional probes depend on user skill for accurate measurement, then measurement capability is provided, but reliability deteriorates due to variability in user expertise
Solution Approach 1:
The subjective judgment process performed by the user is replaced by an objective automated image analysis system. The processor uses algorithms to determine the pocket depth based on the captured image, eliminating the variability introduced by different users' skills and experiences.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement process is transformed into an objective visual copy that can be analyzed systematically. The camera creates a permanent visual record of the measurement, allowing for consistent analysis by the processor without relying on the user's interpretive skills.
4Measurement precision
If the camera is positioned to capture optimal images for measurement, then measurement accuracy is improved, but user ergonomic posture may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The wearable frame serves multiple functions: it supports the camera for optimal image capture, provides illumination through integrated light sources, and can display measurement results. This multi-functional design consolidates several components into one system that maintains measurement accuracy while improving user comfort.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for measuring a depth of a periodontal pocket defined by a gap between a tooth and gingiva includes a frame, one camera, and a processor. The frame is configured to be worn by a user. The camera is configured to capture at least one 2D image of an intraoral target area. The at least one 2D image includes a representation of at least a part of the tooth, a gingiva margin defined by a section of the gingiva adjacent to the at least a part of the tooth, and a probe tip when the probe tip is inserted into the periodontal pocket. The processor is configured to receive the captured at least one 2D image and to determine an insertion length of the probe tip in the periodontal pocket. The determined insertion length represents the depth of the periodontal pocket.