US 5,980,246 A · Orthodontics headgear compliance monitor

Abstract

This invention is an apparatus and method for monitoring and motivating user compliance for orthodontic headgear (24) of the type using a linear spring force module (22). The spring force module (22) includes first (38) and second opposite attachment members that are interconnected to provide spring tension when moved linearly apart. A position sensor (16)(18)(19) detects liner movement between the attachment members. A microprocessor (12) receives signals from the position sensor to determine wear duration, force magnitude, and whether such movement is sufficiently variable to be biological in origin or is attempted mimicry. Multiple determinations made by the processor are recorded over time to provide an evaluation of headgear wear compliance and to provide ongoing motivation for user compliance.

Claims20

Dependent claims

A compliance monitor for orthodontic headgear of the type applying linear spring-force, said compliance monitor comprising:

a linear spring-force module having first and second opposite attachment members interconnected so as to provide spring tension when moved linearly apart from one another;
a position sensor positioned in the module to detect linear movement between said attachment members;
processor means for receiving a signal from said position sensor and determining whether such movement over a predetermined time period is sufficiently varying to be the result of human movement;
and
memory means for recording determination made by said processor means.

2 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Orthodontics headgear compliance monitor

Life of this patent

Orthodontics headgear compliance monitor

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims20