Arizona Patent of the Month – February 2025
In the world of sports, where the thrill of competition often comes with the risk of injury, innovation is key to ensuring athlete safety. Force Impact Technologies Inc. has taken a groundbreaking step with its invention of a smart mouth guard system designed to detect and measure impact forces, providing real-time feedback to athletes and coaches. This cutting-edge device is not just a mouth guard; it’s a sophisticated piece of wearable technology that could revolutionize how we approach head injury prevention.
At the heart of this invention is a flexible printed circuit board (PCB) embedded within the mouth guard’s main body. The PCB is ingeniously designed with a middle portion housing a force sensor, flanked by two end portions containing a battery and a charging coil. What sets this design apart are the bridge portions connecting the middle and end sections. These bridges are narrower, allowing the PCB to bend and twist, ensuring a comfortable fit for users with varying dental structures. This adaptability is crucial for a device that must be both functional and ergonomic.
The force sensor, mounted in the middle portion, is the star of the show. It detects linear and rotational forces, which are critical in assessing the risk of concussions. When an impact exceeds a predetermined threshold, the system springs into action. A notification component—be it a piezoelectric vibration, an audible tone, or an LED light—alerts the wearer and, if necessary, transmits data to a remote device. This immediate feedback loop ensures that athletes and coaches are aware of potentially dangerous impacts, even if symptoms aren’t immediately apparent.
What makes this invention particularly remarkable is its ability to customize impact thresholds based on the user’s biometric data. Age, sex, weight, and other factors are considered to tailor the device to the individual, enhancing its accuracy and relevance. This level of personalization, combined with the device’s compact and comfortable design, addresses a significant gap in the market. Unlike bulky helmets or multi-part systems, this mouth guard is unobtrusive, making it suitable for a wide range of sports, from football to soccer and beyond.
Force Impact Technologies Inc. has not only created a tool for injury detection but also a proactive solution for athlete safety. By integrating advanced sensor technology with user-friendly design, this mouth guard system is poised to become an essential piece of equipment for athletes at all levels, helping to reduce the risk of head injuries and promote safer play.
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