WO2018027240A1

WO2018027240A1 - Sensorized intra-oral device and intra-lip antenna

Info

Publication number: WO2018027240A1
Application number: PCT/US2017/045809
Authority: WO
Inventors: Amish Patel; Dana D. HAWES; Kenneth Murray; David Janney ROBERTS; Les BOGDANOWICZ
Original assignee: Smrt Ip, Llc
Priority date: 2016-08-05
Filing date: 2017-08-07
Publication date: 2018-02-08

Abstract

An intra-oral device for detecting physiological signals from within the mouth of a user and communicating the physiological signals wirelessly to an external receiver by means of an antenna situated between a user's lips. A sensorized intra-oral device comprising an absorptive shell that encloses a printed circuit board supported by a scaffolding. The printed circuit board being adaptable to fit within the absorptive shell between the user's teeth and interior cheek surfaces. The printed circuit board comprising a plurality of sensors and supplementary electronics to measure physiologically-relevant parameters of the user, including but not limited to acceleration, motion, heart rate, respiration rate and hydration. The printed circuit board providing additional circuitry to convert measured data of physiological parameters into a radio transmission signal that is emitted by an antenna situated within an absorptive shell protrusion located between the user's lips. The placement of the antenna between the user's lips enabling communication with external transceivers while minimizing signal attenuation, power consumption, discomfort to the user, and risk of impact-related damage to the sensorized intra-oral device.

Description

Sensorized I ntra-Oral Device and Intra-Lip Antenna INVENTORS

Amish Patel - Midlothian, Virginia, United States

Dana Hawes - Richmond, Virginia, United States

Kenneth A. Murray - Davis, California, United States

Les Bogdanowicz - Park Ridge, I llinois, United States

David Janney Roberts - Richmond, Virginia, United States

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS: This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/371,591 filed August 5, 2016.

STATEMENT REGARDI NG FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT: Not Applicable.

THE NAMES OF THE PARTIES TO A JOI NT RESEARCH AGREEM ENT: Not Applicable. INCORPORATION-BY-REFERENCE OF MATERIAL SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISC: Not Applicable.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The invention is directed to orally-deployed sensors. More particularly, the invention directed to antennas that enable wireless communication from and to one or more intra-oral sensor devices and other transceivers.

BACKGROUND

[0002] It is a standard safety precaution in many athletic activities for participants to wear mouth guards. Ranging from baseball, to gymnastics, to martial arts, mouth guards are designed to protect the wearer from impacts that would otherwise cause injury to the mouth. Mouth guards are shaped to take the brunt of the impact and shield the teeth, gums, and tongue from trauma.

[0003] With the advent of sensorized wristbands like the MICROSOFT BAND, the FITBIT, and the JAWBONE, athletes and doctors have begun to explore the potential benefit of using wearables for collecting physiologic data. Due to the pre-existence of mouth guards within athletic use, various attempts have been made to integrate different sensors with standard mouth guards. Most prominently, certain companies are developing and promoting mouth guards having sensors to measure acceleration and impact to an athlete's head to assess whether a concussion may have occurred. In certain sports, e.g., boxing, wrestling, football and mixed martial arts, mouth guards are a required protective device. However, in other sports, e.g., baseball, track and field, soccer and basketball, among others, the use of a mouth guard may be discretionary. Hence, the inclusion of a protective mouth guard as a foundation to support data collection intra-orally is not a requirement.

[0004] Data recorded from an athletic sensor, including a sensorized mouth guard, can be frequently most useful if the data is available and actionable in real time. For example, a coach may rely upon data from a sensor to know if an athlete shows signs of being concussed, creating an opportunity for the athlete to be immediately removed from the game.

Additionally, a coach might rely on data from one or more biometric sensors to know when to rotate out an athlete from play to reduce the risk of injury. To access this information, there exists an unmet need for a component that can enable real-time, reliable transmission of physiologic data across an entire playing field from a sensor on the athlete to an external receiver where coaches, trainers and other personnel may act on the physiologic information in a meaningful manner.

[0005] There exist many challenges associated with delivering data externally from a sensor deployed within an athlete's body, including intra-orally. For example, a wireless transmitter would likely need to rely electrical power from a battery incorporated with the sensor.

Typically, the level of power available would be very low. Hence, associated radio transmission signals would also be of the low-energy type. Consequently, attenuation of wireless signals transmitted from within an oral cavity would need to be addressed. Further, the wireless transmitter would need to be sufficiently robust to withstand the rigors of athletic activity. In certain instances, the wireless transmitter must be able to operate and withstand the same blunt-force impact against which a mouth guard is designed to protect, e.g., as in football.

[0006] Existing sensorized mouth guard designs may include sensors and a wireless transmitter that extend outside a user's oral cavity. For example, I1BIOMETRICS sells a mouth guard under the brand name, VECTOR that measures the magnitude of head impacts and transmits the data to a wireless receiver. The VECTOR mouth guard addresses wireless signal attenuation by incorporating electronics including accelerometers, battery, processor, and transmitter in a segment that rests entirely outside the mouth. The electronics package is connected via a bridge to a "standard" mouth guard. Although this design solves the problem of signal attenuation by placing the antenna outside the mouth, it creates additional elements of concern. First, the entirety of the electronics package rests outside of the user's mouth, where it is prone to impact and damage. Second, the addition of a large block in front of the mouth will likely prove to be distracting to the athlete and possibly hinder performance. Third, the design does not allow for sensors to be easily incorporated inside a player's mouth as the power supply rests entirely in the exterior block. Given external placement, an impact on the protruding block could cause corresponding impact on the wearer's mouth. Consequently, a mouth guard having a protruding block may be subjected to other failure modes associated with impact.

[0007] Due to the challenge of communicating data from oral sensors, others have attempted to use visual cues to indicate a physiological status, e.g., a concussion. Additionally, to access the data collected by an oral sensor, the user may be required to remove the device from their mouth. For example, the FITGUARD produced by Force Impact Technologies, includes a mouth guard having LED's that will change colors as certain acceleration thresholds are breached. However, the device must be removed from the user's mouth to download to an application on a smart phone via BLUETOOTH^®. The system does not provide real-time continuous tracking of physiologic symptoms that can be immediately communicated to a player, coach, trainer, parent or other interested party.

[0008] Consequently, there exists an unmet need for an intra-oral device that can be sensorized having wireless communication and antenna that enables the sensorized intra-oral device to effectively transmit data to an exterior transmitter/receiver, which frequently comprises an integrated device hereinafter referred to as a transceiver, that is not placed on a user's immediate body, e.g., as in a smart phone. Further, there is a need for such a device that minimizes or eliminates projection of components of the device from the wearer's mouth during use. Still further, there is a need for a device that is safe and resilient against impacts and other events that may routinely occur during athletic activities. Even further, there is a need for such a device wherein the device need not be removed from a user's mouth to communicate data to a hand-held device, e.g., a smart phone, or for example, an external base station associated with the field of play. Further, there is a need for such a device that need not rely on visual cues, e.g., lighting different colored LED's to provide only alerts when certain physiologic thresholds may be met.

SUMMARY

[0009] The present inventive subject matter is directed to a sensorized intra-oral device having a radio frequency transceiver and an intra-lip antenna segment. The sensorized intra-oral device, in a first embodiment, comprises a flexible printed circuit board mounted on a semi- flexible scaffolding structure. A rechargeable battery is supported in a pocket on the scaffolding along with an inductive charging coil. Electronic components are mounted and assembled on the flexible circuit board. The flexible circuit board includes an antenna segment configured to slightly protrude between a user's lips. The circuit board, antenna, scaffold, embedded electronics and sensors, are preferably sealed within an absorptive shell shaped for intra-oral placement. When worn by a user, the antenna segment rests between the wearer's lips, holding the lips slightly open and exposing the antenna segment to the external environment, thereby minimizing attenuation of transmitted radio signals.

[0010] The printed flexible circuit board is adaptable to and is supported by a front plane of the scaffolding. The printed flexible circuit board and the scaffolding are shaped to follow the curvature of a user's mouth. The flexible circuit board includes an antenna segment configured to rest between a user's lips such that the energy from the antenna is not attenuated by facial tissue.

[0011] I n addition to enabling wireless communication between an intra-oral device and other external devices, the inventive subject matter delivers numerous safety advantages. First, since the antenna extends only slightly between the user's lips, there is a reduced chance that the intra-oral device will be impacted directly during an athletic activity or during a fall. The intra-oral device comprises, in one instance, a shell made from absorptive material which will serve to lessen the impact on the sensorized intra-oral device and the wearer's teeth. The absorptive shell likewise protects the electrical components and the antenna of the sensorized intra-oral device. The scaffolding and flexible printed circuit board are likewise flexible and able to withstand levels of mechanical stress that might otherwise damage conventional rigid printed circuit boards. Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention, along with the accompanying drawings in which like numerals represent like components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS [0012] These and other features, aspects and advantages of various embodiments of the inventive subject matter will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:

[0013] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of the sensorized intra-oral device according to an aspect of the inventive subject matter.

[0014] FIG. 2 is a side elevation view of the sensorized intra-oral device of FIG. 1 according to an aspect of the invention, as worn within a user's mouth;

[0015] FIG. 3A and FIG 3B are views of the sensorized intra-oral device of FIG. 1 in use according to an aspect of the present invention;

[0016] FIG. 4 is a front elevation view of the three primary components of the sensorized intra-oral device of FIG. 1 according to an aspect of the inventive subject matter.

[0017] FIG. 5 is a rear exploded view of the sensorized intra-oral device of FIG. 1 according to an aspect of the inventive subject matter.

[0018] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the absorptive shell of the sensorized intra-oral device according to an aspect of the inventive subject matter.

[0019] FIG. 7 is a rear elevation view of the absorptive shell of FIG. 6, according to an aspect of the inventive subject matter. [0020] FIG. 8 is a front elevation view of the absorptive shell of FIG. 6, according to an aspect of the inventive subject matter.

[0021] FIG. 9 is a side view of the absorptive shell of FIG. 6, according to an aspect of the inventive subject matter.

[0022] FIG. 10 is a top view of the absorptive shell of FIG. 6, according to an aspect of the inventive subject matter.

[0023] FIG. 11 is a rear perspective view of the sensorized intra-oral device scaffolding according to an aspect of the inventive subject matter.

[0024] FIG. 12 is a front elevation view of the sensorized intra-oral device scaffolding according to an aspect of the inventive subject matter.

[0025] FIG. 13 is a bottom view of the sensorized intra-oral device scaffolding according to an aspect of the inventive subject matter.

[0026] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the sensorized intra-oral device flexible printed circuit board and antenna according to an aspect of the inventive subject matter.

[0027] FIG. 15 is a view of the sensorized intra-oral device flexible printed circuit board and antenna in a flattened state, including various electrical components, according to an aspect of the inventive subject matter. [0028] FIG. 16 is a view of the sensorized intra-oral device flexible printed circuit board and antenna in a folded state, including various electrical components, according to an aspect of the inventive subject matter.

[0029] FIG. 17 is a view of the sensorized intra-oral device antenna segment according to an aspect of the inventive subject matter.

[0030] FIG. 18A is a chart illustrating the attenuation of a radio signal from an antenna according to the inventive subject matter in free space;

[0031] FIG. 18B is a chart illustrating the attenuation of a radio signal from an antenna according to the inventive subject matter situated intra-orally;

[0032] FIG. 18C is a chart illustrating the attenuation of a radio signal from an antenna positioned intra-lip according to an aspect of the inventive subject matter.

[0033] FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating the enhanced communication range of a sensorized intra-oral device having an intra-lip antenna according to an aspect of the inventive subject matter.

[0034] These and other features, aspects and advantages of various embodiments of the inventive subject matter will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:

OBJECTS [0035] It is an object of the inventive subject matter to provide a sensorized intra-oral device that may detect biometric, physiologic and other relevant parameters associated with the athletic activity of a user while placed inside the user's mouth.

[0036] It is an additional object of the inventive subject matter to provide a sensorized intraoral device that is sufficiently safe to use in athletic events without being damaged or destroyed.

[0037] It is an additional object of the inventive subject matter to provide a sensorized intraoral device that may be worn comfortably and avoid hindering a user's performance.

[0038] It is an additional object of the inventive subject matter to provide a sensorized intraoral device having effective wireless communication to an external transmitter/receiver (transceiver).

[0039] It is an additional object of the inventive subject matter for the sensorized intra-oral device to communicate with an external transceiver on the side-lines of an athletic field while the user and sensorized intra-oral device are at any location on the athletic field.

[0040] It is an additional object of the inventive subject matter for the transmission method to be capable of communicating with an external transceiver utilizing minimal power.

[0041] It is a further object of the inventive subject matter to provide an antenna

configuration that can be used to transmit data concerning biometric, physiologic and other data gathered via sensors deployed intra-orally without having to remove the intra-oral sensors or intra-oral device from the user's mouth.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

[0042] Now, referring to FIG. 1, a perspective view of one embodiment of a sensorized intraoral device 10 according to the inventive subject matter is shown. In a first configuration, the sensorized intra-oral device 10, when encased within an absorptive shell 20, provides a level of protection for a user's teeth, tongue, and gums against impact-related injuries. The absorptive shell 20 is a semi-rigid, yet absorptive hollow enclosure capable of absorbing external forces and impacts via elastic deformation, thereby minimizing strain on objects encased within the absorptive shell 20. When worn, the absorptive shell 20 rests within a user's mouth between a front surface of the teeth and a rear surface of the lips and adjacent the inner surface of the cheeks. An interior of the absorptive shell 20 accommodates and encases several components, including a wireless charging coil 60, a battery 70, a flexible printed circuit board 100, and a sensorized intra-oral device scaffolding 200. Extending from a front of the absorptive shell 20 is an absorptive shell protrusion 40. When the sensorized intra-oral device 10 is worn, the absorptive shell protrusion 40 rests between the user's upper and lower lip, separating them slightly. While the flexible printed circuit board 100 rests mostly within the absorptive shell 20, an antenna segment 140 of the flexible printed circuit board 100 extends into and is enveloped by the absorptive shell protrusion 40.

[0043] Referring now to FIG. 2, a side elevation view of the sensorized intra-oral device 10 according to the inventive subject matter as worn within a user's mouth is shown. The sensorized intra-oral device 10 is placed in the user's mouth and conforms to the shape of the user's teeth and gums. The antenna segment 140, encased within the absorptive shell protrusion 40, extends forward between the user's lips, separating the lips slightly. Since the sensorized intra-oral device 10 is captured within a user's mouth and placement and retention is enhanced by the shape of the absorptive shell 20, a user need not think about maintaining separation between the lips since the sensorized intra-oral device 10 causes the separation to occur as an inherent outcome of the design and configuration of the absorptive shell 20 with the protrusion 40.

[0044] Referring now to FIG. 3A, a lateral view of a user wearing a sensorized intra-oral device 10 according to the inventive subject matter is shown. In this view, the sensorized intra-oral device 10 is substantially enclosed within the user's mouth, while the absorptive shell protrusion 40 is barely visible yet exposed between the user's upper lip U and lower lip L.

[0045] Referring now to FIG. 3B, a diagram of the sensorized intra-oral device 10 from a lateral perspective revealing its placement in the mouth of a user is shown. The sensorized intra-oral device 10 rests within the user's mouth between the user's teeth, upper lip U, and lower lip L. The absorptive shell protrusion 40, which fully envelopes the antenna segment 140, rests between the upper lip U and the lower lip L, separating them slightly. Since the lips are separated slightly, the antenna segment 140 is exposed to the outside environment, enabling less impeded transmission of radio signals. Since the absorptive shell protrusion 40 does not extend past the front of the user's lips, the sensorized intra-oral device 10 is less awkward for a user to wear and removes critical elements of the sensorized intra-oral device 10 from a frontal placement. Hence, there is a lower likelihood of damage to the sensorized intra-oral device 10 from a direct impact and a significantly lower probability that any of the force of the impact will be delivered to the user's teeth and gums. The design and placement of the antenna segment 140 of the sensorized intra-oral device 10 reduces attenuation of wireless transmissions.

Conversely, if instead the user's lips were closed and the antenna was likewise fully enclosed within the user's mouth, any radio transmission of an energy level appropriate for transmission from within a person's body would likely be severely attenuated, if not blocked entirely.

[0046] Referring now to FIG. 4, a front elevation view of three components of an embodiment of the sensorized intra-oral device 10 according to the inventive subject matter is shown. The sensorized intra-oral device 10 comprises an absorptive shell 20 and an absorptive shell protrusion 40, which extends from a front of the absorptive shell 20. The absorptive shell 20 encloses a flexible printed circuit board 100 and sensorized intra-oral device scaffolding 200. The flexible printed circuit board 100 contains several regions configured to enable a monopole antenna to extend into the absorptive shell protrusion 40, including a ground plane segment 130 and an antenna segment 140. The flexible printed circuit board 100 is supported by a semi- flexible sensorized intra-oral device scaffolding 200. The sensorized intra-oral device scaffolding 200 contains support structures including a ground plane scaffold 230 and an antenna scaffold 240 to support the ground plane segment 130 and antenna segment 140, respectively.

[0047] Referring now to FIG. 5, a rear exploded view of the sensorized intra-oral device 10 is shown. The absorptive shell 20 may be described as having an absorptive shell left side 22, an absorptive shell right side 24, an absorptive shell rear surface 30, and an absorptive shell front surface 35. Extending from the absorptive shell front surface 35 is the absorptive shell protrusion 40, which houses the antenna segment 140 further supported by the antenna scaffold 240. Extending from the absorptive shell rear surface 30 is a bite shelf 50. The bite shelf 50 is positioned for placement between a user's upper and lower teeth, and a user may clamp down on the bite shelf 50 to further secure the sensorized intra-oral device 10 in place during use. In the present embodiment, the bite shelf 50 can be adapted and sized to fit an individual user's bite size or bite profile. Additionally, in one version, the bite shelf 50 is configured without having been molded to a user's teeth, as with a standard mouth guard, such that the sensorized intra-oral device 10 may be quickly removed or replaced within a user's mouth. Other embodiments according to the inventive subject matter may include a molded bite shelf 50 intended to provide further protection to a user's teeth and gums, wherein the bite shelf 50 comprises a thicker shelf that can be molded to fit a user's bite. This adaptability allows the sensorized intra-oral device 10 to be sized for different users based upon mouth size, age, and gender, from a young athlete to a mature adult user/athlete. Still further, other versions may include a sensorized intra-oral device 10 wherein the bite shelf 50 may be positioned at different elevations or angles along the absorptive shell rear surface 30. In still other versions, the bite shelf 50 may be removable from the absorptive shell rear surface 30. Additionally, in other versions, the sensorized intra-oral device 10 may include multiple slots along the absorptive shell rear surface 30 to allow a user to experiment with different positions of the bite shelf 50 to determine which is most comfortable. Such variable positioning may also be used by a technician optimizing fit of the sensorized intra-oral device 10 to ensure that any sensory components are placed effectively to maximize the signal quality and data collection. In manufacturing, where the absorptive shell 20 may be molded about the electrical components, different sizes and shapes of the absorptive shell 20 may be created to customize or adapt fit to different mouth shapes and profiles. Additionally, although shown herein as having a flat profile, the bite shelf 50 may be adjusted in thickness or shape to accommodate various user preferences and requirements. For example, the bite shelf 50 might extend along the entire length of absorptive shell rear surface 30 from a left end 22 of the sensorized intraoral device 10 to its right end 24. Further, the bite shelf 50 might be substantially truncated and provide only a small bite shelf 50 for engagement. Still further, the bite shelf 50 might be thinner closer to the rear absorptive shell surface 35 and thicker further away from the rear absorptive shell surface 35 to create a means for the user to retain placement by closing teeth without having to actually clamp down on the bite shelf 50. [0048] Referring still to FIG. 5, the absorptive shell 20 encloses a wireless charging coil 60, a battery 70, the flexible printed circuit board 100, and the sensorized intra-oral device scaffolding 200. The flexible printed circuit board 100 may be described as having a flexible printed circuit board rear surface 102 and a flexible printed circuit board front surface 104. Likewise, the sensorized intra-oral device scaffolding 200 may be described as having a scaffolding rear surface 202 and a scaffolding front surface 204. The flexible printed circuit board 100 is supported by the sensorized intra-oral device scaffold 200 such that the flexible printed circuit board rear surface 102 rests against the scaffolding front surface 204, and the antenna segment 140 rests in front of the flexible printed circuit board front surface 104 and on top of the antenna scaffold 240. Additionally, the sensorized intra-oral device scaffolding 200 contains a battery pocket 270 that supports the battery 70 and provides connectivity to power electrical components and to receive power from the wireless charging coil 60. The wireless charging coil 60 rests in front of the flexible printed circuit board front surface 104 adjacent to the antenna segment 140, but may be positioned at other locations. The shape and size of the scaffolding 200 is adaptable and configurable to optimally integrate with the absorptive shell 20. Hence, thinner material and lower profiles may be included in the design of the scaffolding 200 to support the various electrical components and allow differentiation of shape and thickness to accommodate different use cases and users.

[0049] Referring now to FIGS. 6-10, additional views of the absorptive shell 20 are shown. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the absorptive shell 20 of the sensorized intra-oral device 20, emphasizing a view of the bite shelf 50. FIG. 7 is a rear elevation view of the absorptive shell 20. Fig. 8 is a front elevation view of the absorptive shell 20. FIG. 9 is a side view of the absorptive shell 20. Fig. 10 is a top view of the absorptive shell 20. The absorptive shell 20 may be described as having an absorptive shell left side 22, an absorptive shell right side 24, an absorptive shell rear surface 30, and an absorptive shell front surface 35. Extending from the absorptive shell front surface 35 is the absorptive shell protrusion 40. Extending from the absorptive shell rear surface 30 is the bite shelf 50.

[0050] Referring now to FIG. 11, a rear perspective view of the sensorized intra-oral device scaffolding 200 is shown. The sensorized intra-oral device scaffolding 200 is surrounded by the absorptive shell 20 to provide support for the flexible printed circuit board 100. The sensorized intra-oral device scaffolding 200 may be described as having a scaffolding rear surface 202 and a scaffolding front surface 204. Protruding forward from the scaffolding front surface 204 is a ground plane scaffold 230. In one version, the ground plane scaffold 230 comprises an "S- shaped" support structure that extends from the scaffold front surface 204 at a bottom slightly off-center location. In a preferred embodiment, a bottom of the ground plane scaffold 230 curves upwardly such that, a flat section 234 of the ground plane scaffold 230 is oriented substantially parallel to the scaffolding front surface 204. A top 236 of the ground plane scaffold 230 curves forward away from the scaffolding front surface 204. Extending forward from the top 236 of the ground plane scaffold 230 is the antenna scaffold 240. When enveloped within the absorptive shell 20, the scaffolding rear surface 202 and scaffolding front surface 204 are positioned in a general vertical orientation such that when deployed within a user's mouth, the scaffolding 200 is positioned vertically in front of the user's teeth. A battery pocket 270 is shaped to receive and secure the battery 70 which delivers power to the electrical components. The battery pocket 270 may be shaped and sized to hold various sized batteries 70 as required to support the energy requirements of the various electrical components associated with the intra-oral sensor device 10.

[0051] Referring now to FIGS. 12 and 13, additional views of the sensorized intra-oral device scaffolding 200 are shown. FIG. 12 is a front elevation view of the sensorized intra-oral device scaffolding 200. The ground plane scaffold 230 is shown as being slightly offset from a midpoint of the sensorized intra-oral device scaffolding 200, along the front surface 204 of the sensorized intra-oral device scaffolding 200, extending from a bottom edge 206 of the scaffolding 200. The ground plane scaffold 230 extends to an approximate midpoint between the bottom edge 206 and a top edge 208 of the scaffolding 200, placing the antenna scaffold 240 at an approximate midpoint of the scaffolding 200. The antenna scaffold 240 is slightly offset from the ground plane scaffold 230, placing the antenna scaffold an approximate centralized location in relation to the width of the overall sensorized intra-oral device 10, which corresponds to a centralized location between a user's lips. FIG. 13 is a bottom view of the sensorized intra-oral device scaffolding 200, further illustrating the slightly offset position of the scaffold ground plane 230 and corresponding offset of the antenna scaffold 240 to cause the antenna scaffold 240 to be somewhat centrally located along the width of the sensorized intra-oral device scaffolding 200. [0052] Referring now to FIG. 14, a perspective view of the flexible printed circuit board 100 and antenna segment 140 are shown. The flexible printed circuit board 100 may be described as having a flexible printed circuit board rear surface 102 and a flexible printed circuit board front surface 104. Extending upward from a lower edge 106 of the flexible printed circuit board front surface 104 is a ground plane segment 130. The ground plane segment 130 extends upward to position the antenna segment 140 in an approximate centralized position between the lower edge 106 and a top edge 108 of the flexible printed circuit board 100 to correspond to the position of the antenna scaffold 240.

[0053] Referring now to FIG. 15, a view of the flexible printed circuit board 100 in a flattened state, including various electrical components placed on the flexible printed circuit board front surface 104, is shown. The flexible printed circuit board 100, in one version, comprises various segments, including a central segment 110, a sensor segment 120, a ground plane segment 130, and an antenna segment 140. Situated between the central segment 110 and the sensor segment 120 is a first hinge segment 160. Between the central segment 110 and the ground plane segment 130 is a second hinge segment 170. Situated between the ground plane segment 130 and the antenna segment 140 is a third hinge segment 180. The first hinge segment 160, second hinge segment 170, and third hinge segment 180 exist to provide regions on the flexible printed circuit board 100 that are flexible so as to allow the flexible printed circuit board 100 to be mounted upon the sensorized intra-oral device scaffolding 200. In another version, the printed circuit board 100 need not be flexible and instead, is shaped at the outset to conform to the shape of the scaffolding 200.

[0054] Referring still to FIG. 15, each of the segments 110, 120, and 130 may serve a specific purpose. In the present embodiment, the central segment 110 provides an electronic footprint to mount various electronic components. The sensor segment 120 provides an electronic footprint to mount various sensors, including but not limited to one or more accelerometers 122, one or more biosensors 124, and one or more impedance sensors 126. Biosensors 124 may measure a plurality of vital signs, including heart rate, respiration rate, body temperature, and oxygen consumption and saturation, hydration, and saliva chemical analysis, among others. The first hinge segment 150 is bendable to conform to the shape of the sensorized intra-oral device scaffolding 200 so that the sensorized intra-oral device scaffolding 200 and the flexible printed circuit board 100, encased in the absorptive shell 20, may be placed within a user's mouth such that, the sensor segment 120 wraps, in one instance, around a right side of the mouth. Note that, in other versions, the flexible printed circuit board 100 may be flipped to cause the sensor segment 120 to wrap about a left side of the mouth instead of the right side.

[0055] Referring still to FIG. 15, the central segment 110 provides a footprint to affix additional electronic components, while other electronic components may be alternatively affixed to the sensor segment 120 or ground plane segment 130. In the illustrated embodiment of the inventive subject matter, the central segment 110 supports a processor 111, a power supply 112, a battery gauge 113, and a wireless charging circuit 114, while a flash memory chip 115 may be mounted on the ground plane segment 130. The ground plane segment 130 provides an electronically reflective surface to support a monopole antenna 150 embedded within the antenna segment 140. In other embodiments, certain of the electrical components may aggregated and consolidated in a fewer number of microchips. Additionally, in other embodiments, the flash memory chip 115 may be eliminated and replaced with memory associated with other of the electrical components.

[0056] Referring still to FIG. 15, the flexible printed circuit board 100 supports a plurality of computer processing chips and components. The processor 111 executes software necessary to operate the sensorized intra-oral device 10, including collecting data from one or more sensors mounted on the sensor segment 120. In the embodiment shown, the processor 111 is an integrated system on a chip that is capable of driving the antenna 150 directly. In an alternative embodiment, radio signal processing may be managed by a separate chip. A power supply 112 draws power from the battery 70 (not shown in this illustration) and delivers power to other electronic components. A battery gauge 113 measures the current charge available from the battery 70 and communicates that information to the processor 111 for use in power management and to relay status of the battery 70 via wireless signal to the user or another external station. A charging circuit 114 provides electrical connectivity between the battery 70 and the wireless charging coil 60, enabling wireless recharging of the battery 70 via induction. The flexible printed circuit board 100 supports a flash memory chip 115 that provides active memory storage to the processor 111.

[0057] Referring now to FIG. 16, a front perspective view of the flexible printed circuit board 100 and antenna segment 140 in a folded state, including various electrical components, is shown. The first hinge segment 160, interposed between the sensor segment 120 and the central segment 110, may be flexed to bend the sensor segment 120 to curve around to one side of the mouth to effectively position one or more sensors at preferred locations. The second hinge segment 170, interposed between the central segment 110 and the ground plane segment 130 and extending from a bottom edge 106 of the central segment 110, may be flexed to bend approximately 180 degrees, causing the ground plane segment 130 to be positioned parallel to, and in front of, the central segment 110. The third hinge segment 180, interposed between the ground plane segment 130 and the antenna segment 140, may be flexed to bend approximately 90 degrees, causing the antenna segment 140 to extend horizontally from the ground plane segment 130 away from the front surface 104 of the flexible printed circuit board 100. In this configuration, the base of the antenna 150 extends orthogonally from the ground plane segment 140, enabling a monopole antenna configuration. In the embodiment shown, the antenna is sized to serve as a 1/4-wave monopole antenna in the frequency range of 2.4GHz, in one instance to support BLUETOOTH^® communications protocol. The antenna 150 may be modified in both its length and pattern to accommodate a range of signal wavelengths and protocols. [0058] Referring still to FIG. 16, the flexible printed circuit board 100 in a flexed configuration is shaped to fit and be supported by the sensorized intra-oral device scaffolding 200. In particular, the central segment 110, first hinge segment 160, and sensor segment 120 are flexible to allow conformation with the curvature of the scaffolding front surface 204.

Additionally, the curvature of the second hinge segment 170, ground plane segment 130, and third hinge segment 180 conform with the curvature of the ground plane scaffold 230 such that the ground plane segment 130 is positioned between the central segment 110 and the ground plane scaffold 230. Thus, the antenna segment 140 is positioned on the antenna scaffold 240 and within the absorptive shell protrusion 40.

[0059] Referring now to FIG. 17, a detailed view of a preferred embodiment of the antenna segment 140 is shown. The antenna segment 140 enfolds an antenna 150 in a monopole configuration. The antenna 150 extends from an antenna base 152 on a back edge 141 of the antenna segment 140 near a first side edge 143. The antenna 150 extends from the antenna base 152 towards a front edge 142 before turning ninety degrees to extend toward a second side edge 144. In one version, the change in direction of the antenna geometry is

accomplished via a miter that will tend to conserve the signal energy. Other geometric shapes may be used to make the desired turn.

[0060] the antenna segment 140, in one version, comprises the antenna 150, a top antenna layer 145, and a bottom antenna layer 146. The antenna 150 is sandwiched between the top antenna layer 145 and bottom antenna layer 146, which protect the antenna 150 from deformation and from coming into electrical contact with other objects. In one version, the top antenna layer 145 and bottom antenna layer 146 may be made from KAPTON^® to provide electrical and thermal insulation.

[0061] It will be understood that the present invention is not limited to the method or detail of construction, fabrication, material, application or use described and illustrated herein.

Indeed, any suitable variation of fabrication, use, or application is contemplated as an alternative embodiment, and thus is within the spirit and scope, of the invention.

[0062] The intra-oral sensor device 10 is configured specifically to enhance wireless signal transmission from an intra-oral placement. In use, the intra-oral sensor device 10 is positioned such that the antenna 150 will be positioned distally between a user's upper lip U and lower lip L. The placement of the antenna 150 allows variation in antenna length and geometry. In an embodiment of the inventive subject matter using the BLUETOOTH^® communications protocol at a frequency of 2.4 GHz, a 1/4-wave monopole antenna is sized to be approximately 32 mm in length. The preferred length is established by calculating the wavelength of a 2.4 GHz radio wave signal traveling at the speed of light (2.99χ10^Λ8 meters per second) and dividing by a factor of 4. However, the wavelength of light at a given frequency decreases as it travels through a dense medium. While the density of air is negligible, the density of tissue in a user's lips will attenuate a radio signal transmitted by an antenna 150 located between the lips. Therefore, in the present case, the antenna 150 is configured to compensate for attenuation. In one embodiment, the correction is made by designing an antenna 150 with a reduced physical length equal to 1/4 of the target radio signal's wavelength through tissue. In another embodiment, the antenna length remains unmodified but the processor 111 used to generate a radio signal includes a tuning circuit to compensate.

[0063] Referring now to FIG. 18A, 18B and 18C, the benefit of intra-lip placement of the antenna 150 according to the inventive subject matter is illustrated. Three comparative illustrations are provided. In FIG. 18A, performance of a standard 2.4 GHz signal in air (free space) is illustrated; in FIG. 18B, performance of a 2.4 GHz signal attenuated by intra-oral impediments (cheek) is illustrated. In FIG. 18C, performance of a 2.4 GHz signal driven from the sensorized intra-oral device 10 and through the intra-lip antenna 150 is illustrated. Now, in greater detail, in FIG. 18A, chart 1000 illustrates the attenuation of a radio signal from an antenna in free space (air). The communication between a sensorized intra-oral device 10 and a third party receiver, transmitter/receiver (transceiver) is dependent on the effective range of the antenna 150. When a radio signal is traveling through free space, the calculation of effective range is based solely on the initial signal strength. The chart 1000 of radio signal strength through unimpeded air is shown with distance 1010 on the x-axis and signal strength 1020 on the y-axis. A minimum signal detection strength 1030 is represented by a horizontal dotted line, wherein the y-value corresponds to the minimum signal strength necessary for a receiver to detect the signal. A first free space curve segment 1040 of distance vs signal strength is at a maximum value when distance is zero, and decays as distance increases. A free space maximum range 1050 is represented by a vertical dotted line with an x value matching the intersection point of the first free space segment 1040 intersecting the minimum detection strength 1030. The second free space curve segment 1060 of distance vs signal strength represents signal strength as a function of distance wherein the distance is greater than the unimpeded maximum range 1050 and below the minimum detection strength 1030.

[0064] Referring now to FIG. 18B, chart 1100 illustrates attenuation of a radio signal from an antenna situated intra-orally (fully enclosed within a user's mouth). Chart 1100 illustrates signal attenuation as a function of distance of the same transceiver as described in FIG. 18A, only placed inside a user's mouth. The graph of radio signal strength from the intra-oral transceiver is formatted with the same distance 1010 on the x-axis, signal strength 1020 on the y-axis, and minimum detection strength 1030 as previously shown in FIG. 18A. A first intra-oral attenuated curve segment 1110 graphs the signal strength as a function of distance within the mouth. An intra-oral attenuation line 1120 is a vertical dotted line representing the distance from the transceiver at which the radio signal must cross through tissue in order to reach unimpeded air and continue travel towards an external receiver. A second intra-oral attenuated curve segment 1130 shows attenuation in signal strength caused by the oral cavity as the signal travels across the intra-oral attenuation line 1120. In an embodiment utilizing a 2.4 GHz signal, the second intra-oral attenuated segment 1130 shows a drop in signal strength of approximately -16 decibel. The third intra-oral attenuated segment 1140 represents signal strength as a function of distance between the intra-oral attenuation line 1120 and the intra-oral attenuated maximum range 1150, analogous to the first free space curve segment 1040 and the free space maximum range 1050, respectively. Due to the attenuation observed in the second intra-oral attenuated curve segment 1130, the intra-oral attenuated maximum range 1150 will be significantly lower than the free space maximum range 1050 for the same initial signal strength. In applications envisioned in association with the inventive subject matter, the reduced range represented by the intra-oral attenuated maximum range 1150 causes wireless communication between a sensorized intra-oral device 10 and a third party external receiver to be

impracticable or impossible. The fourth intra-oral attenuated curve segment 1160 represents signal below the minimum detection strength 1030 and above the intra-oral attenuated maximum range 1150.

[0065] Referring now to FIG. 18C, chart 1200 illustrates the attenuation of a radio signal from an antenna positioned intra-lip according to the inventive subject matter. Chart 1200 illustrates signal attenuation as a function of distance of the same transceiver of FIG. 18A and FIG. 18B. However, in this third instance, the antenna 150 is configured such that it is positioned between a user's lips during use, according to the inventive subject matter in the manner previously shown in FIG. 2, FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B. The graph of radio signal strength from the intra-lip antenna 150 is formatted with the same distance 1010 on the x-axis, signal strength 1020 on the y-axis, and minimum detection strength 1030 as previously shown in FIG. 18A. The first intra-lip attenuated curve segment 1210 graphs signal strength as a function of distance between the antenna 150 and the exterior of the lips. An intra-lip attenuation line 1220 is a vertical dotted line representing the distance from the antenna 150 at which the radio signal is partially attenuated by the user's lips. The second intra-lip attenuated curve segment 1230 shows the attenuation in signal strength caused by the lips as the signal travels across the intra- lip attenuation line 1220. The magnitude of the attenuation shown by the second intra-lip attenuated curve segment 1230 is less than that observed by an intra-oral transceiver as previously shown by the second intra-oral attenuated curve segment 1130 in FIG. 7B. The third intra-lip attenuated curve segment 1240 represents signal strength as a function of distance between the intra-lip attenuation line 1220 and the intra-lip attenuated maximum range 1250, analogous to the first free space curve segment 1040 and the free space maximum range 1050, respectively. Due to the attenuation observed in the second intra-lip attenuated curve segment 1230, the intra-lip attenuated maximum range 1250 will be lower than the free space maximum range 1050 for the same initial signal strength, but greater than the intra-oral attenuated maximum range 1150 for the same initial signal strength. In applications contemplated in association with the inventive subject matter, the signal range represented by the intra-lip attenuated maximum range 1250 enables effective communication between a sensorized intraoral device 10 and an external receiver. The fourth intra-lip attenuated curve segment 1260 represents signal below the minimum detection strength 1030 and above the intra-lip attenuated maximum range 1250. [0066] FIGS. 18B and 18C describe signal attenuation as a function of distance wherein the wearer of the sensorized intra-oral device 10 is directly facing the receiver. However, signal attenuation can be greater when the user is not directly facing the receiver because of additional tissue through which the signal must travel. For example, a signal from an antenna placed intra-orally that is communicating with a receiver directly in front of the user must only travel through teeth and lips. However, in order to communicate with a receiver directly behind the user, the signal will be greatly attenuated since it must travel through the tissues of the user's brain and skull. Consequently, an intra-oral antenna will have extremely limited range.

[0067] Referring now to FIG. 19, a range diagram 1300 describing the communication range of a sensorized intra-oral device 10 is shown. For an antenna situated intra-orally, the intra-oral attenuated maximum range 1150 is shown as it varies radially around a user 1310. The intraoral attenuated maximum range 1150 shows the range of an intra-oral transceiver with properties described by the exemplary graph of radio signal strength from an intra-oral transceiver 1100 as shown in FIG. 18B. For the sake of scale, a sample athletic field 1320 is also shown. The sample athletic field 1320 is shown with dimensions of 160 feet by 300 feet, as utilized by standard football games. The intra-oral attenuated maximum range 1150 is highest in the direction where the intra-oral transceiver user 1310 is facing, represented by a first intraoral detection point 1330. The intra-oral attenuated maximum range 1150 decays as the angle from the first intra-oral detection point 1330 increases. The intra-oral attenuated maximum range 1150 is lowest directly behind the intra-oral transceiver user 1310, represented by a second intra-oral detection point 1340. Due to the extreme attenuation experienced when transmitting through the back of a user's head, the second intra-oral detection point 1340 may be as close as five feet from the user.

[0068] Referring still to FIG. 19, an intra-lip attenuated maximum range 1250 is shown. The intra-lip attenuated maximum range 1250 varies radially around a user 1310. The intra-lip attenuated maximum range 1250 shows the range of an intra-lip transceiver with properties described by the exemplary graph of radio signal strength from an intra-lip transceiver 1200 as shown in FIG. 18C. The intra-lip attenuated maximum range 1250 is highest in the direction where the user 1310 is facing, represented by a first intra-lip detection point 1350. The intra-lip attenuated maximum range decays as the angle from the first intra-lip detection point 1350 increases. The intra-lip attenuated maximum range 1250 is lowest directly behind the user 1310, represented by a second intra-oral detection point 1360. Because of the reduced signal attenuation of an antenna segment 140 placed between a user's lips, the intra-lip attenuated maximum range 1250 is higher than the intra-oral attenuated maximum range 1150 at all angles. The improved range is most noticeable at the second intra-lip detection point 1360 behind the user 1310, as the placement of the antenna 150 between the lips allows the radio signal to propagate around the user 1310 rather than through the user's skull.

[0069] Although the emphasis herein has been directed to the use of BLUETOOTH^® as a communication protocol in the 2.4 GHz range, the inventive subject matter can leverage other wireless protocols and standards to be accommodated by the intra-lip antenna 150 and sensorized intra-oral device 10. These additional wireless protocols comprise, but are not limited to, ultra-wideband (UWB), ZIGBEE^®, Z-WAVE^®, low power wide area network protocols (LPWAN), SIGFOX^®, LORA^® and various cellular protocols including 5G.

[0070] For example, ZIGBEE^® supports wireless personal area networks for short range, low data rate applications. As with BLUETOOTH^®, in many jurisdictions, ZIGBEE^® operates in the 2.4 GHz frequency band. Other counties, e.g., China, Europe, USA, and Australia operate ZIGBEE^® within the 900 MHz frequency band. Generally, ZIGBEE^® transmission distances are between thirty and three hundred feet line of sight. However, ZIGBEE^® allows transmission of data over longer distances by passing data through a mesh network of intermediate devices to reach more distance devices. The pairing of the ZIGBEE^® protocol on the sensorized intra-oral device 10 in conjunction with the intra-lip antenna 150 creates a novel implementation where a plurality of sensorized intra-oral devices 10 may communicate with other more distant sensorized intra-oral device 10. Thus, this integrated implementation substantially extends the reach and accessibility of intra-oral devices leveraging mesh network communication protocols and the intra-lip antenna 150 according to the inventive subject matter.

[0071] Another wireless protocol example, Z-WAVE^®, is based on the concepts of ZIGBEE^® and operates at 908.42 MHZ in the United States. Z-WAVE^® supports a low data rate and transmission distances in free space of approximately 100 feet. As with ZIGBEE^®, Z-WAVE^® devices can communicate to one another by using intermediate nodes, and, can transmit between two nodes that are not within range of each other via the mesh capability of Z- WAVE^®. Z-WAVE^® is frequently used for smart home implementation. Deployment of Z- WAVE^® as a wireless protocol supportive of mesh communication in conjunction with the benefits of the intra-lip antenna 150 according to the inventive subject matter hereof will further extend the range and capability of communication between one or more sensorized intra-oral devices 10 and other external transceivers.

[0072] Other wireless protocols may be deployed in conjunction with the sensorized intra-oral device 10 and its intra-lip antenna 140, particularly those described as being applicable in the low power wide area network space (LPWAN). Examples include SIGFOX^® and LORA^®, which are based on a star-topology rather than a mesh topology. SIGFOX^® employs a cellular style system using ultra-narrow band (UNB) technology, and is targeted at low cost machine to machine applications where wide area coverage is required. Currently, SIGFOX^® transmits using the 900 MHz band. Once again, the inclusion of SIGFOX^® with the sensorized intra-oral device 10 and its intra-lip antenna allows the benefits of SIGFOX^® to be leveraged for extended on-person intra-oral device communications. LORA^® (Long Range) is another wireless protocol that leverages spread spectrum, chirping and a star topology that can be effectively integrated with the sensorized intra-oral device 10 and its intra-lip antenna 150 to provide even greater range for orally-deployed sensors. [0073] Another wireless protocol that will significantly benefit from the application of the inventive subject matter is the evolving 5G (fifth generation mobile networks/wireless systems) protocol. The 5G network protocol is expected to deliver enhanced connectivity but with certain limitations. Benefits will include: (a) data rates of tens of megabits per second for tens of thousands of users; (b) data rates of 1 gigabit per second simultaneously to a plurality of persons or devices on the same level, e.g., an office floor; (c) capacity to support several hundreds of thousands of simultaneous connections for a massive wireless sensor network; (d) enhanced spectral efficiency; (e) improved coverage; (f) enhanced signaling efficiency; and (g) significantly reduced latency as compared to existing cellular protocols. In the delivery of 5G, shorter wavelengths will be used with higher signal frequencies. Consequently, there will be greater attenuation through any medium, including the atmosphere. The implementation of the intra-lip antenna 150 according to the present inventive subject matter will serve as an offset to the increased attenuation associated with 5G.

[0074] Irrespective of the wireless standard deployed for use on a sensorized intra-oral device 10, the intra-lip antenna 150 provides a common thread for overall improvement of range and therefore, overall effectiveness, with lower power consumption. Although described herein as supportive of communication for an intra-oral sensor device 10, the intra-lip antenna 150 may also serve as a communication enhancement for other on-body data collection and gathering. For example, other sensors worn on the body may communicate data to a repository worn in the user's mouth where the purpose is to collect all associated data from the on-body sensors and relay that data to other transceivers, base stations and interested parties. Further, the intra-lip antenna 150 can serve as a more reliable receiver to relay alerts to the user via vibration. For example, in applications where it might be preferable to avoid audible alerts and allow the user to communicate in a non-audible hands free method, an intra-oral sensor device 10 dedicated to communication would be useful. Such applications might include

communications between military or other teams where connectivity is important but silence is required for the particular mission. The implementation of the inventive subject matter would provide a method where communication might occur silently, as with using hand signals, where all team members are in sight of each other. However, the inventive subject described herein matter would allow team members to communicate silently even where they are not in sight of each other, simply by the use of an oral communication protocol. Additionally, the intra-lip antenna 150 would allow real-time monitoring of team member physiologic and biometric parameters to determine their status while engaged in a mission, and, allow for emergency personnel to be directed to priority team members via real-time triage.

[0075] Finally, those of skill in the art will appreciate that the invention described and illustrated herein, specifically, various electrical and logic components, may be implemented in part in either software, firmware or hardware, or any suitable combination thereof. Thus, those of skill in the art will appreciate that elements of embodiments of the invention may be implemented by a computer or microprocessor process in which instructions are executed, the instructions being stored for execution on a computer-readable medium and being executed by any suitable instruction processor.

[0076] Thus, specific compositions of an intra-oral device 10 and intra-lip antenna 150 have been disclosed. It should be apparent, however, to those skilled in the art that many more modifications besides those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the spirit of the disclosure. Moreover, in interpreting the disclosure, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced.

Claims

CLAIMS We claim:

1. An intra-oral sensor device for monitoring biometric and physiologic signals of a user, comprising:

a. a printed circuit board for mounting electronic components;

b. a radio frequency transceiver;

c. a battery;

d. an inductive charging coil for charging said battery;

e. one or more electronic components mounted on said printed circuit board; f. an intra-lip antenna;

g. said printed circuit board, said intra-lip antenna, and said one or more electronic components enclosed within a shell;

h. said shell including a protrusion that envelops said intra-lip antenna; and, i. wherein, when worn by a user, said protrusion enveloping said antenna is

positioned between a user's upper lip and lower lip.

2. An intra-oral sensor device according to claim 1 wherein said intra-lip antenna is a

monopole antenna.

3. An intra-oral sensor device according to claim 1 further comprising:

a. a processor; b. software configured to run on said processor;

c. said software configured to collect signals and data from one or more sensors mounted on said printed circuit board;

d. said software configured to transmit said collected signals and data to an

external device via said intra-lip antenna.

4. An intra-oral sensor device according to claim 1 wherein transmission of said collected signals and data is accomplished via one or more wireless communication protocols.

5. An intra-oral sensor device according to claim 4 wherein said one or more wireless communication protocols include:

a. BLUETOOTH;

b. UWB;

c. ZIGBEE;

d. Z-WAVE;

e. LPWAN;

f. SIGFOX;

g. LORA; and,

h. cellular communication protocols.

6. An intra-oral sensor device according to claim 1 wherein said printed circuit board comprises:

a. a central segment; b. a sensor segment;

c. a ground plane segment; and,

d. an antenna segment;

e. said central segment and said sensor segment connected via a first hinge

segment;

f. said central segment and said ground plane segment connected via a second hinge segment; and,

g. said ground plane segment and said antenna segment connected via a third hinge segment.

An intra-oral sensor device according to claim 6 further comprising:

a. said central segment providing an electronic footprint to mount one or more electronic components and sensors; and,

b. said sensor segment providing an electronic footprint to mount one or more sensors and electronic components.

An intra-oral sensor device according to claim 6 wherein said central segment supports a processor, a power supply, a battery gauge, a wireless charging circuit, and a memory chip.

An intra-oral sensor device according to claim 7 wherein said sensors comprise one or more accelerometers, one or more biosensors; and, one or more impedance sensors.

10. An intra-oral sensor device according to claim 9 wherein said one or more biosensors measure:

a. heart rate;

b. respiration rate;

c. body temperature;

d. oxygen consumption;

e. oxygen saturation;

f. hydration; and,

g. saliva.

11. An intra-oral sensor device according to claim 6 wherein said antenna segment further comprises:

a. an antenna in a monopole configuration;

b. said antenna sandwiched between a top antenna layer and a bottom antenna layer;

c. said antenna extending from an antenna base on a back edge of said antenna segment near a first side edge; and,

d. said antenna extending from said antenna base towards a front edge and turning to extend toward a second side edge.

12. An intra-oral sensor device according to claim 1 further comprising a scaffolding

structure.

13. An intra-oral sensor device according to claim 1 further comprising a bite shelf.

14. An intra-oral sensor device according to claim 13 wherein said bite shelf is moldable to fit a user's bite profile.

15. An intra-oral sensor device according to claim 13 wherein said bite shelf is removeable.

16. An intra-oral sensor device according to claim 13 wherein a rear surface includes two or more slots for variable positioning of said bite shelf.

17. An intra-oral sensor device according to claim 13 wherein said bite shelf is truncated.

18. An intra-oral sensor device according to claim 13 wherein said bite shelf is thicker

further away from a rear absorptive shell surface to improve retention in a user's mouth without clamping on said bite shelf.

19. An intra-oral sensor device according to claim 1 wherein said intra-oral sensor device serves as a repository for collection and transmittal of data from one or more other on- body sensors.

20. A device for detecting and measuring biometric and physiological signals from within the mouth of a user and communicating the biometric and physiological signals wirelessly to an external receiver, said device comprising:

a. an absorptive shell sized to enclose a printed circuit board supported by a

scaffolding;

b. said printed circuit board adaptable to fit within said absorptive shell on said scaffolding; c. said absorptive shell enclosing said printed circuit board and said scaffolding placed between a user's teeth and interior cheek surface when in use; d. said printed circuit board including one or more sensors to measure one or more biometric and physiological parameters of a user;

e. said printed circuit board comprising one or more electrical circuits and electrical components to convert data from said one or more sensors into a radio transmission emittable by an intra-lip antenna;

f. said intra-lip antenna residing within an absorptive shell protrusion;

g. said absorptive shell protrusion positioned between a user's upper lip and lower lip during use;

h. wherein, placement of said intra-lip antenna between a user's upper lip and

lower lip enables enhanced communication with external transceivers; and, i. wherein said placement minimizes radio signal transmission attenuation, power consumption, user discomfort, and risk of impact-related damage to the sensorized intra-oral device.

21. An oral device comprising:

a. a power supply;

b. one or more sensors;

c. a radio frequency transceiver; and,

d. an intra-lip antenna.

2. The oral device of claim 21 further comprising a shell encapsulating said one or more sensors, said radio frequency transceiver, and said intra-lip antenna.