Tongue strength evaluation system and method

摘要

An apparatus for evaluating the tongue strength of a subject during a sucking event includes an insert positioned within a nipple element to provide an output in response to deformation of the nipple element during a sucking event. The output is at least one of resistive force exerted against the subject's tongue and movement measurement of deformation force exerted on the nipple element during the sucking event. The apparatus is configurable to evaluate nutritive sucking (NS) or non-nutritive sucking (NNS) capabilities of the subject. The insert may be a sensing device, a compliance element, an intermediate device or a combination of these. A coupling device is configured to position the insert relative to the nipple element and/or to receive output from the insert. A method includes evaluating tongue strength of a subject during NS or NNS and using inserts providing increasing levels of resistive force to exercise the subject's tongue.

主权项

1. A method comprising:
deflecting a cantilever element of an evaluation apparatus by movement of a nipple element by a deformation force exerted on the nipple element; measuring, using the evaluation apparatus including the nipple element, an output generated by the deflection of the cantilever element by movement of the nipple element by the deformation force exerted on the nipple element; wherein:
the evaluation apparatus includes a coupling device;the nipple element is removably attached to the coupling device;the nipple element includes an inner surface defining a nipple cavity;the coupling device includes a sensing device and is configured to receive the cantilever element such that the cantilever element is configured to be operatively attached only at one of:
one side of the cantilever element to the coupling device; andtwo opposing sides of the cantilever element to the coupling device;such that the cantilever element is in operative communication with the sensing device, and positioned within the nipple cavity adjacent the inner surface of the nipple element and detached from the nipple element; wherein the cantilever element is configured to generate the output in response to deflection of the cantilever element in direct contact with the inner surface; and wherein the output:
corresponds to the movement of the nipple element resultant from the deformation force exerted on the nipple element; andis received as input by the sensing device.