Application of haptic device to dentistry-inter-objects tactile-force feedback system

Abstract

Application of virtual reality haptic device for dentistry is in our present subjects. To simulate the haptic feeling in the dental treatment, it is necessary to detect the tactile-force between objects such as instruments and intraoral organs. So development and application of inter-objects taqctile-force feedback system was investigated. In the present study, the haptic support of bone drilling by the help of surgical template, especially in the patient with small mouth opening was intended. In such case access of the drill from above the template is often impossible. Then, approach from the side inductive groove was attempted, and haptic simulation system to realize this method was assembled.As a result, the present inter-objects tactile force feedback system to feel the contact with drill and groove in the surgical guide was successfully functionated. This method will be exten-sively applicable to train dental tactile treatments.