3-D imaging using telecentric defocus

Abstract

An apparatus for obtaining 3-D surface contour image data of a tooth has a double telecentric optical system disposed to form an image of the surface of the tooth onto an image detector array. A focus adjustment mechanism is actuable to adjust the position of either or both the double telecentric optical system and the image detector array along an optical axis to each of a sequence of focus positions. A control logic processor is in control signal communication with the focus adjustment mechanism to adjust focus position, and is in image data communication with the image detector array for receiving image data obtained by the image detector array and with a memory for storing the received image data corresponding to each of the sequence of focus positions. The control logic processor is further responsive to stored instructions for computing 3-D surface contour image data from the image data.

Description

3D Imaging Using Telecentric Defocus technical field The present invention relates generally to the field of diagnostic imaging, and in particular to 3D imaging of surfaces within the oral cavity. More particularly, the present invention relates to an apparatus and method for 3D imaging using telecentric optics in a sequence of focus changes. Background technique The ability to image teeth and intraoral structures in 3D can often help improve dental care and diagnosis, and provide more accurate data for the preparation of dental appliances and restorations. Although there have been numerous proposed solutions to this problem, difficulties inherent in each of these methods limit their usability, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness. One general type of method that has been proposed is contour or fringe projection imaging. Fringe projection imaging utilizes patterned or structured light to obtain surface profile information of various types of complex structures. In fringe p...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

The different surfaces of the tooth may be oriented at 90 degrees relative to each other, making it difficult to direct enough light to accurately image all parts of the tooth

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