Handheld scanner, data processing device and image processing method

Abstract

A handheld scanner, a data processing device and an image processing method are disclosed. The handheld scanner comprises one or more UVC LED elements, and a processor executing one or more instructions; the processor can execute the one or more instructions to control the one or more UVC LED elements to turn on in response to detecting a first event, and to control the one or more UVC LED elements to turn off in response to detecting a second event during the one or more UVC LED elements are turned on and in action.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The disclosed embodiments relate to image processing apparatus and image processing methods, and more specifically, to an image processing apparatus and image processing method for sterilizing the interior of a handheld scanner. Background Technology

[0002] A handheld scanner consists of a tip and a scanner body, the tip being the part inserted into the object to be scanned. The tip inserted into the object can be detached and sterilized. However, the scanner body has a structure that is difficult for the user to separate, and internal components may be damaged, thus preventing the use of a sterilizer. The scanner body can only be sterilized externally with an alcohol cleaning solution; internal sterilization is difficult. Therefore, there are limitations in the hygienic use of the scanner body. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The handheld scanner according to an embodiment includes one or more short-wave ultraviolet light-emitting diode (UVC LED) elements and a processor that executes one or more instructions; the processor executes the one or more instructions to control the one or more UVC LED elements to turn on in response to detecting a first event, and to control the one or more UVC LED elements to turn off in response to detecting a second event during the period when the one or more UVC LED elements are turned on and operating.

[0004] A handheld scanner according to an embodiment includes: one or more UVC LED elements, and a processor executing one or more instructions; the processor executes the one or more instructions to control the one or more UVC LED elements to turn on in response to detecting a first event, and to control the one or more UVC LED elements to turn off in response to detecting a second event during the period when the one or more UVC LED elements are on, wherein the inner surface of the frame of the handheld scanner or the surface of at least one component of the frame is made of a reflective material, and UVC emitted by the one or more UVC LED elements is reflected by the reflective material into the interior of the frame, thereby sterilizing at least one of the air inside the handheld scanner, the surface of at least one component of the handheld scanner, and the inner surface of the frame of the handheld scanner.

[0005] A data processing apparatus according to an embodiment includes: a communication unit for sending and receiving information with a handheld scanner having one or more UVC LED elements; a memory for storing one or more instructions; and a processor for executing the one or more instructions stored in the memory. The processor executes the one or more instructions to transmit a first control signal to the handheld scanner via the communication unit to control the one or more UVC LED elements included in the handheld scanner to turn on, or, while the one or more UVC LED elements are turned on, transmit a second control signal to the handheld scanner via the communication unit to control the one or more UVC LED elements to turn off. The inner surface of the frame of the handheld scanner or the surface of at least one component inside the frame is made of a reflective material. The processor is configured to control the one or more UVC LED elements to turn on such that UVC emitted by the one or more UVC LED elements is reflected by the reflective material into the interior of the frame, thereby sterilizing at least one of the air inside the handheld scanner, the surface of at least one component included in the handheld scanner, and the inner surface of the frame of the handheld scanner.

[0006] According to an embodiment of the image processing method, the image processing method is executed in an image processing device and includes the following steps: in response to detecting a first event, controlling one or more UVC LED elements of a handheld scanner to turn on; and in response to detecting a second event during the period when the one or more UVC LED elements are turned on, controlling the one or more UVC LED elements to turn off, wherein the inner surface of the frame of the handheld scanner or the surface of at least one component of the interior of the frame is made of a reflective material, and UVC emitted by the one or more UVC LED elements is reflected by the reflective material into the interior of the frame, and the step of controlling the one or more UVC LED elements to turn on includes the following steps: sterilizing at least one of the air inside the handheld scanner, the surface of at least one component of the handheld scanner, and the inner surface of the frame of the handheld scanner. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an image processing system according to an embodiment.

[0008] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating a method for acquiring surface data using a handheld scanner according to an embodiment.

[0009] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating, according to an embodiment, the arrangement of one or more UVC LED elements inside a handheld scanner.

[0010] Figure 4 This is an internal cross-sectional view of a handheld scanner according to an embodiment.

[0011] Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view of the optical module and projector included inside the handheld scanner according to an embodiment.

[0012] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the appearance of a handheld scanner according to an embodiment.

[0013] Figure 7 This is a block diagram showing the interior of a handheld scanner according to an embodiment.

[0014] Figure 8 This is an example of a detailed block diagram of an image processing system that includes a handheld scanner and a data processing device.

[0015] Figure 9 A diagram shows a user interface screen output by a data processing device according to an embodiment, which is used to select whether to automatically irradiate UVC.

[0016] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating the timing of the operation of the UVC LED elements included in a handheld scanner, according to an embodiment.

[0017] Figure 11 This is a sequence diagram illustrating an image processing method according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0018] In an embodiment, the handheld scanner further includes a user input unit and a communication unit for sending and receiving information with a data processing device; the first event includes at least one of the following: receiving a first control signal through the user input unit and receiving a first control signal from the data processing device through the communication unit; the first control signal may include at least one of a scan mode off command, a power-on command for the handheld scanner, and a power-on command for the one or more UVC LED elements.

[0019] In an embodiment, the first event may include at least one of the following: the calibration of the handheld scanner is completed; the handheld scanner enters standby mode; or a preset time elapses after the handheld scanner enters standby mode.

[0020] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner further includes a projector with a light source, and the processor can execute one or more instructions to prevent the light source and the one or more UVC LED elements in the projector from operating simultaneously.

[0021] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner further includes a camera for acquiring two-dimensional image data of an object, and the processor can execute one or more instructions to prevent the camera from acquiring the two-dimensional image data, or to prevent the two-dimensional image data acquired by the camera from being used for three-dimensional image generation, while the one or more UVC LED elements are turned on and operating.

[0022] In an embodiment, the handheld scanner further includes a user input unit and a communication unit for sending and receiving information with a data processing device; the second event includes at least one of the following: receiving a second control signal through the user input unit and receiving a second control signal from the data processing device through the communication unit; the second control signal may include at least one of a scan mode entry command, a power-off command of the handheld scanner, and a power-off command of the one or more UVC LED elements.

[0023] In an embodiment, the second event may include the situation where one or more UVC LED elements are turned on and irradiate UVC for a preset time.

[0024] In an embodiment, the processor may execute one or more instructions to omit the preheating of the handheld scanner when the one or more UVCLED elements are turned on and operating, or to start the scanning operation after the preheating time is shorter than a preset preheating time.

[0025] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner further includes a fan for allowing outside air to flow in, and the one or more UVC LED elements may be positioned along a path where the flow rate of the outside air flowing in through the fan is above a reference value.

[0026] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner further includes an optical module, and the one or more UVC LED elements may be located within the optical module.

[0027] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner includes: a handheld scanner body and a tip detachably attached to the handheld scanner body; the one or more UVC LED elements are located in the handheld scanner body near the location where they are attached to the tip.

[0028] A data processing apparatus according to an embodiment includes: a communication unit for sending and receiving information with a handheld scanner having one or more UVC LED elements; a memory for storing one or more instructions; and a processor for executing the one or more instructions stored in the memory. The processor may execute the one or more instructions to transmit a first control signal to the handheld scanner via the communication unit to control the one or more UVC LED elements included in the handheld scanner to turn on, or, while the one or more UVC LED elements are turned on and operating, transmit a second control signal to the handheld scanner via the communication unit to control the one or more UVC LED elements to turn off.

[0029] In an embodiment, the first control signal includes at least one of a scan mode off command, a power on command for the handheld scanner, and a power on command for the one or more UVC LED elements; the second control signal may include at least one of a scan mode on command, a power off command for the handheld scanner, and a power off command for the one or more UVC LED elements.

[0030] In an embodiment, the data processing device further includes a user input unit and a display. The display outputs a user interface screen for selecting whether to automatically turn on the UVC LED element. Corresponding to the user interface screen, the user input unit selects to automatically turn on the UVC LED element. The processor can execute one or more instructions to, in response to selecting to automatically turn on the UVC LED element, transmit a first control signal to the handheld scanner via the communication unit to control the power supply of one or more UVC LED elements installed inside the handheld scanner, or transmit a second control signal to control the power supply of one or more UVC LED elements to be turned off.

[0031] An image processing method executed in an image processing apparatus according to an embodiment may include the following steps: in response to detecting a first event, controlling one or more UVC LED elements of a handheld scanner to turn on; and in response to detecting a second event during the period when the one or more UVC LED elements are turned on and operating, controlling the one or more UVC LED elements to turn off.

[0032] This specification describes the principles of the invention and discloses embodiments to clarify the scope of the invention and to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. The disclosed embodiments can be implemented in various forms.

[0033] Throughout this specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same constituent elements. The disclosed embodiments do not illustrate all elements of the embodiments, and general content belonging to the technical field of the invention or repetitive content between embodiments is omitted. The term "part" (portion) as used in this specification can be implemented by software or hardware. According to embodiments, multiple "parts" can be implemented as a single element, or a single "part" can contain multiple elements. The operating principle and embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0034] In this specification, the object refers to the subject of the photograph, which can be a part of a body, or can include a model of a part of a body. For example, the object can include various body parts of a person or animal, such as ears, nose, mouth, etc., or models of these parts.

[0035] In this specification, images may include images representing an object. In this specification, images may include at least one tooth, or an oral cavity including at least one tooth, or an image of a plaster model representing an oral cavity (hereinafter referred to as "oral cavity image").

[0036] Furthermore, in this specification, oral cavity images may include two-dimensional images of the object or three-dimensional images of the oral cavity that show the object in three dimensions. Three-dimensional oral cavity images can be generated by three-dimensional modeling of the oral cavity structure based on raw data, and therefore may be referred to as three-dimensional oral cavity models. Additionally, three-dimensional oral cavity models may also be referred to as three-dimensional scan models or three-dimensional scan data. Hereinafter, in this specification, oral cavity images will be used collectively to refer to models or images of the oral cavity in two or three dimensions.

[0037] However, in this specification, the images are not limited to images of the mouth; depending on the type of object and body part, they may include images of various objects such as ears or noses.

[0038] Additionally, in this specification, data may refer to information required for displaying a two-dimensional or three-dimensional object, such as raw data acquired using at least one camera.

[0039] Specifically, raw data refers to data acquired for the purpose of generating an image. It can be data acquired (e.g., two-dimensional data) from at least one image sensor included in a 3D scanner when scanning an object. Raw data acquired in a 3D scanner can also be referred to as two-dimensional image data. Raw data can also refer to two-dimensional images from different perspectives acquired through multiple cameras when scanning an object using a 3D scanner.

[0040] The above description uses two-dimensional images as the raw data, but it is not limited to this; the raw data can also be three-dimensional image data.

[0041] Because handheld scanners can be inserted into the mouth, ears, nose, etc., they are hygiene-sensitive devices. In particular, unlike the tip, the main body of a handheld scanner cannot be sterilized due to the possibility of damage to its internal components.

[0042] The disclosed embodiments are designed to overcome the above-mentioned problems by providing an image processing apparatus and image processing method for sterilizing the interior of a handheld scanner by incorporating UVC LED elements inside the handheld scanner.

[0043] The embodiments will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0044] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an image processing system according to an embodiment.

[0045] Reference Figure 1 The image processing system may include: a handheld scanner 100; and a data processing device 120, which is connected to the handheld scanner 100 via a communication network 110.

[0046] The handheld scanner 100 can be a medical device for acquiring images of an object.

[0047] The handheld scanner 100 can acquire images of at least one of the following: a mouth or ear, nose, artificial structure, or a plaster model of a mouth or ear, nose, or artificial structure.

[0048] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner 100 can be a handheld type that scans an object while being grasped and moved by the user's hand. The handheld scanner 100 is inserted into the ear or nose to scan the inside of the ear or nose non-contactly, thereby acquiring an image of the inside of the ear or nose.

[0049] Alternatively, the handheld scanner 100 may be an oral scanner that is inserted into the oral cavity and scans the teeth to obtain an image of the oral cavity including at least one tooth. The following description, for ease of explanation, will use the case of a handheld scanner 100 being an oral scanner as an example, but is not limited to this.

[0050] The handheld scanner 100 may include a body 101 and a tip 103. The body 101 may include: a light irradiation unit (not shown) for transmitting light; and a camera (not shown) for capturing images of an object.

[0051] The tip 103, which is inserted into the oral cavity, can be detachably mounted on the body 101. The tip 103 includes a light path changing device that directs light irradiated from the body 101 toward the object and directs light received from the object toward the body 101.

[0052] In order to image the surface of at least one of the teeth, gums and artificial structures that can be inserted into the oral cavity (e.g., orthodontic appliances including brackets and wires, dental implants, artificial teeth, orthodontic aids inserted into the oral cavity), the handheld scanner 100 can acquire surface information about the object as raw data.

[0053] The handheld scanner 100 can transmit the acquired raw data to the data processing device 120 via the communication network 110.

[0054] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner 100 may internally include one or more UVC LED elements (not shown).

[0055] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner 100 may include a fan for allowing outside air to flow in, with one or more UVC LED elements positioned along a path where the flow rate of outside air flowing in through the fan is above a reference value.

[0056] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner may include an optical module with a camera, and one or more UVC LED elements may be located near or within the optical module.

[0057] In one embodiment, the UVC LED element may be located in the body of the handheld scanner near the point of contact with the tip.

[0058] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner 100 may control one or more UVCLED elements to turn on in response to the detection of a first event.

[0059] In an embodiment, the first event may be receiving a first control signal via a user input section included in the main body of the handheld scanner 100, or receiving a first control signal from the data processing device 120 via the communication network 110. The first control signal may include at least one of a power-on command for the main body of the handheld scanner 100 and a power-on command for one or more UVCLED elements included in the handheld scanner 100.

[0060] In one embodiment, the first event may include ending the calibration of the handheld scanner 100. In response to the end of calibration, the handheld scanner 100 may control one or more UVC LED elements to turn on.

[0061] In one embodiment, the first event may include the handheld scanner 100 entering a standby mode. In response to entering standby mode, the handheld scanner 100 may control one or more UVC LED elements to turn on.

[0062] In this embodiment, the first event may include a preset time elapsed after the handheld scanner 100 enters standby mode. The handheld scanner 100 may control one or more UVC LED elements to turn on after the preset time elapsed following the entry of the handheld scanner 100 into standby mode.

[0063] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner 100 may include a projector with a light source, and one or more UVC LEDs may be located within the projector.

[0064] When the handheld scanner 100 operates in scanning mode, it illuminates the object with light from a light source included in the projector and enables the camera included in the optical module to acquire a two-dimensional image of the object. However, if the UVC LED element is activated while the handheld scanner 100 is scanning the object, the UVC emitted through the UVC LED element may prevent the acquisition of precise three-dimensional scan data.

[0065] Therefore, in this embodiment, the handheld scanner 100 may deactivate one or more UVC LED elements while the handheld scanner 100 is scanning an object.

[0066] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner 100 may enable one or more UVC LED elements to not be turned on simultaneously while the RBG light source included in the projector is turned on and irradiating light.

[0067] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner 100 may prevent the camera from acquiring a two-dimensional image of the object during one or more periods of operation of the UVC LED elements. Alternatively, the handheld scanner 100 may prevent the two-dimensional image of the object acquired by the camera from being used for the generation of a three-dimensional oral cavity model during one or more periods of operation of the UVC LED elements.

[0068] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner 100 may, in response to detecting a second event during the period when one or more UVC LED elements are turned on and operating, control one or more UVC LED elements to turn off.

[0069] In an embodiment, the second event may be receiving a second control signal via a user input section included in the main body of the handheld scanner 100, or receiving a second control signal from the data processing device 120 via the communication network 110. The second control signal may include at least one of a scan mode entry command, a power-off command for the handheld scanner 100, and a power-off command for one or more UVC LED elements.

[0070] In one embodiment, the second event may include one or more UVC LED elements turning on and irradiating UVC for a preset time. The handheld scanner 100 may control the UVC LED elements to automatically turn off when the preset time has elapsed.

[0071] The data processing device 120 can be connected to the handheld scanner 100 via a wired or wireless communication network 110. The data processing device 120 can be any electronic device that receives raw data from the handheld scanner 100 and generates, processes, displays, and / or transmits oral images based on the received raw data. For example, the data processing device 120 can be a computing device such as a smartphone, laptop, desktop computer, PDA, or tablet computer, but is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the data processing device 120 can also exist in the form of a server (or server device) for processing oral images.

[0072] In one embodiment, the data processing device 120 can transmit control signals to the handheld scanner 100 and control the operation of the handheld scanner 100. In another embodiment, the control signals transmitted from the data processing device 120 to the handheld scanner 100 can be at least one of a power-on / off command for the handheld scanner 100 and a power-on / off command for one or more UVC LED elements included within the handheld scanner 100.

[0073] The data processing device 120 can process the two-dimensional image data received from the handheld scanner 100 to generate a three-dimensional oral cavity image or generate additional information. The data processing device 120 can display the three-dimensional oral cavity image and / or additional information on the display 125, or output or transmit it to an external device.

[0074] As another example, the handheld scanner 100 acquires raw data through oral scanning, processes the acquired raw data to generate three-dimensional data, and transmits it to the data processing device 120.

[0075] The handheld scanner 100 obtains three-dimensional data representing the shape of the object by projecting patterned light onto the object and scanning the object with the illuminated patterned light, and by utilizing the triangulation principle caused by pattern deformation.

[0076] In this embodiment, the handheld scanner 100 can also acquire three-dimensional data of the object using a confocal method. The confocal method is a non-destructive optical imaging technique for measuring three-dimensional surfaces, which can acquire optical cross-sectional images with high spatial resolution using a pinhole structure. The handheld scanner 100 can obtain three-dimensional data by stacking two-dimensional images along the axial direction.

[0077] However, in this embodiment, the handheld scanner 100 can acquire 3D data from the raw data using various methods other than those described above, and transmit it to the data processing device 120. The data processing device 120 can analyze, process, manipulate, display, and / or transmit the received 3D data.

[0078] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating a method for acquiring surface data using a handheld scanner according to an embodiment.

[0079] In embodiments, the handheld scanner 100 can acquire three-dimensional data about an object using various methods. For example, the handheld scanner 100 can acquire three-dimensional data about the object using a confocal method. The confocal method acquires three-dimensional information about the object based on the position of a point detected by the maximum intensity of the reflected light, according to the refractive index of the lens through which light incident on the object passes. The handheld scanner 100 can acquire optical cross-sectional images with high spatial resolution using a pinhole structure. The handheld scanner 100 can obtain three-dimensional data by stacking two-dimensional images along the axial direction.

[0080] Alternatively, in another embodiment, the handheld scanner 100 can also acquire the three-dimensional information of an object using optical triangulation. Optical triangulation is a technique that uses a light source, an object illuminated by light from the light source, and an image sensor that receives light reflected from the object to form a triangle, and then uses triangulation to acquire the three-dimensional information of the object. However, this is one embodiment, and the handheld scanner 100 can acquire three-dimensional data through various methods other than confocal scanning or optical triangulation.

[0081] Below, as an example, a more detailed description will be given of how the handheld scanner 100 acquires three-dimensional data about an object using optical triangulation.

[0082] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner 100 may acquire images using at least one camera and acquire three-dimensional data based on the acquired images.

[0083] exist Figure 2In this context, the handheld scanner 100 can be an optical 3D scanner. To acquire 3D data about the surface of the object 210, the handheld scanner 100 can utilize a binocular structured light method.

[0084] The handheld scanner 100 may include two or more cameras and a projector 220 that transmits structured light 225.

[0085] The handheld scanner 100 can transmit structured light 225 to the object 210 and acquire an L image 235 corresponding to the left field of view and an R image 245 corresponding to the right field of view from an L camera 230 corresponding to the left field of view and an R camera 240 corresponding to the right field of view, respectively. The L image 235 and the R image 245 can be reconstructed into a three-dimensional image frame representing the surface of the object 210.

[0086] The handheld scanner 100 can continuously acquire two-dimensional image frames including L-image 235 and R-image 245 related to the object 210. The handheld scanner 100 or the data processing device 120 can acquire three-dimensional image frames representing the surface shape of the object 210 from the two-dimensional image frames including L-image 235 and R-image 245. Figure 2 The text describes how a handheld scanner 100 acquires 3D data from two images obtained using an L-camera 230 and an R-camera 240. However, this is one embodiment, and the handheld scanner 100 may also acquire images using only one of the L-camera 230 and the R-camera 240.

[0087] The handheld scanner 100 can scan around the object 210 at regular time intervals (e.g., 10 to 30 frames per second) to acquire multiple two-dimensional frames. The handheld scanner 100 or the data processing device 120 can acquire multiple three-dimensional image frames from the multiple two-dimensional image frames.

[0088] The data processing device 120 can obtain a three-dimensional oral cavity model of the entire object 210 by merging or aligning multiple three-dimensional image frames.

[0089] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating, according to an embodiment, the arrangement of one or more UVC LED elements inside a handheld scanner.

[0090] Reference Figure 3 The handheld scanner body 310 may contain one or more UVC LED elements.

[0091] Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the range of wavelengths invisible to the naked eye. UV radiation is categorized by wavelength into long-wave UVA, medium-wave UVB, and short-wave UVC. UVC, with wavelengths ranging from 100 to 280 nm, is effective in eliminating bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. UVC can damage the molecular structure of DNA or RNA in organisms' cells, leading to DNA strand breaks and the destruction of nucleic acids and proteins, thereby causing bacterial death and the death of regenerating cells.

[0092] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner may include a UVC LED element. The UVC LED element is an LED element that illuminates UVC. The UVC LED element is a small LED light source, such as a point light source. The UVC LED element can also be efficiently mounted on a small machine, just like a handheld scanner.

[0093] Because UVC has an ultraviolet wavelength invisible to the naked eye, in this embodiment, for safety, the handheld scanner body 310 can be additionally equipped with a colored LED, such as a blue LED. The handheld scanner body 310 can use the separately installed blue LED to indicate that the UVC LED element is active. That is, the handheld scanner body 310 can simultaneously turn on the blue LED to emit blue light when the UVC LED element is powered on and irradiated with UVC, and simultaneously turn off the blue LED when the UVC LED element is powered off and no longer irradiating with UVC.

[0094] Figure 3 Figure (a) shows a handheld scanner body 310 with eight UVC LED elements installed. However, this is one embodiment, and various numbers of UVC LED elements can be arranged in various locations within the handheld scanner body 310.

[0095] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner body 310 may include a junction 311 with a tip mounted thereon. In another embodiment, a UVC LED element is disposed at a position 313 adjacent to the junction 311 with the tip mounted thereon to sterilize air or other contaminants that may flow from the handheld scanner body 310 to the tip.

[0096] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner body 310 may include a fan (not shown) in the direction opposite to the location where the tip is mounted. The fan mounted on the handheld scanner body 310 cools the handheld scanner body 310 by drawing in outside air, thereby removing heat generated within the handheld scanner body 310. In another embodiment, a UVC LED element is located near the fan 315 and can sterilize the air flowing in through the fan. The air flowing in through the fan can be sterilized by the UVC LED element and then, after moving within the handheld scanner body 310 for a period of time, be exhausted to the outside of the handheld scanner body 310.

[0097] In this embodiment, the UVC LED element may be disposed on the frame 317 (or housing) surrounding the handheld scanner body 310, or disposed on the constituent elements included in the handheld scanner body 310, irradiating the constituent elements inside the handheld scanner body 310 with UVC. The irradiated UVC can sterilize the surface of the frame 317 or the surface of the constituent elements inside the handheld scanner body 310.

[0098] UVC emitted by the UVC LED element can be reflected by components or the interior of the frame 317 included in the handheld scanner body 310. The UVC reflected from the interior of the handheld scanner body 310 and the interior of the frame 317 and moved around can sterilize the interior surfaces of the components or the frame 317, as well as the air.

[0099] Figure 3 (b) shows two UVC LED elements mounted in the handheld scanner body 310. (See reference...) Figure 3 (b), with Figure 3 Similar to (a), the handheld scanner body 310 may include a connector 311 with a tip. A UVC LED element may be disposed at a position 313 adjacent to the connector 311. In an embodiment, the UVC LED element may be arranged at an angle and orientation toward an optical module (not shown) of the handheld scanner body 310. The UVC LED element may be disposed at a position 313 adjacent to the connector 311 toward the optical module to illuminate UVC in the direction of the optical module. Additionally, as... Figure 3 As shown in (b), a UVC LED element may be included in the vicinity 315 of the fan of the handheld scanner body 310. The UVC LED element may be disposed in the vicinity 315 of the fan and irradiate UVC into the interior of the handheld scanner body 310. The UVC irradiated by the UVC LED element moves into the interior of the handheld scanner body 310 together with the air flowing in through the fan, sterilizing the air and the surfaces of the constituent elements and / or the frame 317 inside the handheld scanner body 310.

[0100] As described above, according to the embodiment, the handheld scanner body 310 is provided with at least one UVC LED element, which can effectively remove pollutants from the surface of the constituent elements included in the handheld scanner body 310 or from air flowing in from the outside.

[0101] Figure 4 This is an internal cross-sectional view of a handheld scanner according to an embodiment.

[0102] Figure 4 The handheld scanner 400 is Figure 1 One example is a handheld scanner 100.

[0103] As described above, the handheld scanner 400 may include: a body 402; and a tip 401, which is detachably mounted on the body 402.

[0104] Reference Figure 4 The main body 402 of the handheld scanner 400 may include an optical module 420, a projector 430, a PCB 440, a heat sink 450, a fan 460, and a UVC LED element 470.

[0105] One end of the tip 401 includes a joining portion that engages with the body 402, and the other end of the tip 401 may include an opening. The opening may be formed in a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the tip 401. Light emitted by the projector 430 can flow out through the opening, and light reflected from the object can flow into the optical module 420. A light path changing device 410 may be provided in the opening to change the light path. The light path changing device 410 can reflect light along a certain path so that the light emitted from the projector 430 is directed toward the object. In addition, the light path changing device 410 can adjust the light path so that the light reflected from the object and incident on the opening of the tip 401 is directed toward the lens of the camera included in the optical module 420. The light path changing device 410 may be a mirror or lens for performing the functions described above, but is not limited to this, and may be any method capable of changing the light path, such as refracting or reflecting incident light.

[0106] The optical module 420 may include at least one camera that captures light reflected from the object. The camera may include at least one lens. For example, the lens included in the camera may be a pair of lenses corresponding to the right and left fields of view, respectively. The lenses may be spaced apart so that light incident through the opening travels along different paths. Light transmitted through the lenses via a polarizing filter can be received by an imaging sensor mounted on the imaging plate. The lenses may acquire an R image corresponding to the right field of view and an L image corresponding to the left field of view, respectively. The imaging sensor may be a CMOS image sensor, a component that converts light into digital data. The imaging sensor can generate image information about the object, i.e., image data. That is, the imaging sensor can reconstruct the R and L images into a three-dimensional image frame representing the surface of the object. The method of constructing the three-dimensional image frame is not limited to this.

[0107] The projector 430 can project light onto an object. The projector 430 can project a specific form of light onto the object. At this time, the wavelength of the projected light can be, for example, a wavelength in the visible light region, but is not limited to this.

[0108] The projector 430 acquires three-dimensional data representing the shape of an object by projecting patterned light onto the object and scanning the object illuminated by the patterned light. For this purpose, the projector 430 can form light from a light source in the form of structured light with a specific pattern. To form a specific pattern, the projector 430 can use a pattern mask or a digital micromirror device (DMD).

[0109] PCB 440 is a printed circuit board, which can refer to a circuit board that connects and fixes the terminals of electronic components to the body 402 of the handheld scanner 400. PCB 440 can be a circuit board on an insulating substrate made of phenolic resin or epoxy resin, on which various electronic components / parts such as ICs (integrated circuits) and resistors are assembled, arranged, and mounted, and copper (Cu) conductor connection lines (patterns) are formed.

[0110] The heat sink 450 can be a heat-dissipating body attached to prevent the handheld scanner 400 from overheating. The heat sink 450 can be configured to absorb heat generated from the components or elements of the handheld scanner 400 and dissipate it to the outside.

[0111] Fan 460 is a cooler that circulates air inside the body 402 of the handheld scanner 400, reducing heat generated by internal components and preventing dust accumulation. Fan 460 has a structure with rapidly rotating small rotors and is installed at the end of the handheld scanner 400 or similar location, allowing outside air to enter the body 402 of the handheld scanner 400 and moving the incoming air.

[0112] Figure 4 The middle arrow indicates the direction of air movement. External air flowing in through fan 460 can move in the direction of the arrow. External air can move along the gaps created between the components inside the handheld scanner 400, thereby cooling the heat generated by the parts included in the handheld scanner 400. Most of the external air can be exhausted towards fan 460, but some can also be exhausted towards tip 401.

[0113] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner 400 may include a UVC LED element 470. Figure 4 As an example, a handheld scanner 400 is shown to include four UVC LED elements 470, but this is an example, and only one, two, or three UVC LED elements 470 may also be included within the handheld scanner 400. Alternatively, the handheld scanner 400 may contain more than four UVC LED elements 470.

[0114] In an embodiment, the placement of the UVC LED element in the handheld scanner 400 may be determined by considering at least one of the following factors: whether there is space inside the handheld scanner 400 to install the UVC LED element; whether it is a position where the sterilization effect is above a reference value when the UVC LED element is installed; whether it is a path where the air movement is above a reference value; and whether it is a position where the UVC irradiated by the UVC LED element cannot flow into the patient's mouth through the tip 401.

[0115] As an example, Figure 4 The UVC LED elements 470 are shown to be disposed at the front of the main body 402 of the handheld scanner 400, namely at the first position 471 adjacent to the joint, the second position 472 adjacent to the optical module 420, the third position 473 adjacent to the projector 430, and the fourth position 474 adjacent to the fan 460.

[0116] In this embodiment, the UVC LED element 470 may be disposed at a first position 471 adjacent to the junction of the handheld scanner 400. Since the tip 401 enters the patient's oral cavity, it is particularly sensitive to hygiene. Even if the amount of air exhausted towards the tip 401 is sparse and the tip 401 itself is sterilized, the possibility of contaminated air flowing into the oral cavity cannot be completely ruled out if the air exhausted from the body 402 to the tip 401 is contaminated. Therefore, in this embodiment, the UVC LED element 470 is disposed at the first position 471 adjacent to the junction of the handheld scanner 400 to sterilize the air flowing into the tip 401 from the body 402 of the handheld scanner 400. The UVC LED element 470 irradiates the air exhausted towards the tip 401 with UVC, sterilizing the air that may enter the oral cavity through the tip 401, effectively removing various harmful substances that may be present in the air, such as bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms.

[0117] The UVC LED element 470 can be disposed at a first position 471 adjacent to the joint on the lower side of the body 402 of the handheld scanner 400 to illuminate UVC upwards. However, this is one embodiment, the UVC LED element 470 can be disposed at a position adjacent to the joint on the upper or side of the body 402 of the handheld scanner 400 to illuminate UVC downwards or to the opposite side.

[0118] In this embodiment, the UVC LED element 470 may be disposed at a second location 472 near the optical module 420. For example, the UVC LED element 470 may be disposed on a PCB 440 located near the optical module 420, or disposed inside the optical module 420. The UVC LED element 470, disposed at the second location 472 near the optical module 420, irradiates UVC onto or into the optical module 420, thereby sterilizing the surface of the optical module 420, the air surrounding the optical module 420, or the air inside the optical module 420. The UVC irradiated by the UVC LED element 470 can sterilize the surfaces of components included in the optical module 420, such as the camera, the lens included in the camera, the imaging plate, the imaging sensor, etc., and the air between these components. The UVC LED element 470 can be disposed at a second position 472 near the optical module 420 on the lower side of the body 402 of the handheld scanner 400 to illuminate UVC upwards. However, this is one embodiment. The UVC LED element 470 can also be disposed on the upper side or side of the body 402 of the handheld scanner 400, adjacent to the optical module 420, to illuminate UVC downwards or to the opposite side.

[0119] In this embodiment, the UVC LED element 470 can be disposed at a third position 473 near the projector 430. The UVC LED element 470, disposed at the third position 473 near the projector 430, can irradiate UVC onto the projector 430. For example, the UVC LED element 470 can be disposed on a PCB 440 located near the projector 430, or disposed inside the projector 430. The UVC LED element 470 can sterilize the surface of the projector 430 and / or the air surrounding the projector 430 by irradiating UVC onto a pattern mask or digital micromirror device (DMD) included in the projector 430. The UVC LED element 470 can be disposed at the third position 473 near the projector 430 on the underside of the body 402 of the handheld scanner 400 to irradiate UVC upwards, or it can be disposed on the upper side or side of the body 402 of the handheld scanner 400, adjacent to the projector 430, to irradiate UVC downwards or to the opposite side.

[0120] In this embodiment, the UVC LED element 470 is positioned at a location where the airflow rate, i.e., the air volume, is above a reference value, thereby enabling air sterilization. This location, where the airflow rate is above the reference value, could be, for example, near a fan 460. In this embodiment, the UVC LED element 470 can be positioned at a fourth location 474 adjacent to the fan 460. The UVC LED element 470, positioned on a PCB 440 or similar location near the fan 460, can irradiate UVC onto the external air drawn in by the fan 460. The UVC LED element 470 can be positioned below, above, or to the side of the main body 402 of the handheld scanner 400, adjacent to the fan 460. Alternatively, the UVC LED element 470 can be positioned facing the direction in which air flows through the fan 460 of the handheld scanner 400, and can irradiate UVC onto the air flowing in through the fan 460. The UVC LED element 470, positioned at a fourth location 474 adjacent to the fan 460, ensures that external air is sterilized while being drawn into the handheld scanner 400 by the fan 460. Therefore, even when polluted outside air flows in, the handheld scanner 400 can quickly remove pollutants. Thus, only clean air, free of various harmful substances, circulates within the handheld scanner 400.

[0121] However, this is one embodiment. Even if the UVC LED element 470 is not near the fan 460, it can be positioned at a location with a flow rate above the reference value and sterilize the air.

[0122] In this embodiment, the components included in the handheld scanner 400 can be formed to reflect UVC. For example, the components included in the handheld scanner 400, namely the optical module 420, projector 430, PCB 440, heat sink 450, and other frames surrounding the main body 402 of the handheld scanner 400, can be made of a material with a reflective effect. The material with a reflective effect can include metal. In this embodiment, the metal can be stainless steel. Stainless steel is a steel material containing a large amount of nickel and chromium, which can reflect UVC. Alternatively, in this embodiment, the metal can be polished aluminum. Polished aluminum can be used as a reflector depending on the polishing method, etc.

[0123] Alternatively, in an embodiment, the interior of the components and frame included in the handheld scanner 400 may be coated with white plasma or white water-based paint to reflect UVC.

[0124] UVC irradiated by the UVC LED element can be reflected by reflective components or the interior of the frame within the handheld scanner 400. The UVC irradiates the components and frame included in the handheld scanner 400, sterilizing their surfaces, and can also be reflected into the air to sterilize the surrounding air. Alternatively, the UVC irradiated by the UVC LED element can be reflected from the surface of a component, irradiating the surfaces of other components and sterilizing those surfaces.

[0125] Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view of the optical module and projector included inside the handheld scanner according to an embodiment.

[0126] Reference Figure 5 Light incident through the opening in the tip of the handheld scanner 500 is reflected in the light path changing device 510, passes through the polarizing filter 521, and then through at least one lens 522, 523. The at least one lens 522, 523 can be connected to a fixed camera mounting portion 530. The camera mounting portion 530 can form a light waveguide. The light waveguide can be configured such that incident light entering from the opening and outgoing light irradiated from the projector 540 are separated from each other without interference. The light waveguide may include: an outgoing light path portion 541 providing a light path for outgoing light irradiated from the projector 540; and incident light path portions 524, 525 providing a light path for incident light entering through at least one lens 522, 523. Imaging plates 528, 529 integrate imaging sensors that can generate image data about the object.

[0127] In this embodiment, the UVC LED element 550 can be disposed in the space surrounding the emitted light path section 541. The UVC LED element 550 can irradiate UVC in the direction of the polarizing filter 521, causing the irradiated UVC to move towards the light path changing device 510 through the polarizing filter 521. The UVC irradiated by the UVC LED element 550 can sterilize the air in the space between the polarizing filter 521 and the light path changing device 510. In this case, since the sterilized air moves to the vicinity of the light path changing device 510, the air flowing from the main body of the handheld scanner 500 into the tip can also be sterilized.

[0128] In one embodiment, the UVC LED element 550 may be included inside the projector 540. In this case, the projector 540 may include the UVC LED element 550 in addition to the LED used as a light source.

[0129] In this embodiment, when the handheld scanner 500 operates in scanning mode, a light source (e.g., an RGB light source) included in the projector 540 illuminates the object, and the camera acquires an image of the object through at least one lens. However, when the UVC LED element operates simultaneously with the handheld scanner 500 scanning the object, there is a possibility that the UVC may not be able to acquire precise 3D scan data.

[0130] In one embodiment, the UVC LED element 550 can be controlled to remain inactive while the handheld scanner 500 is scanning an object. That is, the UVC LED element 550 can be controlled to be off while the RBG light source included in the projector 540 of the handheld scanner 500 is turned on and illuminating the object.

[0131] Meanwhile, or alternatively, the handheld scanner 500 can be controlled to not acquire a two-dimensional image of the object while the UVC LED element 550 is in the ON state. That is, when the UVC LED element 550 included in the handheld scanner 500 is in the ON state, the incident light incident through at least one lens 522, 523 may not generate a two-dimensional image of the object. Alternatively, when the UVC LED element 550 is in the ON state, the two-dimensional image generated from the incident light incident through at least one lens 522, 523 may be controlled not to be used to generate a three-dimensional oral cavity model.

[0132] In this embodiment, the polarizing filter 521 may be made of a material capable of transmitting ultraviolet light. For example, the polarizing filter 521 may be formed of quartz glass containing high levels of silica, but is not limited thereto; the polarizing filter 521 may be formed of various materials capable of transmitting UVC.

[0133] Figure 6This is a diagram showing the appearance of a handheld scanner according to an embodiment.

[0134] In an embodiment, Figure 6 (a) and Figure 6 (b) shows handheld scanners 600 with different appearances.

[0135] Reference Figure 6 The frame or housing surrounding the handheld scanner 600 may include a user input section for controlling the handheld scanner. The user can use the user input section to control the operation of the handheld scanner 600.

[0136] The user input section may include control buttons for controlling the handheld scanner 600. These control buttons may include a power button for controlling the power supply of the handheld scanner 600. The power button can receive user input for turning the power supply of the handheld scanner 600 on / off. The handheld scanner 600 can be turned on or off based on the user's input via the power button. Additionally, the user input section may include mode buttons for controlling the operating modes of the handheld scanner 600.

[0137] Reference Figure 6 (a) The user input section included in the handheld scanner 600 may include a control button 611 and a mode button 613. The control button 611 may include a physical button that receives a user's push operation, or a touch button displayed on a touchpad that senses touch. In an embodiment, the control button 611 may be used as a power button to control the power supply of the handheld scanner 600.

[0138] Alternatively, the control button 611 can also be a communication module that receives control signals from a remote controller (not shown). The control button 611 can receive control signals from the remote controller using infrared or BLE communication, etc. Users can remotely control the functions of the handheld scanner 600 by transmitting control signals to the control button 611 using at least one of the following: keys or buttons located on the remote controller, a touchpad, a microphone (not shown) capable of receiving user voice, and a sensor (not shown) capable of recognizing the movement of the control device.

[0139] In an embodiment, Figure 6The handheld scanner 600 of (a) may further include a mode button 613 for receiving user input to control the operating mode of the handheld scanner 600. The handheld scanner 600 may operate in scanning mode or UVC LED element operating mode based on user input via the mode button 613. UVC LED element operating mode refers to the mode in which the UVC LED element is powered on and illuminates UVC in standby mode.

[0140] Similar to control button 611, mode button 613 may include touch button or physical button, etc., that receives touch or physical input from the user.

[0141] In another embodiment, such as Figure 6 As shown in (b), the handheld scanner 600 may include only one power button 621. The handheld scanner 600 can perform power-on / off and mode-changing functions via the power button 621. In order to receive user input for power-on / off and user input for changing the mode of the handheld scanner 600 using a single button, the handheld scanner 600 can identify whether the user input is for power-on / off or mode-changing.

[0142] For example, the handheld scanner 600 can recognize the duration of a touch or physical press on a button. When the button input is a long-pressed input, it is recognized as a user input for turning the power on or off. When the button input is a short-duration input, it is recognized as a user input for changing the mode.

[0143] Furthermore, the handheld scanner 600 can also identify user input to the power button 621 as different control signals based on the current operating status, and control the operation of the handheld scanner 600 accordingly. For example, when the power to the handheld scanner 600 is off, receiving user input via the power button 621 will turn on the power to the handheld scanner 600. Subsequently, when user input is received again via the power button 621, the handheld scanner 600 can operate in scanning mode. While the handheld scanner 600 is operating in scanning mode, when user input is received again via the power button 621, the handheld scanner 600 can change the current mode to the UVC LED element operation mode in standby mode. When the handheld scanner 600 receives user input again via the power button 621 during the UVC LED element operation process, the power to both the UVC LED element and the handheld scanner 600 can be completely turned off.

[0144] In this embodiment, the handheld scanner 600 can operate in either scan mode or standby mode when the power is on, depending on whether the components included in the handheld scanner 600 are activated.

[0145] In this embodiment, the handheld scanner 600 can operate in scanning mode. Scanning mode can refer to a mode in which all components of the handheld scanner 600 are activated and functioning normally. While the handheld scanner 600 is operating in scanning mode, a user, such as a dentist, can acquire raw data or obtain three-dimensional images of the patient's oral cavity by scanning the patient's mouth.

[0146] In this embodiment, the handheld scanner 600 can operate in standby mode. Standby mode means that the power supply to the handheld scanner 600 itself is on, but the optical components included in the handheld scanner 600, namely the optical module and the projector, are inactive. In standby mode, the optical components can be in a standby state. In standby mode, other components besides the optical components can be active. For example, in standby mode, the communication module (not shown) can perform network functions, receive control signals from external devices, such as data processing devices or remote control devices, or send and receive information about the operation of the handheld scanner 600 through the data processing device. Standby mode can also be referred to as idle mode.

[0147] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner 600 may automatically enter standby mode if it fails to receive a control signal from the user within a predetermined time. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the handheld scanner 600 may also enter standby mode after a preset scanning time has elapsed following operation in scanning mode, or upon receiving a command to close the scanning mode from the user.

[0148] In this embodiment, the handheld scanner 600 may include one or more UVC LED elements (not shown). A UVC LED element is an LED light source that illuminates UVC and can be small in size for efficient mounting on small machines such as handheld scanners. For example, a UVC LED element may be a small point light source type.

[0149] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner 600 may activate one or more UVC LED elements and irradiate UVC during standby mode operation. In another embodiment, the handheld scanner 600 may deactivate the UVC LED elements during scanning mode operation. UVC has a strong bactericidal effect sufficient to destroy the molecular structure of DNA or RNA in organismal cells; therefore, exposure to UVC can have negative effects on the body. For example, direct contact with UVC can cause burns, and exposure to the eyes can damage the retina. Additionally, UVC may hinder the acquisition of precise scanning data of the subject. Therefore, to prevent UVC irradiation during scanning of a patient's oral cavity with the handheld scanner 600, in this embodiment, the handheld scanner 600 activates one or more UVC LED elements only during standby mode operation and deactivates the UVC LED elements during scanning mode operation.

[0150] In this embodiment, whenever the handheld scanner 600 enters standby mode, it can turn on the UVC LED elements. For example, when the handheld scanner 600 is powered off, it can turn on the power to the control button 611 or the power button 621 when it receives input from the user. At the same time, it enters standby mode and automatically turns on one or more UVC LED elements.

[0151] In this embodiment, when the handheld scanner 600 changes from scanning mode to standby mode, it can simultaneously or sequentially power on one or more UVC LED elements. For example, if the handheld scanner 600 does not receive a control signal from the user for a certain period of time, it can enter standby mode. Simultaneously with entering standby mode, the handheld scanner 600 enters UVC LED element operation mode, powering on the UVC LED elements.

[0152] Alternatively, in another embodiment, the handheld scanner 600 may automatically turn on the UVC LED elements after a preset time has elapsed since entering standby mode. For example, if the handheld scanner 600 automatically enters standby mode because the user has not activated it within a specified time, the power supply to one or more UVC LED elements may be automatically turned on after a preset time has elapsed since entering standby mode.

[0153] In an embodiment, such as Figure 6As shown, the frame or housing surrounding the handheld scanner 600 may also include indicators 615 and 625 to indicate whether the UVC LED element is active. Indicators 615 and 625 may use various methods such as the color or flashing of light, the color of text (e.g., color change of the letters UV), vibration, or sound to indicate whether the UVC LED element is active. Alternatively, indicators 615 and 625 may also function as transparent windows allowing observation of the interior of the handheld scanner 600. Since UVC has an ultraviolet wavelength invisible to the naked eye, the handheld scanner 600 may include LEDs that emit light of a specific color, such as blue or red, in addition to the UVC LED element. The handheld scanner 600 activates the specific-color LEDs while the UVC LED element is active and deactivates them while the UVC LED element is deactivated. The user can identify whether the UVC LED element is active by recognizing the specific-color light illuminating the interior of the handheld scanner 600 through the transparent window.

[0154] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner 600 can also turn off the UVC LED elements when it receives a user's input to disconnect the power to the handheld scanner 600 via the control button 611 or the power button 621 during the operation of more than one UVC LED element. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the handheld scanner 600 can turn off more than one UVC LED element and operate in scan mode when it receives a user's input to operate in scan mode via the mode button 613 or the power button 621 during the operation of more than one UVC LED element. In this case, the user can use the indicators 615 and 625 included in the handheld scanner 600 to identify that the UVC LED elements are turned off.

[0155] Alternatively, as another embodiment, Figure 6 (a) and Figure 6 (b) may be a before-and-after view of a handheld scanner, rather than a view of different handheld scanners. That is, the handheld scanner 600 can... Figure 6 The shape shown in (a) serves as the front surface of the handheld scanner 600. Figure 6 The shape shown in (b) serves as the rear surface of the handheld scanner 600. In this case, the handheld scanner 600 can be implemented as having a control button 611 and a mode button 613 on the front surface and a power button 621 on the rear surface.

[0156] The handheld scanner 600 can receive power-on / off commands from the user via a power button 621 located on its rear surface. The handheld scanner 600 can receive control signals via a control button 611 located on its front surface. In this case, the control button 611 may not function as a power button, but only as a means of receiving control signals from a remote control device. The handheld scanner 600 can change its mode based on user input via the mode button 613.

[0157] Figure 7 This is a block diagram showing the interior of a handheld scanner according to an embodiment.

[0158] Reference Figure 7 The handheld scanner 700 may include a processor 710, a memory 720, an optical unit 730, a UVC LED element 740, a communication module 750, and a user input unit 760.

[0159] The memory 720 can store at least one instruction. Additionally, the memory 720 can store at least one instruction executed by the processor 710. Furthermore, the memory 720 can store at least one program executed by the processor 710.

[0160] The optical unit 730 may include an optical module and a projector. The optical unit 730 may include: a light source; a projector for projecting light from the light source; and at least one camera for capturing light reflected from an object. The optical unit 730 can project patterned light or structured light, etc. The optical unit 730 can form a pattern by illuminating light with the light source and controlling each micromirror contained in the DMD. The optical unit 730 can illuminate light by controlling the opening or closing of the mirrors contained in the DMD. The optical unit 730 can illuminate an object and scan the illuminated object to acquire three-dimensional data displaying the shape of the object.

[0161] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner 700 may include one or more UVC LED elements 740. The UVC LED element 740 may be an LED that illuminates UVC.

[0162] The communication module 750 can communicate with the data processing device via a wired or wireless communication network.

[0163] In this embodiment, the communication module 750 can receive control signals from the data processing device. Furthermore, the communication module 750 is also a data processing device capable of transmitting information such as the operating status of the handheld scanner 700. Additionally, the communication module 750 can communicate with the data processing device under the control of the processor 710, transmitting raw data acquired by the optical unit 730 to the data processing device.

[0164] The communication module 750 may include: at least one short-range communication module that communicates according to communication specifications such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), NFC / RFID, Wi-Fi Direct, UWB, or ZigBee; a long-range communication module that communicates with a server that supports long-range communication according to long-range communication specifications; and at least one port that is connected to an external electronic device via a wired cable for wired communication.

[0165] The user input unit 760 can receive user input for controlling the handheld scanner 700. The user input unit 760 may include a touch panel for sensing user touch, buttons for receiving user press operations, a voice recognition device including a microphone, etc. Alternatively, the user input unit 760 may also include at least one of a wheel or dome switch for receiving user rotation operations and a motion sensor (not shown). The user input unit 760 can receive at least one of commands to turn the power on / off of the handheld scanner 700 and commands to change the mode of the handheld scanner 700 to scanning mode or to change the UVC LED element to motion mode.

[0166] The processor 710 can control the handheld scanner 700 as a whole. The processor 710 can control at least one component included within the handheld scanner 700 to perform a desired action. Therefore, even when describing the processor 710 performing a predetermined action, it can mean that the processor 710 controls at least one configuration included within the handheld scanner 700 to perform the predetermined action. The processor 710 can control the optical unit 730 to acquire three-dimensional data about the object.

[0167] In this embodiment, the processor 710 can control the UVC LED element 740 to turn the UVC LED element 740 on or off.

[0168] In one embodiment, the processor 710 may control the UVC LED element to turn on in response to detecting a first event. The first event may include one or more of receiving a first control signal via the user input unit 760 and receiving a first control signal from the data processing device via the communication module 750. The first control signal may include at least one of a scan mode off command, a power-on command for the handheld scanner 700, and a power-on command for the UVC LED element 740.

[0169] In order to obtain accurate 3D model data, the handheld scanner 700 will perform error correction at any time or at predetermined intervals, i.e., calibration. In this embodiment, when the processor 710 finishes calibrating the handheld scanner 700, it can recognize that a first event has occurred and turn on the UVC LED element 740.

[0170] In this embodiment, the processor 710 can detect the handheld scanner 700 entering standby mode as a first event. When the handheld scanner 700 enters standby mode, the processor 710 can turn on the UVC LED element 740.

[0171] In this embodiment, the processor 710 can use a preset time elapsed after the handheld scanner 700 enters standby mode as the first event detection. After the handheld scanner 700 enters standby mode and the preset time elapses, the processor 710 can turn on the UVC LED element 740.

[0172] In an embodiment, the processor 710 may control the UVC LED element 740 to turn off in response to detecting a second event during operation of the UVC LED element 740 in an on state. Detecting the second event may include receiving a second control signal via the user input unit 760 and receiving a second control signal from the data processing device via the communication module 750. The second control signal may include at least one of a scan mode entry command, a power-off command for the handheld scanner 700, and a power-off command for the UVC LED element 740.

[0173] In one embodiment, the processor 710 may cause the UVC LED element 740 to remain inactive while the handheld scanner 700 is operating in scanning mode.

[0174] In one embodiment, the processor 710 can cause the light source and UVC LED element 740 included in the projector inside the handheld scanner 700 to not operate simultaneously.

[0175] In one embodiment, the processor 710 may prevent the camera inside the handheld scanner 700 from acquiring a two-dimensional image of the object during operation of the UVC LED element 740.

[0176] Additionally, in this embodiment, the processor 710 may prevent two-dimensional images of the object acquired by a camera inside the handheld scanner 700 during the operation of the UVC LED element 740 from being used to generate a three-dimensional oral cavity model. In this embodiment, the processor 710 may detect a second event when the UVC LED element 740 is turned on and irradiates UVC, and a preset time has elapsed. The processor 710 may automatically turn off the UVC LED element 740 after it has irradiated UVC for the preset time period.

[0177] The handheld scanner 700 is an electronic device with various built-in electronic components, and it is set with an appropriate start-up temperature during the scanning process. Scanning efficiency decreases when the scanner is outside its start-up temperature. Therefore, the handheld scanner 700 should be preheated before scanning to bring its internal temperature to the appropriate start-up temperature.

[0178] Due to the characteristics of UVC LED chips, the temperature of the UVC LED element 740 rises when it is lit. Therefore, when the UVC LED element 740 is in the on state, the temperature inside the handheld scanner 700 can also rise. In this embodiment, when the UVC LED element 740 operates for a predetermined time, the processor 710 may omit the preheating operation performed before scanning. Alternatively, the processor 710 may only perform a preheating operation shorter than the preset preheating time.

[0179] Figure 8 This is an example of a detailed block diagram of an oral imaging system that includes a handheld scanner and a data processing device.

[0180] In an embodiment, the oral image processing system may include a handheld scanner 810, a data processing device 820, and a communication network 830.

[0181] The handheld scanner 810 can transmit raw data obtained by scanning a patient's oral cavity or dental mold to the data processing device 820 via the communication network 830, or process the raw data to generate a three-dimensional virtual model and transmit it to the data processing device 820.

[0182] The handheld scanner 810 may include a processor 811, a memory 812, an optical unit 813, a UVC LED element 814, a communication module 815, and a user input unit 816. Figure 8 The handheld scanner 810 is Figure 7 In one example of a handheld scanner 700, the processor 811, memory 812, optical unit 813, UVC LED element 814, communication module 815, and user input unit 816 may respectively correspond to Figure 7The handheld scanner 700 includes a processor 710, a memory 720, an optical unit 730, a UVC LED element 740, a communication module 750, and a user input unit 760. Descriptions of repeated content will be omitted below.

[0183] The processor 811 controls the entire handheld scanner 810.

[0184] In this embodiment, the processor 811 may receive control signals via the user input unit 816 or from the data processing device 820, and control the handheld scanner 810 according to the control signals.

[0185] In this embodiment, the processor 811 can transmit information such as the operating status of the handheld scanner 810 to the data processing device 820 in real time via the communication network 830.

[0186] The data processing device 820 will now be described. The data processing device 820 may also be referred to as an oral cavity image processing device.

[0187] The data processing device 820 may include a processor 821, a memory 822, a user input unit 823, a communication module 824, a display 825, and an image processing unit 826.

[0188] The user input unit 823 can receive user input for controlling the data processing device 820. The user input unit 823 may include a user input device, which may include a touch panel for sensing user touch, a button for receiving user press actions, a mouse or keyboard for specifying or selecting a point on the user input unit screen, etc., and the user input unit 823 may include a voice recognition device for voice recognition.

[0189] In an embodiment, the user input unit 823 can receive at least one of a power-on command for the handheld scanner 810 and a power-on command for the UVC LED element 814 included in the handheld scanner 810 from a user who controls the data processing device 820.

[0190] The communication module 824 can communicate with at least one external electronic device via a wired or wireless communication network. The communication module 824 can communicate with the handheld scanner 810 under the control of the processor 821.

[0191] Specifically, the communication module 824 may include at least one short-range communication module that communicates according to communication specifications such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), NFC / RFID, Wi-Fi Direct, UWB, or ZigBee. Additionally, the communication module 824 may also include a long-range communication module that communicates with a server supporting long-range communication according to long-range communication specifications.

[0192] Additionally, the communication module 824 may include at least one port for connecting to an external electronic device, such as a handheld scanner 810, via a wired cable.

[0193] In one embodiment, the communication module 824 can receive information such as the current status of the handheld scanner 810 from the handheld scanner 810. In another embodiment, the communication module 824 can transmit control signals to the handheld scanner 810. These control signals may include a first control signal, which includes at least one of a power-on command for the handheld scanner 810 and a power-on command for the UVC LED element 814 included in the handheld scanner 810. Additionally, the control signals may include a second control signal, which includes at least one of a command to put the handheld scanner 810 into scanning mode, a power-off command for the handheld scanner 810, and a power-off command for the UVC LED element 814.

[0194] The display 825 can display a predetermined screen under the control of the processor 821. The display 825 can output a user interface screen for user input.

[0195] In this embodiment, the user can use the user interface screen output by the display 825 to identify the current operating state of the handheld scanner 810 and select at least one of the power-on command for the handheld scanner 810 and the power-on command for the UVC LED element 814 included in the handheld scanner 810. Additionally, in this embodiment, the display 825 can output a user interface screen for selecting whether to automatically turn on the UVC LED element.

[0196] The display 825 can display an image including a mouth, generated based on data obtained from scanning a patient's mouth or a plaster model of the mouth in the handheld scanner 810. Additionally, the display 825 can output a three-dimensional mouth model generated from two-dimensional image data received from the handheld scanner 810.

[0197] The image processing unit 826 can perform actions for image generation and / or processing. Specifically, the image processing unit 826 can receive raw data acquired from the handheld scanner 810 and generate a three-dimensional virtual model based on the received data.

[0198] Memory 822 may store at least one instruction. Additionally, memory 822 may store at least one instruction executed by a processor. Furthermore, memory 822 may store at least one program executed by processor 821. Additionally, memory 822 may store data received from handheld scanner 810 (e.g., raw data acquired via oral scanning). Alternatively, memory may store an image of the oral cavity representing it in three dimensions. According to one embodiment, memory 822 may include one or more instructions for acquiring a three-dimensional oral cavity model from two-dimensional image data.

[0199] The processor 821 executes at least one instruction stored in the memory 822 to control and perform a desired action. The at least one instruction may be stored in the processor 821's internal memory or in the memory 822, which is included independently of the processor 821 in the data processing device.

[0200] In this embodiment, the processor 821 can transmit control signals to the handheld scanner 810 by executing one or more instructions stored in the memory 822, thereby controlling the handheld scanner 810 according to the control signals. The processor 821 can also transmit control signals selected by the user through the user input unit 823 to the handheld scanner 810 via the communication network 830, corresponding to the user interface screen output through the display 825. The processor 821 can transmit control signals to the handheld scanner 810 to control the UVC LED element 814 included in the handheld scanner 810 to turn on or off.

[0201] According to the embodiment, the processor 821 performs actions such as "extract", "acquire", and "generate", which includes not only the case where the processor 821 executes at least one instruction to directly perform the above actions, but also the case where it controls other constituent elements to perform the above actions.

[0202] To implement the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the handheld scanner 810 and the data processing device 820 may include only Figure 8 The constituent elements shown may also include, except for Figure 8 More constituent elements beyond those shown.

[0203] In addition, the data processing device 820 can store and execute dedicated software that is linked with the handheld scanner 810. This dedicated software can be referred to as a dedicated program, tool, or application. When the data processing device 820 and the handheld scanner 810 are linked and operating, the dedicated software stored in the data processing device 820 can connect to the handheld scanner 810 and receive data acquired through oral scanning in real time.

[0204] Additionally, dedicated software can transmit control signals to the handheld scanner 810 and perform at least one action for acquiring, processing, storing, and / or transmitting oral cavity images. This dedicated software can be stored in a processor. Furthermore, the dedicated software can provide a user interface for utilizing data acquired in the 3D scanner. The user interface provided by the dedicated software may include a screen for selecting control signals according to the disclosed embodiments, or a screen for selecting whether to automatically turn on the UVC LED elements.

[0205] Figure 9 A diagram shows a user interface screen output by a data processing device according to an embodiment, which is used to select whether to automatically irradiate UVC.

[0206] In this embodiment, the data processing device can receive various settings information selected by the user that relate to the operation of the UVC LED element.

[0207] In this embodiment, regarding the operation of the UVC LED element, the data processing device can display a user interface screen 900 for selecting whether to automatically illuminate the UVC in the form of a text window on a portion of the display. The size, output position, transparency, and / or shape of the user interface screen 900 for selecting whether to automatically illuminate the UVC can be varied.

[0208] The user selects whether to automatically irradiate UVC by viewing the user interface screen 900 and using the selection button 910, so that when the first event occurs, the UVC LED element can automatically turn on to irradiate UVC or not perform this function.

[0209] When the user input selecting automatic UVC irradiation is received through the user interface screen 900, the data processing device can transmit a control signal to the handheld scanner, so that UVC irradiation is automatically performed each time a first event is detected, and UVC irradiation is stopped whenever a second event is detected during UVC irradiation.

[0210] The user interface screen 900 may also include a button 920 for selecting the UVC irradiation time. The user selects the automatic UVC irradiation time 921 by viewing the user interface screen 900, thereby irradiating the UVC LED element according to the selected time.

[0211] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating the timing of the operation of the UVC LED elements included in a handheld scanner according to an embodiment.

[0212] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner controls the UVC LED element to turn on in response to the detection of a first event.

[0213] In an embodiment, the first event may include at least one of receiving a first control signal via a user input section and receiving a first control signal from a data processing device via a communication module. The first control signal may include at least one of a scan mode off command, a power-on command for a handheld scanner, and a power-on command for a UVC LED element.

[0214] Additionally, in the embodiments, the first event may include at least one of the following: the handheld scanner calibration is completed; the handheld scanner enters standby mode; and a preset time elapses after the handheld scanner enters standby mode.

[0215] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner may control the UVC LED element to turn off in response to detecting a second event while the UVC LED element is in an on state.

[0216] In an embodiment, the second event may include at least one of receiving a second control signal via a user input section and receiving a second control signal from a data processing device via a communication module. The second control signal may include at least one of a scan mode entry command, a power-off command for the handheld scanner, and a power-off command for the UVC LED element. Additionally, in an embodiment, the second event may include the UVC LED element being turned on and irradiating UVC for a preset time.

[0217] The following is for reference. Figure 10 This will explain how the handheld scanner turns the UVC LED element on / off based on the occurrence of the first or second event.

[0218] Reference Figure 10 Before time point t0, the power supply to the handheld scanner is off. When the power supply to the handheld scanner is off, the UVC LED components included in the handheld scanner will not activate.

[0219] The handheld scanner can receive a control signal at time t0 regarding a power-on command for the handheld scanner. When the handheld scanner receives the control signal regarding a power-on command for the handheld scanner from the user input unit or data processing device included in the handheld scanner, it can enter standby mode simultaneously with power-on.

[0220] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner can detect the receiving of a control signal related to a power-on command as a first event and can turn on the UVC LED element at time t0.

[0221] In this embodiment, after the handheld scanner turns on the UVC LED element and irradiates UVC for a predetermined time Δt, it can automatically turn off at time t+Δt after Δt has elapsed. The handheld scanner can identify the situation where the preset time has elapsed after the UVC LED element is turned on and irradiates UVC as a second event, and automatically turn off the UVC LED element when the predetermined time has elapsed.

[0222] In this embodiment, after the handheld scanner enters standby mode, it can identify the occurrence of the first event when a preset time has elapsed, for example, time t1. After entering standby mode, the handheld scanner can automatically turn on the UVC LED element at the preset time elapsed.

[0223] In one embodiment, after turning on the UVC LED element at time t1, the handheld scanner can receive a control signal to turn off the UVC LED element from a user input unit or data processing device included in the handheld scanner at time t1+Δt'. In another embodiment, when the handheld scanner receives the control signal to turn off the UVC LED element, it recognizes it as a second event and turns off the UVC LED element at time t1+Δt'.

[0224] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner receives a control signal from a user input unit or data processing device included in the handheld scanner at time t2, which enables the UVC LED element to turn on. The signal is identified as the occurrence of a first event, and the UVC LED element is turned on at the time of the occurrence of the first event, i.e., at time t2.

[0225] In this embodiment, the handheld scanner may receive a control signal to enter the scanning mode from a user input unit or data processing device included in the handheld scanner at time t2+Δt". Upon receiving the control signal to enter the scanning mode, the handheld scanner may recognize it as a second event occurring. In response to the second event, the handheld scanner may turn off the UVC LED element at time t2+Δt". That is, in this embodiment, the handheld scanner may control the UVC LED element to remain inactive during operation in scanning mode. This is to prevent the possibility of UVC irradiated from the UVC LED element flowing into the oral cavity during scanning by the handheld scanner. Furthermore, because UVC may be irradiated from the UVC LED element during scanning inside the oral cavity, the handheld scanner may be unable to acquire precise scan data due to the UVC.

[0226] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner can control the UVC LED elements to operate at different times during the period when the projector is illuminating the light. In another embodiment, the handheld scanner preheats for a preset time before scanning begins, allowing the scanner's temperature to reach an appropriate startup temperature. Generally, preheating can be performed when the handheld scanner is powered on.

[0227] In this embodiment, the handheld scanner can control its preheating process by sensing the time it takes for the UVC LED element to activate and / or the resulting internal temperature of the scanner. For example, when the handheld scanner is powered on and the UVC LED element is activated, the preheating process can be omitted or shortened, taking into account the activation time of the UVC LED element. The handheld scanner can sense the increase in internal temperature based on the activation of the UVC LED element, compare the internal temperature with an appropriate startup temperature, and shorten the preheating time or omit the preheating process. The handheld scanner can periodically check its internal temperature, or check it at random time intervals, and only perform preheating when the internal temperature is below the suitable startup temperature for scanning.

[0228] In one embodiment, when a user scans a patient's mouth or other parts using a handheld scanner, and the handheld scanner is not used for a predetermined period of time, the handheld scanner can automatically enter standby mode.

[0229] In this embodiment, when the handheld scanner enters standby mode at time t3, the handheld scanner can recognize entering standby mode as a first event. In response to the occurrence of the first event, the handheld scanner can turn on the UVC LED element at time t3.

[0230] Alternatively, in one embodiment, the handheld scanner can perform a scanning action until time t3, and then receive a command to turn off the scanning mode as a control signal from a user input unit or data processing device included in the handheld scanner. Upon receiving the command to turn off the scanning mode, the handheld scanner can recognize this as a first event. In response to the first event, the handheld scanner can turn on the UVC LED element at time t3. In another embodiment, after the UVC LED element is turned on, the handheld scanner can recognize the second event as the occurrence of UVC irradiation for a predetermined time Δt after Δt has elapsed. That is, the handheld scanner can automatically turn off the UVC LED element at time t3+Δt.

[0231] In this embodiment, a handheld scanner can be calibrated. In this embodiment, the handheld scanner can recognize the completion of calibration as the first event. In response to the completion of calibration, at the calibration completion time point t4, the handheld scanner automatically turns on the UVC LED element and irradiates UVC for a period of Δt.

[0232] In one embodiment, the handheld scanner can turn on the UVC LED element in response to a first event occurring at time t5. Subsequently, at time t5+Δt”’, the handheld scanner can receive a power-off command from a user input unit or data processing device included in the handheld scanner. Upon receiving the power-off command, the handheld scanner can recognize it as a second event occurring. In response to the second event, the handheld scanner can turn off both the handheld scanner and the UVC LED element at time t5+Δt”’.

[0233] Figure 11 This is a sequence diagram illustrating an oral cavity image processing method according to an embodiment.

[0234] Reference Figure 11 The handheld scanner can identify whether a first event has occurred (step 1110). In an embodiment, the first event may include receiving a first control signal, which includes at least one of a power-on command for the handheld scanner and a power-on command for the UVC LED element. The handheld scanner may identify the first event as occurring when it receives the first control signal from the data processing device via a user input unit or via a communication module.

[0235] Additionally, in the embodiments, the first event may include at least one of the following: when the calibration of the handheld scanner is completed and the handheld scanner enters standby mode; and when a preset time has elapsed after the handheld scanner has entered standby mode.

[0236] Upon the occurrence of the first event, the handheld scanner can turn on the UVC LED element (step 1120).

[0237] A handheld scanner can identify whether a second event has occurred (step 1130) while the UVC LED element is turned on and irradiating UVC.

[0238] In an embodiment, the second event may include receiving a second control signal. The second control signal may include at least one of a scan mode entry command, a power-off command for the handheld scanner, and a power-off command for the UVC LED element. The handheld scanner may recognize the second event as occurring when it receives the second control signal from the data processing device via a user input section or a communication module. Alternatively, in an embodiment, the second event may include the UVC LED element turning on and irradiating UVC for a preset time.

[0239] When the second event occurs, the handheld scanner can disconnect the power supply to the UVC LED element (step 1140).

[0240] The data processing method according to an embodiment of this disclosure can be implemented in the form of program instructions executable by various computer devices and can be recorded in a computer-readable medium. Alternatively, embodiments of this disclosure may use a computer-readable storage medium recording one or more programs including at least one instruction for performing the data processing method.

[0241] Furthermore, the oral image processing method according to the above-described embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented as a computer program product including a computer-readable recording medium containing a program for executing the oral image processing method in an oral image processing device. The oral image processing method includes the following steps: in response to detecting a first event, controlling one or more UVC LED elements included in a handheld scanner to turn on; and in response to detecting a second event during the operation of the one or more UVC LED elements, controlling the one or more UVC LED elements to turn off.

[0242] The computer-readable storage medium may include program commands, data files, data structures, etc., individually or in combination. Examples of computer-readable storage media include magnetic media such as hard disks, floppy disks, and magnetic tapes; optical media such as CD-ROMs and DVDs; magneto-optical media such as floppy disks; and hardware devices configured to store and execute program commands, such as read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), and flash memory.

[0243] The machine-readable storage medium can be provided as a non-transitory storage medium. "Non-transitory storage medium" means that the storage medium is a tangible device. Furthermore, "non-transitory storage medium" can include buffers for temporarily storing data.

[0244] The embodiments have been described in detail above, but the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto. Various modifications and improvements made by those skilled in the art that utilize the basic concepts of the present invention as defined in the claims also fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A hand-held scanner, wherein, comprises: one or more UVC LED elements, and a processor that executes one or more instructions; the processor executes the one or more instructions to control the one or more UVC LED elements to turn on in response to detecting a first event, and to control the one or more UVC LED elements to turn off in response to detecting a second event during the one or more UVC LED elements are turned on, an inner surface of a frame of the handheld scanner and a surface of at least one component inside the frame are made of a reflective material, UVC emitted by the one or more UVC LED elements is reflected by the reflective material to the inside of the frame, thereby sterilizing at least one of air inside the handheld scanner, a surface of at least one component included in the handheld scanner, and the inner surface of the frame of the handheld scanner, the handheld scanner further comprises a fan for flowing external air, the one or more UVC LED elements are disposed along a path of a flow of the external air flowing through the fan that is equal to or greater than a reference value, thereby sterilizing the external air flowing through the fan.

2. The handheld scanner according to claim 1, wherein the handheld scanner further comprises: a user input unit, and a communication unit that transmits and receives information with a data processing device; the first event includes at least one of: receiving a first control signal through the user input unit, and receiving a first control signal from the data processing device through the communication unit; the first control signal includes at least one of a scan mode off command, a power on command of the handheld scanner, and a power on command of the one or more UVC LED elements.

3. The handheld scanner according to claim 1, wherein the first event includes at least one of: ending a calibration performed on the handheld scanner; the handheld scanner entering a standby mode; a predetermined time elapsing after the handheld scanner enters the standby mode.

4. The handheld scanner according to claim 1, wherein the handheld scanner further comprises a projector provided with a light source, the processor executes the one or more instructions to cause the light source in the projector and the one or more UVC LED elements to not act simultaneously.

5. The handheld scanner according to claim 1, wherein the handheld scanner further comprises a camera for acquiring two-dimensional image data regarding an object, the processor executes the one or more instructions to cause the camera not to acquire the two-dimensional image data or to cause the two-dimensional image data acquired by the camera not to be used for three-dimensional image generation during the one or more UVC LED elements are turned on and act.

6. The handheld scanner according to claim 1, wherein the handheld scanner further comprises: a user input unit, and a communication unit that transmits and receives information with a data processing device; The second event includes at least one of the following: The second event includes at least one of the following: The second control signal includes at least one of a scan mode entry command, a power-off command of the handheld scanner, and a power-off command of the one or more UVC LED elements.

7. The handheld scanner according to claim 1, wherein The second event includes a case where the one or more UVC LED elements are turned on and irradiate UVC for a predetermined time.

8. The handheld scanner according to claim 1, wherein The processor executes the one or more instructions to omit preheating of the handheld scanner or to start a scan operation after preheating is performed for a time shorter than a predetermined preheating time, in a case where the one or more UVC LED elements are turned on and operate.

9. The handheld scanner according to claim 1, wherein The handheld scanner further includes an optical module, The one or more UVC LED elements are located inside the optical module.

10. The handheld scanner according to claim 1, wherein The handheld scanner includes: A handheld scanner main body, and A tip detachably coupled to the handheld scanner main body; The one or more UVC LED elements are located near a position where the tip is coupled to the handheld scanner main body.

11. A data processing apparatus, wherein includes: A communication section that transmits and receives information to and from a handheld scanner including one or more UVC LED elements, A memory that stores one or more instructions, and A processor that executes the one or more instructions stored in the memory; The processor executes the one or more instructions to transmit a first control signal to the handheld scanner through the communication section to control the one or more UVC LED elements included in the handheld scanner to turn on, or, transmit a second control signal to the handheld scanner through the communication section to control the one or more UVC LED elements to turn off during a period when the one or more UVC LED elements are turned on, An inner surface of a frame of the handheld scanner and a surface of at least one component inside the frame are made of a reflective material, The processor is configured to control the one or more UVC LED elements to turn on so that UVC emitted by the one or more UVC LED elements is reflected by the reflective material to the inside of the frame, thereby sterilizing at least one of air inside the handheld scanner, a surface of at least one component included in the handheld scanner, and the inner surface of the frame of the handheld scanner, The handheld scanner further includes a fan for flowing external air, The one or more UVC LED elements are disposed along a path of a flow of the external air flowing through the fan that is equal to or greater than a reference value, ​ The processor is further configured to control the one or more UVC LED elements to turn on so that the one or more UVC LED elements sterilize the outside air flowing in through the fan.

12. The data processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein, the first control signal includes at least one of a scan mode off command, a power on command of the handheld scanner, and a power on command of the one or more UVC LED elements; the second control signal includes at least one of a scan mode in command, a power off command of the handheld scanner, and a power off command of the one or more UVC LED elements.

13. The data processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein, further comprising: a user input section of the data processing apparatus, and a display; outputting, through the display, a user interface screen for selecting whether to execute UVC LED element automatic turning on, selecting, through the user input section of the data processing apparatus, the UVC LED element automatic turning on corresponding to the user interface screen, the processor executes the one or more instructions to transmit, through the communication section, the first control signal to the handheld scanner in response to selecting the UVC LED element automatic turning on, to control power on of one or more UVC LED elements installed inside the handheld scanner, or to transmit the second control signal to control power off of the one or more UVC LED elements.

14. An image processing method executed in an image processing apparatus, wherein, comprising the steps of: controlling one or more UVC LED elements in a handheld scanner to turn on in response to detecting a first event; and, controlling the one or more UVC LED elements to turn off in response to detecting a second event during the one or more UVC LED elements are turned on, an inner surface of a frame of the handheld scanner and a surface of at least one component inside the frame are made of a reflective material, UVC emitted by the one or more UVC LED elements is reflected by the reflective material to the inside of the frame, the step of controlling the one or more UVC LED elements to turn on includes the step of: sterilizing at least one of air inside the handheld scanner, a surface of at least one component included in the handheld scanner, and the inner surface of the frame of the handheld scanner, the handheld scanner further includes a fan for flowing in outside air, the one or more UVC LED elements are disposed along a path of a flow of the outside air flowing in through the fan that is a reference value or more, the step of controlling the one or more UVC LED elements to turn on further includes the step of sterilizing the outside air flowing in through the fan.

15. The image processing method according to claim 14, wherein, the first event includes at least one of: receiving a first control signal, ending calibration on the handheld scanner, the handheld scanner entering a standby mode, a preset time elapses after the handheld scanner enters the standby mode; the first control signal includes at least one of a scan mode off command, a power on command of the handheld scanner, and a power on command of the one or more UVC LED elements.

16. The image processing method of claim 14, wherein, the second event includes at least one of: receiving a second control signal, and a preset time elapses after the one or more UVC LED elements irradiate UVC; the second control signal includes at least one of a scan mode enter command of the handheld scanner, a power off command of the handheld scanner, and a power off command of the one or more UVC LED elements.

Images