Intraoral scanner protection sleeve

Abstract

Devices, including sleeves, intraoral scanning systems using these sleeves, and methods of using sleeves. These sleeves may maintain the optical performance of the scanner while also providing physical protection for the scanner itself, and may cover the entire intraoral scanner (e.g., wand and / or connection cable) or only the tip (e.g., wand portion) of the scanner to prevent contamination.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 427,095, filed on November 21, 2022, entitled “INTRAORAL SCANNER SLEEVE,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Incorporated by Reference

[0002] All publications and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Background Art

[0003] Many dental and orthodontic treatment procedures can benefit from accurate imaging (including but not limited to accurate three-dimensional, 3D imaging, 2D imaging, surface scanning, fluorescence scanning, etc.) to provide a digital description of the patient's teeth and oral cavity. An intraoral scanner can provide such imaging. Typically, an intraoral scanner can include a handheld sensing component for scanning within the patient's mouth. The handheld component can be referred to as a wand and can include one or more windows for transmitting and / or receiving light to form an image from within the patient's mouth.

[0004] Since the intraoral scanner can be at least partially inserted into the patient's mouth, the wand can be used with a protective element referred to herein as a sleeve or protective sleeve. The sleeve can serve as a barrier between the wand and the patient to protect the patient from cross contamination. Therefore, the sleeve can be removed from the wand so that the sleeve can be replaced before the next patient uses the wand. However, it has proven difficult to manufacture a sleeve that provides a sufficient seal to prevent contamination within an acceptably high tolerance and is securely connected to the wand of the intraoral scanner. In addition, the optical quality, shape, and size of the sleeve may affect the performance of the intraoral scanner. For example, if the sleeve is not properly assembled on the intraoral scanner or does not have good optical transmission properties, the intraoral scanner will not be able to obtain a good scan of the patient's mouth, resulting in inaccurate scan results.

[0005] Described herein are methods and apparatus including protective sleeves, systems including protective sleeves, and methods of using the same that address these issues and can enhance the safety and functionality of intraoral scanners. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The devices and methods described herein may relate to protective sleeves for optical scanners, and in particular to protective sleeves for intraoral scanners that may be useful in scanning oral cavities. Sleeves for intraoral scanners are typically used as barriers to prevent biological contamination of the intraoral scanner (e.g., in particular the rod of the intraoral scanner), including preventing cross-contamination between patients. These sleeves described herein can maintain the optical performance of the scanner while also providing physical protection for the scanner itself. The sleeves can be referred to as barriers, jackets, bags, covers, etc. The sleeves described herein can cover the entire intraoral scanner (e.g., the rod and / or connecting cable), or only cover the tip of the scanner (e.g., the rod portion) to prevent contamination.

[0007] The sleeve described herein can be configured to include one or more internal ramps to position and / or secure the scanner of the intraoral scanner in place. The sleeve described herein may optionally not include ramps, may include integrated ramps, or may include separate, attachable (and in some cases detachable) ramps. These ramps can be modular. In some examples, a sleeve with modular (e.g., individually attachable) ramps allows for simpler mold construction and higher reliability of the sleeve, particularly when the sleeve is injection molded.

[0008] In some examples, the sleeve described herein may include a window portion having a transparent cover that is configured and adapted to be held and, in some cases, fixed at a precise distance from an imaging window or opening of a scanner (e.g., a wand) of an intraoral scanner. The distance may be, for example, between 0.05 and 0.3 mm (e.g., between 0.1 and 0.25 mm, between 0.18 and 0.22 mm, etc.). The transparent cover may have a uniform thickness along its length. The thickness may vary over the length of the transparent cover (at least over the area through which imaging will occur) by 0.8% or less (e.g., 0.7% or less, 0.6% or less, 0.5% or less, 0.4% or less, 0.3% or less, 0.2% or less, 0.1% or less, 0.08% or less, 0.05% or less, etc.). The transparent cover can have a transparency of 86% or greater (e.g., 87% or greater, 88% or greater, 89% or greater, 90% or greater, 91% or greater, 92% or greater, etc.) for visible light wavelengths used by the intraoral scanner. Generally, the transparent cover can provide very low distortion of the transmitted wavefront from the intraoral scanner.

[0009] In some examples, the sleeve can be advantageously configured so that the transparent cover is retained within a seating region (e.g., a window with a lip) on the outer surface of the sleeve, which seating region can be recessed into the outer surface. This configuration can allow the sleeve to be secured over the imaging opening (or window) of the intraoral scanner at precisely controlled and uniform intervals while preventing the transparent cover from deforming during operation. This configuration can also prevent the transparent cover from being scratched or damaged during insertion and / or operation of the scanner. The transparent cover can be secured to the hollow body of the sleeve in any suitable manner. For example, the transparent cover can be ultrasonically welded to the hollow body. In some examples, ultrasonically welding the transparent cover to form a seal that is stable over time and is insensitive to shipping conditions and high temperatures can be particularly helpful.

[0010] In some examples, the transparent cover can be integrally formed with the hollow body of the sleeve. For example, the hollow body and the transparent cover can be formed from a transparent material as a single part that does not require the transparent cover to be assembled into the body of the sleeve.

[0011] Typically, any of these devices can include a more rigid distal body that is fixed to a scanner (e.g., a wand) and includes a transparent window and a less rigid (e.g., highly flexible) extension that can extend proximally from the more rigid distal sleeve portion. The extension can be referred to as a sleeve extension and can be formed from the same material as the distal, more rigid sleeve body, or it can be formed from a different material. The sleeve extension can be attached to the sleeve body using adhesive, welding, tape, etc. In some examples, the sleeve extension is attached below the more distal sleeve body. The sleeve extension can be applied to the scanner (e.g., a wand and / or a cord), and the sleeve body can be applied over the sleeve extension. In some cases, the sleeve extension is not sealed to the distal sleeve body, but rather is worn over it. In some examples, the sleeve extension is sealed to and / or around the sleeve body. For example, the sleeve can include a sleeve extension (e.g., a sheath) that is directly welded (e.g., laser welded) to the sleeve body. In some cases, the sleeve extension can be applied to the sleeve body or can be attached to an outer area of ​​the sleeve body.In some examples, the sleeve body and the sleeve extension are made of a single material and do not require a double injection molding process.

[0012] For example, devices including sleeves, intraoral scanning systems using these sleeves, and methods of using the sleeves are described herein. Generally described herein are sleeves for intraoral scanners that are configured to securely couple with an intraoral scanner (e.g., a wand, or a wand and cord). These sleeves can safely guide and direct the distal end of the intraoral scanner wand into the sleeve without risk of damaging the intraoral scanner wand and / or a transparent cover on a window of the sleeve.

[0013] For example, described herein is a sleeve (e.g., a protective sleeve) for an intraoral scanner, comprising: a hollow body having a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the distal end is tapered and closed and the proximal end is open to receive the intraoral scanner; a window opening on a lateral side of the distal end, wherein the window opening comprises a recessed outer lip formed into the hollow body such that the recessed outer lip is recessed into an outer surface of the hollow body; and a transparent cover on the window opening, wherein the transparent cover is positioned in the recessed outer lip.

[0014] As described above, any of these sleeves can include a ramp within the hollow body. The ramp can be positioned within the hollow body proximal to the window opening and configured to guide the distal end of the intraoral scanner away from the window opening when the intraoral scanner is inserted into the sleeve. In some examples, the ramp is adhesively secured to the wall of the hollow body. The ramp can be repositionable.

[0015] For example, a sleeve for an intraoral scanner is described herein and may include: a window opening on a lateral side of a distal end, wherein the window opening includes a recessed outer lip formed into a hollow body such that the recessed outer lip is recessed into an outer surface of the hollow body; a transparent cover on the window opening, wherein the transparent cover is positioned in the recessed outer lip; and a ramp within the hollow body, wherein the ramp is positioned within the hollow body proximal to the window opening and is configured to guide the distal end of the intraoral scanner away from the window opening when the intraoral scanner is inserted into the sleeve.

[0016] In some examples, a sleeve for an intraoral scanner includes: a window opening on a lateral side of a distal end, wherein the window opening includes a recessed outer lip formed into a hollow body such that the recessed outer lip is recessed into an outer surface of the hollow body; a transparent cover over the window opening, wherein the transparent cover is seated in the recessed outer lip; and a foam gasket that at least partially circumferentially surrounds the window opening between the transparent cover and the recessed outer lip, wherein the transparent cover is secured against the foam gasket.

[0017] Any of the sleeves described herein may include a gasket at least partially circumferentially surrounding the window opening between the transparent cover and the recessed outer lip, wherein the transparent cover is secured against the gasket.The gasket may include a foam material.

[0018] Typically, these devices can be sized for compact and lightweight operation.For example, the sleeves described herein can be configured to have a tapered distal end that is between 10 mm and 16 mm in height.

[0019] Any of these devices can include one or more anti-reflective (AR) coatings. In particular, these devices can include an AR coating on one or both of the inner and outer surfaces of the transparent cover. Methods of forming the AR coating are also described herein, for example, by dipping, spraying, etc.

[0020] In any of these devices, the sleeve may include one or more protrusions from the periphery of the window into the window opening, which are configured to impinge into the field of view of the intraoral scanner when the intraoral scanner is engaged with the sleeve.

[0021] As described above, any of these sleeves can include a sleeve extension that is more flexible than the sleeve body. In some examples, the device includes a sleeve extension extending from the proximal end of the elongated, hollow body. In some examples, the sleeve extension is configured to flip over upon itself when pulled distally. In some examples, the sleeve extension is applied and configured to be inserted into the sleeve body. In some examples, the sleeve extension is configured to extend over all or a portion of the sleeve body.

[0022] Generally, the sleeve body and sleeve extension can be formed from any suitable material. In some examples, the sleeve body and sleeve extension are formed from the same material. For example, the sleeve can be formed from polyethylene. The sleeve body and sleeve extension can be attached to each other; in some examples, the sleeve body is sealed to the sleeve extension.

[0023] The sleeve may include an adhesive seal around the window opening to seal the transparent cover to the window opening.As described above, the transparent cover may be ultrasonically welded to the hollow body.

[0024] In some examples, the transparent cover is flush with the outer surface of the hollow body. Alternatively, in some examples, the transparent cover extends slightly beyond the outer surface of the hollow body.

[0025] Any of the transparent windows may include one or more anti-fogging or defogging components, including (but not limited to) coatings or layers for anti-fogging / defogging.

[0026] The sleeves described herein can be configured to provide a seal and protection against rod contamination, allowing the same rod to be used on different patients by replacing the sterile sleeve between patients. Any of these sleeves can be configured to seal to greater than 90 kPa.

[0027] Typically, the wand can be inserted into the sleeve and, in some examples, can be guided within the interior of the sleeve (e.g., using internal guiding structures, such as ramps or other guiding features within the sleeve) so that the wand's imaging sensor(s) are correctly and predictably aligned and positioned relative to the sleeve's window opening and transparent cover. Typically, the wand's imaging window (which can be open or can include a cover, such as a transparent wand cover) can be positioned against the sleeve's transparent cover or within a known tolerance, such as approximately 0.2 mm (e.g., between 0.5 mm and 0.01 mm, between approximately 0.3 mm and 0.05 mm, between 0.35 mm and 0.1 mm, etc.). In particular, the internal guiding features described herein can be configured to position the wand in a fixed relationship with the window opening and transparent cover.

[0028] As described above, a sleeve including a sealing frame is described herein that can secure a transparent cover of the sleeve over a window opening. For example, a sleeve for an intraoral scanner can include: an elongated, hollow body having a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the distal end is tapered and closed and the proximal end is open to receive the intraoral scanner; a window opening on a lateral side of the distal end; a transparent cover over the window opening; a sealing frame coupled to the exterior of the elongated, hollow body such that the transparent cover is sandwiched between the perimeter of the window opening and the sealing frame window opening; and an adhesive channel at least partially surrounding the sealing frame window opening to retain adhesive securing the transparent cover within the window opening.

[0029] In some examples, as described above, the sleeve can be formed with a living hinge. For example, a sleeve for an intraoral scanner can include: an elongated, hollow body having a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the distal end is tapered and closed and the proximal end is open to receive the intraoral scanner; a window opening on a lateral side of the distal end; and a transparent cover over the window opening; wherein the elongated, hollow body comprises a clamshell body having a living hinge on one side (e.g., a longitudinal side or distal end) of the elongated, hollow body, and further wherein a transverse seam on one or both sides of the elongated, hollow body is sealed closed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] The novel features of the present invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description and accompanying drawings which set forth illustrative embodiments, in which:

[0031] Figure 1 An example of a variation of an intraoral scanner as described herein is shown.

[0032] Figure 2A The use of a protective sleeve is shown in the examples of the intraoral scanner described herein.

[0033] Figure 2B Another example of the use of a protective sleeve with the intraoral scanner described herein is shown.

[0034] Figure 3A One example of a protective sleeve for an intraoral scanner is shown.

[0035] Figure 3B Another example of a protective sleeve for the intraoral scanner described herein is shown.

[0036] Figure 4A and Figure 4B Shown are examples of top and bottom perspective cross-sectional views of an example of a protective sleeve including an integrated internal guide structure (eg, ramp) as described herein.

[0037] Figures 4C to 4E A cross section through an example of an internal guide structure as described herein is schematically shown.

[0038] Figure 4F and Figure 4G A cross section through an example of an internal guide structure as described herein is schematically shown.

[0039] Figure 5A and Figure 5B The wand of an intraoral scanner is shown inserted into a sleeve including the integrated internal guide structure described herein.

[0040] Figure 6 is an example of a sleeve including a sleeve extension for use with the wand of the intraoral scanner described herein.

[0041] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Example of a sleeve into which the wand of the intraoral scanner is inserted.

[0042] Figures 8A to 8B Shown with internal ( Figure 8A ) or external ( Figure 8B )Comparison between examples of sleeves with sleeve extensions.

[0043] Figures 9A to 9B An example of a sleeve including a sleeve extension inserted into the interior of the sleeve is shown. Figure 9B Shown Figure 9A Exploded diagram of .

[0044] Figures 10A to 10B An example of a sleeve including a sleeve extension on the exterior of the sleeve is shown. Figure 10B Shown Figure 10A Exploded diagram of .

[0045] Figure 11A The attachment of the sealing frame to the transparent cover of the sleeve is shown in one example of a sleeve.

[0046] Figure 11B Shown Figure 11A An assembled sleeve, wherein the sealing frame is fixed to the transparent cover.

[0047] Figure 12 is an example of a sleeve that includes snaps within the perimeter of the window area for securing the transparent cover.

[0048] Figure 13 Shown with Figure 12 A cross section of a similar sleeve is shown, with the wand of the intraoral scanner already inserted into the sleeve.

[0049] Figure 14 Shown with Figure 12 The sleeve shown is similar to the distal side of another example of a sleeve with a transparent cover inserted and a seal (eg, an adhesive seal) applied around the perimeter of the window.

[0050] Figures 15A to 15D Another example assembly process for a sleeve is shown in which a transparent cover is applied from the outside of the sleeve and secured in place using a heat press.

[0051] Figure 16 Another example of a sleeve configured with an externally applied window is shown.

[0052] Figure 17 An exploded view of a sleeve with an externally applied window is shown.

[0053] Figures 18A to 18B Another example of a sleeve with an externally applied window is shown.

[0054] Figure 19A and Figure 19B An example of a sleeve configured as a clamshell with a living hinge is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0055] A protective sleeve for an intraoral scanner is described herein. The protective sleeve may include a body portion and a window portion, the body portion being configured to be attached to a handheld stick portion of the intraoral scanner, through which the intraoral scanner can transmit light and / or receive an image. The window portion can be covered with a transparent cover (e.g., a glass cover, a polymer cover, etc.). In some examples, the protective sleeve for an intraoral scanner described herein ("sleeve") may include a recessed lip (e.g., an edge, a ridge) on the outer surface of the sleeve body surrounding a window area, in which the transparent cover may be placed. The edge or ridge may be recessed from the outer surface so that the transparent cover can be applied from the outer surface and, therefore, may be flush with or slightly protrude from the outer surface of the sleeve body.

[0056] In some examples, the sleeve may include an internal guiding structure (e.g., a protrusion, a ramp, a slide, etc.) that can guide or guide and / or fix the rod of the intraoral scanner within the cavity of the sleeve so that the imaging area of ​​the rod is aligned with the transparent window, but does not scratch or otherwise damage the transparent window within the sleeve when the rod is inserted into the sleeve. The internal guiding structure (e.g., a ramp) can be separated from the sleeve body and can be permanently (e.g., by an adhesive, welding, etc.) or temporarily attached to the sleeve body. One or more internal guiding structures may be included. One or more internal guiding structures (e.g., a ramp) can be positioned and / or shaped to guide the rod into the sleeve. Any of the sleeves described herein can be configured for injection molding to form the sleeve as a single piece. Also described herein is a method for inserting the scanner (e.g., rod) of the intraoral scanner into the sleeve to guide the rod into place using a protrusion (e.g., a ramp). The internal guiding structure described herein may alternatively and equivalently be referred to as an internal guide or internal guiding protrusion.

[0057] Any of the sleeves described herein can include a sleeve extension extending from the rigid or semi-rigid body of the sleeve at the distal opening so that it can cover more of the intraoral scanner and / or the handle, cord, etc. of the intraoral scanner. The sleeve extension can be more flexible than the sleeve. In some examples, the sleeve can be formed of the same material as the more flexible sleeve extension.

[0058] Any of the sleeves described herein can be configured so that the sleeve can be easily assembled, particularly including attaching or coupling the transparent cover of the sleeve to the sleeve. For example, the sleeve can be configured so that the transparent cover can be added to the sleeve from the outside of the sleeve rather than by the inner cavity of the sleeve. In some examples, the sleeve can include a sealing frame that can be attached or otherwise coupled to the outside of the sleeve so that the transparent cover is sandwiched between the peripheral area of ​​the window opening of the sealing frame and the window opening. Any of the sleeves described herein can include a seal, which in some examples can be formed by an adhesive sealing material, such as a polymeric liquid adhesive sealing material that can be cured to form a seal. Any of the sleeves described herein can include a channel for holding and / or guiding the sealing material around the window. For example, the sealing frame can include an adhesive channel.

[0059] The sealing frame for sleeve described herein can be configured to cooperate with the placement area in the body of sleeve. In some examples, the placement area can also be configured to fix the transparent cover between the sealing frame and the placement area, including compression. In some examples, the sealing frame can be coupled (for example, attached) to the body (including in the placement area) of the sleeve by one or more attachments. The one or more attachments can be buckles (including buckles integrally formed into the body and / or sealing frame of the sleeve), stays, screws, etc.

[0060] In some examples, the sleeve includes one or more attachments (e.g., snaps, friction fits, etc.) that can be integrally formed into the body, e.g., around the periphery of the window opening through the body. The attachments can be configured to secure the transparent cover to the sleeve without the need for an additional sealing cover. The sleeve window area can include a seating area that is configured to cooperate with the transparent cover to a high degree of tolerance, such as with a gap of 1 mm or less (a gap between about 0.9 mm and about 0.05 mm, a gap between 0.7 mm and 0.1 mm, a gap between about 0.5 mm and 0.12 mm, a gap between about 0.25 mm and about 0.15 mm, a gap between about 0.22 mm and about 0.17 mm, etc.).

[0061] In the example with one or more attachments (e.g., snaps) on the periphery of the sleeve window, the attachments can fix the transparent cover in the placement area of ​​the sleeve. As mentioned above, any of these sleeves can also include a seal (e.g., adhesive seal) around the sleeve window to seal the transparent cover on the window opening of the sleeve. In some examples, attachments are not included. In any one of these examples, the transparent cover can be fixed to the sleeve body by ultrasonic welding. This paper also describes a method for assembling any one of these sleeves, including assembling sleeve and fixing the transparent cover to the method for sleeve.

[0062] Also described herein are sleeves for intraoral scanners, wherein a window through the sleeve body (at a distal region of the sleeve) includes a mounting area to which a transparent cover is secured. In some examples, the transparent window is secured by ultrasonic welding. As described above, any of these sleeves may also include a sealing material surrounding the periphery of the window to seal the transparent cover to the periphery of the window.

[0063] In some examples, the body of the sleeve can be configured as a clamshell structure including a hinge area (e.g., a living hinge) so that the two halves of the sleeve can be folded together (along the hinge area) and fixed together to form a sleeve with an internal hollow area (e.g., a cavity) into which the rod of the intraoral scanner can be inserted and aligned for imaging through the transparent cover of the sleeve. The living hinge can be on one side of the sleeve, included on the distal end of the assembled sleeve device, or it can be located on one side of the assembled sleeve. When assembling a sleeve with a living hinge area, the sleeve can be formed integrally (e.g., by injection molding, etc.), as described for other types of sleeves, and can be folded back onto itself to form the assembled sleeve. In some examples, before being folded back onto itself, a transparent window can be inserted into the placement area and sealed in place. Therefore, in some examples, the transparent window can be inserted from the inside of the (future) sleeve. Once the transparent window is attached (and in some examples, sealed to the body of the sleeve), the sleeve body can be assembled by folding the two combined halves together. In some examples, a sealing material (e.g., an adhesive) can be applied to secure the two halves together. In some examples, the two halves can be secured together by attachments (e.g., snaps, hooks, etc.). The two halves of the sleeve can be assembled and sealed together by laser and / or ultrasonic welding or welding along the joining area of ​​the two halves.

[0064] The protective sleeve can be configured as a rigid, semi-rigid or compliant body that can cooperate with the handheld wand portion of the intraoral scanner. The body can be configured to extend over the wand; the protective sleeve can form a barrier to prevent the spread of contaminants such as bacteria and viruses. The body can be configured to serve particularly as a barrier to saliva, mucus and other biological fluids. In some variations, the protective sleeve including the body of the protective sleeve can be at least partially formed of a polymeric material, such as silicone, latex or other polymers. The body of the sleeve can extend over the wand and / or all or some of the ropes or cables. In some examples, as described above, the sleeve can include an extension area for extending over a handle, rope and / or cable. For example, a sleeve including a window and a body of the sleeve (also including any extension of the sleeve) can be formed of a flexible barrier material (e.g., plastic or other polymeric material) that can provide a fluid and / or pathogen barrier.

[0065] The protective sleeve can include a window portion that is configured to align with a corresponding window on the rod to transmit light and / or other information for forming an image of the patient's oral cavity. The size and / or shape of the window area can be designed to match or improve the imaging window of the rod. As will be described in some of the following variations, the size and / or shape of the sleeve window can be designed so that at least a portion of the sleeve window at least partially protrudes or extends into the field of view of the imaging window of the rod to assist in authentication and / or confirm that the sleeve is applied and / or correctly applied. The sleeve window ("transparent cover") can be formed by a transparent material, and in particular can be formed by a material that is transparent to the one or more wavelengths that the intraoral scanner is used to image the patient's dentition. For example, the transparent cover can be formed by an optically transparent material, or by a material that is transparent in the wavelength of light used and / or fluorescence wavelength and / or near-infrared wavelength. The sleeve can be formed by a rigid or semi-rigid material, and can be a polymeric material, for example, polycarbonate, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), amorphous copolyester, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), liquid silicone rubber (LSR), cyclic olefin copolymer, polyethylene (PE), ionomer resin, transparent polypropylene (PP), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), methyl methacrylate-acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (MABS, for example, transparent ABS), polystyrene (general purpose – GPPS), methyl methacrylate styrene (SMMA) etc. The transparent cover can also be formed by any of these materials, and / or can be formed by glass. One or more materials (including layers of materials) can be used. The sleeve window can be sealed to the body portion to improve the barrier to prevent biological contamination. In some variations, all or a portion of the sleeve can also be formed by the same material as the window. In some variations, the sleeve can be formed by a material different from the window.

[0066] Typically, the protective sleeve can be mated and engaged with the intraoral scanner. For example, the protective sleeve can be configured to cover a handheld wand of the intraoral scanner. In some variations, the protective sleeve extends over the end of the handheld wand so that a window of the protective sleeve is aligned with an imaging window of the wand. The body of the protective sleeve can extend over the handheld wand and, in some variations, extend down the body of the wand for some distance (e.g., 6 inches or more, 8 inches or more, 12 inches or more, 16 inches or more, 2 feet or more, 3 feet or more, 4 feet or more, 5 feet or more, etc.).

[0067] In some variations, the protective sleeve may also be textured for secure gripping (e.g., by a user's hand) when operating the intraoral scanner. The protective sleeve may also include one or more ridges, bumps, channels, textures, etc. to assist in gripping.

[0068] A protective sleeve may include a shell configured to be mounted on a portion of an intraoral scanning device and protect the intraoral scanning device from the external environment. The intraoral scanning device (e.g., a wand) may include a first hole (e.g., an opening) for transmitting an optical signal, and the sleeve may include a second hole (a sleeve window typically covered by a transparent cover) for transmitting the optical signal. When the wand is inserted into the sleeve housing, the second hole may be aligned with the first hole. The protective sleeve may be configured such that when the wand is inserted into the sleeve, the transparent cover is aligned with a defogging element of the wand of the intraoral scanner. For example, an outer surface of the transparent cover may receive heat generated by the defogging element to prevent the transparent element from fogging. In some examples, the transparent cover may be suitable for defogging (e.g., including a coating such as an anti-fog / defogging coating, a thermally conductive coating, etc.).

[0069] The sleeves described herein may be referred to as protective sleeves.The sleeves may include additional materials and components, including lighting (eg, one or more LEDs), sensors, circuitry, etc., which may be embedded and / or retained within the protective sleeve.

[0070] Figure 1 One example of an intraoral scanner as described herein is shown, including a handheld scanner (e.g., wand) 103. One example of an intraoral scanner 100 is manufactured by Align Technology, Inc. Intraoral digital scanner. Typically, the intraoral scanner can include a handheld wand 103, which can include an optical system (including projection / imaging optics) comprising one or more lenses and having an optical axis. The device can also include illumination optics. The device can include an axial scanner (e.g., a depth scanning module) configured to move the projection / imaging optics along the optical axis. The device can include a beam splitter configured to transmit light from a light source (after passing through a pattern) to an object and reflect light returning from the object onto an imaging sensor. Thus, the device can include an image sensor configured to receive light returning from the object (via the projection / imaging optics) through the beam splitter. The device can be configured to perform a 3D scan of at least a portion of the object, for example, an intraoral 3D scan of teeth for all derivatives of dental restorations and orthodontic indications. The device for confocal scanning disclosed in this application can include a confocal illuminator. The optical system can include a projection / imaging system or subsystem comprising projection optics and imaging optics. For example, the projection optics and imaging optics can be configured to share the same optical elements (lenses) and the same optical path. The device may include a depth scanning module including a compact linear actuator, such as a voice coil motor (VCM). The scanner may include a front tip that may include a 45 degree (e.g., back-heated defogging) folding mirror.

[0071] The scanner may include one or more processors and may include one or more illumination sources (LEDs, lasers, etc.). Figure 1 In the embodiment of the present invention, the handheld wand 103 also includes a window 107 that provides optical access to the scanner. The window may include an optional transparent cover. The scanner can be wirelessly or wiredly connected to additional components of the system, including one or more additional processors. The scanner can typically illuminate and / or image in the visible spectrum, infrared or near-infrared spectrum, fluorescence spectrum, etc. A display 105 may also be included as part of the system. Figure 1 The intraoral scanner shown can be used with one or more sleeves, as shown in Figures 2 and 3.

[0072] exist Figure 2A In the embodiment, the intraoral scanner 100 includes a protective sleeve 109 placed on the handheld wand 103 so that the sleeve window 111 is aligned with the window in the scanner 107 (in Figure 2A (not visible in the image) alignment. Figure 2B An alternative variant is shown in which the sleeve 109 is longer, extending over the rod and the connecting cable. Figure 2BThe illustrated sleeve includes a sleeve extension 119 at the proximal end. The distal end of the sleeve (sleeve body 120) can be formed with a more rigid or semi-rigid body, while the more proximal end extending from the sleeve body can be more flexible. In some examples, the sleeve body is formed from the same material as the sleeve extension (e.g., polyethylene); the two regions can be welded together (e.g., by laser welding, ultrasonic welding, etc.). The difference in rigidity between these regions can depend on the thickness of the material.

[0073] Figures 3A to 3B Two examples of protective sleeves 309 , 309 ′ as described herein are shown. Figure 3A A sleeve body 302 is shown, which can be an elongated, hollow body having a distal end 304 and a proximal end 306, wherein the extreme distal end (of the distal region) is tapered and closed, and the proximal end is open to receive an intraoral wand. The sleeve also includes a window opening 308 covered by a transparent cover 310. In this example, the base (proximal end) of the sleeve body flares outward 314.

[0074] Figure 3B Another example of a sleeve is shown, which is very similar to Figure 3A The sleeve shown, however, includes a pair of protruding areas 312 at the periphery of the window which protrude slightly into the field of view of a rod inserted into the interior hollow body of the sleeve.

[0075] Thus, any of the sleeves may include indentations, protrusions (e.g., bumps, projections, etc.) on the sleeve window (such as the perimeter of the sleeve window) that may be within the field of view of and detectable by the intraoral scanner when the sleeve is attached. Figure 3B In the embodiment, the protrusion is formed by a window in the sleeve itself in the area exposed to the camera.

[0076] As described above, the sleeve described herein can be manufactured as a single integral device to which a transparent cover (in some examples) can be added. Alternatively, in some examples, the material of the entire sleeve can be transparent, and the transparent cover can be integrated (and integrally formed) with the rest of the body of the sleeve. In some examples, the body of the sleeve is formed by a polymeric material such as PE (polyethylene) or a material comprising PE and other materials. For example, the sleeve can be formed by a mixture of HDPE and LDPE (e.g., between 60% and 95% HDPE and between 5% and 40% LDPE). PE can be laser welded to fix, for example, to fix the extension area, as described herein.

[0077] As described above, any of the sleeves described herein can include one or more internal (within the hollow cavity of the sleeve) guide structures, such as ramps, to guide and / or lock (e.g., releasably lock) the rod in place so that the rod is aligned and / or fixed within the sleeve. Any of these internal guide structures can also be a retainer that retains (releasably retains) the rod within the sleeve and prevents the rod from significantly moving within the sleeve, which could misalign the rod imaging optics with the transparent cover (or window) of the sleeve.

[0078] In some examples, the internal guiding structure is formed integrally with the body of the sleeve (as a single piece, for example, by injection molding). Alternatively, in some examples, the internal guiding structure (for example, a ramp) is an independent element coupled to the inner wall of the sleeve body. For example, the internal guiding structure can be configured as a ramp, which is positioned on the inner surface of the sleeve to be just on the proximal side of the window opening area of ​​the sleeve (for example, within about 1 cm, within about 2 cm, within about 3 cm, within about 4 cm, within about 5 cm, within about 6 cm, within about 7 cm, within about 8 cm, within about 9 cm, within about 10 cm, etc.). In some examples, the internal guiding structure is a ramp formed by a plurality of triangular ribs or wings extending from the inside of the sleeve body. For example, Figure 4A and Figure 4B Shown with Figures 3A to 3B The sleeve shown is a cross-section of an example of a sleeve similar to that shown. Figure 4B The interior 630 of the sleeve 609 is shown, which includes an internal guide structure 633 configured as a ramp or slide. In this example, only a single ramp / slide is shown; additional ramps / slides may be adjacent to the window (e.g., at Figure 4B (in the middle half of the sleeve not shown in the figure) is positioned.

[0079] The internal guide structure (e.g., a ramp or slide) can typically have a surface extending upward from the inner wall of the sleeve beyond the height of the window area relative to the inner wall, which surface can guide the rod and prevent it from scratching or rubbing the interior of the window area 608 of the sleeve (e.g., a transparent cover in variations that include a transparent cover).

[0080] Figures 4C to 4E An example of an internal guide structure (e.g., ramp) that can be used is shown, shown in cross-section. For example, in Figure 4CIn the embodiment of the present invention, the internal guiding structure has an approximately triangular cross-section for guiding the rod into the hollow distal end of the sleeve. When the rod slides distally 676, it can be guided by the sloped distal surface and slide upwards, away from the edge of the window opening 608. In this example, the distal surface has an angle 670, 670', 670" relative to the wall of the cover it forms, which angle can be between about 10 degrees and about 50 degrees (e.g., between about 10 degrees and about 45 degrees, between about 10 degrees and 40 degrees, between about 15 degrees and 50 degrees, etc.). The ramp can be offset a distance 675 from the window opening 608 and therefore from the transparent cover 610. The opposite side of the ramp can also be curved and form a ramp surface that can assist in removing the rod from the sleeve up the ramp; in some variations, this second, proximally facing ramp can form a larger angle relative to the wall of the cover (from which the ramp is formed) than the distal facing ramp. For example, the angle 671, 671', 671" of the proximally facing ramp can be between about 15 degrees and about 90 degrees. Either or both of the distal facing ramp and the proximally facing ramp can have a continuous (e.g., smooth) curve, such as Figures 4A to 4D As shown. Figure 4E In the embodiment, the proximal-facing slope is a sudden transition (with a 90-degree angle). The spacing (offset distance) 675, 675', 675" between the slope and the window can be, for example, between about 1 mm and about 2 cm (e.g., between 1 mm and 1 cm, between 1 mm and 9 mm, etc.). In some examples, the internal guide structure is not offset from the edge of the window area 608, but can be immediately adjacent thereto. Figures 4C to 4E In each of the examples of the internal guide structure shown, the internal guide structure is a slope having a triangular cross-section, wherein the top of the slope is shown as having a curved corner 673. The corner can be rounded (as shown) or sharp (rounded or acute). In some examples, the top is flat. For example, the internal guide structure can have a trapezoidal shape (which can have sharp or rounded edges). Figures 4C to 4E The example of the internal guide structure shown is also shown with a sleeve, with a transparent cover 610 of the window area 608 schematically shown on the inside of the cover. Alternatively, as will be described in more detail below, the transparent cover can be on the outside surface 678 or can be flush with the window area (e.g., within the seating area).

[0081] As described above, the internal guide structure 633 may include a plurality of fins, such as Figure 4BAs shown. In this example, the internal guide structure includes two thin wing-like lengths that extend in a proximal to distal direction within the interior of the sleeve and have a triangular longitudinal cross-section. In some examples, the proximal-facing side of each ramp can be connected to a surface extending between the fins (forming a proximal-facing surface). The proximal-facing surface can be optional; in some examples, the internal guide structure is formed by an arrangement of fins extending from the inner wall of the sleeve body that are spaced apart (e.g., spaced 0.1mm, 0.2mm, 0.3mm, 0.4mm, 0.5mm, 0.7mm, 0.8mm, 1mm, 1.1mm, 1.2mm, etc., between 0.1mm and 3mm, between 0.1mm and 2mm, between 0.1mm and 1.5mm, between 0.1mm and 1mm, etc.). Any number of fins (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, etc.) can be used for each internal guide structure.

[0082] In any of these devices, the ramp may be formed separately (rather than integrally) and attached to the inner surface, e.g. Figure 4F In this example, the internal guide structure 633' (e.g., a ramp) is a separate element that can be attached to the inner wall of the sleeve body. In some examples, the sleeve does not include a ramp, such as Figure 4G shown.

[0083] Figure 4A The example of shown sleeve comprises the transparent cover that is attached to the inside of sleeve.In this example, the transparent cover 610 that forms the part of window area 608 is sealed to the periphery of window area by foam (window foam) material.Foam can be for example MED 5696R adhesive foam (for example, Avery Dennison) or MED 2123R adhesive (Vancive Medical Technologies).Foam can be compressible, and transparent cover can be adhesively fixed to the body of sleeve.Some examples of sleeve described herein do not comprise foam.In some examples, elastic material can be used to replace foam.Elastic material can be adhesive, and it can be applied as liquid or gel (or paste), but solidifies into solid, to form sealing between the body of sleeve and the transparent cover.Identical or similar foam material can be used in any device described herein.

[0084] In use, the cover can be applied to the distal end of the wand, such as by sliding the wand into the cover or by sliding the cover over the wand or by some combination. The wand of the intraoral scanner can slide within the hollow interior region of the sleeve, and the internal guide structure (ramp) can deflect the distal tip upward and away from the transparent window (e.g., a transparent cover for the window in some examples), which can protect the transparent window and allow the wand to be optimally positioned relative to the sleeve. For example, Figures 5A to 5B One method of attaching the cover 709 to the wand of the intraoral scanner 703 is shown.

[0085] exist Figure 5A In the embodiment of the present invention, the distal end of the rod is inserted into the distal opening of the sleeve and advanced into the internal guide structure (e.g., ramp or slide 70). The internal guide structure guides the tip of the rod above the window area and can serve as a fixing to hold the rod securely in place, such as Figure 5B As shown. Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, the rod includes an engagement region 771 for engaging the internal guide structure. Figure 7 The engagement region in the middle rod body is shown as a recessed area or opening 733 comprising a surface that can engage with the internal guide structure; once the rod is positioned far enough distally into the sleeve, the internal guide structure can fit into the engagement region of the rod, allowing the tip of the rod (including the imaging window of the rod) to align with the window area of ​​the sleeve in a fixed position. The engagement region can also engage to releasably hold the rod in that position relative to the sleeve until the sleeve is withdrawn proximally. Figure 7 In the example shown, when the wand is fully extended distally, the imaging window of the wand can be pressed downwardly against the window region, which can include a compressible foam material as described above. The wand of the intraoral scanner can be disengaged from the internal guide structure by pulling the wand proximally (and / or pulling the sleeve distally) with sufficient force to cause the sidewalls of the engagement region to slide along the proximally facing side of the internal guide structure, driving the wand upwardly away from the window region of the sleeve and allowing it to be withdrawn from the sleeve.

[0086] Any of the sleeves described herein may include a sleeve extension extending proximally from a more rigid (or semi-rigid) proximal end, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown in the example. Figure 6 , sleeve 809 includes a more rigid distal sleeve portion 810 and a more flexible proximal sleeve extension 819. The proximal sleeve portion can be attached to the distal sleeve by adhesive or welding. In some examples, the sleeve extension is welded (e.g., laser welded) 854 to the sleeve (the distal portion of the sleeve). The material forming the sleeve extension can be the same as the material of the distal portion of the sleeve (e.g., polyethylene or a mixture of polyethylene and other polymers or other forms of polyethylene). The sleeve extension can be configured to flip itself when pulled distally, such as when removing the sleeve from the rod.

[0087] Figure 7 shows the application of the wand 803 of the intraoral scanner Figure 6Examples of sleeves. The sleeve extension can extend between 5 inches and 5 feet (e.g., between 6 inches and 4 feet, etc.) from the distal sleeve portion. The sleeve extension can be configured to be rolled up for removal so that any contaminants on the outer surface of the sleeve are captured within the rolled-up portion. Therefore, in some examples, the sleeve extension is tapered, having a proximal end wider than the distal region connected to the distal (more rigid) sleeve region. In some examples, the sleeve extension can be biased (pre-rolled) back onto itself. For example, a new and clean sleeve can include a rolled-up sleeve extension that can be rolled up proximally when applied to a rod. The rolled-up sleeve can be rolled up so that the more distal portion is rolled up within the more proximal portion. Once rolled up, the sleeve extension can remain unfolded during use (and in some examples can include fasteners, such as adhesives and / or ties, to keep it unfolded and applied to the rod or rod cord) until it is removed. Thus, the sleeve extension may be biased to roll back to the original configuration.

[0088] The sleeve extension may be part of the sleeve body and / or fixed to the sleeve body (e.g. Figure 6 and Figure 7 ), or it may be inserted into and / or fitted onto a sleeve. For example, Figure 8A An example of a sleeve extension configured as an inner sheath bag 855 is shown, which is inserted into a more rigid sleeve body 802. The sleeve extension can be sheathed over the distal end and a portion of the wire of the scanner (or wand) of the intraoral scanner. Figures 9A to 9B For example, Figure 8A A perspective view and exploded perspective view of one example of a sleeve shown. As described herein, the sleeve extension can be formed of a thinner, lighter and / or more flexible material and can include a window area 859 that fits over a window area of ​​a more rigid sleeve body when the sleeve extension and the sleeve body are coupled to the scanner. The sleeve also includes a transparent cover 910 and a gasket 918 configured as a foam frame that can be positioned in a window between the transparent cover and a lip area of ​​the sleeve body 802 (e.g., in a lip or ridge area of ​​the outer surface of the window). In some examples, the sleeve extension can be secured to the rigid sleeve body, for example, by an adhesive (e.g., glue), welding, or the like. The sleeve insert can be secured to the sleeve body at or around the window 859 and / or at or around the proximal end of the sleeve body. Alternatively, in some examples, the bag-like sleeve extension inserted into the sleeve body can be retained by a friction fit. In some examples, Figure 9A and Figure 9B The sleeve extension (eg, sleeve bag) 855 in can be a polyethylene barrier.

[0089] Figure 8B Another example of a sleeve is shown that includes a sleeve body 802 and a sleeve extension 855'. In this example, the sleeve extension is configured to fit over the sleeve body. Figure 8A and Figure 8B The dimensions shown in are exemplary. Figure 8B and Figures 10A to 10B In the example shown, the sleeve extension 855' is an outer sheath or bag into which the more rigid sleeve body 802 fits. The outer sleeve extension may be formed similar to Figure 8A In both examples, the sleeve extension can be attached (e.g., welded, glued, etc.) to a more rigid sleeve body 802, or simply secured by a friction fit. In examples where the sleeve extension is not attached to the sleeve body, the same sleeve body can be reused with multiple different sleeve extensions.

[0090] like Figures 10A to 10B As shown, the outer sleeve extension 855' may include a window area 859', which may be a cutout area that aligns with the window opening of the sleeve body 802. Figure 10B As shown in the exploded view of , the transparent cover 910 and the gasket (e.g., a foam gasket) 918 can be placed against a lip area of ​​the interior area or the exterior area of ​​the sleeve body to seal the transparent cover to the window area 1069.

[0091] In some examples, the transparent cover can be fixed to or against the sleeve body by adhesive and / or welding, particularly including ultrasonic welding. Alternatively or additionally, in some examples, the transparent cover can be fixed to the sleeve body by a sealing frame. The sealing frame can be fixed to the sleeve body (the rigid or semi-rigid distal portion of the sleeve) by adhesive and / or by mechanical fasteners (such as snaps, etc.). For example, Figures 11A to 11B Another example of a sleeve including a sealing frame 1331 that seals a transparent cover 1310 is shown. A window can be placed in the receiving area of ​​the sleeve that is sized and configured to receive the transparent cover as shown. The transparent cover can be easily positioned without applying force (pressure). Once positioned in the receiving area (e.g., the seating area or an area such as a lip or rim), adhesive can be applied to the periphery of the sealing frame 1331, such as within the channel ("adhesive groove") 1327, and, as shown Figure 11B As shown, the sealing frame 1331 can be applied to cover and pressed into the receiving area of ​​the sleeve. Figures 11A to 11BIn the embodiment of the present invention, the receiving area 1331 is recessed so that when the sealing frame body is fixed down, the sealing frame is placed flush with the outer surface of the sleeve. The sealing frame can also or alternatively be fixed to the rest of the sleeve by one or more clips 1344. In the example of using a frame, the frame can mechanically hold the transparent cover in place until the adhesive cures without the need for a fixing clamp.

[0092] In some examples, the sleeve can include a receiving area around the window opening of the sleeve in a distal region of the body of the sleeve that is configured to receive and retain the transparent cover 1410 without requiring a sealing frame. In some examples, the transparent window is secured by an adhesive applied around the window opening 1408 of the body of the sleeve 1406 before or after the transparent window is applied. For example, Figure 12 A variation of the sleeve is shown in which a seating area is included at the distal end. The window area includes a peripheral seating area that includes one or more snaps 1444. The snaps are formed by the sleeve body (as an integral part) and can include an inclined overhang 1546 and an undercut area; the edge of the transparent cover 1510 can slide against the inclined overhang and displace it (e.g., bend it) out of the way (or can itself be bent out of the way) so that it can be seated in the seating area 1535, as shown. Figure 13 An adhesive may be applied around the perimeter of the window opening to seal the transparent cover within the window opening (not shown). Figure 13 Also shown is a cross section through the sleeve when mounted on the wand of the intraoral scanner 1536. In this example, the wand also includes one or more spaced protruding areas 1538 that can contact the transparent cover 1510.

[0093] The adhesive can be added externally at the last step, which can reduce the risk of contaminating any optics (e.g., windows) and can be simpler and cheaper. For example, Figure 14 Shown Figure 13 , wherein the adhesive seal 1683 is shown (which can be fully cured). Figure 14 16, the transparent cover (window 1610) is held in place by snaps 1644, which are integrally formed into the body along with the seating area of ​​sleeve 1606. In some examples, one of the sides of the window opening may include a shelf and an overhang instead of snaps; the overhang may secure the transparent cover on one side, and one or more snaps may be on the opposite side of the window and shelf (seating area).

[0094] Examples are also described herein in which, instead of (or in addition to) snaps, the transparent cover may be secured to the sleeve within seating area 1735 by heat pressing, which deforms the area around the window of the sleeve to hold the transparent cover in place. Figures 15A to 15D An example of a sleeve is shown where the transparent cover is heat pressed (heat fused) into place. Figure 15A , the body of the sleeve 1706 includes a window opening 1708 having a seating area 1735 with a lip around the periphery of the window opening. Figure 15B As shown, a transparent cover that matches the seating area (in size and shape) can be positioned over the seating area from the outside of the sleeve. Figure 15C The plurality of areas of the perimeter are shown which can then be deformed by (in one example) heat pressing to secure the transparent cover within the seating area. Heat can be applied at one or more points to melt and deform the polymer perimeter area, thereby forming heat stakes 1789 which extend over the transparent cover and lock it in place, as shown. Subsequently, an adhesive sealing material 1783 can be applied to seal the edge of the transparent window 1710 to the sleeve, as shown. Figure 15D As shown. Similar to Figures 12 to 14 Despite the snap-fit ​​configuration shown, the sleeve example may also be formed as a single injection molded component embodiment into which the transparent window may be attached.

[0095] In some examples, the sleeves described herein include an externally mounted transparent cover, e.g. Figure 16 and Figure 17 Exemplary sleeve 1600 shown. The sleeve may include a sleeve extension (not shown) and a sleeve body 1602. An externally mounted transparent cover 1610 is retained within a lip region 1763 that is cut into the outer surface of the sleeve body 1602. The lip region extends into the sleeve body and forms a rim into which the transparent cover 1610 can be placed. In some examples, a gasket (e.g., a foam gasket, a rubber gasket, a silicone gasket, etc.) 1618 may be positioned between the rim region and the transparent cover, and / or positioned above the edge of the transparent cover. A seal 1661 may be fixed to the edge of the transparent cover and fixed to the sleeve body. The seal may be a frame. The seal may be fluid-tight. In some examples, the seal is formed by cement or an adhesive; in some examples, the seal is formed by welding (e.g., laser welding, ultrasonic welding, etc.).

[0096] Figure 18A and Figure 18B An example of a sleeve including an externally mounted transparent cover 1610 similar to that described above is shown. Figure 18AIn the embodiment of the present invention, the sleeve 1800 includes a relatively rigid or semi-rigid body 1602 having an outer surface and an inner surface. A scanner (e.g., a wand) of an intraoral scanner can be fitted into an opening or cavity in the sleeve body. The window into the sleeve body is formed as a cutout area having an annular lip or edge 1763 that cuts into the outer surface of the sleeve body from the outer surface. Figure 18B As shown in the profile of , the rim or ridge may include a lip formed and extending from the inside so that the opening on the outer surface side is slightly larger than the opening through the sleeve body on the inner surface. The lip may include one or more (e.g., continuous) protrusions 1764 that may seal against the gasket 1618 between the transparent window 1610 and the sleeve body. The gasket may act as a seal. As shown in the profile of , the rim or ridge may include a lip formed and extending from the inside so that the opening on the outer surface side is slightly larger than the opening through the sleeve body on the inner surface. Figure 18B As shown, the gasket 1618 can be adjacent to the transparent cover 1610 and can be sandwiched between the sleeve cover 1602 and the outer seal 1661.

[0097] Typically, the sleeves described herein can be coated with a material such as an anti-reflective coating, which will be described in more detail below. In some examples, both sides of the transparent cover 1610 can be coated with a double-sided AR coating, which can improve the scanner signal. The thickness of the transparent cover and the distance between the transparent cover and the scanner window can be precisely controlled. In addition, as described above, ultrasonic welding can be used to improve the reliability of the seal to increase safety. As described above, any suitable material can be used, including, for example, polyethylene (PE) and / or polycarbonate (PC).

[0098] In some examples, the transparent cover forming the window can be applied internally, without having to be applied through the interior of the sleeve. Figure 19A and Figure 19B An example of a sleeve is shown having a body formed as a clamshell including a living hinge region that can be molded or otherwise formed as a single piece (e.g., by injection molding) and can be closed along the living hinge to form a hollow sleeve (e.g., a distal, rigid / semi-rigid sleeve portion). Figure 19A shows the body before (or during) closure, while Figure 19B The sleeve is shown in a closed configuration. The edge 1822 where the two halves of the sleeve 1806 meet can be sealed using an adhesive or by welding the materials (e.g., laser welding). In this example, the living hinge 1826 is on the distal end; in some examples, the living hinge can be on one side, and the top area can be sealed. Thus, the sleeves described herein can include integral folding features on the side edges or distal edges.

[0099] In general, any of the sleeves described herein may include the features shown in any of these examples. Other sleeve designs may also incorporate all or some of these features. For example, in some cases, the sleeve may be manufactured as a single piece including a transparent window; for example, the entire sleeve (e.g., the distal end of the sleeve in the area including the sleeve extension) may be transparent. For example, a transparent sleeve including an integral transparent cover may include an internal guide structure (e.g., a ramp) as described herein.

[0100] The sleeves described herein can be configured to withstand a pressure of at least about 50 kPa, such as at least about 60 kPa, at least about 70 kPa, at least about 80 kPa, at least about 90 kPa, at least about 100 kPa, etc. In any of these sleeves, the sleeve can be configured, for example, by the position of the seating area of ​​the window, so that there is a minimum spacing between the sleeve window (transparent cover) and the imaging window of the rod. For example, the minimum gap between the sleeve window and the imaging window can be about 0.1 mm, about 0.2 mm, about 0.3 mm, etc. As described above, this minimum distance can also be maintained in part based on the spacing protrusions of the imaging windows adjacent to the rod.

[0101] Any of the sleeves described herein may include a fragrance. For example, the sleeve (particularly the distal region) may be coated with or may incorporate a fragrance. Any suitable fragrance may be used. The fragrance may be applied by dipping, spraying, or the like.

[0102] As noted above, in any of the variations described herein, the systems and / or cartridges described herein may be configured for a single, one-time (eg, one continuous period), or limited duration use. Anti-reflective materials

[0103] Any of the devices described herein may include one or more anti-reflective materials, particularly anti-reflective materials suitable for use with optical frequencies in the visible spectrum (e.g., 400 nm to about 850 nm) and / or the near IR range. For example, any of these devices may include an anti-reflective material on a transparent cover of a window of a removable barrier (sleeve) device. The anti-reflective material may be formed from a nanostructured material (e.g., a "moth eye" material). The material may be applied as a laminated layer applied to the device (e.g., applied to the transparent cover). The material may be a hydrophobic material applied to the sleeve / removable protective cover of the device, or in particular, to the barrier of a removable transparent cover on an intraoral scanner.

[0104] Reflections, such as specular reflections, are particularly problematic in some intraoral scanners that have high back-reflections from the transparent cover and back to the camera inside the intraoral scanner, for example, when the transparent cover for the intraoral scanner is located near the focal point of the sensor (e.g., within a few centimeters), and / or where an internal polarizer may not be used, for example due to insufficient polarization depth.

[0105] Thus, methods and apparatus (e.g., devices) are described herein that include an anti-reflective layer (e.g., on an intraoral scanner window and / or a transparent cover of a removable barrier for an intraoral scanner). The anti-reflective layer can be a structure, such as a coating, film, or laminate, applied to the window of the intraoral scanner window and / or the transparent cover of the removable barrier. In some variations, the anti-reflective structure is a nanostructure configured as an anti-reflective material that is configured to reduce or eliminate reflections, particularly reflections in the near IR light range. The anti-reflective material can be a nanostructure array (NSA); these materials can include silicon and non-silicon materials (e.g., nanoporous SiO2) and can have a structure configured to function as an anti-reflective material in the nanostructure range.

[0106] The anti-reflective structure can be a hydrophobic structure that forms a nanostructured film that reduces or eliminates reflections. A typical "moth-eye" anti-reflective structure can have a hexagonal pattern of nanoscale bumps that are smaller than the wavelength of the applied light (e.g., in this case, near-infrared light). In some examples, the anti-reflective structure that can be used includes a sticker of material that can be laminated to the transparent cover to prevent or reduce reflections.

[0107] An intraoral 3D scanner may include a transparent cover having an anti-reflective coating deposited by layers in a vacuum chamber. In particular, a removable protective cover / sleeve for an intraoral scanner is described herein, which has a transparent cover with a hydrophobic (moth-eye) anti-reflective structure. These devices (e.g., apparatus) and methods, for example, methods of implementing the anti-reflective structure as described herein may include laminating a material (e.g., as a "tape") directly onto a molded sleeve / removable barrier for the intraoral scanner. For example, the anti-reflective material ("tape") can be laminated onto a glass / polymer transparent cover by applying a tape having a nanoscale structure that forms an already formed moth-eye anti-reflective coating, and the transparent cover assembly including the laminated anti-reflective tape can be combined with the body of the sleeve / protective cover as described above. Typically, the moth-eye structure can be added to the transparent cover as part of the injection molding process of the transparent cover or the entire sleeve / protective cover.

[0108] Typically, the nanostructured (e.g., "moth-eye") anti-reflective structures described herein can be formed as a sticker or laminate and applied to the transparent cover; alternatively or additionally, these nanostructured anti-reflective surfaces can be formed directly on the transparent cover as a coating or layer (e.g., without using a "sticker" configuration, which can include additional adhesive material). In some variations, the anti-reflective structures described herein can be formed directly on the transparent cover. For example, the nanostructures that form the AR layer or coating can be formed during the injection molding process that forms the sleeve. For example, the mold used to form the sleeve and / or the transparent cover (or in some cases, both) can include an insert stamp having the nanostructures. One or both of the inner and outer surfaces of the transparent cover can include an AR layer.

[0109] Any device or apparatus may include an anti-reflective layer or coating formed by one or more stickers on a transparent cover. For example, one or more stickers including nanostructures may be laminated on the optical area of ​​the transparent cover. In some examples, only one side (e.g., the outside) may include a coating / sticker (e.g., anti-reflective (AR)). The anti-reflective laminated "stickers" described herein may be particularly advantageous. For example, these structures may be formed at a relatively low cost (e.g., compared to similar anti-reflective coatings) and may be added to a glass or polymer transparent cover of a removable protective cover / sleeve for an intraoral scanner. These structures may achieve similar anti-reflective properties on a glass or polymer transparent cover. The laminated (e.g., sticker) configuration described herein may allow the anti-reflective material to be manufactured separately from the transparent cover, which may allow the formation of even complex anti-reflective designs (e.g., nanostructures) that may include multiple layers disposed on a substrate, even when the multiple layers require higher temperatures to form. By manufacturing the anti-reflective sticker with the anti-reflective coating separately from the transparent cover, damage to the transparent cover may be avoided, and in particular, thermal damage to the polymer transparent cover may be avoided. Typically, these methods and apparatus can have very high performance antireflective coatings.

[0110] The antireflective materials described herein can have very high antireflective properties over a wide spectral range and a wide range of incidence angles, especially compared to other antireflective coating methods such as layer deposition.

[0111] The anti-reflective material may be on the outside of the transparent cover (e.g., facing the patient). In some variations, the anti-reflective material may be on the inside of the transparent cover (e.g., facing the intraoral scanner). In some variations, the anti-reflective material may be on both the inside and outside of the transparent cover. Including an anti-reflective (e.g., "moth-eye") material on the outside of the transparent cover may be particularly advantageous, as it may also be hydrophobic and may help prevent saliva from spreading on the transparent cover.

[0112] In some variations, the device may include a transparent cover (e.g., on a sleeve / removable barrier for an intraoral scanner) to which an anti-reflective material (e.g., a moth-eye nanostructured material) is attached. The nanostructured anti-reflective material (which may be configured to pass both visible light and / or near-infrared light) may be laminated onto the transparent cover. For example, the moth-eye (nanostructured anti-reflective material) may be configured as a sticker; the sticker may be laminated to both the inner and outer surfaces of a molded sleeve. Thus, the sticker including a nanostructured surface forming the anti-reflective (moth-eye) material may be attached to both the inner and outer surfaces during manufacturing. Subsequently, the transparent cover may be assembled to the sleeve / removable barrier for the intraoral scanner as described herein.

[0113] Alternatively, in some variations, the method for forming the transparent cover of the sleeve may include forming a nanostructured anti-reflective material on the optically transparent cover. For example, in some variations, the transparent cover can be formed by an injection molding process, wherein the mold for injection molding the transparent cover includes a nanostructure (e.g., a pattern of hexagonal nanoscale protrusions). For example, a moth-eye anti-reflective nanostructure can be implemented during the injection molding process of the optically transparent cover of the sleeve, and the transparent cover can be subsequently assembled to the sleeve body. In some variations, the moth-eye anti-reflective nanostructure can be implemented during the injection molding process of the entire sleeve body.

[0114] In addition to the intraoral scanners described herein, these methods and materials (eg, patches of nanostructured antireflective material) can be used as part of any optical system having a similar geometric arrangement as described herein.

[0115] In some examples, nanoimprinting can be used to form the AR layer. For example, a liquid paint can be added to the outer surface of a sleeve (e.g., a transparent cover). Nanostructures can be applied to the paint using nanoimprint lithography.

[0116] The nanostructures may be, for example, hexagonal and / or hexagonally arranged protrusions having a height between 100 nm and 900 nm (e.g., between 200 nm and 800 nm, between 250 nm and 700 nm), a pitch between about 20 nm and 1000 nm (e.g., between 30 nm and 900 nm, etc.), and a gap between about 100 nm and 600 nm (e.g., between 200 nm and 500 nm, etc.). In some embodiments, multiple layers of the nanoscale pattern (of protrusions) may be stacked on top of each other (e.g., 2 layers, 3 layers, etc.); each layer may be made of a different material (e.g., SiO2, Al2O3, MgF2, TiO2, InSb, ZnO, ZrO2, HgCdTe, Ge, etc.). The nanostructures may be formed on a substrate comprising the same or different materials (e.g., Si, etc.).

[0117] In some examples, the AR layer or coating can be applied by vacuum deposition. For example, an injected ACS can be inserted into a vacuum chamber and the outer surface of the sleeve and / or transparent cover. In some examples, the dielectric layer can be formed by evaporation in this manner. In some examples, the device can be coated by dip coating. For example, the sleeve and / or the transparent cover of the sleeve can be coated by immersion in a coating bath. Either or both the inside and outside can be coated in this manner.

[0118] Any of the methods described herein (including user interfaces) may be implemented as software, hardware, or firmware and may be described as a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a set of instructions executable by a processor (e.g., a computer, tablet, smart phone, etc.) that, when executed by the processor, causes the processor to control the execution of any of the steps, including but not limited to: displaying, communicating with a user, analyzing, modifying parameters (including timing, frequency, intensity, etc.), determining, alerting, etc.

[0119] When a feature or element is referred to herein as being "on" another feature or element, it can be directly located on the other feature or element, or there can be intervening features or elements. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being "directly on" another feature or element, there are no intervening features or elements. It should also be understood that when a feature or element is referred to as being "connected," "attached," or "coupled" to another feature or element, it can be directly connected, attached, or coupled to the other feature or element, or there can be intervening features or elements. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being "directly connected," "directly attached," or "directly coupled" to another feature or element, there are no intervening features or elements. Although described or illustrated with respect to one embodiment, the features and elements so described or illustrated can apply to other embodiments. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that references to structures or features that are disposed "adjacent" another feature can have portions that overlap with or are below adjacent features.

[0120] The terms used herein are only used for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention. For example, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, as used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "said" are intended to also include plural forms. It should also be understood that the terms "include" and / or "comprise" when used in this specification specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or their groups. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more associated listed items and can be abbreviated as " / ".

[0121] Spatially relative terms (such as "under...", "below...", "below...", "on...", "upper...", etc.) may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element or feature or to multiple elements or features as shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that spatially relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation other than the orientation depicted in the accompanying drawings. For example, if the device in the accompanying drawings is reversed, the elements described as "under other elements or features" or "below other elements or features" can be oriented as "on other elements or features". Therefore, the exemplary term "under..." can cover both "on..." and "under..." orientations. The device can be oriented otherwise (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptors used herein are interpreted accordingly. Similarly, unless otherwise specifically stated, the terms "upward", "downward", "vertical", "horizontal", etc. are used herein for illustrative purposes.

[0122] Although the terms "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe various features / elements (including steps), these features / elements should not be limited by these terms unless the context indicates otherwise. These terms can be used to distinguish one feature / element from another. Thus, a first feature / element discussed below could be referred to as a second feature / element, and similarly, a second feature / element discussed below could be referred to as a first feature / element, without departing from the teachings of the present invention.

[0123] Throughout this specification and the appended claims, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise" and variations such as "comprises" and "comprising" mean that various components can be used together in methods and articles of manufacture (e.g., compositions and apparatus including devices and methods). For example, the term "comprising" will be understood to imply the inclusion of any stated elements or steps but not the exclusion of any other elements or steps.

[0124] In general, any apparatus and method described herein should be understood to be inclusive, but all or a subset of components and / or steps may alternatively be exclusive and may be expressed as "consisting of" or alternatively "consisting essentially of" the various components, steps, subcomponents, or substeps.

[0125] As used herein in the specification and claims, including in the examples, unless otherwise expressly stated, all numbers can be read as if beginning with the word "about" or "approximately", even if the term does not appear explicitly. When describing amplitude and / or position to indicate that the value and / or position described is within the reasonable expected range of value and / or position, the phrase "about" or "approximately" can be used. For example, a numerical value can have a value that is + / -0.1% of a set value (or range of values), + / -1% of a set value (or range of values), + / -2% of a set value (or range of values), + / -5% of a set value (or range of values), + / -10% of a set value (or range of values), etc. Unless the context indicates otherwise, any numerical value given herein is also understood to include being approximately that value or approximately that value. For example, if the value "10" is disclosed, "approximately 10" is also disclosed. Any numerical range described herein is intended to include all subranges contained therein. It should also be understood that when a value is disclosed as "less than or equal to" that value, "greater than or equal to that value" and possible ranges between values ​​are also disclosed, as would be appropriately understood by one skilled in the art. For example, if a value "X" is disclosed, then "less than or equal to X" and "greater than or equal to X" (e.g., where X is a numerical value) are also disclosed. It should also be understood that throughout this application, data is provided in a variety of different formats, and that this data represents endpoints and starting points, as well as ranges, for any combination of data points. For example, if a specific data point "10" and a specific data point "15" are disclosed, it should be understood that greater than, greater than or equal to, less than, less than or equal to, and equal to 10 and 15 are considered to be disclosed as well as between 10 and 15. It should also be understood that every unit between two specific units is also disclosed. For example, if 10 and 15 are disclosed, then 11, 12, 13, and 14 are also disclosed.

[0126] Although various illustrative embodiments have been described above, any of a number of changes may be made to the various embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention as described in the claims. For example, in alternative embodiments, the order in which the various described method steps are performed may generally be changed, and in other alternative embodiments, one or more method steps may be skipped altogether. Optional features of the various apparatus and system embodiments may be included in some embodiments and not in others. Accordingly, the foregoing description is provided primarily for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention as set forth in the claims.

[0127] The examples and descriptions included herein show, by way of illustration and not limitation, specific embodiments in which the subject matter may be practiced. As described above, other embodiments may be utilized and derived therefrom so that structural and logical replacements and changes may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For convenience only, such embodiments of the subject matter of the invention may be referred to herein individually or collectively by the term "invention," and are not intended to actively limit the scope of this application to any single invention or inventive concept, if in fact more than one is disclosed. Therefore, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, any arrangement calculated to achieve the same purpose may replace the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all modifications or variations of the various embodiments. Upon reviewing the above description, those skilled in the art will appreciate the combination of the above embodiments and other embodiments not specifically described herein.

Claims

1. A sleeve for an intraoral scanner, the sleeve comprising: a hollow body having a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the distal end is tapered and closed and the proximal end is open to receive the intraoral scanner; a window opening on a lateral side of the distal end, wherein the window opening includes a concave outer lip formed in the hollow body such that the concave outer lip is recessed into an outer surface of the hollow body; and A transparent cover over the window opening, wherein the transparent cover is seated in the recessed outer lip.

2. The sleeve of claim 1 , further comprising a ramp within the hollow body, wherein The ramp is positioned within the hollow body proximal to the window opening and is configured to guide a distal end of the intraoral scanner away from the window opening when the intraoral scanner is inserted into the sleeve.

3. The sleeve according to claim 2, wherein The ramp is adhesively secured to the wall of the hollow body.

4. The sleeve of claim 1 , further comprising a gasket at least partially circumferentially surrounding the window opening between the transparent cover and the recessed outer lip, wherein The transparent cover is secured against the gasket.

5. The sleeve according to claim 4, wherein The gasket comprises a foam material.

6. The sleeve according to claim 1, wherein The tapered distal end has a height between 10 mm and 16 mm.

7. The sleeve according to claim 1, wherein Also included is an anti-reflective coating on both the inner and outer surfaces of the transparent cover.

8. The sleeve of claim 1 , further comprising one or more protrusions extending from a periphery of the window into the window opening, the one or more protrusions being configured to enter a field of view of the intraoral scanner when the intraoral scanner is engaged with the sleeve.

9. The sleeve of claim 1, further comprising a sleeve extension extending from the proximal end of the hollow body.

10. The sleeve according to claim 9, wherein The sleeve extension is configured to be sleeved on the hollow body.

11. The sleeve according to claim 9, wherein The sleeve extension is configured to be inserted into the hollow body.

12. The sleeve according to claim 1, wherein The sleeve is formed from a polyethylene material.

13. The sleeve of claim 1, further comprising an adhesive seal around the window opening to seal the transparent cover to the window opening.

14. The sleeve according to claim 1, wherein The transparent cover is flush with the outer surface of the hollow body.

15. The sleeve according to claim 1, wherein The transparent cover is ultrasonically welded to the hollow body.

16. A sleeve for an intraoral scanner, the sleeve comprising: Hollow body; a window opening on a lateral side of a distal end of the sleeve, wherein the window opening includes a concave outer lip formed into the hollow body such that the concave outer lip is recessed into an outer surface of the hollow body; a transparent cover over the window opening, wherein the transparent cover is seated in the recessed outer lip; and A ramp within the hollow body, wherein the ramp is positioned within the hollow body proximal to the window opening and is configured to guide a distal end of the intraoral scanner away from the window opening when the intraoral scanner is inserted into the sleeve.

17. The sleeve according to claim 16, wherein The ramp is adhesively secured to the wall of the hollow body.

18. The sleeve of claim 16, further comprising a gasket at least partially circumferentially surrounding the window opening between the transparent cover and the recessed outer lip, wherein The transparent cover is secured against the gasket.

19. The sleeve according to claim 18, wherein The gasket comprises a foam material.

20. The sleeve of claim 16, wherein The distal end of the sleeve has a height between 10 mm and 16 mm.

21. The cartridge of claim 16, further comprising an anti-reflective coating on both the inner and outer surfaces of the transparent cover.

22. The sleeve of claim 16, further comprising one or more protrusions extending from a periphery of the window into the window opening, the one or more protrusions being configured to enter a field of view of the intraoral scanner when the intraoral scanner is engaged with the sleeve.

23. The sleeve of claim 16, further comprising a sleeve extension extending from the proximal end of the hollow body.

24. The sleeve according to claim 23, wherein The sleeve extension is configured to flip over upon itself when pulled distally.

25. The sleeve of claim 16, wherein The sleeve is formed from a polyethylene material.

26. The sleeve of claim 16, further comprising an adhesive seal around the window opening to seal the transparent cover to the window opening.

27. The sleeve of claim 16, wherein: The transparent cover is flush with the outer surface of the hollow body.

28. The sleeve of claim 16, wherein The transparent cover is ultrasonically welded to the hollow body.

29. The sleeve of claim 16, wherein The sleeve is formed from a polyethylene material.

30. A sleeve for an intraoral scanner, the sleeve comprising: a window opening on a lateral side of the distal end, wherein the window opening includes a concave outer lip formed into the hollow body of the sleeve such that the concave outer lip is recessed into an outer surface of the hollow body; a transparent cover over the window opening, wherein the transparent cover is seated in the recessed outer lip; and A foam gasket at least partially circumferentially surrounds the window opening between the transparent cover and the recessed outer lip, wherein the transparent cover is secured against the foam gasket.

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