Method for determining the internal structure of a denture base, method for producing a denture base, denture base, data processing device, computer program and computer-readable medium

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for determining an internal structure of a denture base (24). The method comprises obtaining outer shell data describing an outer shell (28) of the denture base (24). Furthermore, a gingival ridge line (30) is identified or gingival ridge line data describing the gingival ridge line (30) is obtained. Furthermore, a first reference line (32) is defined by parallel displacement of the gingival ridge line (30) or the gingival ridge line (30) is defined as the first reference line (32). Furthermore, a first reference point (36) is defined above or below the denture base (24). A first partition surface (40) is defined as a surface comprising all straight lines extending through the first reference point (36) and the first reference line (32). Furthermore, at least one sub-volume (V1, V3) of the denture base (24) is derived as a volume bounded by the first partition surface (40) and the outer shell (28). The invention also relates to a denture base (24). Furthermore, the invention also relates to a data processing device, a computer program and a computer readable medium.

Description

[0001] This invention relates to a method for determining the internal structure of a denture base.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing denture bases.

[0003] In addition, the present invention also relates to a denture base.

[0004] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a data processing apparatus, a computer program, and a computer-readable medium.

[0005] For the purposes of this invention, a denture base is understood as the portion of the denture base that is not used to mimic teeth. Therefore, the denture base essentially mimics the gums. Replacement teeth are not part of the denture base. The denture base can be part of a complete denture or a partial denture.

[0006] In the field of denture manufacturing, it is known that denture bases are made of plastic. In order to mimic natural gums as realistically as possible, the plastic used to make denture bases can be colored to correspond to the color of natural gums.

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to further improve the realism of denture bases, that is, to achieve a natural appearance for denture bases. In other words, the purpose is to create a method for manufacturing denture bases whose appearance is as close as possible to that of natural gums.

[0008] This objective is achieved through a method for determining the internal structure of a denture base. The method includes: - Obtain external shell data describing the outer shell of the denture base. - Identify the gingival ridge of the outer shell of the denture base, or obtain gingival ridge data describing the gingival ridge of the outer shell. - The first reference line is defined by a first displacement increment that causes the gingival ridge to move parallel to the interior of the outer shell, or the gingival ridge is defined as the first reference line. - Define a first reference point, which is located above or below the denture base during its positioning. - The first dividing surface is defined as the surface that includes all straight lines extending through the first reference point and the first reference line, and - Derive at least one sub-volume of the denture base as a volume defined by a first separating surface and an outer shell.

[0009] The method according to the invention is based on the observation that natural gingiva is not uniform in optical properties such as color, color brightness, and / or translucency. For example, in the region of the root canal, the color of natural gingiva is lighter because the gingival tissue there is thinner, generally has less blood supply, and the teeth are more exposed. Natural gingiva tends to have a soft color gradient, i.e., without sharp color changes. Based on this, a concept has been developed to achieve the most natural possible appearance for the denture base not only by using the most natural possible external shell but also by using the internal structure of the denture base. In addition to the natural reproduction of the external shell, according to the invention, the internal structure of the denture base should also be selected in a way that enhances the overall realism of the denture base. The basic idea here is to actively influence the natural appearance of the denture base through the interaction of different segments of the denture base with different optical properties, particularly different colors, different color brightness, and / or different translucency. These different segments collectively form the internal structure of the denture base. The method according to the invention takes into account this finding, wherein the method can be used to determine the internal structure of the denture base to produce an extremely natural appearance. Meanwhile, the method according to the invention is relatively simple and easily implemented, especially in CAD or CAM software. The process steps represent a set of rules that can be automatically implemented in CAD or CAM software. The input data used is external shell data, which can be defined individually for each patient. For example, the external shell data is based on scan data describing the oral cavity (i.e., the inside of the patient's mouth). Such scan data can be generated using an intraoral scanner. Based on such scan data, the external shell data can be modeled in dental CAD software and adjusted in dental CAM software as necessary or desired. The external shell data describes the external shell of the denture base in virtual space. The method according to the invention also includes identifying the gingival ridge. In this context, the gingival ridge is understood as a line connecting the local highest point of the denture base reference to a predefined dimension or direction. In this case, the specified dimension corresponds to the depth direction of the alveolar socket of the denture base. This direction is also referred to as the Z-direction in dental technology. The origin is located at the centroid of the denture base. The positive Z-direction is defined as a direction parallel to the outward movement from the alveolar socket. As explained in detail below, the gingival ridge can be a labial gingival ridge or a lingual gingival ridge. In the first example, the gingival ridge is the line connecting the highest point of the denture base on the labial side of the alveolar socket. In the second example, the gingival ridge is the line connecting the highest point of the denture base on the lingual side of the alveolar socket. As an alternative to identifying the gingival ridge, gingival ridge data describing the gingival ridge of the outer shell can also be obtained. Based on this, the septal surface can be defined in a simple and reliable manner by parallel displacement of the gingival ridge (which leads to the definition of a first reference line) and by defining a reference point. The parallel displacement is performed in the negative Z direction. As an alternative to parallel displacement of the gingival ridge, the gingival ridge can be defined as the first reference line.It goes without saying that the definition of the first reference line (with parallel displacement if necessary), the definition of the first reference point, and the definition of the first separating surface are performed in virtual space. These steps can be performed relatively easily in an automated manner using CAD or CAM software. Therefore, the separating surface divides the denture base, defined by the outer shell, into at least two segments. Based on this, at least one sub-volume can be derived as a volume defined by the first separating surface and the outer shell. Two sub-volumes can also be derived, each defined by segments of the first separating surface and the outer shell located on either side of the first separating surface. It should be understood that the definition of the sub-volumes by the first separating surface and the outer shell should not be construed as exhaustive; that is, the sub-volumes can also be defined by other elements. One or more sub-volumes form the internal structure of the denture base. Materials with different optical properties can be assigned to the sub-volumes. This gives the denture base a natural appearance.

[0010] The first dividing surface defined in the method of this invention also runs diagonally when viewed along the jaw arch line, meaning it is neither horizontal nor vertical in the positioning of the denture base. This means that, when viewed perpendicular to the jaw arch line, the segments of the denture base separated by the first dividing surface are located behind each other. It is assumed that the anterior segments have a certain degree of translucency when viewed from the front, and the posterior segments appear to be at least partially visible through the anterior segments when viewed from the front. This also contributes to the natural appearance of the denture base.

[0011] In any variant of the invention involving parallel displacement of the gingival ridge, the first displacement increment is always greater than 0 mm. Furthermore, the first displacement increment may be less than the maximum height of the denture base. Preferably, the first displacement increment is a few millimeters. For example, the first displacement increment is 2 mm to 15 mm. Preferably, the first displacement increment is 2 mm to 10 mm. Thus, depending on the application, the first displacement increment may be, for example, 3 mm, 4 mm, or 5 mm.

[0012] The method according to the invention is performed in a particularly automated, semi-automated, and / or computer-aided manner. This means that the internal structure can be defined essentially without human intervention. In this context, there is no need to input displacement increments or assign materials, colors, color brightness, and / or translucency. The process steps represent a set of rules processed using computer support. Therefore, the method according to the invention for determining the internal structure of a denture base can be a computer-implemented method.

[0013] It goes without saying that, for the purposes of the method according to the invention, terms such as “first” and “second” are used only for simplicity and do not imply quantity or amount.

[0014] It goes without saying that the method according to the invention can be used for both partial dentures and complete dentures, including denture bases.

[0015] The method may also include: - A second reference line is defined by displacing the gingival ridge line parallel to the interior of the outer shell by a second displacement increment, wherein the first and second displacement increments are different. - Define the second separating surface as the surface that includes all straight lines extending through the first reference point and the second reference line, and - Derive at least one sub-volume of the denture base as a volume defined by a second separating surface and an outer shell.

[0016] In this variant, the second reference line is defined by displacing the gingival ridge line parallel to a second displacement increment. This allows for the definition of a total of two septal surfaces, with the same reference point, namely the first reference point, used for both septal surfaces. The outer shell of the denture base can be divided into a total of three segments using the two septal surfaces (i.e., the first septal surface and the second septal surface). Based on this, at least one sub-volume can be derived. Alternatively, a total of three sub-volumes can be derived, where the first sub-volume is defined by the outer shell and the first septal surface and is located on the side of the first septal surface opposite to the second septal surface. The second sub-volume can be defined by the outer shell and the second septal surface and is located on the side of the second septal surface opposite to the first septal surface. The third sub-volume can be defined by the first septal surface, the second septal surface, and the outer shell. The third sub-volume is located on the side of the second septal surface facing the first septal surface and the side of the first septal surface facing the second septal surface. These three sub-volumes do not intersect. Needless to say, other sub-volumes can also be derived using the first septal surface, the second septal surface, and the outer shell. This defines the finely structured internal structure of the denture base. Similarly, materials with different optical properties can be assigned to sub-volumes. In this way, denture bases are given a particularly natural appearance.

[0017] For the purposes of this invention, the second displacement increment is always greater than 0 mm. Furthermore, the second displacement increment may be less than the maximum height of the denture base. Preferably, the second displacement increment is a few millimeters. For example, the second displacement increment is 2 mm to 10 mm. Therefore, depending on the application, the second displacement increment can be, for example, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, or 5 mm.

[0018] Preferably, the second displacement increment is different in magnitude from the first displacement increment. Therefore, the second displacement increment can also be defined by the difference or increment between it and the first displacement increment, or the first displacement increment can also be defined by the difference or increment between it and the second displacement increment. The difference is 2 mm to 10 mm, preferably 2 mm to 5 mm.

[0019] Alternatively, the method may also include: - A second reference line is defined by displacing the gingival ridge line parallel to the interior of the outer shell by a second displacement increment, wherein the first and second displacement increments are different. - Define a second reference point, which is located above or below the denture base during its positioning. The first and second reference points are distinct. - Define the second separating surface as the surface that includes all straight lines extending through the second reference point and the second reference line, and - Derive at least one sub-volume of the denture base as a volume defined by a second separating surface and an outer shell.

[0020] In this variant, the second reference line is defined by displacing the gingival ridge line parallel to a second displacement increment and by defining a second reference point. This also allows for the definition of a total of two septal surfaces, but now uses different reference points, namely the first reference point and the second reference point. The outer shell of the denture base can be divided into a total of three segments using the two septal surfaces (i.e., the first septal surface and the second septal surface). Based on this, at least one sub-volume can be derived. Alternatively, a total of three sub-volumes can be derived, where the first sub-volume is defined by the outer shell and the first septal surface and is located on the side of the first septal surface opposite to the second septal surface. The second sub-volume can be defined by the outer shell and the second septal surface and can be located on the side of the second septal surface opposite to the first septal surface. The third sub-volume can be defined by the first septal surface, the second septal surface, and the outer shell. The third sub-volume is located on the side of the second septal surface facing the first septal surface and the side of the first septal surface facing the second septal surface. These three sub-volumes do not intersect. It goes without saying that other sub-volumes can also be derived using the first septal surface, the second septal surface, and the outer shell. This allows for the definition of the finely structured internal structure of the denture base. Similarly, materials with different optical properties can be assigned to sub-volumes. In this way, the denture base is given a particularly natural appearance.

[0021] As before, the second displacement increment is preferably a few millimeters. For example, the second displacement increment is 2 mm to 10 mm. Therefore, depending on the application, the second displacement increment can be, for example, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, or 5 mm. The second displacement increment can also be defined by the difference or increment from the first displacement increment. The difference is, for example, 2 mm to 10 mm, preferably 2 mm to 5 mm. As already mentioned, the first displacement increment and the second displacement increment are different.

[0022] The gingival ridge can be a labial gingival ridge or a lingual gingival ridge. Therefore, the gingival ridge can be defined as a line connecting the highest point of the denture base on the labial side of the alveolar fossa. Alternatively, the gingival ridge can be a line connecting the highest point of the denture base on the lingual side of the alveolar fossa. The method according to the invention, particularly the two variations described above, can be performed using both the labial and lingual gingival ridges. This makes it easy to determine the sub-volumes of the denture base that contribute to a natural appearance.

[0023] In one embodiment, identifying the gingival ridge includes: identifying the labial gingival ridge of the outer shell of the denture base, or obtaining labial gingival ridge data describing the labial gingival ridge of the outer shell. Furthermore, identifying the gingival ridge includes: identifying the lingual gingival ridge of the outer shell of the denture base, or obtaining lingual gingival ridge data describing the lingual gingival ridge of the outer shell. Additionally, the first reference line is defined by displacing the labial gingival ridge parallel to the interior of the outer shell by a first displacement increment. Alternatively, the labial gingival ridge is defined as the first reference line. The method further includes: - The second reference line is defined by a second displacement increment that moves the lingual gingival ridge towards the interior of the outer shell, or the lingual gingival ridge is defined as the second reference line. - Define the second separating surface as the surface that includes all straight lines extending through the first reference point and the second reference line, and - Derive at least one sub-volume of the denture base as a volume defined by a second separating surface and an outer shell.

[0024] In this variant, two distinct gingival ridges are used: the labial gingival ridge and the lingual gingival ridge. Based on this, two reference lines are defined: a first reference line and a second reference line. Using a common reference point (the first reference point in this case), two separating surfaces are defined, referred to here as the first separating surface and the second separating surface. Using these two separating surfaces, the outer shell of the denture base can be divided into a total of three segments. Based on this, at least one sub-volume can be derived. Alternatively, a total of three sub-volumes can be derived, wherein the first sub-volume is defined by the outer shell and the first separating surface and lies on the side of the first separating surface opposite to the second separating surface. The second sub-volume can be defined by the outer shell and the second separating surface and may lie on the side of the second separating surface opposite to the first separating surface. The third sub-volume can be defined by the first separating surface, the second separating surface, and the outer shell. The third sub-volume lies on the side of the second separating surface facing the first separating surface and the side of the first separating surface facing the second separating surface. These three sub-volumes do not intersect. It goes without saying that other sub-volumes can also be derived using the first separating surface, the second separating surface, and the outer shell. This defines the finely structured internal structure of the denture base. Similarly, materials with different optical properties can be assigned to the sub-volumes. In this way, the denture base is given a particularly natural appearance.

[0025] According to an alternative approach, identifying the gingival ridge includes: identifying the labial gingival ridge of the outer shell of the denture base, or obtaining labial gingival ridge data describing the labial gingival ridge of the outer shell. Furthermore, identifying the gingival ridge includes: identifying the lingual gingival ridge of the outer shell of the denture base, or obtaining lingual gingival ridge data describing the lingual gingival ridge of the outer shell. Additionally, the first reference line is defined by displacing the labial gingival ridge parallel to the interior of the outer shell by a first displacement increment. Alternatively, the labial gingival ridge is defined as the first reference line. The method further includes: - The second reference line is defined by a second displacement increment that moves the lingual gingival ridge towards the interior of the outer shell, or the lingual gingival ridge is defined as the second reference line. - Define a second reference point, which is located above or below the denture base during its use and positioning, wherein the first and second reference points are located on opposite sides of the denture base. - Define the second separating surface as the surface that includes all straight lines extending through the second reference point and the second reference line, and - Derive at least one sub-volume of the denture base as a volume defined by a second separating surface and an outer shell.

[0026] In this variant, two distinct gingival ridges are also used: the labial gingival ridge and the lingual gingival ridge. Based on this, two reference lines are defined: the first reference line and the second reference line. Furthermore, two distinct reference points are now used: the first reference point and the second reference point. This allows for the definition of two separating surfaces, referred to here as the first separating surface and the second separating surface. Using these two separating surfaces, the outer shell of the denture base can be divided into a total of three segments. Based on this, at least one sub-volume can be derived. Alternatively, a total of three sub-volumes can be derived, where the first sub-volume is defined by the outer shell and the first separating surface and lies on the side of the first separating surface opposite to the second separating surface. The second sub-volume can be defined by the outer shell and the second separating surface and may lie on the side of the second separating surface opposite to the first separating surface. The third sub-volume can be defined by the first separating surface, the second separating surface, and the outer shell. The third sub-volume lies on the side of the second separating surface facing the first separating surface and the side of the first separating surface facing the second separating surface. These three sub-volumes do not intersect. It goes without saying that other sub-volumes can also be derived using the first separating surface, the second separating surface, and the outer shell. This defines the finely structured internal structure of the denture base. Similarly, materials with different optical properties can be assigned to the sub-volumes. In this way, the denture base is given a particularly natural appearance.

[0027] According to one implementation, a first reference point is located below the denture base during its use, and a second reference point is located above the denture base during its use. Alternatively, the first reference point is located above the denture base during its use, and the second reference point is located below the denture base during its use. In this context, the area above the denture base can be defined by the positive region of the denture base's Z-axis. As explained, the Z-axis is defined by the depth direction of the alveolar socket of the denture base. Therefore, the area below the denture base is defined by the negative region of the denture base's Z-axis. Furthermore, the areas above and below the denture base are each limited by the outer periphery of the denture base, which is defined by the denture base's Z-axis. This means that when viewed along a direction opposite to the positive Z-axis, one of the reference points is located behind the denture base. Therefore, figuratively speaking, this reference point is obscured by the denture base. Similarly, when viewed along the direction corresponding to the positive Z-axis, another reference point is located behind the denture base. Therefore, figuratively speaking, this reference point is obscured by the denture base. It has been found that reference points defined in this way are particularly suitable for defining cleaving surfaces used to determine the sub-volumes that contribute to the natural appearance of the denture base.

[0028] Parallel displacement can be performed along a direction that extends vertically in the positioning of the denture base. This direction can coincide with the direction of the Z-axis. Then, parallel displacement occurs along the Z-axis, preferably in a direction opposite to the positive Z-direction. It has been found that reference lines defined in this manner are particularly suitable for defining partition surfaces used to determine the sub-volumes that result in the natural appearance of the denture base.

[0029] Preferably, the first and / or second reference points are located on a vertical line passing through the centroid of the outer shell of the denture base. Alternatively, the first and / or second reference points are located on a vertical line passing through the centroid of the bounding box of the outer shell of the denture base. If the density of the denture base is constant within the outer shell, this centroid coincides with the volume centroid. The same applies if no information about the density of the denture base is available. The bounding box is a virtual cuboid placed around the outer shell of the denture base and is just large enough to contain the outer shell. The edges of the bounding box are preferably oriented parallel to the axes of the coordinate system of the denture base. It has been found that reference points defined in this manner are particularly suitable for defining partition surfaces used to determine sub-volumes that result in the natural appearance of the denture base.

[0030] According to one variant, the method may further include: - Assign material information, color information, color brightness information, and / or translucency information to sub-volumes including the gingival ridge, and - Assigning material information, color information, color brightness information, and / or translucency information to sub-volumes separated from the gingival ridge, including sub-volumes of the gingival ridge and sub-volumes separated from the gingival ridge that differ in at least one of the material information, color information, color brightness information, and translucency information.

[0031] This means that material information, color information, color brightness information, and / or translucency information can be assigned to each sub-volume within a sub-volume. In this way, the internal structure of the denture base can be defined in more detail. The fact that sub-volumes including those along the gingival ridge and those separated from it differ in at least one of the material, color, color brightness, and translucency information contributes to the natural appearance of the denture base. Overall, this allows for a detailed definition of the internal structure of the denture base, resulting in a natural appearance.

[0032] This objective can also be achieved through a method for manufacturing a denture base with a predefined outer shell. The method includes: - The internal structure of a denture base having at least one sub-volume is determined using the method according to the invention for determining the internal structure of a denture base, and - Use materials that differ in at least one of the following aspects: material, color, color brightness, and translucency to manufacture denture bases with a defined internal structure.

[0033] Therefore, materials varying in material, color, color brightness, and / or translucency are used to manufacture the internal structure of the denture base. This denture base is characterized by an extremely natural appearance. Furthermore, the method according to the invention is relatively simple and can be easily implemented, especially within a CAD-CAM workflow.

[0034] Furthermore, this objective is achieved through the denture base. The denture base has an outer shell and an internal structure, wherein the internal structure is defined by a method according to the invention for determining the internal structure of the denture base. Materials with different optical properties can be assigned to sub-volumes of the internal structure, and the sub-volumes can be made of materials with different optical properties. This gives the denture base a natural appearance.

[0035] Furthermore, this objective is achieved through a data processing device. This data processing device includes means for performing a method according to the invention for determining the internal structure of a denture base. Therefore, using such a data processing device, the internal structure of a denture base comprising at least one sub-volume can be determined. Preferably, the internal structure comprises at least two sub-volumes. Materials with different optical properties can be assigned to these sub-volumes. This gives the denture base a natural appearance.

[0036] This objective can also be achieved by a computer program. The computer program includes instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform a method according to the invention for determining the internal structure of a denture base. Therefore, by using such a computer program, the internal structure of a denture base comprising at least one sub-volume can be determined. Preferably, the internal structure comprises at least two sub-volumes. Materials with different optical properties can be assigned to these sub-volumes. This gives the denture base a natural appearance.

[0037] Furthermore, this objective is achieved through a computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium includes instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the method according to the invention. Thus, through such a computer-readable medium, the internal structure of a denture base comprising at least one sub-volume can be determined. Preferably, the internal structure comprises at least two sub-volumes. Materials with different optical properties can be assigned to these sub-volumes. This gives the denture base a natural appearance.

[0038] The invention is explained below with reference to the various embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. In the drawings: Figure 1The data processing apparatus according to the invention includes a computer-readable medium according to the invention and a computer program according to the invention, wherein the data processing apparatus is designed to execute a method according to the invention for determining the internal structure of a denture base, and wherein the data processing apparatus is coupled to a manufacturing apparatus such that a denture base according to the invention can be manufactured using the method according to the invention for manufacturing a denture base. Figure 2 According to the first implementation plan, the denture base is along the... Figure 3 The visualization of the external shell data in the view of direction II also shows elements of the method used to determine the internal structure of the denture base. Figure 3 From Figure 3 External casing data along from Figure 2 The visualization in direction III also shows elements of the method used to determine the internal structure of the denture base. Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the denture base according to the invention according to the first embodiment, which corresponds to... Figure 3 The view in plane IV-IV also shows elements of the method used to determine the internal structure of the denture base. Figure 5 According to the data of the outer shell of the denture base in the second embodiment, along the direction from Figure 6 The visualization in the direction V view also shows elements of the method used to determine the internal structure of the denture base. Figure 6 From Figure 5 External casing data along from Figure 5 The visualization in the directional VI view also shows elements of the method used to determine the internal structure of the denture base. Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the denture base according to the invention according to the second embodiment, which corresponds to Figure 6 The view in planes VII-VII also shows elements of the method used to determine the internal structure of the denture base. Figure 8 From Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the denture base according to the present invention, which corresponds to Figure 5 The views in planes VIII-VIII also show elements of the method used to determine the internal structure of the denture base. Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of the denture base according to the third embodiment of the present invention, which corresponds to Figure 4 and Figure 7The view in the image also shows elements of the method used to determine the internal structure of the denture base. Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of the denture base according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, which corresponds to Figure 4 , Figure 7 and Figure 9 The view in the image also shows elements of the method used to determine the internal structure of the denture base, and Figure 11 A cross-sectional view of the denture base according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention, which corresponds to Figure 4 , Figure 7 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 The view in the image also shows elements of the method used to determine the internal structure of the denture base.

[0039] Figure 1 Data processing device 10 is shown.

[0040] The device includes a storage unit 12 and a computing unit 14.

[0041] Storage unit 12 has a computer-readable medium 16.

[0042] The computer program 18 is stored on the computer-readable medium 16, that is, it is also stored on the storage unit 12.

[0043] The computer program 18 and thus the computer-readable medium 16 include instructions that, when executed by the computing unit 14 or more generally by a computer, cause the computing unit 14 or the computer to perform a method for determining the internal structure of the denture base.

[0044] Therefore, the storage unit 12 and the computing unit 14 represent an apparatus 20 for performing a method for determining the internal structure of a denture base.

[0045] exist Figure 1 In this example, the data processing device 10 is also coupled to the manufacturing device 22 via communication technology. The manufacturing device 22 is designed to produce denture bases 24 having an internal structure defined using methods for determining the internal structure of the denture base 24.

[0046] For this reason, in the exemplary embodiment shown, the storage unit 12 additionally includes a computer program 26 for controlling the manufacturing equipment 22. In other words, the computer program 26 includes instructions that, when executed by the computing unit 14 or more generally by a computer, cause the computing unit 14 or the computer to control the manufacturing equipment 22.

[0047] exist Figure 1In the example shown, manufacturing equipment 22 is designed to manufacture denture base 24 in an additive or generative manner. In short, manufacturing equipment 22 can therefore be described as a 3D printer.

[0048] The method for manufacturing the denture base 24 is referenced below. Figures 2 to 4 A detailed explanation is provided. This method is characterized according to the first embodiment. The denture base 24 obtained by applying this method is also characterized according to the first embodiment.

[0049] The method first involves determining the internal structure of the denture base 24. For this purpose, a method for determining the internal structure of the denture base 24 is used. This method is also characterized according to a first embodiment.

[0050] The first step S1 of the method for determining the internal structure of the denture base 24 includes obtaining external shell data describing the external shell 28 of the denture base 24. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The image shows an example of the outer shell 28 of the denture base 24 in a graphical manner.

[0051] The external casing data may include a coordinate system, which can be used to describe the external casing data in more detail.

[0052] In this coordinate system, the origin can be placed at the center of mass or the center of volume of the outer shell 28. Since no information about the mass or density distribution within the outer shell 28 is available in this example, the center of mass and the center of volume of the outer shell 28 coincide.

[0053] Furthermore, the Z-direction of the coordinate system is defined such that it extends parallel to the depth direction of the alveolar socket of the outer shell 28. The positive direction of the Z-direction is defined as parallel to the direction extending from the base of the alveolar socket toward the opening of the alveolar socket.

[0054] The remaining axes of the coordinate system are irrelevant to the following explanation and are therefore not defined in detail.

[0055] In the second step S2, the gingival ridge 30 of the outer shell 28 is identified. In this example, this is the labial gingival ridge 30a.

[0056] This is preferably performed with the aid of a computer using a data processing device 10. The identification of the gingival ridge 30 can be fully automated, or it can be identified manually.

[0057] According to an alternative, in the second step S2, only the gingival ridge data describing the gingival ridge 30 of the outer shell 28 can be obtained.

[0058] Based on this, in the third step S3, the first reference line 32 is defined by making the gingival ridge 30 move inward parallel to the interior of the outer shell 28 by a first displacement increment M1.

[0059] The displacement is performed in a direction parallel to the negative Z-axis.

[0060] The first displacement increment M1 is, for example, 2 mm.

[0061] Figure 2 and Figure 3 The first reference line is shown, although it is certainly not part of the outer shell data, but is generated based on the outer shell data.

[0062] In the fourth step S4, a second reference line 34 is also defined. This is again achieved by parallel displacement of the gingival ridge line 30, but this time by a second displacement increment M2. This displacement occurs again in a direction inside the outer housing 28 and parallel to the negative direction of the Z-axis.

[0063] The second displacement increment M2 is different from the first displacement increment, and is, for example, 5 mm.

[0064] In the example shown, the first displacement increment M1 and the second displacement increment M2 are therefore 3 mm apart by an increment MD.

[0065] Figure 2 and Figure 3 The second reference line 34 is also shown, although it is certainly not part of the outer shell data, but is generated based on the outer shell data.

[0066] In the subsequent fifth step S5, the first reference point 36 is defined (see...). Figure 4 The first reference point 36 is on the Z-axis. In this example, the first reference point 36 is located at approximately -2 cm.

[0067] In step S6, a second reference point 38 is also defined. The second reference point 38 is also located on the Z-axis. In this example, the second reference point is located at approximately -7 cm.

[0068] In the example shown, both the first reference point 36 and the second reference point 38 are located below the denture base 24 in the usage positioning of the denture base 24. This means that both reference points 36 and 38 are located in the negative range of the Z-axis.

[0069] Then, in the seventh step S7, the first separating surface 40 is defined. The first separating surface 40 is defined as a surface that includes all straight lines extending through the first reference point 36 and the first reference line 32.

[0070] Similarly, in step S8, a second separating surface 42 is defined. The second separating surface 42 is defined as a surface comprising all straight lines extending through the second reference point 38 and the second reference line 34.

[0071] Then, in step S9, the sub-volume of the denture base 24 can be derived.

[0072] In this context, the first sub-volume V1 is defined by the outer shell 28 and the first separating surface 40. Therefore, the first sub-volume V1 relates to the volume enclosed by the outer shell 28 within... Figure 4 Those sections located above the first dividing surface 40.

[0073] The second sub-volume V2 is defined by the outer shell 28 and the second separating surface 42. Therefore, the second sub-volume V2 relates to the volume surrounded by the outer shell 28. Figure 4 Those sections located below the second dividing surface 42.

[0074] The third sub-volume V3 is defined by the first partition surface 40, the second partition surface 42, and the outer shell 28. Therefore, the third sub-volume V3 refers to the segments of the volume surrounded by the outer shell 28 located between the first partition surface 40 and the second partition surface 42.

[0075] Now, in step S10, color information is assigned to each sub-volume in the sub-volume.

[0076] In the example shown, a relatively darker color is assigned to the first sub-volume V1. The first sub-volume V1 is the sub-volume that contains the gingival ridge 30.

[0077] The third subvolume V3 is assigned a relatively light color. The third subvolume V3 is adjacent to the first subvolume V1, but does not include the gingival ridge 30.

[0078] The second sub-volume V2 is assigned the same color as the first sub-volume V1, that is, a relatively darker color.

[0079] In addition, each of the sub-volumes V1, V2, and V3 is assigned material information, color brightness information, and translucency information.

[0080] However, for simplicity, in the example shown, the material information, color brightness information, and translucency information of each of the sub-volumes V1, V2, and V3 are identical. All sub-volumes V1, V2, and V3 exhibit a certain degree of translucency.

[0081] This means that when viewing the denture base 24, the segment of another sub-volume V1, V2, V3 located behind one of the sub-volumes V1, V2, V3 can be seen through the former.

[0082] When in Figure 4 This is especially true when viewing the denture base 24 from the right side in the example shown.

[0083] Because both the first dividing surface 40 and the second dividing surface 42 extend at an angle, when viewed in this manner, the segment of the third sub-volume V3 lies behind the segment of the second sub-volume V2. Similarly, the segment of the first sub-volume V1 lies behind the segment of the third sub-volume V3.

[0084] The tilting direction of the first dividing surface 40 and the second dividing surface 42 also indicates that the thickness of the segments of the first sub-volume V1, the second sub-volume V2 and the third sub-volume V3 adjacent to the first dividing surface 40 and the second dividing surface 42 changes continuously.

[0085] Therefore, according to Figure 4 In the example, a viewer looking at the denture base 24 from the right perceives a continuous color gradient.

[0086] This completely defines the internal structure of the denture base 24.

[0087] In subsequent steps of the method for manufacturing the denture base 24, a material that differs in at least one of the following aspects—material, color, color brightness, and translucency—can be used to manufacture the denture base 24 having this internal structure. As already explained, the material differs in color.

[0088] For this purpose, manufacturing equipment 22 can be used.

[0089] The result is a denture base 24 with an outer shell 28 and an internal structure, wherein the internal structure is defined by a method used to determine the internal structure of the denture base 24.

[0090] In this case, the labial gingival ridge 30a was used to explain the method for determining the internal structure of the denture base 24. However, according to a variant, the method can be performed in the same manner using the lingual gingival ridge. In this case, instead of the labial gingival ridge, the lingual gingival ridge is displaced twice in parallel. The above explanation applies accordingly.

[0091] A variant is also conceivable in which only one reference point is used, namely either a first reference point or a second reference point. In this variant, one of the first and second dividing surfaces is defined using a first reference line and a first reference point, and the other dividing surface is defined using a second reference line and a first reference point. Alternatively, one of the first and second dividing surfaces is defined using a first reference line and a second reference point, and the other dividing surface is defined using a second reference line and a second reference point.

[0092] The method for manufacturing the denture base 24 can also be designed according to the second embodiment. This is referred to below. Figures 5 to 8 A detailed explanation is provided. Therefore, the denture base 24 obtained by applying this method is also characterized according to the second embodiment.

[0093] The method again includes determining the internal structure of the denture base 24. For this purpose, a method for determining the internal structure of the denture base 24 according to the second embodiment is used.

[0094] The first step S1 of the method for determining the internal structure of the denture base 24 again includes obtaining external shell data describing the external shell 28 of the denture base 24. Figure 5 and Figure 6 The image shows an example of the outer shell 28 of the denture base 24 in a graphical manner.

[0095] The external shell data can be viewed again in the library coordinate system, which is defined in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0096] In the second step S2, the labial gingival ridge 30a and the lingual gingival ridge 30b of the outer shell 28 are identified. Compared with the method according to the first embodiment, a total of two gingival ridges 30 are identified.

[0097] This is preferably performed with the aid of a computer using a data processing device 10. The identification of the gingival ridges 30a and 30b can be fully automated. Alternatively, the gingival ridges 30a and 30b can be identified manually.

[0098] According to the alternative, in the second step S2, only the gingival ridge data describing the gingival ridges 30a and 30b of the outer shell 28 can be obtained.

[0099] Based on this, in the third step S3, the first reference line 32 is defined by making the labial gingival ridge 30a move inward parallel to the outer shell 28 by a first displacement increment M1.

[0100] The displacement is performed in a direction parallel to the negative Z-axis.

[0101] The first displacement increment M1 is, for example, 5 mm.

[0102] Figure 5 and Figure 6 The first reference line 32 is shown, although it is certainly not part of the outer shell data, but is generated based on the outer shell data.

[0103] In step S4, a second reference line 34 is also defined. This is achieved by parallel displacement of the lingual gingival ridge 30b, where the displacement is in a direction parallel to the negative Z-axis, and the first displacement increment M1 is also used. Therefore, the lingual gingival ridge 30b is also parallelly displaced by 5 mm.

[0104] Figure 5 and Figure 6 The second reference line 34 is also shown, although it is certainly not part of the outer shell data, but is generated based on the outer shell data.

[0105] In the subsequent fifth step S5, a first reference point 36 is defined. The first reference point 36 is on the Z-axis. In this example, the first reference point is located at approximately +2 cm. Therefore, compared to the previous embodiment, it is located on the positive Z-axis (see...). Figure 7 and Figure 8 ).

[0106] In step S6, a second reference point 38 is also defined. The second reference point 38 is also located on the Z-axis. In this example, the second reference point is located at approximately -7 cm.

[0107] In the example shown, the first reference point 36 is located above the denture base 24, and the second reference point 38 is located below the denture base 24 in the usage positioning of the denture base.

[0108] Then, in the seventh step S7, the first separating surface 40 is defined. The first separating surface 40 is defined as a surface that includes all straight lines extending through the first reference point 36 and the first reference line 32.

[0109] Similarly, in step S8, a second separating surface 42 is defined. The second separating surface 42 is defined as a surface comprising all straight lines extending through the second reference point 38 and the second reference line 34.

[0110] Then, the sub-volume of the denture base can be derived in step S9.

[0111] In this context, the first sub-volume V1 is defined by the outer shell 28 and the first separating surface 40. Therefore, the first sub-volume V1 relates to the volume enclosed by the outer shell 28 within... Figure 7 and Figure 8 The sections located below the first partition surface 40. Note that the first partition surface 40 intersects the volume defined by the outer housing 28 only once.

[0112] More generally, when the first separating surface 40 and the volume defined by the outer housing 28 have several individual intersecting surfaces, only the intersecting surface closest to the first reference point 36 is considered. If applicable, the same applies to the second separating surface 42 and the second reference point 38.

[0113] The second sub-volume V2 is defined by the outer shell 28 and the second separating surface 42. Therefore, the second sub-volume V2 relates to the volume surrounded by the outer shell 28. Figure 7 and Figure 8 Those sections located below the second dividing surface 42.

[0114] The third sub-volume V3 is defined by the first partition surface 40, the second partition surface 42, and the outer shell 28. Therefore, the third sub-volume V3 refers to the segments of the volume surrounded by the outer shell 28 located between the first partition surface 40 and the second partition surface 42.

[0115] Now, in step S10, color information is assigned to each sub-volume in the sub-volume.

[0116] In the example shown, a relatively darker color is assigned to the first sub-volume V1. In this embodiment, the first sub-volume V1 is a sub-volume separate from the gingival ridges 30a and 30b, i.e., it does not include any of the gingival ridges in the gingival ridges 30a and 30b.

[0117] The third sub-volume V3 is assigned a relatively light color. The third sub-volume V3 is adjacent to the first sub-volume V1. In this embodiment, the third sub-volume V3 includes both the labial gingival ridge 30a and the lingual gingival ridge 30b.

[0118] The second sub-volume is assigned the same color as the first sub-volume V1, that is, a relatively darker color.

[0119] In addition, each of the sub-volumes V1, V2, and V3 is assigned material information, color brightness information, and translucency information.

[0120] However, for simplicity, in the example shown, the material information, color brightness information, and translucency information of each of the sub-volumes V1, V2, and V3 are identical. All sub-volumes V1, V2, and V3 exhibit a certain degree of translucency.

[0121] This means that when viewing the denture base 24, the segment of another sub-volume V1, V2, V3 located behind one of the sub-volumes V1, V2, V3 can be seen through the former.

[0122] This is especially applicable in accordance with Figure 7 In the example, the denture base 24 is viewed from the right side and according to... Figure 8The examples show the denture base viewed from the left or right side.

[0123] Because both the first dividing surface 40 and the second dividing surface 42 extend at an angle, when viewed in this manner, the segment of the third sub-volume V3 lies behind the segment of the second sub-volume V2. Similarly, the segment of the first sub-volume V1 lies behind the segment of the third sub-volume V3.

[0124] The tilting direction of the first dividing surface 40 and the second dividing surface 42 also indicates that the thickness of the segments of the first sub-volume V1, the second sub-volume V2 and the third sub-volume V3 adjacent to the first dividing surface 40 and the second dividing surface 42 changes continuously.

[0125] For this reason, based on Figure 7 In the example, the denture base 24 is viewed from the right side and according to... Figure 8 In the example, an observer viewing the denture base from the left or right side perceives a continuous color gradient.

[0126] This completely defines the internal structure of the denture base 24.

[0127] In subsequent steps of the method for manufacturing the denture base 24, a material that differs in at least one of the following aspects—material, color, color brightness, and translucency—can be used to manufacture the denture base 24 having this internal structure. As already explained, the material differs in color.

[0128] For this purpose, manufacturing equipment 22 can be used.

[0129] The result is a denture base 24 with an outer shell 28 and an internal structure, wherein the internal structure is defined by a method used to determine the internal structure of the denture base 24.

[0130] Although two reference points, namely the first reference point 36 and the second reference point 38, are used in the method of the second embodiment, a variation is also contemplated in which only one reference point, either the first reference point 36 or the second reference point 38, is used. In this variation, one of the first separating surface 40 and the second separating surface 42 is defined using the first reference line 32 and the first reference point 36, and the other of the first separating surface 40 and the second separating surface 42 is defined using the second reference line 34 and the first reference point 36. Alternatively, one of the first separating surface 40 and the second separating surface 42 is defined using the first reference line 32 and the second reference point 38, and the other of the first separating surface 40 and the second separating surface 42 is defined using the second reference line 34 and the second reference point 38.

[0131] The method for manufacturing the denture base 24 can also be formulated according to the third embodiment. This is referred to below. Figure 9 A detailed explanation is provided. Therefore, the denture base 24 obtained by applying this method is also characterized according to the third embodiment.

[0132] The method again includes determining the internal structure of the denture base 24. For this purpose, a method for determining the internal structure of the denture base 24 according to the third embodiment is used.

[0133] In this context, the method for determining the internal structure of the denture base 24 according to the third embodiment represents a variation of the method for determining the internal structure of the denture base 24 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the differences between the first and third embodiments will be discussed below only.

[0134] The method for determining the internal structure of the denture base 24 according to the third embodiment differs from that of the first embodiment in that only a single reference point is used instead of two reference points.

[0135] based on Figure 4 The first implementation scheme shown, Figure 9 The third embodiment shown uses only the second reference point 38.

[0136] Therefore, the first separating surface 40 is defined using the second reference point 38 and the first reference line 32. The second separating surface 42 is defined using the second reference point 38 and the second reference line 34.

[0137] For the remainder, please refer to the above explanation of the method for determining the internal structure of the denture base 24 according to the first embodiment.

[0138] In this case, the method for determining the internal structure of the denture base 24, as explained according to the third embodiment, has been explained and illustrated using the labial gingival ridge 30a. However, according to a variant, the method can be performed in the same manner using the lingual gingival ridge 30b. In this case, instead of the labial gingival ridge 30a, the lingual gingival ridge 30b is shifted parallel twice. The above explanation applies accordingly.

[0139] The method for manufacturing the denture base 24 can also be designed according to the fourth embodiment. This is referred to below. Figure 10 A detailed explanation will be provided. Therefore, the denture base 24 obtained by applying this method is also characterized according to the fourth embodiment.

[0140] The method again includes determining the internal structure of the denture base 24. For this purpose, the method for determining the internal structure of the denture base 24 according to the fourth embodiment is used.

[0141] In this context, the method for determining the internal structure of the denture base 24 according to the fourth embodiment represents a variation of the method for determining the internal structure of the denture base 24 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the differences between the first and fourth embodiments will be discussed below only.

[0142] The difference is that the first reference line 32 is defined by defining the labial gingival ridge 30a as the first reference line 32.

[0143] As in the first embodiment, the second reference line 34 is defined by the parallel displacement of the labial gingival ridge line 30a.

[0144] For the remainder, please refer to the above explanation of the method for determining the internal structure of the denture base 24 according to the first embodiment.

[0145] In this case, the method for determining the internal structure of the denture base 24, as explained according to the fourth embodiment, has been explained and illustrated using the labial gingival ridge 30a. However, according to a variant, the method can be performed in the same manner using the lingual gingival ridge 30b. In this case, instead of the labial gingival ridge 30a, the lingual gingival ridge 30b is displaced parallel once and defined as a reference line once. The above explanation applies accordingly.

[0146] The method for manufacturing the denture base 24 can also be designed according to the fifth embodiment. This is referred to below. Figure 11 A detailed explanation is provided. Therefore, the denture base 24 obtained by applying this method is also characterized according to the fifth embodiment.

[0147] The method again includes determining the internal structure of the denture base 24. For this purpose, the method for determining the internal structure of the denture base 24 according to the fifth embodiment is used.

[0148] In this context, the method for determining the internal structure of the denture base 24 according to the fifth embodiment represents a combination of the methods for determining the internal structure of the denture base 24 according to the third embodiment and the methods for determining the internal structure of the denture base 24 according to that embodiment. Similarly, the method for determining the internal structure of the denture base 24 according to the fifth embodiment can be considered a variant of the method for determining the internal structure of the denture base 24 according to the first embodiment.

[0149] Compared with the first embodiment, in the fifth embodiment, the first reference line 32 is defined by defining the labial gingival ridge line 30a as the first reference line 32.

[0150] As in the first embodiment, the second reference line 34 is defined by the parallel displacement of the labial gingival ridge line 30a.

[0151] Furthermore, in the fifth implementation, only a single reference point is used instead of two reference points.

[0152] based on Figure 4 The first implementation scheme shown, Figure 11 The fifth embodiment shown uses only the second reference point 38.

[0153] Therefore, the first separating surface 40 is defined using the second reference point 38 and the first reference line 32. The second separating surface 42 is defined using the second reference point 38 and the second reference line 34.

[0154] For the remainder, please refer to the above explanation of the method for determining the internal structure of the denture base 24 according to the first embodiment.

[0155] In this case, the method for determining the internal structure of the denture base 24, as explained according to the fifth embodiment, has been explained and illustrated using the labial gingival ridge 30a. However, according to a variant, the method can be performed in the same manner using the lingual gingival ridge 30b. In this case, instead of the labial gingival ridge 30a, the lingual gingival ridge 30b is displaced parallel once and defined as a reference line once. The above explanation applies accordingly.

[0156] It goes without saying that the above implementation schemes can also be combined.

[0157] List of reference numerals 10 data processing devices 12 memory units 14 computing units 16 Computer-readable media 18 Computer Programs 20. Apparatus for performing a method for determining the internal structure of a denture base 22 Manufacturing Equipment 24 Dental Base 26 Computer Programs 28 outer casing 30 Gingival crest 30a Labial gingival crest 30b Lingual gingival crest 32 First Reference Line 34 Second Reference Line 36 First Reference Point 38 Second Reference Point 40 First dividing surface 42 Second dividing surface M1 First displacement increment M2 second displacement increment The difference between the first and second displacement increments in MD S1 First Step S2 Second Step S3 Third Step S4 Step 4 S5 Step 5 S6 Step 6 S7 Step 7 S8 Step 8 S9 Step 9 S10 Step 10 V1 First Subvolume V2 second subvolume V3 third subvolume

Claims

1. A method for determining the internal structure of a denture base (24), comprising: - Obtain external shell data (S1) describing the external shell (28) of the denture base (24). - Identify the gingival ridges (30, 30a, 30b) of the outer shell (28) of the denture base (28), or obtain gingival ridge data (S2) describing the gingival ridges (30, 30a, 30b) of the outer shell (28). - A first reference line (32) is defined by displacing the gingival ridges (30, 30a, 30b) parallel to the interior of the outer shell (28) by a first displacement increment (M1), or the gingival ridges (30, 30a, 30b) are defined as the first reference line (32) (S3). - Define a first reference point (36), which is located above or below the denture base (24) during the use positioning of the denture base (24) (S5). - The first separating surface (40) is defined as a surface (S7) comprising all straight lines extending through the first reference point (36) and the first reference line (32), and - At least one sub-volume (V1, V3) of the denture base (24) is derived as a volume (S9) defined by the first separating surface (40) and the outer shell (28).

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: - A second reference line (34) is defined by displacing the gingival ridges (30, 30a, 30b) parallel to the interior of the outer shell (28) by a second displacement increment (M2), wherein the first displacement increment (M1) and the second displacement increment (M2) are different (S4). - The second separating surface (42) is defined as a surface (S8) comprising all straight lines extending through the first reference point (32) and the second reference line (34), and - At least one sub-volume (V2, V3) of the denture base (24) is derived as a volume (S9) defined by the second separating surface (42) and the outer shell (28).

3. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: - A second reference line (34) is defined by displacing the gingival ridges (30, 30a, 30b) parallel to the interior of the outer shell (28) by a second displacement increment (M2), wherein the first displacement increment (M1) and the second displacement increment (M2) are different (S4). - Define a second reference point (38), which is located above or below the denture base (24) during use positioning, wherein the first reference point (36) and the second reference point (38) are different (S6). - The second separating surface (42) is defined as the surface (S8) comprising all straight lines extending through the second reference point (38) and the second reference line (34), and - At least one sub-volume (V2, V3) of the denture base (24) is derived as a volume (S9) defined by the second separating surface (42) and the outer shell (28).

4. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the gingival ridge (30, 30a, 30b) is a labial gingival ridge (30a), or wherein the gingival ridge (30, 30a, 30b) is a lingual gingival ridge (30b).

5. The method according to claim 1, Identifying the gingival ridges (30, 30a, 30b) includes: Identify the labial gingival ridge (30a) of the outer shell (28) of the denture base (24), or obtain labial gingival ridge data describing the labial gingival ridge (30a) of the outer shell (28). The identification of the gingival ridges (30, 30a, 30b) includes: identifying the lingual gingival ridge (30b) of the outer shell (28) of the denture base (28), or obtaining lingual gingival ridge data describing the lingual gingival ridge (30b) of the outer shell (28). The first reference line (32) is defined by displacing the labial gingival ridge (30a) parallel to the interior of the outer shell (28) by the first displacement increment (M1), or the labial gingival ridge (30a) is defined as the first reference line (32). The method further includes: - The second reference line (34) is defined by a second displacement increment (M2) that causes the lingual gingival ridge (30b) to move parallel to the interior of the outer housing (28), or the lingual gingival ridge (30b) is defined as the second reference line (34) (S4). - The second separating surface (42) is defined as a surface (S8) comprising all straight lines extending through the first reference point (36) and the second reference line (34), and - At least one sub-volume (V2, V3) of the denture base (24) is derived as a volume (S9) defined by the second separating surface (42) and the outer shell (28).

6. The method according to claim 1, Identifying the gingival ridges (30, 30a, 30b) includes: Identify the labial gingival ridge (30a) of the outer shell (28) of the denture base (24), or obtain labial gingival ridge data describing the labial gingival ridge (30a) of the outer shell (28). Identifying the gingival ridges (30, 30a, 30b) includes: identifying the lingual gingival ridge (30b) of the outer shell (28) of the denture base (24), or obtaining lingual gingival ridge data describing the lingual gingival ridge (30b) of the outer shell (28). The first reference line (32) is defined by displacing the labial gingival ridge (30a) parallel to the interior of the outer shell (28) by the first displacement increment (M1), or the labial gingival ridge (30a) is defined as the first reference line (32). The method further includes: - The second reference line (34) is defined by a second displacement increment (M2) that causes the lingual gingival ridge (30b) to move parallel to the interior of the outer housing (28), or the lingual gingival ridge (30b) is defined as the second reference line (34) (S4). - Define a second reference point (38), which is located above or below the denture base (24) during use positioning, wherein the first reference point (36) and the second reference point (38) are located on opposite sides of the denture base (24) (S6). - The second separating surface (42) is defined as the surface (S8) comprising all straight lines extending through the second reference point (38) and the second reference line (34), and - At least one sub-volume (V2, V3) of the denture base (24) is derived as a volume (S9) defined by the second separating surface (42) and the outer shell (28).

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the first reference point (36) is located below the denture base (24) in the use positioning of the denture base (24), and wherein the second reference point (38) is located above the denture base (24) in the use positioning of the denture base (24), or wherein the first reference point (36) is located above the denture base (24) in the use positioning of the denture base (24), and wherein the second reference point (38) is located below the denture base (24) in the use positioning of the denture base (24).

8. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the parallel displacement is performed along a direction extending perpendicularly in the use positioning of the denture base (24).

9. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first reference point (36) and / or the second reference point (38) are located on a vertical line passing through the centroid of the outer housing (28) of the denture base (24), or wherein the first reference point (36) and / or the second reference point (38) are located on a vertical line passing through the centroid of the boundary frame of the outer housing (28) of the denture base (24).

10. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: - Assign material information, color information, color brightness information, and / or translucency information to the sub-volumes (V1, V2, V3) including the gingival ridges (30, 30a, 30b), and - Assign material information, color information, color brightness information, and / or translucency information to sub-volumes (V1, V2, V3) separated from the gingival ridges (30, 30a, 30b), including the sub-volumes (V1, V2, V3) of the gingival ridges (30, 30a, 30b) and the sub-volumes (V1, V2, V3) separated from the gingival ridges (30, 30a, 30b) differing from at least one of the material information, color information, color brightness information, and translucency information (S10).

11. A method for manufacturing a denture base (24) having a predefined outer shell (28), comprising: - The internal structure of the denture base (24) having at least one sub-volume (V1, V2, V3) is determined by the method according to any one of the preceding claims, and - The denture base (24) with the defined internal structure is manufactured using a material that differs in at least one of the following: material, color, color brightness, and translucency.

12. A denture base (24) having an outer shell (28) and an internal structure, wherein the internal structure is defined by the method of any one of claims 1 to 10.

13. A data processing apparatus (10) comprising means (20) for performing the method of any one of claims 1 to 10.

14. A computer program (18) comprising instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 10.

15. A computer-readable medium (16) comprising instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 10.

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