Prosthesis data generation method and apparatus

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a prosthesis data generation method. The prosthesis data generation method comprises the steps of: obtaining first data associated with a first prosthesis configured to be disposed in an oral cavity; obtaining second data associated with a second prosthesis configured to be adjacent to the first prosthesis; generating third data, associated with a connector connected to the first prosthesis and the second prosthesis, on the basis of the first data and the second data; generating fourth data, associated with a bridge to which the first prosthesis, the second prosthesis, and the connector are connected, on the basis of the first data, the second data, and the third data, the fourth data including first fourth data associated with the first prosthesis, second fourth data associated with the second prosthesis, and third fourth data associated with the connector; and regenerating the fourth data so that each of the first fourth data and the second fourth data are closed surface data.

Description

Method and device for generating prosthesis data

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a method and device for generating prosthesis data.

[0002]

[0003] Advances in digital technology are developing methods for precisely designing patient-specific prosthetics. These technologies have enabled precise and efficient prosthetic manufacturing, freeing users from manual labor. However, many challenges remain in the design of complex prosthetics, such as bridges.

[0004] Bridges consist of multiple prosthetic elements and connectors connecting them, and require high precision during the design and manufacturing processes. Modifying individual components of the bridge has led to issues that impact other components or the overall structure. Furthermore, inadequate boundary treatment and optimization of connections between prosthetic elements can negatively impact the fit and durability of the prosthesis, necessitating the development of efficient data management and design technologies.

[0005]

[0006] The present disclosure provides a method for generating prosthesis data, a computer program stored in a recording medium, and a device (system) for solving the above-described problems.

[0007]

[0008] The present disclosure can be implemented in various ways, including a method, a device (system), and / or a computer program stored in a computer-readable storage medium, and a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored therein.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for generating prosthesis data performed by at least one processor may include: acquiring first data associated with a first prosthesis configured to be placed in an oral cavity; acquiring second data associated with a second prosthesis configured to be adjacent to the first prosthesis; generating third data associated with a connector connected to the first prosthesis and the second prosthesis based on the first data and the second data; generating fourth data associated with a bridge to which the first prosthesis, the second prosthesis, and the connector are connected based on the first data, the second data, and the third data, wherein the fourth data includes 4_1 data associated with the first prosthesis, 4_2 data associated with the second prosthesis, and 4_3 data associated with the connector; and regenerating the fourth data such that each of the 4_1 data and the 4_2 data becomes closed surface data.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the step of generating the third data may include the step of identifying a first region adjacent to a second prosthesis on an outer surface of the first prosthesis in the first data, the step of identifying a second region adjacent to the first prosthesis on an outer surface of the second prosthesis in the second data, and the step of forming a connector connecting at least a portion of the first region and at least a portion of the second region.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the step of identifying the first region may include the step of identifying a bounding box for the first prosthesis, and the step of determining a portion of an outer surface of the first prosthesis corresponding to a portion of the bounding box as the first region.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the step of identifying the second region may include a step of identifying a portion of an outer surface of the second prosthesis corresponding to the first region as the second region, based on a first direction from the center of the first prosthesis toward the center of the second prosthesis.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the step of forming a connector may include the step of generating a central curve disposed between the first region and the second region based on the first region and the second region, and the step of forming the connector based on the first region, the second region, and the central curve.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the step of generating a central curve includes the step of generating a first curve, which is a part of an outer surface of the connector, based on a boundary line of a first region, the step of generating a second curve, which is a part of an outer surface of the connector, based on a boundary line of a second region, and the step of generating a central curve, based on the first curve and the second curve, wherein the connector can connect the first curve and the second curve.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the step of generating the first curve may include the step of generating the first curve by smoothing a boundary line of the first region, and the step of generating the second curve may include the step of generating the second curve by smoothing a boundary line of the second region.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the step of generating a central curve based on the first curve and the second curve may include the step of identifying a first point located on the first curve and a second point located on the second curve and corresponding to the first point, and the step of obtaining a third point on the central curve located between the first point and the second point, based on the first point and the second point.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the step of forming a connector may include the step of forming a concave connector in a direction perpendicular to the direction from the first prosthesis to the second prosthesis.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the 4_1 data may include identification information of the first prosthesis, the 4_2 data may include identification information of the second prosthesis, and the 4_3 data may include identification information of the first prosthesis and identification information of the second prosthesis.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the 4_1 data and the 4_2 data may include at least one of first information representing the outer surface or second information representing the inner surface.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the method may further include the step of receiving a user input for selecting at least one of the first prosthesis, the second prosthesis, or the connector, and, in response to the user input, the step of outputting at least one of the 4_1 data, the 4_2 data, or the 4_3 data to be highlighted.

[0021] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, in the 4_1 data, the first prosthesis includes a first void region in which an area surrounded by a connector on an outer surface is empty, and in the 4_2 data, the second prosthesis includes a second void region in which an area surrounded by a connector on an outer surface is empty, and the step of regenerating the 4_1 data and the 4_2 data may include a step of regenerating the 4_1 data and the 4_2 data so that the first void region and the second void region are filled.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the step of regenerating the fourth data may include, in the 4_2 data, a step of moving a portion of the outer surface of the second prosthesis in a first direction from the center of the first prosthesis toward the center of the second prosthesis, and, in the 4_1 data, a step of moving a portion of the outer surface of the first prosthesis in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0023] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the step of regenerating the 4th data may include repeating the step of smoothing the boundary line between the regenerated 4_1 data and the 4_3 data, and the step of moving the boundary line closer to the regenerated 4_1 data, for a preset number of times.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the method may further include the step of obtaining correction data for at least one of the first prosthesis, the second prosthesis, or the connector, and the step of updating the fourth data based on the correction data and the regenerated fourth data.

[0025] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a computing device includes a memory, and at least one processor coupled to the memory and configured to execute at least one computer-readable program contained in the memory, and the at least one program may include instructions for obtaining first data associated with a first prosthesis configured to be placed in an oral cavity, obtaining second data associated with a second prosthesis configured to be adjacent to the first prosthesis, generating third data associated with a connector connected to the first prosthesis and the second prosthesis based on the first data and the second data, and generating fourth data associated with a bridge to which the first prosthesis, the second prosthesis, and the connector are connected based on the first data, the second data, and the third data, wherein the fourth data includes 4_1 data associated with the first prosthesis, 4_2 data associated with the second prosthesis, and 4_3 data associated with the connector, and regenerating the fourth data such that each of the 4_1 data and the 4_2 data becomes closed surface data.

[0026]

[0027] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, modifications of components within a bridge can be freely made, and user convenience in designing a bridge can be increased.

[0028] The effects of the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs (referred to as “one skilled in the art”) from the description of the claims.

[0029]

[0030] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals represent similar elements, but are not limited thereto.

[0031] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining an oral image processing system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of a computing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for generating prosthesis data according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing an example of an oral model according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing an example of an oral model according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing an example of an oral model according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing an example of an oral model according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIGS. 8 to 12 are diagrams illustrating a method for generating data associated with a connector according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIGS. 13 to 15 are diagrams illustrating a method for regenerating fourth data associated with a bridge according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for updating fourth data associated with a bridge according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] FIGS. 17 to 20 are diagrams for explaining a process of regenerating fourth data associated with a bridge according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042]

[0043] Hereinafter, specific details for implementing the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. However, in the following description, specific descriptions of widely known functions or configurations will be omitted if they may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present disclosure.

[0044] In the attached drawings, identical or corresponding components are assigned the same reference numerals. Furthermore, in the description of the embodiments below, duplicate descriptions of identical or corresponding components may be omitted. However, even if a description of a component is omitted, it is not intended that such component is not included in any embodiment.

[0045] The advantages and features of the disclosed embodiments, and methods for achieving them, will become clearer with reference to the embodiments described below, along with the accompanying drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below and may be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided solely to ensure the completeness of the disclosure and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention.

[0046] The terms used in this specification will be briefly explained, followed by a detailed description of the disclosed embodiments. The terms used in this specification have been selected from widely used, current terms, taking into account the functions of the present disclosure. However, these terms may vary depending on the intentions of engineers working in the relevant field, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Furthermore, in certain cases, terms may be arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in such cases, their meanings will be described in detail in the relevant description of the invention. Therefore, the terms used in this disclosure should not be defined simply as names of terms, but rather based on their meanings and the overall content of the present disclosure.

[0047] In this specification, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, plural expressions include singular expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. When a part of the specification is said to include a component, this does not exclude other components, but rather implies that other components may be included, unless otherwise specifically stated.

[0048] Also, the term 'module' or 'part' used in the specification means a software or hardware component, and the 'module' or 'part' performs certain roles. However, the 'module' or 'part' is not limited to software or hardware. The 'module' or 'part' may be configured to reside on an addressable storage medium and may be configured to execute one or more processors. Thus, as an example, the 'module' or 'part' may include at least one of components such as software components, object-oriented software components, class components, and task components, processes, functions, attributes, procedures, subroutines, segments of program code, drivers, firmware, microcode, circuitry, data, databases, data structures, tables, arrays, or variables. The functionality provided within the components and 'modules' or 'parts' may be combined into a smaller number of components and 'modules' or 'parts', or further separated into additional components and 'modules' or 'parts'.

[0049] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a 'module' or 'unit' may be implemented as a processor and a memory. 'Processor' should be broadly construed to include a general-purpose processor, a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a controller, a microcontroller, a state machine, and the like. In some circumstances, a 'processor' may also refer to an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (PLD), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), and the like. A 'processor' may also refer to a combination of processing devices, such as, for example, a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a combination of multiple microprocessors, a combination of one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such combination of configurations. In addition, 'memory' should be broadly construed to include any electronic component capable of storing electronic information. 'Memory' may refer to various types of processor-readable media, such as random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), non-volatile random access memory (NVRAM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable PROM (EEPROM), flash memory, magnetic or optical data storage, registers, etc. Memory is said to be in electronic communication with the processor if the processor can read information from, and / or write information to, the memory. Memory integrated in a processor is in electronic communication with the processor.

[0050] In addition, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. used in the following embodiments are only used to distinguish certain components from other components, and the nature, order, or sequence of the components are not limited by the terms.

[0051] Additionally, in the embodiments below, when it is described that a component is 'connected', 'coupled' or 'connected' to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly connected or connected to the other component, but another component may also be 'connected', 'coupled' or 'connected' between each component.

[0052] In the present disclosure, 'each of the plurality of As' may refer to each of all components included in the plurality of As, or may refer to each of some components included in the plurality of As.

[0053] Additionally, the terms 'comprises' and / or 'comprising' used in the following embodiments do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other components, steps, operations and / or elements.

[0054] In the present disclosure, the "system" may include, but is not limited to, at least one of a server device and a cloud device. For example, the system may be comprised of one or more server devices. As another example, the system may be comprised of one or more cloud devices. As yet another example, the system may be configured and operated by a combination of a server device and a cloud device.

[0055] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an oral image processing system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The oral image processing system may include a three-dimensional scanner (100) and a computing device (200) connected to the three-dimensional scanner (100) via a network or the like. The oral image processing system may acquire an image of the oral cavity scanned using the three-dimensional scanner (100). The computing device (200) may create an oral cavity model based on the image.

[0056] A 3D scanner (100) is a device for scanning an object and may be a medical device for acquiring an image of the object. In one embodiment, the object may include any body part that can be scanned by the 3D scanner (100). For example, the object may include at least one of an oral cavity, an artificial structure, or a plaster model modeling an oral cavity or an artificial structure.

[0057] In one embodiment, the 3D scanner (100) may be a handheld type that a user holds in his / her hand and moves while scanning the oral cavity. The 3D scanner (100) may be inserted into the oral cavity and scan teeth in a non-contact manner, thereby obtaining an image of the oral cavity including at least one tooth. In addition, the 3D scanner (100) may have a form that can be inserted and extracted into the oral cavity, and may scan the inside of the patient's oral cavity using at least one image sensor (e.g., an optical camera, etc.). Although the 3D scanner (100) is illustrated as a handheld scanner in FIG. 1, it may be a table scanner. For example, a table scanner may be a scanner that scans an object by rotating a table to obtain surface information about the object as raw data.

[0058] In one embodiment, the 3D scanner (100) may include a main body (110) and a tip (130). For example, the main body (110) may include a light irradiator that projects light and a camera that captures an object to obtain an image. For example, the tip (130) is a part that is inserted into the oral cavity and may be mounted on the main body (110) in a detachable structure. The tip (130) may include a means for changing the light path. It may direct light irradiated from the main body (110) toward the object, and direct light received from the object toward the main body (110).

[0059] In one embodiment, the three-dimensional scanner (100) can obtain information for imaging the surface of at least one of teeth, gums, and artificial structures insertable into the oral cavity (e.g., orthodontic devices, implants, artificial teeth, orthodontic assistive devices inserted into the oral cavity, etc.) inside the oral cavity. The three-dimensional scanner (100) can obtain surface information about the object as raw data. Based on the obtained raw data, the three-dimensional scanner (100) can image a representation of at least one of teeth, gums, and artificial structures insertable into the oral cavity, thereby obtaining a two-dimensional oral cavity image representing the oral cavity in two dimensions or a three-dimensional oral cavity image representing the oral cavity in three dimensions.

[0060] In one embodiment, the computing device (200) may receive raw data and / or oral cavity images generated by the three-dimensional scanner (100). Based on the received raw data and / or oral cavity images, the computing device (200) may generate an oral cavity model representing the interior of the oral cavity. The oral cavity model may include data regarding surfaces of teeth, gingiva, artificial structures that can be inserted into the oral cavity, etc. within the oral cavity. The oral cavity model may include surface data, mesh data, three-dimensional images, two-dimensional images, etc.

[0061] In one embodiment, the computing device (200) may obtain data regarding teeth, gingiva, artificial structures insertable into the oral cavity, etc., within the oral cavity from an oral cavity model that implements the inside of the oral cavity. For example, the computing device (200) may obtain data representing teeth, gingiva, artificial structures insertable into the oral cavity, etc., within the oral cavity through pre-performed modeling. In addition, the computing device (200) may modify at least a portion of the obtained data based on a user input. For example, the computing device (200) may modify at least a portion of the surface of a structure corresponding to a user input in the data representing a structure in the oral cavity model.

[0062] In one embodiment, tooth preparation may be performed to create a prosthesis for dental treatment. Tooth preparation refers to the process of creating space for the planned restorative material by cutting the tooth, removing decay or structurally unsound portions, etc., to restore the tooth to its original form and function. Tooth preparation may be abbreviated as "prep."

[0063] In one embodiment, a tooth prior to tooth preparation may be referred to as a "pre-preparation tooth." A tooth after tooth preparation may be referred to as a "prepared tooth."

[0064] In one embodiment, a dental prosthesis or restoration may refer to an artificial replacement for a tooth that is lost or missing. For example, a crown may refer to a dental cap, a type of dental restoration that completely covers or encloses a tooth or implant. A pontic may be a dental restoration that replaces a missing tooth. A bridge may be a fixed dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. A bridge may include a crown and a pontic that fills the missing portion. The crown of the bridge may be fixed to teeth and / or implants on either side of the missing tooth. The pontic of the bridge may be supported by the crown and / or implant to replace the missing portion. A connector may be a structure within the bridge that connects a pontic to a crown, a pontic to a pontic, or a crown to a crown.

[0065] In one embodiment, when the 3D scanner (100) scans a prepared tooth, the computing device (200) can obtain an oral image including the prepared tooth. When the 3D scanner (100) scans a pre-prepared tooth, the computing device (200) can obtain an oral image including the pre-prepared tooth. The tooth described below may be either a prepared tooth or a pre-prepared tooth.

[0066] In one embodiment, the computing device (200) may generate a virtual oral cavity model that embodies the interior of the oral cavity based on an oral cavity image. For example, the computing device (200) may perform object recognition on teeth, gums, artificial structures that can be inserted into the oral cavity, etc. from the oral cavity image. The computing device (200) may generate data specifying the surface (e.g., the outer surface, the inner surface, etc.) of the object-recognized object, and generate an oral cavity model that visualizes the data.

[0067] In one embodiment, the computing device (200) can obtain data associated with a prosthesis corresponding to an object included in an oral cavity image. Furthermore, the computing device (200) can obtain data associated with a pre-generated prosthesis. The computing device (200) can display the data associated with the prosthesis on the oral cavity model.

[0068] In one embodiment, the computing device (200) may generate data associated with a prosthesis based on an oral cavity model generated using data (e.g., raw data, oral cavity images, etc.) output by the 3D scanner (100). For example, the oral cavity model may include data associated with at least one of the maxilla, the mandible, or the occlusion. The maxilla may refer to the maxilla and teeth, gingiva, artificial structures, etc. positioned on the maxilla. The mandible may refer to the mandible and teeth, gingiva, artificial structures, etc. positioned on the mandible. The occlusion may refer to a state in which the maxilla and the mandible interlock when the mouth is closed. The computing device (200) may identify a prepared tooth based on data associated with at least one of the maxilla, the mandible, or the occlusion. The computing device (200) may generate data associated with the inner surface of the prosthesis so as to correspond to the shape of the prepared tooth based on data associated with at least one of the maxilla or the mandible. That is, the inner surface of the prosthesis can be engaged with the outer surface of the prepared tooth. The computing device (200) can generate data associated with the outer surface of the prosthesis based on data associated with occlusion so that the outer surface of the prosthesis is in harmony with the surrounding teeth, gingiva, artificial structures, etc. of the prepared tooth when occluded. That is, the outer surface of the prosthesis can be appropriately engaged with teeth, gingiva, artificial structures other than the prepared tooth when occluded. The computing device (200) can generate data associated with the prosthesis by synthesizing the data associated with the outer surface of the prosthesis and the data associated with the inner surface of the prosthesis. Although the data associated with the prosthesis is described as being directly generated by the computing device (200), the data associated with the prosthesis may be generated from a computing device other than the computing device (200), and the computing device (200) may receive the data associated with the generated prosthesis.

[0069] In one embodiment, the prosthesis may be configured to be placed within the oral cavity. For example, the prosthesis may be configured to be placed on a prepared tooth. As another example, the prosthesis may be configured to be placed in place of a pre-prepared tooth within the oral cavity. As another example, the prosthesis may be configured to be placed in place of a missing tooth within the oral cavity. That is, the prosthesis may be configured to be placed in an area within the oral cavity where a tooth may be placed or where a tooth has been placed.

[0070] The computing device (200) can obtain first data associated with a first prosthesis and second data associated with a second prosthesis configured to be adjacent to the first prosthesis. Based on the first data and the second data, the computing device (200) can generate third data associated with connectors connected to the first prosthesis and the second prosthesis. A method for generating the third data associated with the connector is described with reference to FIGS. 8 to 12.

[0071] The computing device (200) can generate fourth data associated with the first prosthesis, the second prosthesis, and the bridge to which the connector is connected based on the first data, the second data, and the third data. The fourth data can include 4_1 data associated with the first prosthesis, 4_2 data associated with the second prosthesis, and 4_3 data associated with the connector. The computing device (200) can regenerate the fourth data so that each of the 4_1 data and the 4_2 data becomes closed surface data. A method of regenerating the fourth data will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 13 to 15.

[0072] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the internal configuration of a computing device (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The computing device (200) may include a memory (210), a processor (220), a communication module (230), and an input / output interface (240). The computing device (200) may be configured to communicate information and / or data via a network using the communication module (230). For example, a user may use the computing device (200) to generate prosthesis data. The user may use the computing device (200) to generate data associated with a connector connected to a first prosthesis and a second prosthesis. The user may generate data associated with a bridge connecting the first prosthesis, the second prosthesis, and the connector. To edit the data associated with the bridge, the user may regenerate the data associated with the bridge so that the prosthesis becomes a closed surface.

[0073] The memory (210) may include any non-transitory computer-readable recording medium. According to one embodiment, the memory (210) may include a permanent mass storage device such as a random access memory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), a disk drive, a solid state drive (SSD), a flash memory, etc. As another example, a permanent mass storage device such as a ROM, an SSD, a flash memory, a disk drive, etc. may be included in the computing device (200) as a separate permanent storage device distinct from the memory. In addition, the memory (210) may store an operating system and at least one program code (e.g., code for generating prosthesis data installed and operated in the computing device (210).

[0074] These software components may be loaded from a computer-readable recording medium separate from the memory (210). This separate computer-readable recording medium may include a recording medium directly connectable to the computing device (200), for example, a computer-readable recording medium such as a floppy drive, a disk, a tape, a DVD / CD-ROM drive, a memory card, etc. As another example, the software components may be loaded into the memory (210) through a communication module (230) other than a computer-readable recording medium. For example, at least one program may be loaded into the memory (210) based on a computer program (e.g., a program for generating prosthetic data, etc.) that is installed by files provided by developers or a file distribution system that distributes installation files of applications through the communication module (230).

[0075] The processor (220) may be configured to process instructions of a computer program by performing basic arithmetic, logic, and input / output operations. The instructions may be provided to a user terminal (not shown) or another external system by the memory (210) or the communication module (230). For example, the processor (220) may generate data associated with a connector connected to the first prosthesis and the second prosthesis based on data associated with the first prosthesis and data associated with the second prosthesis. The processor (220) may generate data associated with a bridge connecting the first prosthesis, the second prosthesis, and the connector based on data associated with the first prosthesis, data associated with the second prosthesis, and data associated with the connector.

[0076] The communication module (230) may provide a configuration or function for the computing device (200) to communicate with a 3D scanner (e.g., the 3D scanner (100) of FIG. 1), a user terminal (not shown), etc. via a network, and may provide a configuration or function for the computing device (200) to communicate with an external system (e.g., a separate cloud system, etc.). For example, control signals, commands, data, etc. provided under the control of the processor (220) of the computing device (200) may be transmitted to the user terminal and / or the external system via the communication module (230) and the network via the communication module of the user terminal and / or the external system.

[0077] In addition, the input / output interface (240) of the computing device (200) may be a means for interfacing with a device (not shown) for input or output that is connected to the computing device (200) or that the computing device (200) may include. In FIG. 2, the input / output interface (240) is illustrated as an element configured separately from the processor (220), but is not limited thereto, and the input / output interface (240) may be configured to be included in the processor (220). The computing device (200) may include more components than those illustrated in FIG. 2. However, there is no need to explicitly illustrate most of the conventional components.

[0078] FIG. 3 is a flowchart (300) illustrating an example of a method for generating prosthesis data according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the method for generating prosthesis data may be performed by at least one processor included in a computing device (e.g., the computing device (200) of FIG. 1 ).

[0079] A method for generating prosthesis data can be initiated by obtaining first data associated with a first prosthesis configured to be placed in an oral cavity (S310).

[0080] In one embodiment, the processor may obtain second data associated with a second prosthesis configured to be adjacent to the first prosthesis (S320).

[0081] In one embodiment, the processor may generate third data associated with connectors connected to the first prosthesis and the second prosthesis based on the first data and the second data (S330).

[0082] In one embodiment, the processor may identify, in the first data, a first region on an outer surface of the first prosthesis adjacent to a second prosthesis. The processor may identify, in the second data, a second region on an outer surface of the second prosthesis adjacent to the first prosthesis. The processor may form a connector connecting at least a portion of the first region and at least a portion of the second region. For example, the processor may identify a bounding box for the first prosthesis. The processor may determine a portion of the outer surface of the first prosthesis corresponding to a portion of the bounding box as the first region. For example, the processor may identify a portion of the outer surface of the second prosthesis corresponding to the first region as the second region, based on a first direction from the center of the first prosthesis toward the center of the second prosthesis.

[0083] In one embodiment, the processor may generate a central curve positioned between the first region and the second region based on the first region and the second region. The processor may form a connector based on the first region, the second region, and the central curve.

[0084] In one embodiment, the processor may generate a first curve, which is part of the outer surface of the connector, based on a boundary line of the first region. The processor may generate a second curve, which is part of the outer surface of the connector, based on a boundary line of the second region. The processor may generate a central curve, based on the first curve and the second curve. The connector may connect the first curve and the second curve. That is, the connector may include the first curve and the second curve.

[0085] In one embodiment, the processor may generate a first curve by smoothing a boundary line of a first region. The processor may further include generating a second curve by smoothing a boundary line of a second region.

[0086] In one embodiment, the processor can identify a first point located on a first curve and a second point located on a second curve and corresponding to the first point. Based on the first point and the second point, the processor can obtain a third point on the central curve located between the first point and the second point.

[0087] In one embodiment, the processor may form a concave connector in a direction perpendicular to the direction from the first prosthesis to the second prosthesis.

[0088] In one embodiment, the processor may generate fourth data associated with the bridge to which the first prosthesis, the second prosthesis, and the connector are connected based on the first data, the second data, and the third data (S340). The fourth data may include 4_1 data associated with the first prosthesis, 4_2 data associated with the second prosthesis, and 4_3 data associated with the connector.

[0089] In one embodiment, the 4_1 data may include identification information of the first prosthesis. The 4_2 data may include identification information of the second prosthesis. The 4_3 data may include identification information of the first prosthesis and identification information of the second prosthesis.

[0090] In one embodiment, the 4_1 data and the 4_2 data may include at least one of first information representing the outer surface or second information representing the inner surface.

[0091] In one embodiment, the processor may receive a user input selecting at least one of the first prosthesis, the second prosthesis, or the connector. In response to the user input, the processor may output at least one of the 4_1 data, the 4_2 data, or the 4_3 data to be highlighted.

[0092] In one embodiment, the processor may regenerate the fourth data such that each of the 4_1 data and the 4_2 data becomes closed surface data (S350). For example, in the 4_1 data, the first prosthesis may include a first void region in which an area surrounded by a connector on the outer surface is empty. In the 4_2 data, the second prosthesis may include a second void region in which an area surrounded by a connector on the outer surface is empty. In one embodiment, the processor may regenerate the 4_1 data and the 4_2 data such that the first void region and the second void region are filled.

[0093] In one embodiment, the processor may move a portion of the outer surface of the second prosthesis in a first direction from the center of the first prosthesis toward the center of the second prosthesis in the 4_2 data. The processor may move a portion of the outer surface of the first prosthesis in a second direction opposite to the first direction in the 4_1 data.

[0094] In one embodiment, the processor may repeat the step of smoothing the boundary line between the regenerated 4_1 data and the 4_3 data and moving the boundary line closer to the regenerated 4_1 data a preset number of times in the 4_3 data.

[0095] In one embodiment, the processor may obtain correction data for at least one of the first prosthesis, the second prosthesis, or the connector. The processor may update the fourth data based on the correction data and the regenerated fourth data.

[0096] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of an oral cavity model (400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the processor may generate the oral cavity model (400) based on an oral cavity image generated by a three-dimensional scanner. The oral cavity model (400) may include at least one piece of tooth data (410, 420, 430). The teeth implemented on the oral cavity model (400) may be teeth before preparation or teeth after preparation. Although the oral cavity model (400) of FIG. 4 shows an oral cavity in which all teeth are placed, the oral cavity model (400) may include an area of ​​the gingiva where teeth, artificial structures, etc. may be placed. For example, the oral cavity model (400) may include an empty area on the gingiva where teeth are missing and no structures are present.

[0097] In one embodiment, teeth, gingiva, artificial structures, etc. displayed in the oral cavity model (400) can be selected through a user interface or the like. For example, the processor can receive a user input for selecting at least one of a first tooth, a second tooth, or a third tooth displayed in the oral cavity model (400). Based on the user input, the processor can output the oral cavity model (400) such that at least one of the first tooth data (410), the second tooth data (420), or the third tooth data (430) is emphasized. Referring to FIG. 4, the processor can output the oral cavity model (400) such that all of the first tooth data (410), the second tooth data (420), and the third tooth data (430) are emphasized based on a user input for selecting all of the first tooth, the second tooth, and the third tooth.

[0098] Hereinafter, in some cases, "teeth, gingiva, or artificial structure" may refer to data associated with the teeth, gingiva, or artificial structure, and conversely, "data associated with the teeth, gingiva, or artificial structure" may refer to the teeth, gingiva, or artificial structure. For example, "first prosthesis" may refer to data associated with the first prosthesis, and conversely, "data associated with the first prosthesis" may refer to the first prosthesis.

[0099] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of an oral cavity model (500) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, margin lines (510, 520, 530) for creating a prosthesis may be set in the oral cavity model (500). For example, at least one of teeth, gingiva, or artificial structures displayed in the oral cavity model (500) may be selected. Margin lines (510, 520, 530) may be set along the boundaries of the selected object.

[0100] In one embodiment, the processor may receive user input for modifying a margin line (510, 520, 530). Based on the user input, the processor may modify the margin line (510, 520, 530). For example, the processor may receive user input for modifying a first margin line (510) associated with a first tooth, and modify the first margin line (510). The first tooth data may also be modified along the modified first margin line. For example, the area of ​​the first tooth data may be modified to be an area inside the modified first margin line.

[0101] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of an oral cavity model (600) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, a processor may obtain first data (610) associated with a first prosthesis configured to be placed within an oral cavity. The processor may obtain second data (620) associated with a second prosthesis configured to be adjacent to the first prosthesis. The processor may obtain third data (630) associated with a third prosthesis configured to be adjacent to the second prosthesis. In one embodiment, the first data (610), the second data (620), and the third data (630) may be generated in advance by separate processors.

[0102] In one embodiment, the first prosthesis to the third prosthesis may be configured to be positioned in an inner region formed along a margin line. For example, the first prosthesis may be configured to be positioned in an inner region of the first margin line (e.g., the first margin line (510) of FIG. 5 ). The second prosthesis may be configured to be positioned in an inner region of the second margin line (e.g., the second margin line (520) of FIG. 5 ). The third prosthesis may be configured to be positioned in an inner region of the third margin line (e.g., the third margin line (530) of FIG. 5 ).

[0103] In one embodiment, the processor may generate data associated with a bridge connecting a first prosthesis, a second prosthesis, and a third prosthesis. To generate the data associated with the bridge, the processor may generate data associated with a first connector connecting the first prosthesis and the second prosthesis, and data associated with a second connector connecting the second prosthesis and the third prosthesis. Thereafter, the processor may generate data associated with a bridge to which the first connector and the second connector are further connected.

[0104] Hereinafter, a method for generating data associated with a second connector connecting a second prosthesis and a third prosthesis can be similarly understood through a method for generating data associated with a first connector connecting a first prosthesis and a second prosthesis. Hereinafter, a method for generating data associated with a first connector based on first data (610) associated with a first prosthesis and second data (620) associated with a second prosthesis will be described with a focus on this method.

[0105] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of an oral cavity model according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, a first bounding box (710) may be identified for a first prosthesis. A second bounding box (720) may be identified for a second prosthesis. The bounding box for the prosthesis may be formed through object recognition. Alternatively, data (610, 620) associated with the prosthesis may include information regarding the bounding box for the prosthesis.

[0106] In one embodiment, the processor may identify, in the first data (610), a first region (713) adjacent to a second prosthesis on an outer surface of the first prosthesis. Additionally, the processor may identify, in the second data (620), a second region (722) adjacent to the first prosthesis on an outer surface of the second prosthesis. For example, the first region (713) may correspond to a portion of the first bounding box (710), and the second region (722) may correspond to a portion of the second bounding box (720).

[0107] In one embodiment, the first region (713) may correspond to a box region (712) that is part of the first bounding box (710). The first region (713) may be determined as a part of the outer surface of the first prosthesis included in the box region (712). The first region (713) may be restricted to have a certain height. For example, the first region (713) may exclude a predetermined distance from the top of the first data (610) and a predetermined distance from the bottom of the first data (610) in the height direction.

[0108] In one embodiment, the second region (722) may be a portion of the outer surface of the second prosthesis facing the first region (713). For example, a portion of the outer surface of the second prosthesis corresponding to the first region (713) with respect to the first direction (X) may be determined as the second region (722). For example, the first region (713) may be defined by a plurality of points (e.g., Vertex), and the second region (722) may be defined by a plurality of points projected from each of the plurality of points included in the first region (713) along the first direction (X) and intersecting with the second data (620).

[0109] In one embodiment, the first direction (X) may be directed from the center (714) of the first prosthesis to the center (724) of the second prosthesis. The third direction (Z) may be perpendicular to the first direction (X) and may correspond to the height direction of the tooth. The second direction (Y) may be perpendicular to the first direction (X) and the third direction (Z).

[0110] In one embodiment, the box area (712) may be determined based on a first direction (X). The first direction (X) may cross one side of the first bounding box (710). The box area (712) may be an area that is a certain percentage of the area from the corresponding side. For example, the certain percentage may be determined in advance.

[0111] As described above, the processor can identify a first region (713) of the first prosthesis and a second region (722) of the second prosthesis. Thereafter, the processor can form a connector connecting at least a portion of the first region (713) and at least a portion of the second region (722), and generate data associated with the connector.

[0112] FIGS. 8 to 12 are diagrams illustrating a method for generating data associated with a connector according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0113] Referring to FIG. 8, the first image (800) may represent an output of first data (802) and second data (804). In one embodiment, the processor may identify a first area adjacent to a second prosthesis on the outer surface of the first prosthesis in the first data (802). Additionally, the processor may identify a second area adjacent to the first prosthesis on the outer surface of the second prosthesis in the second data (804).

[0114] The second image (810) may represent a first region identified on the outer surface of the first prosthesis and a second region identified on the outer surface of the second prosthesis. A portion (A) of the second image may include the first region and the second region. FIG. 9 illustrates an enlarged view of a portion (A) of the second image.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 9, the first data (802) may include data corresponding to the first region (910), and the second data (804) may include data corresponding to the second region (920). The boundary line of the first region (910) and the boundary line of the second region (920) may be formed roughly. For example, the boundary line of the first region (910) and the boundary line of the second region (920) may have an irregular, uneven shape.

[0116] In one embodiment, the processor may generate a first curve (912) based on a boundary line of a first region (910). For example, the processor may generate the first curve (912) by smoothing the boundary line of the first region (910). Additionally, the processor may generate a second curve (922) based on a boundary line of a second region (920). For example, the processor may generate the second curve (922) by smoothing the boundary line of the second region (920).

[0117] In one embodiment, the processor can generate a center curve positioned between the first curve (912) and the second curve (922) based on the first curve (912) and the second curve (922). To generate the center curve, the processor can identify a first point (914) located on the first curve (912). The processor can identify a second point (924) located on the second curve (922) and corresponding to the first point (914). For example, the correspondence between the first point (914) and the second point (924) may mean that they face each other in the first direction (X). As another example, the second point (924) corresponding to the first point (914) may mean a point having the shortest distance among the points located on the second curve (922). Thereafter, the processor can obtain a third point on the central curve located between the first point and the second point based on the first point (914) and the second point (924).

[0118] FIG. 10 may represent a first point (914) and a second point (924) on the same plane. In one embodiment, the processor may identify a third point (1010) located on the same plane as the first point (914) and the second point (924). For example, the distance between the third point (1010) and the first point (914) may be substantially equal to the distance between the third point (1010) and the second point (924).

[0119] In one embodiment, the location of the third point (1010) may be determined in various ways. For example, the third point (1010) may be positioned between the first point (914) and the second point (924). For example, the third point (1010) may be positioned above at least one of the first point (914) or the second point (924). As another example, the third point (1010) may be positioned below at least one of the first point (914) or the second point (924).

[0120] In one embodiment, the processor may form a bend line (1020) connecting a first point (914) and a second point (924). For example, the bend line (1020) may be configured to connect the first point (914) and the second point (924) with respect to a third point (1010). The degree of bend of the bend line (1020) may be determined based on a predetermined curvature.

[0121] In one embodiment, the third point (1010) may be positioned relatively lower than the first point (914) and the second point (924) so ​​that the bend line (1020) may be formed concavely. Here, the lower may correspond to the direction in which the bend line (1020) may be formed concavely. For example, there may be a reference axis connecting the three-dimensional center of the first prosthesis and the three-dimensional center of the second prosthesis. The third point (1010) may be closer to the reference axis than the first point (914) and the second point (924). As a result, the bend line (1020) may be formed concavely.

[0122] As described above, the identified third point (1010) may correspond to the first point (914) and the second point (924). The first point (914), the second point (924), and the third point (1010) may form a single set.

[0123] Referring to FIG. 11, the third image (1100) may represent a first curve (912), a second curve (922), and a central curve (1102) shown. The fourth image (1110) may represent a first curve (912), a second curve (922), and a central curve (1102) shown from the front.

[0124] In one embodiment, the processor may generate a center curve (1102) based on the third points (1010). For example, the processor may identify a plurality of second points (924) for each of a plurality of first points (914) arranged on the first curve (912). The processor may obtain a plurality of third points (1010) based on the plurality of first points (914) and the plurality of second points (924). The processor may generate a center curve (1102) connecting the plurality of third points (1010).

[0125] In one embodiment, the perimeter of the central curve (1102) may be smaller than the perimeter of at least one of the first curve (912) or the second curve (922). In a plane perpendicular to the first direction (X), the center of the central curve (1102) may be substantially identical to the center of at least one of the first curve (912) or the second curve (922). This allows a bend line connecting a first point (914) disposed on the central curve (1102), a second point (924) disposed on the second curve (922), and a third point (1010) disposed on the central curve (1102) to be formed concave.

[0126] In one embodiment, the processor may form a plurality of sets including a first point (914), a second point (924), and a third point (1010). The processor may generate a plurality of bend lines by generating a bend line for each set. The processor may generate data associated with a connector connecting the plurality of bend lines.

[0127] In FIG. 11, a first curve (912), a second curve (922), and a central curve (1102) are illustrated on the prosthesis for explanation, but in an actual image, at least some of the first curve (912), the second curve (922), or the central curve (1102) may not be illustrated.

[0128] Referring to FIG. 12, the fifth image (1200) illustrates third data (1202) associated with a connector. The third data (1202) may be generated by connecting multiple bend lines. The third data (1202) may be generated such that the connector has a predetermined thickness. For example, the third data (1202) may be generated such that the connector has a thickness corresponding to the length of the bend line.

[0129] In one embodiment, the connector may be formed to be concave in a direction perpendicular to the direction from the first prosthesis to the second prosthesis. For example, the connector may be formed to be concave in a direction perpendicular to the first direction (X) connecting the center of the first prosthesis and the center of the second prosthesis. The connector may be formed to be concave using a central curve, but is not limited thereto. For example, a connector may be formed to connect the first line and the second line and be concave to a predetermined depth.

[0130] In one embodiment, the processor may generate fourth data associated with a bridge to which a first prosthesis, a second prosthesis, and a connector are connected based on the first data, the second data, and the third data (1202). Referring to FIG. 12, the sixth image (1210) illustrates fourth data (1220) associated with the bridge. The fourth data (1220) may be a single closed surface data for the bridge. The fourth data (1220) may include 4_1 data (1222) associated with the first prosthesis, 2nd data (1224) associated with the second prosthesis, and 4_3 data (1226) associated with the connector. The connector may connect at least a portion of a first region of the first prosthesis and at least a portion of a second region of the second prosthesis.

[0131] In one embodiment, the data associated with the first prosthesis and the second prosthesis among the fourth data (1220) may not be closed surface data. For example, in the 4_1 data (1222), the area surrounded by the connector on the outer surface of the first prosthesis may be empty. As another example, in the 4_2 data (1224), the area surrounded by the connector on the outer surface of the second prosthesis may be empty. In the fourth data (1220), the appearance of at least a portion of the outer surface of the prosthesis being empty is described in detail with reference to FIG. 13.

[0132] In one embodiment, the 4_1 data (1222) may include identification information of the first prosthesis. For example, the 4_1 data (1222) may include information as identification information about the location within the oral cavity where the first prosthesis is placed, the type of the first prosthesis, etc. The 4_2 data (1224) may include identification information of the second prosthesis. The 4_2 data (1224) may include information as identification information about the location within the oral cavity where the second prosthesis is placed, the type of the second prosthesis, etc.

[0133] In one embodiment, the 4_1 data (1222) may include information representing an outer surface or an inner surface of a surface of the first prosthesis. The inner surface of the prosthesis may be an area facing the prepared tooth and / or the gingiva. The outer surface of the prosthesis may be an area other than the inner surface of the prosthesis. For example, in the 4_1 data (1222), a point belonging to the outer surface of the first prosthesis may include first information representing the outer surface. In the 4_1 data (1222), a point belonging to the inner surface of the first prosthesis may include second information representing the inner surface. Similarly, the 4_2 data (1224) may include information representing an outer surface or an inner surface of the surface of the second prosthesis.

[0134] In one embodiment, the 4_3 data (1226) may include identification information of the first prosthesis and identification information of the second prosthesis. Based on the identification information of the first prosthesis and the identification information of the second prosthesis, the processor may identify the location of the connector corresponding to the 4_3 data (1226). For example, based on the identification information of the first prosthesis and the identification information of the second prosthesis, the processor may identify that the connector can be positioned between the first prosthesis and the second prosthesis.

[0135] In one embodiment, the processor may receive user input selecting a first prosthesis and a second prosthesis configured to be adjacent to the first prosthesis. Based on the user input, the processor may highlight and output the 4_1 data (1222) associated with the first prosthesis and the second data (1224) associated with the second prosthesis.

[0136] In one embodiment, the processor may output the data by adjusting the transparency of at least a portion of the 4_1 data (1222). In addition, the processor may output the data by adjusting the transparency of at least a portion of the 4_2 data (1224). The sixth image (1210) may represent an image in which at least a portion of the 4_1 data (1222) and at least a portion of the 4_2 data (1224) are output with adjusted transparency. Outputting the data associated with the prosthesis by adjusting the transparency may be performed based on a user input for adjusting the transparency.

[0137] In one embodiment, the processor may obtain correction data for at least one of the first prosthesis, the second prosthesis, or the connector. The processor may need to regenerate the fourth data to update the fourth data based on the correction data. For example, if the fourth data is updated without regenerating the fourth data, at least a portion of the surface of the bridge may be empty in the updated fourth data. Furthermore, the connector may not completely connect the first prosthesis and the second prosthesis. To address this, the processor may regenerate the fourth data. A method for regenerating the fourth data will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 13 to 15 .

[0138] FIGS. 13 to 15 are diagrams for explaining a method of regenerating fourth data associated with a bridge according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGS. 13 to 15 are described based on fourth data associated with the bridge. The fourth data may include fourth_1 data (1302) associated with a first prosthesis, fourth_2 data associated with a second prosthesis, and fourth_3 data associated with a connector.

[0139] Referring to FIG. 13, the seventh image (1300) may represent the 4_1 data (1302) associated with the first prosthesis.

[0140] In one embodiment, a prosthesis connected to a bridge and a connector may include a void region in which an area surrounded by the connector on the outer surface of the prosthesis is empty. In the process of generating the fourth data, the prosthesis may include a void region. For example, in the 4_1 data (1302), the first prosthesis may include a first void region (1304) in which an area surrounded by the connector on the outer surface is empty. In the 4_2 data, the second prosthesis may include a second void region in which an area surrounded by the connector on the outer surface is empty.

[0141] In one embodiment, the processor may regenerate the fourth data so that the prosthesis connected to the bridge becomes a closed surface. For example, the processor may regenerate the fourth_1 data (1302) so that the first void area (1302) is filled. Additionally, the processor may regenerate the fourth_2 data so that the second void area is filled.

[0142] Referring to FIG. 13, the eighth image (1310) may represent regenerated 4_1 data (1312). The regenerated 4_1 data (1312) may include a first filling area (1314) that fills the first void area (1302). Similarly, the regenerated 4_2 data may include a second filling area that fills the second void area.

[0143] Referring to FIG. 14, the eighth image (1400) may represent regenerated 4_1 data (1402) and regenerated 4_2 data (1404). At least a portion of the outer surface of the first prosthesis including the first filling area may penetrate the outer surface of the second prosthesis including the second filling area. Additionally, at least a portion of the outer surface of the second prosthesis including the second filling area may penetrate the outer surface of the first prosthesis including the first filling area. Looking at a portion of the eighth image (1406), the outer surface of the first prosthesis may invade the outer surface of the second prosthesis, and the outer surface of the second prosthesis may invade the outer surface of the first prosthesis.

[0144] In one embodiment, the processor may move a portion of the outer surface of the first prosthesis in the direction opposite to the first direction (X) in the 4_1 data (1402). In addition, the processor may move a portion of the outer surface of the second prosthesis in the first direction (X) in the 4_2 data (1404). For example, the processor may create a virtual reference plane (1408) between the first prosthesis and the second prosthesis. The processor may correct the 4_1 data (1402) by moving a portion of the outer surface of the first prosthesis based on the reference plane (1408). In addition, the processor may correct the 4_2 data (1404) by moving a portion of the outer surface of the second prosthesis based on the reference plane (1408).

[0145] In one example, a reference plane (1408) may be positioned between a portion of an outer surface of a first prosthesis that has impinged on a second prosthesis and a portion of an outer surface of a second prosthesis that has impinged on the first prosthesis. The reference plane (1408) may be perpendicular to a first direction (X). The reference plane (1408) may be parallel to a third direction (Z). The processor may move a portion of an outer surface of the first prosthesis in a direction opposite to the first direction (X) with respect to the reference plane (1408). Additionally, the processor may move a portion of an outer surface of the second prosthesis in the first direction (X) with respect to the reference plane (1408). When the processor moves the outer surface of the prosthesis, the distances moved for each point (or vertex) included in the outer surface of the prosthesis may be different from each other. For example, among the points (or vertices) included in the outer surface of the prosthesis, points (or vertices) located further from the reference plane (1408) may be moved relatively more.

[0146] The ninth image (1410) may represent the corrected 4_1 data (1412) and the corrected 4_2 data (1414). For example, a portion of the outer surface of the first prosthesis may be moved to correct the 4_1 data (1412). A portion of the outer surface of the second prosthesis may be moved to correct the 4_2 data (1414). Looking at a portion of the area (1416) of the ninth image, the extent of a portion of the outer surface of the first prosthesis that has invaded the outer surface of the second prosthesis may be smaller than the 4_1 data (1402) before correction. In addition, the extent of a portion of the outer surface of the second prosthesis that has invaded the outer surface of the first prosthesis may be smaller than the 4_2 data (1404) before correction.

[0147] Referring to FIG. 15, the tenth image (1500) may represent 4_1 data (1502) associated with the first prosthesis, 4_2 data (1504) associated with the second prosthesis, and 4_3 data (1506) associated with the connector. The 4_1 data (1502) and the 4_2 data (1504) may be in a corrected state after being regenerated.

[0148] In one embodiment, as the 4_1 data (1502) and the 4_2 data (1504) are regenerated and corrected, the connector may not completely connect the first prosthesis and the second prosthesis. Additionally, the boundary line between the connector and the first prosthesis and the boundary line between the connector and the second prosthesis may have an irregular and rough, uneven shape.

[0149] In one embodiment, the processor may identify a boundary line between the first prosthesis and the connector in the 4_3 data (1506). The processor may then smooth the boundary line. The processor may then move the boundary line closer to the first prosthesis. The processor may then smooth the boundary line again in the 4_3 data (1506) and move it closer to the first prosthesis. The processor may repeat the process of smoothing the boundary line and moving it closer to the first prosthesis a preset number of times. For example, the preset number of times may be 3 to 5 times. Similarly, the processor may identify a boundary line between the second prosthesis and the connector in the 4_3 data (1506). The processor may repeat the process of smoothing the boundary line between the second prosthesis and the connector and moving it closer to the second prosthesis a preset number of times. In this way, the processor can compensate for the 4_3 data (1506) by smoothing and moving the boundary line of the connector.

[0150] The eleventh image (1510) may represent the corrected first data (1502), the corrected second data (1504), and the corrected fourth_3 data (1516). Looking at the eleventh image (1510), the connector corresponding to the corrected fourth_3 data (1516) may have a relatively regular curvature of the boundary line.

[0151] FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for updating fourth data associated with a bridge according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the processor may obtain correction data for at least one of the first prosthesis, the second prosthesis, or the connector (S1610). The step of obtaining the correction data (S1610) may be performed after the step of regenerating the fourth data (S350).

[0152] In one embodiment, the processor may update the fourth data based on the correction data and the regenerated fourth data (S1620). For example, the correction data may include data associated with a first prosthesis having a shape different from the shape of the first prosthesis included in the fourth data. The 4_1 data included in the updated fourth data may be corrected based on the data associated with the first prosthesis included in the correction data.

[0153] Although FIG. 16 illustrates that the step of acquiring correction data (S1610) is performed after the step of regenerating the fourth data (S350), the step of acquiring correction data (S1610) may be performed before the step of regenerating the fourth data (S350). For example, the processor may perform the step of regenerating the fourth data (S350) to update the fourth data in response to acquiring the correction data or after acquiring the correction data.

[0154] FIGS. 17 to 20 are diagrams for explaining a process of regenerating fourth data associated with a bridge according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The processor may obtain fourth data associated with the bridge. The fourth data may include 4_1 data (1710) associated with a first prosthesis, 4_2 data (1720) associated with a second prosthesis, and 4_3 data associated with a first connector connected to the first prosthesis and the second prosthesis. Additionally, the fourth data may further include 5_1 data (1730) associated with a third prosthesis, and 5_2 data associated with a second connector connected to the second prosthesis and the third prosthesis. The first prosthesis may be configured to be adjacent to the second prosthesis, and the third prosthesis may be configured to be adjacent to the second prosthesis.

[0155] FIG. 17 may illustrate the fourth data associated with the bridge, including the 4_1 data (1710) associated with the first prosthesis, the 4_2 data (1720) associated with the second prosthesis, and the 5_1 data (1730) associated with the third prosthesis. The first prosthesis may include a first void region in which an area surrounded by the first connector is empty. The second prosthesis may include a 2_1 void region in which an area surrounded by the first connector is empty, and a 2_2 void region in which an area surrounded by the second connector is empty. The third prosthesis may include a third void region in which an area surrounded by the second connector is empty.

[0156] Fig. 18 may illustrate the appearance of the corrected 4_1st data (1810), the corrected 4_2nd data (1820), and the corrected 5_1st data (1830). The 4_1st data may be regenerated so that the outer surface of the first prosthesis includes a first filling region corresponding to the first void region. The 4_1st data may be regenerated so that the outer surface of the second prosthesis includes a second_1st filling region corresponding to the 2_1st void region and a second_2nd filling region corresponding to the 2_2nd void region. The 5_1st data may be regenerated so that the outer surface of the third prosthesis includes a third filling region corresponding to the third void region. As a result, the surfaces of the first to third prosthesis may form closed surfaces.

[0157] By moving a portion of the outer surface of the first prosthesis, the 4_1 data (1810) can be corrected. By moving a portion of the outer surface of the second prosthesis, the 4_2 data (1820) can be corrected. By moving a portion of the outer surface of the third prosthesis, the 5_1 data (1830) can be corrected.

[0158] FIG. 19 may illustrate the appearance of the corrected 4_1 data (1810), the corrected 4_2 data (1820), the corrected 5_1 data (1830), the 4_3 data (1910) associated with the first connector, and the 5_2 data (1920) associated with the second connector. The boundary line between the first connector and the first prosthesis and the boundary line between the first connector and the second prosthesis may have an irregular, rough, and uneven shape. The boundary line between the second connector and the second prosthesis and the boundary line between the second connector and the second prosthesis may have an irregular, rough, and uneven shape.

[0159] FIG. 20 may show the appearance of the corrected 4_1 data (1810), the corrected 4_2 data (1820), the corrected 5_1 data (1830), the corrected 4_3 data (2010), and the corrected 5_2 data (2020).

[0160] In the 4_3 data, the first connector can be corrected. For example, the processor can identify a boundary line between the first connector and the first prosthesis. The processor can repeat the process of smoothing the boundary line and moving it closer to the first prosthesis a preset number of times. In addition, the processor can identify a boundary line between the first connector and the second prosthesis. The processor can repeat the process of smoothing the boundary line and moving it closer to the second prosthesis a preset number of times. As a result, corrected 4_3 data (2010) can be generated.

[0161] In the 5_1 data, the second connector can be corrected. For example, the processor can identify a boundary line between the second connector and the second prosthesis. The processor can repeat the process of smoothing the boundary line and moving it closer to the second prosthesis a preset number of times. In addition, the processor can identify a boundary line between the second connector and the third prosthesis. The processor can repeat the process of smoothing the boundary line and moving it closer to the third prosthesis a preset number of times. As a result, corrected 5_2 data (2020) can be generated.

[0162] The regenerated 4th data (2000) can be generated by synthesizing the corrected 4_1 data (1810), the corrected 4_2 data (1820), the corrected 5_1 data (1830), the corrected 4_3 data (2010), and the corrected 5_2 data (2020).

[0163] In one embodiment, the processor may receive a user input selecting at least one of the first prosthesis, the second prosthesis, the third prosthesis, the first connector, or the second connector. In response to the user input, the processor may output at least one of the 4_1st data (1810), the 4_2nd data (1820), the 4_3rd data (2010), the 5_1st data (1830), or the 5_2nd data (2020) to be highlighted. Referring to FIG. 20, the processor may output the 4_3rd data (2010) and the 5_2nd data (2020) to be highlighted in response to the user input selecting the first connector and the second connector.

[0164] In the state of the regenerated fourth data (2000), modifications to the bridge can be made. For example, modifications to the 4_1 data (1810) associated with the first prosthesis may not affect data associated with the first connector, the second prosthesis, the second connector, and the third prosthesis. That is, even if the 4_1 data (1810), the 4_2 data (1820), the 5_1 data (1830), the 4_3 data, and the 5_2 data are each modified, they may not affect different structures. As a result, modifications to the prosthesis (including the connector) can be freely made within the same bridge, and user convenience can be increased when designing the bridge.

[0165] The above-described method may be provided as a computer program stored on a computer-readable recording medium for execution on a computer. The medium may be one that continuously stores a computer-executable program or one that temporarily stores it for execution or download. In addition, the medium may be various recording means or storage means in the form of a single or multiple hardware combinations, and is not limited to a medium directly connected to a computer system, but may also be distributed over a network. Examples of the medium may include magnetic media such as hard disks, floppy disks, and magnetic tapes, optical recording media such as CD-ROMs and DVDs, magneto-optical media such as floptical disks, and those configured to store program instructions, including ROM, RAM, and flash memory. In addition, examples of other media may include recording or storage media managed by app stores that distribute applications, sites that supply or distribute various software, servers, etc.

[0166] The methods, operations, or techniques of the present disclosure may be implemented by various means. For example, these techniques may be implemented in hardware, firmware, software, or a combination thereof. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the various exemplary logical blocks, modules, circuits, and algorithm steps described in connection with the disclosure herein may be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability of hardware and software, various exemplary components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been described above generally in terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software will depend on the particular application and the design requirements imposed on the overall system. Those skilled in the art may implement the described functionality in various ways for each particular application, but such implementations should not be construed as departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0167] In a hardware implementation, the processing units used to perform the techniques may be implemented within one or more ASICs, DSPs, digital signal processing devices (DSPDs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), processors, controllers, microcontrollers, microprocessors, electronic devices, other electronic units designed to perform the functions described herein, a computer, or a combination thereof.

[0168] Accordingly, the various exemplary logical blocks, modules, and circuits described in connection with the present disclosure may be implemented or performed by any combination of a general-purpose processor, a DSP, an ASIC, an FPGA or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or those designed to perform the functions described herein. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor may be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration.

[0169] In a firmware and / or software implementation, the techniques may be implemented as instructions stored on a computer-readable medium, such as random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), non-volatile random access memory (NVRAM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable PROM (EEPROM), flash memory, a compact disc (CD), a magnetic or optical data storage device, etc. The instructions may be executable by one or more processors and may cause the processor(s) to perform certain aspects of the functionality described herein.

[0170] When implemented in software, the techniques described above may be stored on or transmitted as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium. Computer-readable media includes both computer storage media and communication media, including any medium that facilitates transfer of a computer program from one place to another. Storage media may be any available media that can be accessed by a computer. By way of example, and not limitation, such computer-readable media can include RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a computer. Also, any connection is properly termed a computer-readable medium.

[0171] For example, if the software is transmitted from a website, server, or other remote source using coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, digital subscriber line (DSL), or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave, then the coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, digital subscriber line, or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave are included within the definition of media. Disk and disc, as used herein, includes compact discs, laser discs, optical discs, digital versatile discs (DVDs), floppy disks, and Blu-ray discs, where disks usually reproduce data magnetically, whereas discs reproduce data optically using lasers. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

[0172] A software module may reside in RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, a hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. An exemplary storage medium may be coupled to the processor such that the processor can read information from, and write information to, the storage medium. Alternatively, the storage medium may be integral to the processor. The processor and the storage medium may reside in an ASIC. The ASIC may reside in a user terminal. Alternatively, the processor and the storage medium may reside as discrete components in the user terminal.

[0173] While the embodiments described above have been described as utilizing aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter in one or more standalone computer systems, the present disclosure is not limited thereto and may be implemented in conjunction with any computing environment, such as a network or distributed computing environment. Furthermore, aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented in multiple processing chips or devices, and storage may be similarly affected across multiple devices. Such devices may include personal computers, network servers, and portable devices.

[0174] While the present disclosure has been described in connection with certain embodiments herein, various modifications and variations may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, which would be apparent to those skilled in the art. Furthermore, such modifications and variations are intended to fall within the scope of the claims appended to this specification.

Claims

1. A method for generating prosthesis data, performed by at least one processor, A step of acquiring first data associated with a first prosthesis configured to be placed within the oral cavity; A step of acquiring second data associated with a second prosthesis configured to be adjacent to the first prosthesis; A step of generating third data associated with a connector connected to the first prosthesis and the second prosthesis based on the first data and the second data; A step of generating fourth data associated with the first prosthesis, the second prosthesis, and the bridge to which the connector is connected based on the first data, the second data, and the third data, wherein the fourth data includes 4_1 data associated with the first prosthesis, 4_2 data associated with the second prosthesis, and 4_3 data associated with the connector; and A step of regenerating the fourth data so that each of the 4_1 data and the 4_2 data becomes closed surface data. A method for generating prosthesis data, including:

2. In paragraph 1, The step of generating the above third data is: In the first data, a step of identifying a first area adjacent to the second prosthesis on the outer surface of the first prosthesis; In the second data, a step of identifying a second area adjacent to the first prosthesis on the outer surface of the second prosthesis; and A step of forming the connector connecting at least a portion of the first region and at least a portion of the second region. A method for generating prosthesis data, including:

3. In paragraph 2, The step of identifying the first area is: A step of identifying a bounding box for the first prosthesis; and A step of determining a part of the outer surface of the first prosthesis corresponding to a part of the above bounding box as the first area. A method for generating prosthesis data, including:

4. In paragraph 2, The step of identifying the second area is: A step of identifying a part of the outer surface of the second prosthesis corresponding to the first region as the second region, based on a first direction from the center of the first prosthesis toward the center of the second prosthesis. A method for generating prosthesis data, including:

5. In paragraph 2, The step of forming the above connector is: A step of generating a central curve disposed between the first region and the second region based on the first region and the second region; and A step of forming the connector based on the first region, the second region, and the central curve. A method for generating prosthesis data, including:

6. In paragraph 5, The steps for generating the above central curve are: A step of generating a first curve, which is a part of the outer surface of the connector, based on the boundary line of the first region; A step of generating a second curve, which is a part of the outer surface of the connector, based on the boundary line of the second area; and A step of generating the central curve based on the first curve and the second curve Including, A method for generating prosthesis data, wherein the connector connects the first curve and the second curve.

7. In paragraph 6, The step of generating the above first curve is: A step of generating the first curve by smoothing the boundary line of the first region, The step of generating the second curve is as follows: A method for generating prosthesis data, comprising the step of generating the second curve by smoothing the boundary line of the second area.

8. In paragraph 6, The step of generating the central curve based on the first curve and the second curve is: A step of identifying a first point located on the first curve and a second point located on the second curve and corresponding to the first point; and A step of obtaining a third point on the central curve located between the first point and the second point based on the first point and the second point. A method for generating prosthesis data, including:

9. In paragraph 2, The step of forming the above connector is: A step of forming a concave connector in the first prosthesis in a direction perpendicular to the direction toward the second prosthesis. A method for generating prosthesis data, including:

10. In paragraph 1, The above 4_1 data includes identification information of the first prosthesis, The above 4_2 data includes identification information of the second prosthesis, A method for generating prosthesis data, wherein the above 4_3 data includes identification information of the first prosthesis and identification information of the second prosthesis.

11. In paragraph 10, A method for generating prosthesis data, wherein the 4_1 data and the 4_2 data include at least one of first information representing the outer surface and second information representing the inner surface.

12. In paragraph 1, A step of receiving a user input selecting at least one of the first prosthesis, the second prosthesis or the connector; and In response to the user input, a step of outputting at least one of the 4_1 data, the 4_2 data, or the 4_3 data so as to be highlighted. A method for generating prosthesis data, further comprising:

13. In paragraph 1, In the above 4_1 data, the first prosthesis includes a first void area in which the area surrounded by the connector on the outer surface is empty, In the above 4_2 data, the second prosthesis includes a second void area in which the area surrounded by the connector on the outer surface is empty, The step of regenerating the above fourth data is: A step of regenerating the 4_1 data and the 4_2 data so that the first void area and the second void area are filled. A method for generating prosthesis data, including:

14. In paragraph 13, The step of regenerating the above fourth data is: In the above 4_2 data, a step of moving a part of the outer surface of the second prosthesis in a first direction from the center of the first prosthesis toward the center of the second prosthesis; and In the above 4_1 data, a step of moving a part of the outer surface of the first prosthesis in a second direction opposite to the first direction A method for generating prosthesis data, including:

15. In paragraph 13, The step of regenerating the above fourth data is: In the above 4_3 data, a step of smoothing the boundary line between the regenerated 4_1 data and the 4_3 data; and Repeating the step of moving the above boundary line closer to the regenerated 4_1 data a preset number of times. A method for generating prosthesis data, including:

16. In paragraph 1, A step of obtaining correction data for at least one of the first prosthesis, the second prosthesis or the connector; and A step of updating the fourth data based on the above-mentioned modified data and the above-mentioned regenerated fourth data. A method for generating prosthesis data, further comprising:

17. A computer-readable non-transitory recording medium recording commands for executing the method according to paragraph 1 on a computer.

18. As a computing device, memory; and At least one processor connected to said memory and configured to execute at least one computer-readable program contained in said memory Including, At least one program above, Acquire first data associated with a first prosthesis configured to be placed within the oral cavity; Acquire second data associated with a second prosthesis configured to be adjacent to the first prosthesis, Based on the first data and the second data, third data associated with a connector connected to the first prosthesis and the second prosthesis is generated, Based on the first data, the second data and the third data, generating fourth data associated with the first prosthesis, the second prosthesis and the bridge to which the connector is connected, wherein the fourth data includes 4_1 data associated with the first prosthesis, 4_2 data associated with the second prosthesis and 4_3 data associated with the connector. A computing device comprising commands for regenerating the fourth data so that each of the fourth_1 data and the fourth_2 data becomes closed surface data.

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