Heat management in intraoral scanners

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an intraoral scanner (102) that is configured to perform an intraoral scanning of a dental object. The intraoral scanner includes a housing (104) defining an interior space (106), electronic components (112A, 112B, 112C and 112D) arranged within the interior space, and a heat spreader (108) arranged within the interior space between the electronic components and the housing. The heat spreader has a first surface (108A) arranged in vicinity of the electronic components and a second surface (108B) arranged in vicinity of the housing. The second surface is separated from housing with first predefined distance defining a first airgap (110) therebetween. The heat spreader transfers heat in a first direction and isolates the transfer of the heat in a second direction. The first direction is parallel to the first surface and the second direction is perpendicular to the first surface.

Description

HEAT MANAGEMENT IN INTRAORAL SCANNERSTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The disclosure relates to an intraoral scanner and more particularly relates to an apparatus and a method for heat management in intraoral scanners to enhance performance and user comfort.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] An intraoral scanner is an electronic device that may be used for, for example, capturing digital images of oral cavity of a subject. The intraoral scanner may be a handheld device used to directly create digital images of the oral cavity, thereby optimizing treatment accuracy. Such digital images may be utilized in dental procedures for example, but are not limited to restorative procedures, orthodontic treatment planning, implantology, prosthodontics, and periodontics. The intraoral scanners have become indispensable tools for modern dental practices, contributing to improved treatment outcomes, patient comfort, and overall efficiency.

[0003] However, intraoral scanners often encounter issues related to heat generation and dissipation. For example, electronic components within the intraoral scanners, such as image sensors, processing units, and light sources, may produce significant amounts of heat during operation. Excessive heat may lead to several problems, such as decreased performance, device malfunction, reduced lifespan, and user discomfort. Therefore, it becomes crucial to address these heating issues effectively to ensure optimal device performance and user comfort.

[0004] Traditionally, heat dissipation in the intraoral scanners has been addressed through various methods, including heat sinks, thermal paste, fans, and other active and passive cooling solutions. These conventional approaches aim to conduct heat away from the hotspots caused due to electronic components, such as processing units, imaging sensors, and battery etc. to dissipate it into the surrounding environment. While effective to some extent, these solutions often have limitations in terms of efficiency, size constraints, and complexity, particularly in compact or densely packed intraoral scanners.

[0005] Furthermore, the limited space within these devices poses challenges for traditional methods like heat sinks, fans, and other active cooling solution, leading to insufficient heat dissipation and uneven temperature distribution. Moreover, as the electronic componentsbecome more and more densely packed the shortcomings of conventional solutions become more pronounced. This result in localized overheating, reduced device performance, and compromised reliability.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for heat management that can exchange or dissipate heat from hotspots to the surrounding environment of the intraoral scanners.SUMMARY

[0007] A heat transfer apparatus and a method for controlling heat transfer are provided for an intraoral scanner.

[0008] It is an objective of the present disclosure to provide techniques for effective dissipation or transfer of heat emitted by electronic components of an intraoral scanner, such that user comfort and device operations are not compromised.

[0009] In one aspect, an intraoral scanner is provided. The intraoral scanner is configured to perform an intraoral scanning of a dental object. The intraoral scanner may include a housing defining an interior space. The intraoral scanner may further include one or more electronic components arranged within the interior space of the housing. Further, the intraoral scanner may include a heat spreader arranged within the interior space between the one or more electronic components and the housing. The heat spreader may have a first surface arranged in vicinity of the one or more electronic components and an opposing second surface may be arranged in vicinity of the housing. The second surface may be separated from the housing with a first predefined distance defining a first airgap therebetween. The heat spreader may transfer heat emitted by the one or more electronic components in a first direction and may isolate the transfer of the heat in a second direction. The first direction may be parallel to the first surface and the second direction may be perpendicular to the first surface.

[0010] In accordance with some example embodiments, the intraoral scanner may further include a selective heat spreader arranged within a predefined area between the heat spreader and the housing. The selective heat spreader may be arranged in parallel to the heat spreader. The selective heat spreader may be separated from the heat spreader with a second predefined distance.

[0011] In accordance with some example embodiments, the selective heat spreader may have a third surface arranged in vicinity of the heat spreader and an opposing fourth surfacearranged in vicinity of the housing. The fourth surface may be separated from the housing with a third predefined distance defining a second airgap therebetween. The selective heat spreader may transfer residual heat of the heat spreader in the first direction and may isolate the transfer of the residual heat in the second direction.

[0012] In accordance with some example embodiments, the intraoral scanner may further include a first protective layer arranged between the heat spreader and at least one of the housing or the selective heat spreader. The first protective layer may provide structural reinforcement to at least one of the heat spreader, or the selective heat spreader.

[0013] In accordance with some example embodiments, the heat spreader may include a first portion and a second portion. The first portion and the second portion may be spaced apart to define a gap. Further, the selective heat spreader may be arranged in the gap between the first portion and the second portion.

[0014] In accordance with some example embodiments, the intraoral scanner may further include an input interface arranged on the housing. The selective heat spreader may be arranged in the predefined area lying vertically below the input interface. The selective heat spreader may prevent transfer of the residual heat to the input interface.

[0015] In accordance with some example embodiments, a first thickness of the selective heat spreader may be greater than a second thickness of the heat spreader.

[0016] In accordance with some example embodiments, a first longitudinal length of the selective heat spreader may be lesser than a second longitudinal length of the heat spreader.

[0017] In accordance with some example embodiments, at least one of the heat spreader, or the selective heat spreader may be made of graphite.

[0018] In accordance with some example embodiments, the intraoral scanner may further include a third protective layer arranged between the selective heat spreader and the second airgap, wherein the third protective layer provides structural reinforcement to the selective heat spreader.

[0019] In accordance with some example embodiments, the intraoral scanner may further include a second protective layer arranged between the heat spreader and the one or more electronic components. The second protective layer may further provide structural reinforcement to the heat spreader.

[0020] In accordance with some example embodiments, the heat spreader may be arranged in connection with a heat sink. The heat spreader may further facilitate at least a partial transfer of the heat from the one or more electronic components to the heat sink.

[0021] In another aspect, a method for controlling heat transfer in an intraoral scanner is disclosed. The intraoral scanner may be configured to perform an intraoral scanning of a dental object. The method includes providing one or more electronic components within an interior space of a housing. The one or more electronic components emit heat during operation. The method may further include providing a heat spreader between the one or more electronic components and the housing within the interior space. The heat spreader may have a first surface arranged in vicinity of the one or more electronic components and an opposing second surface arranged in vicinity of the housing such that the second surface may be separated from the housing with a first predefined distance defining a first airgap therebetween. The heat spreader may transfer the heat in a first direction and may isolate the transfer of the heat in a second direction. The first direction may be parallel to the first surface and the second direction may be perpendicular to the first surface.

[0022] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

[0023] The intraoral scanner may include one or more electronic components that comprises electronic hardware. The electronic hardware may include microprocessors, microcontrollers, digital signal processors (DSPs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), gated logic, discrete hardware circuits, and other suitable hardware configured to perform the various functionality described throughout this disclosure. Computer program shall be construed broadly to mean instructions, instruction sets, code, code segments, program code, programs, subprograms, software modules, applications, software applications, software packages, routines, subroutines, objects, executables, threads of execution, procedures, functions, etc., whether referred to as software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description language, or otherwise.

[0024] The intraoral scanner may be configured to provide intraoral scans. The intraoral scanner may be a TRIOS series scanners from 3 Shape A / S. The intraoral scanner may be part of a dental scanning system that may include a wireless capability provided by a wirelessnetwork unit. The intraoral scanner may employ a scanning principle such as triangulationbased scanning, confocal scanning, focus scanning, ultrasound scanning, x-ray scanning, stereo vision, structure from motion, optical coherent tomography OCT, or any other scanning principle. In an embodiment, the scanning device is capable of obtaining surface information by operated by projecting a pattern and translating a focus plane along an optical axis of the scanning device and capturing a plurality of 2D images at different focus plane positions such that each series of captured 2D images corresponding to each focus plane forms a stack of 2D images. The acquired 2D images are also referred to herein as raw 2D images, wherein raw in this context means that the images have not been subject to image processing. The focus plane position is preferably shifted along the optical axis of the scanning system , such that 2D images captured at a number of focus plane positions along the optical axis form said stack of 2D images (also referred to herein as a sub-scan) for a given view of the object, i.e. for a given arrangement of the scanning system relative to the object. After moving the scanning device relative to the object or imaging the object at a different view, a new stack of 2D images for that view may be captured. The focus plane position may be varied by means of at least one focus element, e.g., a moving focus lens . The scanning device is generally moved and angled relative to the dentition during a scanning session, such that at least some sets of sub-scans overlap at least partially, in order to enable reconstruction of the digital dental 3D model by stitching overlapping subscans together in real-time and display the progress of the virtual 3D model on a display as a feedback to the user. The result of stitching is the digital 3D representation of a surface larger than that which can be captured by a single sub-scan, i.e. which is larger than the field of view of the 3D scanning device. Stitching, also known as registration and fusion, works by identifying overlapping regions of 3D surface in various subscans and transforming sub-scans to a common coordinate system such that the overlapping regions match, finally yielding the digital 3D model. An Iterative Closest Point (ICP) algorithm may be used for this purpose. Another example of a scanning device is a triangulation scanner, where a time varying pattern is projected onto the dental object and a sequence of images of the different pattern configurations are acquired by one or more cameras located at an angle relative to the projector unit.

[0025] The scanning device may be a handheld intraoral scanner that is configured to be handled by the hand of a user during scanning of a patient. The ergonomic design of the scanning device, i.e. a housing of the scanner, is designed such that a single hand is able to hold the scanner during a scanning session.

[0026] The scanning device may have a tip part that is connected to the housing. The tip part may include one or more light sources and a window, and wherein the one or more light sources is part of the one or more electronic components.

[0027] Color texture of the dental object may be acquired by illuminating the object using different monochromatic colors such as individual red, green and blue colors or my illuminating the object using multichromatic light such as white light. A 2D image may be acquired during a flash of white light.

[0028] Generally, the process of obtaining surface information in real time of a dental object to be scanned requires the scanning device to illuminate the surface and acquire high number of 2D images. Typically a high speed camera is used with a framerate of 300-2000 2D frames pr second dependent on the technology and 2D image resolution. The high amount of image data needed to be handled by the scanning device to eighter directly forward the raw image data stream to an external processing device or performing some image processing before transmitting the data to an external device or display. This process requires that multiple electronic components inside the scanner is operating with a high workload thus requiring a high demand of current.

[0029] The scanning device comprises one or more light projectors configured to generate an illumination pattern to be projected on a three-dimensional dental object during a scanning session. The light projector(s) preferably comprises a light source, a mask having a spatial pattern, and one or more lenses such as collimation lenses or projection lenses. The light source may be configured to generate light of a single wavelength or a combination of wavelengths (mono- or polychromatic). The combination of wavelengths may be produced by using a light source configured to produce light (such as white light) comprising different wavelengths. Alternatively, the light projector(s) may comprise multiple light sources such as LEDs individually producing light of different wavelengths (such as red, green, and blue) that may be combined to form light comprising the different wavelengths. Thus, the light produced by the light source may be defined by a wavelength defining a specific color, or a range of different wavelengths defining a combination of colors such as white light. In an embodiment, the scanning device comprises a light source configured for exciting fluorescent material of the teeth to obtain fluorescence data from the dental object. Such a light source may be configured to produce a narrow range of wavelengths. In another embodiment, the light from the light source is infrared (IR) light, which is capable of penetrating dental tissue. The light projector(s)may be DLP projectors using a micro mirror array for generating a time varying pattern, or a diffractive optical element (DOF), or back-lit mask projectors, wherein the light source is placed behind a mask having a spatial pattern, whereby the light projected on the surface of the dental object is patterned. The back-lit mask projector may comprise a collimation lens for collimating the light from the light source, said collimation lens being placed between the light source and the mask. The mask may have a checkerboard pattern, such that the generated illumination pattern is a checkerboard pattern. Alternatively, the mask may feature other patterns such as lines or dots, etc.

[0030] The scanning device preferably further comprises optical components for directing the light from the light source to the surface of the dental object. The specific arrangement of the optical components depends on whether the scanning device is a focus scanning apparatus, a scanning device using triangulation, or any other type of scanning device. A focus scanning apparatus is further described in EP 2442 720 Bl by the same applicant, which is incorporated herein in its entirety.

[0031] The light reflected from the dental object in response to the illumination of the dental object is directed, using optical components of the scanning device, towards the image sensor(s). The image sensor(s) are configured to generate a plurality of images based on the incoming light received from the illuminated dental object. The image sensor may be a highspeed image sensor such as an image sensor configured for acquiring images with exposures of less than 1 / 1000 second or frame rates in excess of 250 frames pr. second (fps). As an example, the image sensor may be a rolling shutter (CCD) or global shutter sensor (CMOS). The image sensor(s) may be a monochrome sensor including a color filter array such as a Bayer filter and / or additional filters that may be configured to substantially remove one or more color components from the reflected light and retain only the other non-removed components prior to conversion of the reflected light into an electrical signal. For example, such additional filters may be used to remove a certain part of a white light spectrum, such as a blue component, and retain only red and green components from a signal generated in response to exciting fluorescent material of the teeth.

[0032] The network unit may be configured to connect the dental scanning system to a network comprising a plurality of network elements including at least one network element configured to receive the processed data. The network unit may include a wireless network unit or a wired network unit. The wireless network unit is configured to wirelessly connect thedental scanning system to the network comprising the plurality of network elements including the at least one network element configured to receive the processed data. The wired network unit is configured to establish a wired connection between the dental scanning system and the network comprising the plurality of network elements including the at least one network element configured to receive the processed data.

[0033] The dental scanning system preferably further comprises a processor configured to generate scan data (such as extra-oral scan data and / or intra-oral scan data) by processing the two-dimensional (2D) images acquired by the scanning device. The processor may be part of the scanning device. As an example, the processor may comprise a Field-programmable gate array (FPGA) and / or an Advanced RISC Machines (ARM) processor located on the scanning device. The scan data comprises information relating to the three-dimensional dental object. The scan data may comprise any of: 2D images, 3D point clouds, depth data, texture data, intensity data, color data, and / or combinations thereof. As an example, the scan data may comprise one or more point clouds, wherein each point cloud comprises a set of 3D points describing the three-dimensional dental object. As another example, the scan data may comprise images, each image comprising image data e.g. described by image coordinates and a timestamp (x, y, t), wherein depth information can be inferred from the timestamp. The image sensor(s) of the scanning device may acquire a plurality of raw 2D images of the dental object in response to illuminating said object using the one or more light projectors. The plurality of raw 2D images may also be referred to herein as a stack of 2D images. The 2D images may subsequently be provided as input to the processor, which processes the 2D images to generate scan data. The processing of the 2D images may comprise the step of determining which part of each of the 2D images are in focus in order to deduce / generate depth information from the images. The depth information may be used to generate 3D point clouds comprising a set of 3D points in space, e.g., described by cartesian coordinates (x, y, z). The 3D point clouds may be generated by the processor or by another processing unit. Each 2D / 3D point may furthermore comprise a timestamp that indicates when the 2D / 3D point was recorded, i.e., from which image in the stack of 2D images the point originates. The timestamp is correlated with the z-coordinate of the 3D points, i.e., the z-coordinate may be inferred from the timestamp. Accordingly, the output of the processor is the scan data, and the scan data may comprise image data and / or depth data, e.g. described by image coordinates and a timestamp (x, y, t) or alternatively described as (x, y, z). The scanning device may be configured to transmit other types of data in addition to the scan data. Examples of data include 3D information, textureinformation such as infra-red (IR) images, fluorescence images, reflectance color images, x- ray images, and / or combinations thereof.EFFECT(S) OF THE INVENTION

[0034] According to the present disclosure, an intraoral scanner, and a method for controlling heat transfer are provided. One of the purposes of the present disclosure is to provide an effective way to control heat transfer in the intraoral scanner using a passive heat spreader. This may prevent overheating of an outer surface of the intraoral scanner, enabling a user as well as a patient undergoing a dental scan to have a smooth experience. Further, since the heat emitted from the electronic components are effectively transferred, the operation of the intraoral scanner may be performed for longer duration of time without affecting accuracy of operation of components, such as sensors.

[0035] In addition, an airgap is introduced between a housing of the intraoral scanner and the passive heat spreader. This airgap may further reduce an amount of heat that may be transferred to the housing directly, specifically, above hotspots. To this end, the heat spreader provided in the intraoral scanner may stimulate a spread of the heat to other areas, thereby preventing overheating of certain areas of housing that may be directly above hotspots.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] The present disclosure is illustrated by way of example and not by way of limitation in the figures of the accompanying drawings, in which the like reference numerals indicate like elements and in which:FIG. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary intraoral scanner having a heat spreader, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure;FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary intraoral scanner having a selective heat spreader, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure;FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary intraoral scanner having a first protective layer, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure;FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary intraoral scanner having a second protective layer, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure;FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of another exemplary intraoral scanner having the selective heat spreader and the second protective layer, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure;FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary intraoral scanner, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure;FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary intraoral scanner having a third protective layer, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure;FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B illustrate cross-sectional views of an exemplary intraoral scanner, in accordance with different example embodiments of the disclosure;FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary intraoral scanner, in accordance with an example embodiment of the disclosure;FIG. 10 A, FIG. 10B, FIG. 10C and FIG. 10D illustrate cross-sectional views of an exemplary intraoral scanner, in accordance with various embodiments of the disclosure;FIG. 11 illustrates a schematic diagram of an exemplary intraoral scanner, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure; andFIG. 12 illustrates a flowchart of an exemplary method for controlling heat transfer in an intraoral scanner, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, systems and methods are shown in block diagram form only in order to avoid obscuring the present disclosure.

[0038] Some embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the disclosure are shown. Indeed, various embodiments of the disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout. Also, reference in this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment”means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The appearance of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification does not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Further, the terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items. Moreover, various features are described which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others. Similarly, various requirements are described which may be requirements for some embodiments but not for other embodiments.

[0001] The embodiments are described herein for illustrative purposes and are subject to many variations. It is understood that various omissions and substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstances may suggest or render expedient but are intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the spirit or the scope of the present disclosure. Further, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the description and should not be regarded as limiting. Any heading utilized within this description is for convenience only and has no legal or limiting effect.

[0002] As used in this specification and claims, the terms “for example” “for instance” and “such as”, and the verbs “comprising,” “having,” “including” and their other verb forms, when used in conjunction with a listing of one or more components or other items, are each to be construed as open ended, meaning that that the listing is not to be considered as excluding other, additional components or items. Other terms are to be construed using their broadest reasonable meaning unless they are used in a context that requires a different interpretation. Turning now to FIG. 1 - FIG. 12, a brief description concerning the various components of the present disclosure will now be briefly discussed. Reference will be made to the figures showing various embodiments of an intraoral scanner configured to perform an intraoral scanning of a dental object.

[0003] An intraoral scanner having a heat spreader and a method for controlling heat transfer in the intraoral scanner are provided for controlling heat transfer and preventing overheating in intraoral scanners.

[0039] FIG. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view 100 of an exemplary intraoral scanner 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. The intraoral scanner 102 includes a housing 104, an interior space 106, a heat spreader 108, and a first airgap 110. The heat spreader108 may have a first surface 108 A and a second surface 108B. The intraoral scanner 102 may further include one or more electronic components. The one or more electronic components may include, but are not limited to, a first electronic component 112A, a second electronic component 112B, a third electronic component 112C and a fourth electronic component 112D. The first electronic component 112A, the second electronic component 112B, the third electronic component 112C and the fourth electronic component 112D are collectively referred to as one or more electronic components 112, hereinafter.

[0040] In an embodiment, the intraoral scanner 102 may be configured to perform an intraoral scanning of a dental object. The intraoral scanner 102 may correspond to a medical device utilized in dentistry. The intraoral scanner 102 may be employed to capture a direct digital impression of a patient’s oral cavity. Specifically, the intraoral scanner 102 may correspond to a handheld device that may employed by medical professionals (for example, dentists, orthodontists, and the like) to capture an accurate three-dimensional (3D) image of teeth, gums, and surrounding tissues (or soft tissues). This may improve a quality of dental care and efficiency of dental practices through precise dental imaging. While in operation, the intraoral scanner 102 may project a light source onto the dental object to be scanned and captures the reflected light using sensors. Such data collected by sensors may be processed to create an accurate 3D digital image of the dental object. Such digital image may be utilized for different dental applications, for example, but not limited to designing crowns, bridges, aligners, restorative procedures, orthodontic treatment planning, implantology, prosthodontics, periodontics, and other dental restorations. Further, the medical professionals may leverage the use of intraoral scanner 102 to enhance accuracy of various dental procedures, thereby providing improved treatment outcomes, patient comfort, and overall efficiency.

[0041] Continuing further, the intraoral scanner 102 may include the housing 104 defining the interior space 106. The housing 104 may correspond to an outer case or an outer shell associated with the intraoral scanner 102. The interior space 104 may correspond to a space inside the housing 104 associated with the intraoral scanner 102. In an exemplary embodiment, the housing 104 may be made of materials, for example, but not limited to, medical-grade plastic, aluminium, magnesium alloys, composite materials, titanium. In an example, the housing 104 made from composite materials may provide flexibility to the housing 104. In another example, the housing 102 made from titanium may enable a lightweight, a durable, and a biocompatible housing 104 for the intraoral scanner 102.

[0042] Further, the housing 104 defining the interior space 106 may encompass the one or more electronic components 112, the heat spreader 108 and the first airgap 110. The housing 104 may include an upper surface 104 A and an opposite bottom surface 104B. The upper surface 104 A may correspond to an outer layer of the housing 104 whereas the opposite bottom surface 104B may face the interior space 106 of the housing 104. The one or more electronic components 112 may be configured to capture and process images of the dental object. The one or more electronic components 112 may be strategically arranged within the interior space 106 of the housing 104. The one or more electronic components 112 may be arranged on, for example, but not limited to, a circuitry board or a printed circuitry board (PCB). Example, of the one or more electronic components 112 may include but are not limited to a light source, a processor, a power management integrated circuit (PMIC), an image sensor, a battery, and a button.

[0043] In an exemplary embodiment, the first electronic component 112A may correspond to the image sensor, the second electronic component 112B may correspond to the processor, the third electronic component 112C may correspond to the light source and the fourth electronic component 112D may correspond to the PMIC. As may be understood, such examples of the electronic components 112 are only exemplary and should not be construed as a limitation. The intraoral scanner 102 may include other electronic components residing within the housing 104 and being configured to perform certain operations in order to carry out an operation of the intraoral scanner 102.

[0044] The first electronic component 112A may be the image sensor that captures detailed images of intraoral structures and may generate heat during prolonged use or high-resolution scanning. The second electronic component 112B may be the processor that performs computational processing required to reconstruct digital models from captured images. The processor may also generate heat during its operation. The third electronic component 112C may be the light source, such as an LED or a laser light source for illumination during scanning. The light source may also can generate heat, particularly in continuous scanning modes. The fourth electronic component 112D may be the PMIC that manages power requirements of the intraoral scanner 102 by controlling flow and distribution of electrical power. For example, the PMIC may be a largest contributor to the heat in addition to other components in the vicinity of the PMIC. Further, other components, such as rechargeable battery may also generate heat during charging or prolonged use.

[0045] To this end, the one or more electronic components 112 in conjunction facilitates operations of the intraoral scanner 102. The one or more electronic components 112 may generate heat during the operation of the intraoral scanner 102. The generated heat may cause a hotspot on the housing 104 of the intraoral scanner 102.

[0046] Conventionally, such hotspot may be reduced by using the housing 104 of the intraoral scanner 102 to cool the intraoral scanner 102. For example, the housing 104 of the intraoral scanner 102 may be heated up passively such that it may draw away the heat from the hotspots. This may warm the housing 104 of the intraoral scanner 102 slightly, thereby avoiding a regulatory breaching hotspot on the housing 104. Therefore, there is a need to spread the generated heat throughout the housing 104 efficiently. However, owing to very limited space between the circuitry board or the PCB board and the housing 104, there may be limitations associated with active cooling of the intraoral scanner 102.

[0047] To overcome the limitations, the disclosed intraoral scanner 102 may include the heat spreader 108 arranged within the interior space 106 between the one or more electronic components 112 and the housing 104. The heat spreader 108 may be used in the intraoral scanner 102 to efficiently dissipate the heat generated by the one or more electronic components 112. The heat spreader 108 may be a passive cooling heat spreader that may be made from materials having high thermal conductivity. Furthermore, the heat spreader 108 may be designed to absorb heat from a heat source, i.e., the one or more electronic components 112, and evenly distribute it across its surface area. This may help prevent hotspots and ensure effective heat dissipation.

[0048] In an exemplary embodiment, the heat spreader 108 integrated within the intraoral scanner 102 may be made of graphite with high thermal conductivity properties. The heat spreader 108 may be arranged in vicinity of the one or more electronic components 112 which generates the heat. The heat spreader 108 efficiently absorbs heat from the one or more electronic components 112 and evenly distributes it across its surface area which prevents the hotspots. This ensures efficient heat dissipation throughout the housing 104 of the intraoral scanner 102. In an example, the heat spreader 108 may correspond to a thin heat spreading material. The heat spreader 108 may be a passive heat spreader and heat shield. In an example the heat spreader 108 may be made from natural graphite. The heat spreader 108 may correspond to a family of high -performance, flexible graphite heat spreaders designed for thermal applications.

[0049] In an embodiment, the heat spreader 108 may be designed to have the first surface 108 A arranged in vicinity of the one or more electronic components 112 and the opposing second surface 108B arranged in vicinity of the housing 104. In other words, the first surface 108 A and the second surface 108B may correspond to opposite sides of the heat spreader 108. For example, the heat spreader 108 may be arranged inside the intraoral scanner 102 such that the first surface 108 A faces and lies close to the one or more electronic components 112, while the second surface 108B faces and lies close to the housing 104.

[0050] In another embodiment, the second surface 108B of the heat spreader 108 may be separated from the housing 104 with a first predefined distance defining the first airgap 110 therebetween. The first airgap 110 serves as a thermal barrier, allowing for efficient heat dissipation from the heat spreader 108 to the surrounding environment in the air gap, thereby preventing transfer of heat to the housing 104 of the intraoral scanner 102. The first predefined distance may be, for example, but not limited to, 2 mm, 4 mm, 6 mm, and 8 mm. This may be indicative of a variation in a thickness of the first airgap 110. For example, if the thickness of the first airgap 110 increases, this may result in reduction of heat exchange in that area, thereby influencing heat dissipation efficiency, temperature distribution, thermal stability, and performance of the intraoral scanner 102.

[0051] In an embodiment, the heat spreader 108 may transfer heat emitted by the one or more electronic components 112 in a first direction and isolates the transfer of the heat in a second direction. In such a scenario, the first direction may be parallel to the first surface 108 A of the heat spreader 108 and the second direction may be perpendicular to the first surface 108A of the heat spreader 108. For example, the heat spreader 108 may absorb the heat from the one or more electronic components 112 and dissipates the heat along its length, such as along the first direction. Further, the heat spreader 108 may isolate heat transfer along its thickness, such as along the second direction. In such an example, the first surface 108 A of the heat spreader 108 is along an x-axis. The heat is transferred by the heat spreader 108 in the first direction parallel to the first surface 108A, i.e., along the x-axis. The heat is isolated, or heat transfer is prevented along the second direction perpendicular to the first surface 108A, i.e., along a y-axis.

[0052] FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view 200 of another exemplary intraoral scanner 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 2 is explained in conjunction with elements of FIG. 1. The intraoral scanner 102 includes the housing 104, the interior space106, the heat spreader 108, and the first airgap 110. The heat spreader 108 is designed to have the first surface 108 A and the second surface 108B. The intraoral scanner 102 may further include the one or more electronic components 112. With reference to FIG. 2, the intraoral scanner 102 may further includes a selective heat spreader 202, and a second airgap 204.

[0053] In an embodiment, the selective heat spreader 202 may be arranged within a predefined area between the heat spreader 108 and the housing 104. In an example, the selective heat spreader 202 may be arranged in the first airgap 110, such that the first airgap 110 may be at least partially filled with the selective heat spreader 202 and the second airgap 204.

[0054] The selective heat spreader 202 may be a second layer for heat spreading or dissipation used in the intraoral scanner 102 to efficiently dissipate heat generated by the one or more electronic components 112. In an example, the selective heat spreader 202 may be arranged in parallel to the heat spreader 108. The selective heat spreader 202 may be positioned or arranged as vertically aligned or vertically above the heat spreader 108, such that the selective heat spreader 202 is parallel to the second surface 108B of the heat spreader 108. The parallel arrangement of the selective heat spreader 202 and the heat spreader 108 may allow efficient heat dissipation from both the selective heat spreader 202 and the heat spreader 108, effectively distributing heat without overheating the housing 104 of the intraoral scanner 102.

[0055] In another embodiment, the selective heat spreader 202 is separated from the heat spreader 108 with a second predefined distance. In particular, a surface of the selective heat spreader 202 is separated from the second surface 108B of the heat spreader 108 with the second predefined distance. As a result, an airgap may be formed between the heat spreader 108 and the selective heat spreader 202. In an exemplary embodiment, the second predefined distance may be, for example, but not limited to, 2 mm, 4 mm, 6 mm, 8 mm from the housing 104.

[0056] In an embodiment, the selective heat spreader 202 may have a third surface 202A that may be arranged in vicinity of the heat spreader 108 and an opposing fourth surface 202B that may be arranged in vicinity of the housing 104. The third surface 202A may correspond to a side of the selective heat spreader 202 facing the heat spreader 108, such as the second surface 108B of the heat spreader. Moreover, the fourth surface 202B may correspond to a side of the selective heat spreader 202 facing the housing 104, such as an undersurface of the housing 104. In an exemplary embodiment, the selective heat spreader 202 may be placed inside the intraoralscanner 102 such that the third surface 202 A faces the second surface 108B of the heat spreader, and the fourth surface 202B faces the housing 104.

[0057] In another embodiment, the fourth surface 202B is separated from the housing 104 with a third predefined distance defining the second airgap 204 therebetween. The second airgap 204 may provide additional thermal insulation and prevent heat transfer from the selective heat spreader 202 to the housing 104 at least in the second direction. In an exemplary embodiment, the third predefined distance may be, for example, but not limited to, 2 mm, 4 mm, 6 mm, and 8 mm. This may vary the thickness of the second airgap 204 which can further influence heat dissipation efficiency, temperature distribution, thermal stability, and device performance.

[0058] The selective heat spreader 202 is operable to further dissipate or transfer a residual amount of heat, i.e., residual heat, from the heat spreader 108 and evenly distribute it across its surface area. The selective heat spreader 202 may assist the heat spreader 108 to isolate the heat transfer in the second direction (such as the y-axis). This may further help to prevent the hotspots and ensure effective heat dissipation. Further, the selective heat spreader 202 may be the passive cooling heat spreader and may be made of materials with high thermal conductivity.

[0059] In an exemplary embodiment, the selective heat spreader 202 integrated within the intraoral scanner 102 may be made of graphite with high thermal conductivity properties. The heat spreader 108 efficiently absorbs heat from the one or more electronic components 112 and evenly distributes it across its surface area, i.e., along the first direction. In certain cases, some amount of residual heat may get transferred into the second direction in the heat spreader 108.

[0060] In an exemplary embodiment, the selective heat spreader 202 further transfers the residual heat of the heat spreader 108 in the first direction, i.e., the x-axis, and further isolate the transfer of the residual heat in the second direction, i.e., the y-axis, such as to the housing 104. This further ensures efficient heat dissipation without overheating of the housing 104 of the intraoral scanner 102.

[0061] In an exemplary embodiment, the selective heat spreader 202 is placed parallel to the heat spreader 108 and directly below a selective region on the housing 104 of the intraoral scanner 102. For example, the selective region may correspond to an area of the housing 104 where a hotspot may be formed. For example, an electronic component, say the fourth electronic component 112D may correspond to the PMIC which generates large amount of heat during its operation, thereby forming a hotspot. Subsequently, an area of the housing 104vertically above the fourth electronic component 112D or the PMIC may have a tendency to overheat from hotspot. In this regard, the selective heat spreader 202 may be arranged in a selective region between the hotspot or a location of the fourth electronic component 112D or the PMIC and the area of the housing 104. The selective heat spreader 202 may dissipate residual heat coming in the second direction from the heat spreader 108 along its surface, i.e., along the first direction. This may prevent overheating of the area of the housing even when it lies directly above the hotspot. Further, this helps to prevent the generation of a hotspot on the housing 104 of the intraoral scanner 102.

[0062] In another embodiment, the selective heat spreader 202 transfers residual heat of the heat spreader 108 in the first direction and isolates the transfer of the residual heat in the second direction. The selective heat spreader 202 may absorb the residual heat of the heat spreader 108 and spreads the residual heat in the first direction, such as along its longitudinal surface. This may isolate transfer of the residual heat in the second direction, such as along its thickness, and may prevent generation of the hotspot on the housing 104.

[0063] The residual heat of the heat spreader 108 is transferred by the selective heat spreader 202 in the first direction i.e., along the x-axis. The residual heat of the heat spreader 108 is isolated by the heat spreader 108 in the second direction i.e., along the y-axis.

[0064] FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view 300 of the exemplary intraoral scanner 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 3 is explained in conjunction with elements of FIG. 1, and FIG. 2. The cross-sectional view 300 of the exemplary intraoral scanner 102 further illustrates an arrangement for heat management in the intraoral scanner 102 with a first protective layer 302. With reference to FIG. 3, the intraoral scanner 102 includes the housing 104, the interior space 106, the heat spreader 108, and the one or more electronic components 112. The heat spreader 108 is designed to have the first surface 108A and the second surface 108B. The intraoral scanner 102 may further include the selective heat spreader 202 having the third surface 202A and the fourth surface 202B, and the second airgap 204 defined between the fourth surface 202B of the selective heat spreader 202 and the housing 104.

[0065] In an embodiment, the intraoral scanner 102 may further include the first protective layer 302. The first protective layer 302 may be arranged between the heat spreader 108 and at least one of the housing 104 or the selective heat spreader 202. In an example, the first airgap110 that may be defined between the heat spreader 108 and the housing 104 may be filled with the first protective layer 302, the selective heat spreader 202, and the second airgap 204.

[0066] The first protective layer 302 may act as a cushion that absorbs vibrations and shocks, to protect the heat spreader 108 and / or the selective heat spreader 202 from a potential damage. In another embodiment, the first protective layer 302 may help to insulate the heat spreader 108 from direct contact with the housing 104 or the selective heat spreader 202 and may control the heat transfer therebetween.

[0067] In an exemplary embodiment, the first protective layer 302 may be made up of, for example, but not limited to, thermally conductive pads, polyimide films, silicone gel sheets, fibreglass cloth, and ceramic insulators. These materials provide mechanical strength and thermal resistance protecting and supporting the heat spreader 108 and the selective heat spreader 202.

[0068] In another embodiment, the first protective layer 302 may also have adhesive properties. The adhesive properties of the first protective layer 302 may help to securely bond the heat spreader 108 to the housing 104, or the heat spreader 108 to the selective heat spreader 202. The first protective layer 302 may maintain stability and integrity of the arrangement for heat management in the intraoral scanner 102. Further, the first protective layer 302 with the adhesive properties may conform to various shapes and surfaces. Therefore, the first protective layer 302 with the adhesive properties may be easy to apply and may be a versatile solution for maintaining the arrangement of the heat spreader 108 and / or the selective heat spreader 202 with the housing 104 within the intraoral scanner 102.

[0069] In an exemplary embodiment, the first protective layer 302 may be a double-sided adhesive tape. Adhesive properties of the double-sided adhesive tape ensure a strong and reliable bond between the heat spreader 108 and the housing 104 or between the heat spreader 108 and the selective heat spreader 202. This secure attachment prevents shifting of the heat spreader 108 and the selective heat spreader 202 during operation or handling of the intraoral scanner 102. The double-sided adhesive tape is easy to apply, offering a convenient solution for attaching the heat spreader 108 with respect to the housing 104 and / or the selective heat spreader 202 without the need for additional adhesives. Flexibility of the double-sided adhesive tape also provides support to irregular surfaces as well, ensuring full contact between the heat spreader 108 and the housing 104 or the selective heat spreader 202. Further, the double-sided adhesive tape may be, for example, but not limited to, a polyimide tape, an acrylic foam tape,and a silicone-based tape. The polyimide tape offers thermal stability, the acrylic foam tape offers high bond strength and conformability to irregular surfaces, the silicone-based tape also offers high temperature resistance and flexibility. In an example, the first protective layer 302 may correspond to a double-sided adhesive tape, for example, Adhesive Tesa ® 4983. This may correspond to a transparent, double-sided adhesive tape consisting of a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) backing and a tackified acrylic adhesive.

[0070] In another embodiment, the first protective layer 302 may also have insulation properties. The first protective layer 302 may act as an insulating layer and prevent thermal and electrical contact between the heat spreader 108 and the housing 104 or the selective heat spreader 202. This may reduce the electrical shorts or interference and may ensure safe and reliable operation of the intraoral scanner 102.

[0071] In an exemplary embodiment, to prevent the electrical contact between the heat spreader 108 and the housing 104 or the selective heat spreader 202 of the intraoral scanner, a layer of the Kapton tape is used as an insulating barrier. The Kapton tape is known for its excellent insulation properties, and it effectively prevents electrical shorts or interference by isolating the heat spreader 108 from the surrounding conductive surfaces. This reduces the risk of electrical malfunctions, ensuring consistent performance during prolonged use of the intraoral scanner 102.

[0072] In an embodiment, the first protective layer 302 may provide structural reinforcement to at least one of the heat spreader 108, or the selective heat spreader 202. The first protective layer 302 may be made from a robust material, for example, but not limited to, fiberglass cloth or polyimide tape. This may enhance the mechanical stability of the heat spreader 108 and the selective heat spreader 202. Further, the first protective layer 302 may ensure that the heat spreader 108 and the selective heat spreader 202 maintain their shape and position within the intraoral scanner 102, even under a mechanical stress or vibrations. This may further prevent deformation or displacement of the heat spreader 108 and the selective heat spreader 202 and may contribute to overall durability and reliability of the intraoral scanner 102.

[0073] In an exemplary embodiment, to provide structural reinforcement to at least one of the heat spreader 108, or the selective heat spreader 202 of the intraoral scanner, a layer of the fiberglass cloth tape is used to ensure that the heat spreader 108 and the selective heat spreader 202 remain securely in place, when the intraoral scanner 102 is subjected to mechanical stressduring the operation of the intraoral scanner 102. This arrangement enhances the heat management capabilities of the intraoral scanner 102 while prolonging operational lifespan of the intraoral scanner 102.

[0074] FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view 400 of the exemplary intraoral scanner 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 4 is explained in conjunction with elements of FIG. 1, FIG. 2, and FIG. 3. The cross-sectional view 400 of the intraoral scanner 102 further illustrates an arrangement for heat management in the intraoral scanner 102 with a second protective layer 402. With reference to FIG. 4, the intraoral scanner 102 includes the housing 104, the interior space 106, the one or more electronic components 112, the heat spreader 108, and the first airgap 110. The heat spreader 108 is designed to have the first surface 108 A and the second surface 108B. The intraoral scanner 102 may further include the selective heat spreader 202 having the third surface 202A and the fourth surface 202B, and the second airgap 204 defined between the fourth surface 202B of the selective heat spreader 202 and the housing 104.

[0075] In an embodiment, the intraoral scanner 102 may further include the second protective layer 402. The second protective layer 402 may be arranged between the heat spreader 108 and the one or more electronic components 112. The second protective layer 402 provides structural reinforcement to the heat spreader 108. The second protective layer 402 may protect and support the arrangement of the heat spreader 108 in the vicinity of the one or more electronic components 112. The second protective layer 402 may act as a cushion between the heat spreader 108 and the one or more electronic components 112, absorbing vibrations and shocks that may occur during the operation of the intraoral scanner 102. The second protective layer 202 protects the heat spreader 108 and the one or more electronic components 112 from mechanical damage.

[0076] In an exemplary embodiment, the second protective layer 402 may be made up of, for example, but not limited to, thermally conductive pads, polyimide films, silicone gel sheets, fibreglass cloth, and ceramic insulators. These materials provide mechanical strength and thermal resistance protecting and supporting the heat spreader 108 and the one or more electronic components 112.

[0077] In another embodiment, the second protective layer 402 may also have adhesive properties. The adhesive properties of the second protective layer 402 may securely bond to the heat spreader 108 to the one or more electronic components 112, and further maintains thestability and integrity of the arrangement for heat management in the intraoral scanners. Further, the second protective layer 402 with the adhesive properties may help maintain consistent contact with the heat spreader 108 to provide reinforcement to it. Therefore, the second protective layer 402 with the adhesive properties may offer ease of application and may ensure uniform contact between the heat spreader 108 and the one or more electronic components 112 within the intraoral scanner 102.

[0078] In an exemplary embodiment, the second protective layer 202 may be a single-sided adhesive tape. Further, the single-sided adhesive tape may be, for example, but not limited to, a polyimide tape, a Kapton tape, a silicone adhesive tape, and a polyester tape. The polyimide tape offers thermal stability, the Kapton tape is a type of the polyimide tape and is used extensively in devices for heat resistance and insulating properties, the silicone adhesive tape also offers high temperature resistance, and the polyester tape is used for its durability and electrical insulation properties. For example, an adhesive surface of the singe-sided adhesive of the second protective layer 202 may stick to the first surface 108 A of the heat spreader while an opposing surface of the second protective layer 202 may face the one or more electronic components 112.

[0079] In another embodiment, the second protective layer 402 may serve as an insulating barrier and may prevent the electrical shorts between the one or more electronic components 112 and the heat spreader 108. This may ensure safe and reliable operation of the intraoral scanner 102.

[0080] In an exemplary embodiment, to prevent the electrical contact between the one or more electronic components 112 and the heat spreader 108 of the intraoral scanner, the second protective layer 402 or the single-sided tape, can be made from a polyimide based adhesive tape. The polyimide tape provides excellent insulation properties, making it ideal for thermal and electrical insulation purposes. The polyimide tape effectively prevents electrical shorts between the one or more electronic components 112 and the heat spreader 108. This reduces the risk of the electrical malfunctions and enhances overall durability of the intraoral scanner 102.

[0081] In an embodiment, the second protective layer 402 may provide structural reinforcement to the heat spreader 108. The second protective layer 402 increases overall rigidity and resistance to deformation or bending of the heat spreader 108. The second protective layer 402 helps maintain the shape and integrity of the heat spreader 108, whensubjected to mechanical stresses. The second protective layer 402 acts as a barrier, shielding the heat spreader 108 from external factors such as impacts and abrasion. Furthermore, the second protective layer 402 helps distribute mechanical forces evenly across the surface of the heat spreader 108, minimizing localized stress concentrations. The second protective layer 402 further reduces the risk of structural weakness or points of failure in the heat spreader 108 assembly.

[0082] FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view 500 of the exemplary intraoral scanner with a selective heat spreader, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 5 is explained in conjunction with elements of FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3, and FIG. 4. The cross- sectional view 500 of the intraoral scanner 102 further illustrates an arrangement for heat transfer in the intraoral scanner 102. With reference to FIG. 5, the intraoral scanner 102 includes the housing 104, the interior space 106, the heat spreader 108, and the one or more electronic components 112. The heat spreader 108 is designed to have the first surface 108A and the second surface 108B. The first surface 108 A may be arranged in the vicinity of the electronic components 112, while the second surface 108B may be arranged in the vicinity of the housing 104. The intraoral scanner 102 may further include the selective heat spreader 202 having the third surface 202 A and the fourth surface 202B. The selective heat spreader 202 may be arranged between the second surface 108B of the heat spreader 108 and the housing 104. For example, the first airgap 110 between the heat spreader 108 and the housing 104 may be at least partially filled with the selective heat spreader 202 and the second airgap 204. Further, the selective heat spreader 202 may be space apart from the housing 104 to define the second airgap 204 therebetween. The intraoral scanner 102 may further include the second protective layer 402 that may be arranged in a space between the heat spreader 108 and the one or more electronic components 112. For example, the second protective layer 402 may be a single-sided adhesive that may stick to the first surface 108 A of the heat spreader 108 and provide structural reinforcement to it.

[0083] The present embodiment describes the arrangement for heat management in the intraoral scanner 102 to include the heat spreader 108, the selective heat spreader 202 and the second protective layer 402. However, this should not be construed as a limitation. In another example, the arrangement for heat management in the intraoral scanner 102 may include the heat spreader 108 and the second protective layer 402, i.e., without the selective heat spreader 202. In yet another example, the arrangement for heat management in the intraoral scanner 102may include the heat spreader 108, the second protective layer 402 and the first protective layer 302.

[0084] FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view 600 of the exemplary intraoral scanner 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 6 is explained in conjunction with elements of FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3, FIG. 4, and FIG. 5. The cross-sectional view 600 of the intraoral scanner 102 further illustrates an arrangement for heat management in intraoral scanner 102. With reference to FIG. 6, the intraoral scanner 102 includes the housing 104, the interior space 106, the heat spreader 108, and the one or more electronic components 112. The heat spreader 108 is designed to have the first surface 108 A and the second surface 108B. The intraoral scanner 102 may further includes the selective heat spreader 202 arranged between the heat spreader 108 and the housing 104. To this end, the third surface 202A of the selective heat spreader 202 is spaced apart from the heat spreader 108 by the second predefined distance and the fourth surface 202B of the selective heat spreader 202 is spaced apart from the housing 104 by the third predefined distance. Subsequently, the second airgap 204 is defined between the selective heat spreader 202 and the housing 104. For example, the first airgap 110 may include a space corresponding to the second predefined distance, the selective heat spreader 202 and the second airgap 204.

[0085] The intraoral scanner 102 may further include the first protective layer 302 that may be arranged between the heat spreader 108 and the selective heat spreader 202. For example, the first protective layer 302 may be arranged at least partially within the space corresponding to the second predefined distance. The first protective layer 302 may have double-sided adhesive property to stick to the heat spreader 108 as well as the selective heat spreader 202 to provide structural reinforcement to both of them. Further, the intraoral scanner 102 may include the second protective layer 402 arranged between the heat spreader 108 and the one or more electronic components 112. For example, the second protective layer 402 may be arranged within a space between the heat spreader 108 and the one or more electronic components 112. The second protective layer 402 may have single-sided adhesive property to stick to the heat spreader 108 to provide structural reinforcement.

[0086] FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view 700 of the exemplary intraoral scanner 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 7 is explained in conjunction with elements of FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3, FIG. 4, FIG. 5, and FIG. 6. The intraoral scanner 102 may include the housing 104, the interior space 106, the one or more electronic components 112,the heat spreader 108, the first airgap 110, and the selective heat spreader 202. The selective heat spreader 202 may be arranged in the first airgap 110 such that a space between the selective heat spreader 202 and the housing defines the second airgap 204. The selective heat spreader 202 may have the third surface 202 A facing the heat spreader 108 and the fourth surface 202B facing the housing 104 or the second airgap 204. The intraoral scanner 102 may further include the first protective layer 302 arranged between the heat spreader 108 and the selective heat spreader 202. Further, the intraoral scanner 102 may include the second protective layer 402 arranged between the heat spreader 110 and the one or more electronic components 112.

[0087] In an embodiment, the intraoral scanner 102 may further include a third protective layer 702. The third protective layer 702 may be arranged between the selective heat spreader 202 and the second airgap 204. The third protective layer 702 may correspond to an extra layer of single sided adhesive layer arranged on top of the selective heat spreader 202. The third protective layer 702 may protect and support the selective heat spreader 202. The third protective layer 702 may act as a cushion, absorbing vibrations and shocks that may occur during the operation of the intraoral scanner 102. The third protective layer 702 protects the selective heat spreader 202 from mechanical damage during transportation and assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the third protective layer 702 may be made up of, for example, but not limited to, thermally conductive pads, polyimide films, silicone gel sheets, fibreglass cloth, and ceramic insulators. Further, the third protective layer 702 may isolate the heat from going directly upwards, such as towards the housing 104, thereby improving thermal spreading.

[0088] In an embodiment, the heat spreader 108 may be arranged in connection with a heat sink. Further, the heat spreader 108 facilitates at least a partial transfer of the heat from the one or more electronic components 112 to the heat sink. The heat sink may be designed to absorb and dissipate the generated heat from the one or more electronic components 112 to prevent overheating thereof. The heat sink may be made using high thermal conductivity materials such as, but not limited to, aluminium, or copper. Such materials may allow efficient heat transfer from the one or more electronic components 112.

[0089] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B illustrate a cross-sectional view 800A and 800B, respectively, of the exemplary intraoral scanner 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B are explained in conjunction with elements of FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3, FIG. 4, FIG. 5, FIG. 6, and FIG. 7. The intraoral scanner 102 may include the housing 104, the interior space 106, the one or more electronic components 112, the heat spreader 108, and thefirst airgap 110. Moreover, the intraoral scanner 102 may include the selective heat spreader 202, the second airgap 204, the first protective layer 302, the second protective layer 402, the third protective layer 702, or a combination thereof.

[0090] With regard to FIG. 8A, a first thickness of the selective heat spreader 202 is greater than a second thickness of the heat spreader 108. The thickness may also impact thermal performance and efficiency in dissipating heat from the one or more electronic components 112. For example, when first thickness of the selective heat spreader 202 is greater than the second thickness of the heat spreader 108, this may imply that the selective heat spreader 202 may transfer more amount of residual heat along the first direction, such as the x-axis as it may have a large cross-sectional area for heat conduction along the first direction. This may allow better thermal conductivity and more uniform temperature distribution across the heat spreader 108, thereby preventing hotspots.

[0091] With regard to FIG. 8B, a first longitudinal length of the selective heat spreader 202 is lesser than a second longitudinal length of the heat spreader 108. The longitudinal length may impact thermal performance and efficiency in dissipating heat from the one or more electronic components 112. For example, when the second longitudinal length of the heat spreader 108 is greater than the first longitudinal length of the selective heat spreader 202, this may imply that the heat spreader 108 may have a lower thermal resistance as it may distribute heat over a large area. This may allow better heat dissipation and more uniform temperature distribution across the heat spreader 108, thereby preventing hotspots. Further, the shorter selective heat spreader 202 may be provided directly above hotspots to prevent heating of a region of the housing 104 due to such hotspots.

[0092] FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view 900A of the exemplary intraoral scanner 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 9 is explained in conjunction with elements of FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3, FIG. 4, FIG. 5, FIG. 6, FIG. 7, FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B. The intraoral scanner 102 may include the housing 104, the interior space 106, the one or more electronic components 112, the heat spreader 108, and the first airgap 110. Moreover, the intraoral scanner 102 may include the selective heat spreader 202, the second airgap 204, the first protective layer 302, the second protective layer 402, the third protective layer 702 (not shown in FIG. 9), or a combination thereof. For example, the selective heat spreader 202, the second airgap 204, the first protective layer 302 and / or the third protective layer 702 may be arranged in the first airgap 110.

[0093] Referring to FIG. 9, an arrangement of the heat spreader 108 may define an aperture 902. For example, the aperture 902 may form a recess to receive the selective heat spreader 202.

[0094] In an embodiment, the intraoral scanner 102 may include an input interface 904 arranged on the housing 104. For example, the housing 104 includes the upper surface 104 A and the opposite bottom surface 104B. Further, the input interface 904 may be arranged on the upper surface 104A of the housing 104. The input interface 904 may be, for example, a button, a touch pad or a touch screen, a stylus, a controller, a trackpad, a fingerprint sensor, a motion sensor, a joystick, a voice recognition interface, a gesture recognition interface, and so forth. Pursuant to present embodiment, the input interface 904 is exemplarily defined as an operating button. For example, the electronic components 112 may form hotspot right below the input interface 904. Since a user, such as a dentist may continuously interact with the input interface 904 to operate the intraoral scanner 102, heating of the operating button may drastically affect usability of the intraoral scanner.

[0095] To this end, the aperture 902 may be defined below the input interface 904 or the operating button to receive the selective heat spreader 202 therein. For example, a length of the selective heat spreader 202 may be comparable to a length of the input interface 904 and / or a length of the aperture 902. The selective heat spreader 202 arranged in a predefined area within the aperture 902. The predefined area may lie vertically below the input interface 904. The selective heat spreader 202 is operable to prevent transfer of the residual heat to the input interface 904 from the heat spreader 108. In particular, the heat spreader 108 may transfer some amount of heat emitted by the one or more electronic components 112 in the first direction. However, in some cases, such as when a hotspot is formed due to high power electronic components, certain areas of the heat spreader 108 may be unable to completely transfer the heat from the hotspots. In such a case, the selective heat spreader 202 is provided in the predefined area. For example, the predefined area lying within the aperture 902 is only exemplary. The predefined area may be any space, such as vertically above electronic components generating high amount of heat or high-power electronic components.

[0096] As may be noted, along with the heat spreader 108, the first protective layer 302 and the second protective layer 402 may also be arranged so as to form an aperture aligned with the aperture 902. The selective heat spreader 202 may be arranged or positioned in the predefined area defined by the aperture 902 and the apertures of the first protective layer 302and the second protective layer 402. The space between the second heat spreader 202 and the bottom surface 104B of the housing 104 may form the second airgap 204. In an example, the third protective layer 702 may also be arranged within the aperture 902, such as above the selective heat spreader 202. In this regard, the space between the third protective layer 702 and the bottom surface 104B of the housing 104 may form the second airgap 204.

[0097] It may be noted that such arrangement of the heat spreader 108 to have the aperture 902 to receive the selective heat spreader 202 is only exemplary and should not be construed as a limitation.

[0098] FIG. 10A, FIG. 10B, FIG. 10C and FIG. 10D illustrate cross-sectional views 1000 A, 1000B, 1000C and lOOOD, respectively, of the exemplary intraoral scanner 102, in accordance with various embodiments of the disclosure. FIG. 10A, FIG. 10B, FIG. 10C and FIG. 10D are explained in conjunction with elements of FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3, FIG. 4, FIG. 5, FIG. 6, FIG. 7, FIG. 8 A, FIG. 8B and FIG. 9. The intraoral scanner 102 may include the housing 104, the interior space 106, the one or more electronic components 112, the heat spreader 108, and the first airgap 110. Moreover, the intraoral scanner 102 may include the selective heat spreader 202, the second airgap 204, the first protective layer 302, the second protective layer 402, the third protective layer 702 (not shown in FIG. 10A, 10B and 10D), or a combination thereof. For example, the selective heat spreader 202, the second airgap 204, the first protective layer 302 and / or the third protective layer 702 may be arranged in the first airgap 110. The intraoral scanner 102 may further include the input interface 902. For example, the input interface 902 may be used to operate the intraoral scanner 102.

[0099] Referring to FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B, a structure or configuration of the heat spreader 108 may be defined to have a first portion 1002 and a second portion 1004. For example, the heat spreader 108 may be split into two parts, namely the first portion 1002 and the second portion 1004. The first portion 1002 and the second portion 1004 may be spaced apart to define a gap. Further, the selective heat spreader 202 may be arranged in the gap between the first portion 1002 and the second portion 1004.

[0100] According to the present embodiment, the first protective layer 302 is arranged between the first portion 1002 and the second portion 1004 of heat spreader 108 and the housing 104 as well as the selective heat spreader 202. Moreover, the second protective layer 402 is arranged between the first portion 1002 and the second portion 1004 of heat spreader 108 andthe one or more electronic components 112 as well as between the first protective layer 302 and the one or more electronic components 112.

[0101] In accordance with an embodiment, the arrangement of the first protective layer 302 and the second protective layer 402 may define an aperture. The predefined area for arranging the selective heat spreader 202 may be aligned with the aperture and the gap. For example, the selective heat spreader 202 may be positioned or arranged in the gap between the first portion 1002 and the second portion 1004 as well as within the aperture defined by the first protective layer 302 and the second protective layer 402.

[0102] According to the present embodiment, the predefined area, i.e., the gap between the first portion 1002 and the second portion 1004 and the aperture, for positioning the selective heat spreader 202 may be vertically in-line with the input interface 904. The selective heat spreader 202 may be arranged directly below the input interface 904 to ensure that heat from the electronic components 112 is not transferred to the input interface.

[0103] Referring to FIG. 10 A, a first thickness of the selective heat spreader 202 is greater than a second thickness of each of the first portion 1002 and the second portion 1004 of the heat spreader 108. The greater thickness of the selective heat spreader 202 may ensure that the heat emitted by the electronic components 112 lying below the input interface 904 does not overheat the input interface 904. For example, the present arrangement of the heat spreader 108 and the selective heat spreader 202 may be especially useful when an area between the one or more electronic components 112 and the housing 104 is less and / or high heat emitting electronic components are positioned directly below the input interface 904.

[0104] Referring to FIG. 10B, a first thickness of the selective heat spreader 202 may be comparable or similar to a second thickness of each of the first portion 1002 and the second portion 1004 of the heat spreader 108. For example, the present arrangement of the heat spreader 108 and the selective heat spreader 202 may be especially useful when an area between the one or more electronic components 112 and the housing 104 is less and / or high heat emitting electronic components are not positioned directly below the input interface 904.

[0105] Referring to FIG. 10C, an arrangement of the heat spreader 108, the first protective layer 302 and the second protective layer 402 may define an aperture. For example, the aperture may form a recess to receive the selective heat spreader 202 and the third protective layer 702. The third protective layer 702 may be arranged between the selective heat spreader 202 and the second airgap 204 or the housing 104. In an example, the aperture, the selective heat spreader202 and the third protective layer 702 may be vertically aligned with, such as lie vertically below the input interface 904.

[0106] Referring to FIG. 10D, an arrangement of the heat spreader 108 and the second protective layer 402 may define an aperture to receive the selective heat spreader 202 therein. Further, the first protective layer 302 may be partitioned or split into two portions, depicted as 302-1 and 302-2. The two portions 302-1 and 302-2 may be spaced apart such that a gap between the two portions 302-1 and 302-2 is aligned with the aperture. In this regard, two portions 302-1 and 302-2 of the first protective layer 302 may lie between the heat spreader 108 and the housing 104, whereas only airgap, such as a part of the first airgap 110 may be present between the heat spreader 108 and the selective heat spreader 202.

[0107] In an embodiment, the aperture, the selective heat spreader 202 and the third protective layer 702 may be vertically aligned with, such as lie vertically below the input interface 904. Moreover, the gap between the two portions 302-1 and 302-2 may also lie below the input interface 904 to increase a distance between the selective heat spreader 202 and the housing 104, thereby increasing a thickness of the second airgap 204. This may enhance heat transfer in compact spaces.

[0108] FIG. 11 illustrates a schematic diagram 1100 of an exemplary intraoral scanner 1102, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. The intraoral scanner 1102 may be similar to the intraoral scanner 102. FIG. 11 is explained in conjunction with elements of FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3, FIG. 4, FIG. 5, FIG. 6, FIG. 7, FIG. 8A, FIG. 8B, FIG. 9, FIG.10A, FIG. 10B, FIG. 10C and FIG. 10D. The intraoral scanner 1102 may include a housing 1104, the interior space 1106, the one or more electronic components 1108. The intraoral scanner 1102 may further include a heat transfer arrangement for heat management. The heat transfer arrangement may include the heat spreader 108 and the first airgap 110 between the heat spreader 108 and the housing 104. In some embodiments, the heat spreader 108 is designed to have the first surface 108 A and the second surface 108B. The heat transfer arrangement may further include the selective heat spreader 202 having the third surface 202A and the fourth surface 202B, and the second airgap 204 between the second heat spreader and the housing 104. For example, the selective heat spreader 202 and the second airgap 204 may be arranged in the first airgap 110, such that the selective heat spreader 202 may be spaced from the heat spreader 108 by a second predefined distance defining another airgap therebetween.

[0109] In an embodiment, the heat transfer arrangement may also include protective layers. For example, the protective layer may have adhesive properties to cause the protective layers to sick to a surface of the heat spreader 108 and / or the selective heat spreader 202 to provided structural reinforcement or mechanical support. In an example, the heat transfer arrangement may include the first protective layer 302 arranged between the heat spreader 108 and the selective heat spreader 202. The first protective layer 302 may be provided with double side adhesion to stick to both the heat spreader 108 and the selective heat spreader 202, such as the second surface 108B of the heat spreader 108 as well as the third surface 202 A of the selective heat spreader 202. In another example, the heat transfer arrangement may include the second protective layer 402 arranged between the heat spreader 108 and the one or more electronic components 112. The second protective layer 402 may be provided with single side adhesion to stick to the heat spreader 108, such as the first surface 108 A of the heat spreader 108. In yet another example, the heat transfer arrangement may include the third protective layer 702 arranged between the selective heat spreader 202 and the second airgap 204 or the housing 104. The third protective layer 702 may be provided with single side adhesion to stick to the selective heat spreader 202, such as the fourth surface 202B of the selective heat spreader 202.

[0110] It may be noted that shape and size of the heat spreader 108, the selective heat spreader 202, the first protective layer 302, the second protective layer 402, and the third protective layer 702 may be changed or adjusted based on a desired configuration of heat management in the intraoral scanner 1102. For example, based on a size of the intraoral scanner 1102, the shape and size of the components of the heat transfer arrangement may be adjusted. Further, fewer or additional layers of selective heat spreader and / or protective layers may be used for forming heat transfer arrangement for intraoral scanners.

[0111] In operation, the intraoral scanner 1102 may be configured to perform an intraoral scanning of a dental object. The intraoral scanner 1102 may include a user interface (or an input interface 1110) arranged on an upper surface of the housing 1104.

[0112] Further, the intraoral scanner 1102 may include one or more electronic components 1108 arranged within the interior space 1106 of the housing 1104. Additionally, the intraoral scanner 1102 may include the heat spreader 108 and the selective heat spreader 202 arranged within the interior space 1106 between the one or more electronic components 1108 and the housing 1104 to effectively transfer heat emitted by the one or more electronic components 1108 in a first direction, such as along a longitudinal axis or x-axis, and isolates the transfer ofthe heat in a second direction, such as along a vertical axis or y-axis. In this manner, the heat transfer arrangement in the intraoral scanner 108 comprising the heat spreader 108, the selective heat spreader 202, the first protective layer 302, the second protective layer 402 and the third protective layer 702 may allow transfer of the heat to surface of the housing 1104 without causing overheating at any particular spot. For example, the heat may be distributed uniformly to the housing to ensure effective heat exchange. This may prevent hotspots in vicinity of certain electronic components emitting large amount of heat.

[0004] FIG. 12 illustrates a flowchart 1200 of an exemplary method for controlling heat transfer in the intraoral scanner 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 12 is explained in conjunction with elements of FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3, FIG. 4, FIG. 5, FIG. 6, FIG. 7, FIG. 8 A, FIG. 8B, FIG. 9, FIG.10 A, FIG.10B, FIG.10C, FIG.10D and FIG. 11. The operations of the exemplary method may be executed by any computing system, for example, by the intraoral scanner 102 of FIG. 1. The operations of the flowchart 1200 may start at 1202.

[0113] At 1202, one or more electronic components 112 may be provided within an interior space 106 of the housing 104. The one or more electronic components 112 may emit heat during operation thereof.

[0114] At 1204, a heat spreader 108 may be provided between the one or more electronic components 112 and the housing 104. The heat spreader 108 may be designed to have the first surface 108A arranged in vicinity of the one or more electronic components 112 and the opposing second surface 108B arranged in vicinity of the housing 104 such that the second surface 108B is separated from the housing 104 with a first predefined distance defining the first airgap 110 therebetween. The heat spreader 108 transfers the heat in a first direction and isolates the transfer of the heat in a second direction. In an example, the first direction may be parallel to the first surface 108 A and the second direction is perpendicular to the first surface 108A.

[0115] Accordingly, blocks of the flowchart 1200 support combinations of means for performing the specified functions and combinations of operations for performing the specified functions. It will also be understood that one or more blocks of the flowchart 1200 can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based computer systems which perform the specified functions, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.

[0116] Alternatively, the intraoral scanner 102 may include means for performing each of the operations described above. In this regard, according to an example embodiment, examplesof means for performing operations may include, for example, a processor and / or a device or circuit for executing instructions, such as the operations or instructions for controlling heat transfer in the intraoral scanner 102.

[0117] Many modifications and other embodiments of the inventions set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which these inventions pertain having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the inventions are not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, although the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings describe example embodiments in the context of certain example combinations of reactants and / or functions, it should be appreciated that different combinations of reactants and / or functions may be provided by alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In this regard, for example, different combinations of reactants and / or functions than those explicitly described above are also contemplated as may be set forth in some of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An intraoral scanner (102) configured to perform an intraoral scanning of a dental object, comprising: a housing (104) defining an interior space (106); one or more electronic components (112A, 112B, 112C, 112D) arranged within the interior space of the housing; and a heat spreader (108) arranged within the interior space between the one or more electronic components and the housing, the heat spreader having a first surface (108 A) arranged in vicinity of the one or more electronic components and an opposing second surface (108B) arranged in vicinity of the housing, wherein the second surface is separated from the housing with a first predefined distance defining a first airgap (110) therebetween, and wherein the heat spreader transfers heat emitted by the one or more electronic components in a first direction and isolates the transfer of the heat in a second direction, and wherein the first direction is parallel to the first surface and the second direction is perpendicular to the first surface.

2. The intraoral scanner (102) according to claim 1, further comprising: a selective heat spreader (202) arranged within a predefined area between the heat spreader (108) and the housing (104), wherein the selective heat spreader is arranged in parallel to the heat spreader, and wherein the selective heat spreader is separated from the heat spreader with a second predefined distance.

3. The intraoral scanner (102) according to claim 2, the selective heat spreader (202) having a third surface (202A) arranged in vicinity of the heat spreader (108) and an opposing fourth surface (202B) arranged in vicinity of the housing (104), wherein the fourth surface is separated from the housing with a third predefined distance defining a second airgap (204) therebetween, and wherein the selective heat spreader transfers residual heat of the heat spreader in the first direction and isolates the transfer of the residual heat in the second direction.

4. The intraoral scanner (102) according to any of claims 2 or 3, further comprising a first protective layer (302) arranged between the heat spreader (108) and at least one of: thehousing (104) or the selective heat spreader (202), wherein the first protective layer provides structural reinforcement to at least one of: the heat spreader, or the selective heat spreader.

5. The intraoral scanner (102) according to any of claims 2 to 4, wherein the heat spreader (108) comprises a first portion (1002) and a second portion (1004), wherein the first portion and the second portion are spaced apart to define a gap, and wherein the selective heat spreader (202) is arranged in the gap between the first portion and the second portion.

6. The intraoral scanner (102) according to any of claims 2 to 5, further comprising an input interface arranged on the housing, wherein the selective heat spreader is arranged in the predefined area lying vertically below the input interface, and wherein the selective heat spreader prevents transfer of the residual heat to the input interface.

7. The intraoral scanner (102) according to any of claims 2 to 6, wherein a first thickness of the selective heat spreader (202) is greater than a second thickness of the heat spreader (108).

8. The intraoral scanner (102) according to any of claims 2 to 7, wherein a first longitudinal length of the selective heat spreader (202) is lesser than a second longitudinal length of the heat spreader (108).

9. The intraoral scanner (102) according to any of claims 2 to 8, wherein at least one of: the heat spreader (108), or the selective heat spreader (202) is made of graphite.

10. The intraoral scanner (102) according to any of claims 2 to 9, further comprising a third protective layer (702) arranged between the selective heat spreader (202) and the second airgap (204), wherein the third protective layer provides structural reinforcement to the selective heat spreader.

11. The intraoral scanner (102) according to any of previous claims, further comprising a second protective layer (402) arranged between the heat spreader (108) and the one or more electronic components (112A, 112B, 112C and 112D), wherein the second protective layer provides structural reinforcement to the heat spreader.

12. The intraoral scanner (102) according to any of previous claims, wherein the heat spreader is arranged in connection with a heat sink and wherein the heat spreader facilitates at least a partial transfer of the heat from the one or more electronic components to the heat sink.

13. A method (1200) for controlling heat transfer in an intraoral scanner (102) configured to perform an intraoral scanning of a dental object, the method comprising: providing (1202) one or more electronic components (112A, 112B, 112C and 112D) within an interior space (106) of a housing (104), wherein the one or more electronic components emit heat during operation; and providing (1204) a heat spreader (108) between the one or more electronic components and the housing within the interior space, the heat spreader having a first surface (108 A) arranged in vicinity of the one or more electronic components and an opposing second surface (108B) arranged in vicinity of the housing such that the second surface is separated from the housing with a first predefined distance defining a first airgap (110) therebetween, wherein the heat spreader transfers the heat in a first direction and isolates the transfer of the heat in a second direction, and wherein the first direction is parallel to the first surface and the second direction is perpendicular to the first surface.

14. The method according to claim 13, further comprising: providing a selective heat spreader (202) within a predefined area between the heat spreader (108) and the housing (104), wherein the selective heat spreader is arranged in parallel to the heat spreader, and wherein the selective heat spreader is separated from the heat spreader with a second predefined distance.

15. The method according to claim 14, further comprising: arranging the selective heat spreader (202) such that a third surface (202A) is arranged in vicinity of the heat spreader (108) and an opposing fourth surface (202B) is arranged in vicinity of the housing (104), wherein the fourth surface is separated from the housing with a third predefined distance defining a second airgap (204) therebetween, and wherein the selective heat spreader transfers residual heat of the heat spreader in the first direction and isolates the transfer of the residual heat in the second direction.

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