Bent Tooth Shade Measuring Device with Orientation Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for manufacturing dental prostheses face challenges in achieving aesthetically perfect and dimensionally accurate results due to subjective shade selection and limited access for precise measurements, leading to costly defects and delays.
Innovation Solution
A compact tooth shade measuring device with a bent measuring head and orientation assembly allows for two-dimensional analysis of all teeth, enabling precise shade selection and data transmission for accurate prosthesis manufacturing, while the device's angular positioning and locking mechanism facilitate access to all teeth in the mouth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If visual shade selection by dentist is used, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual system of shade selection with an optical-scientific system. A spectrum analyzer with light source and sensors objectively measures tooth spectral characteristics, eliminating subjective visual assessment while maintaining ease of use through automated analysis and digital communication to technicians.
2Measurement precision
If spot measurement device is used, then measurement precision is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal measuring device that can measure all teeth in the mouth, not just single spots. The spectrum analyzer is designed to accommodate different tooth positions and orientations, providing both precise spectral measurement and adaptability to various clinical situations through its versatile design.
3Measurement precision
If bulky measuring head is used, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measuring system into a compact handheld unit with integrated spectrum analyzer and a separate data processing system. This segmentation allows the measuring head to remain small and maneuverable while maintaining precise measurement capabilities through the sophisticated optical sensors and light sources within the compact design.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution ensures precise and repeatable shade selection, reducing the likelihood of defects and associated costs by providing a compact, user-friendly device that allows for comprehensive tooth analysis, improving the quality control of dental prostheses during manufacturing.
Implementation Method 1
The hollow body is adapted to transmit light from the light source from the proximal end to the distal end
Implementation Method 2
The measuring head comprises at least an image sensor, an optical system and an LED lighting system for illuminating the shooting area
Data Source
AI summary
A device for tooth shade measurement comprising a housing, a handle and a measuring head, characterized in that said measuring head includes a hollow body extending along a longitudinal axis, said hollow body comprising a proximal end, a bent distal end relative to the longitudinal axis, said distal end being provided with a removable tip designed to come into contact with a tooth surface to be analyzed, at least one light source and image acquisition means, integral with the hollow body, said hollow body being adapted to transmit the light from said light source from the proximal end up to the distal end, and in that said device comprises an orientation assembly for mounting the proximal end of the hollow body in the housing so that the measuring head occupies different angular positions relative to the housing.