Dental Model Generation Using Optical Scanning and Digital Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for creating dental models, such as teeth-casts, are impractical due to time and cost constraints, and may not produce sufficient quality geometry, making them uncomfortable and inefficient for patients, especially when requiring multiple visits to dental technicians.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that use a six degrees of freedom probe to measure and adjust parameters of a real jaw, allowing for the generation of a customized model by scaling, rotating, and positioning teeth to minimize overlap, using a stored standard model and database for real-time generation of realistic geometry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional teeth-cast methods are used to generate dental models, then manufacturing precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to requiring multiple patient visits and time-consuming casting processes
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by capturing complete jaw geometry data in a single patient visit using optical scanning, and pre-processing this data to generate initial 3D models. This eliminates the need for multiple visits and physical casting steps, thereby improving productivity while maintaining sufficient geometric quality for dental applications
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates digital copies of the patient's jaw geometry through optical scanning and image processing, replacing the need for physical teeth-casts. These digital models can be generated, stored, and modified without requiring additional patient visits or physical casting materials, thus significantly improving productivity while maintaining adequate geometric accuracy
2Manufacturing precision
If conventional teeth-cast methods are used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to requiring additional patient visits weeks in advance
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs all necessary measurements and model generation in a single patient visit, eliminating the need for advance appointments for cast fabrication. The optical scanning and digital processing are completed immediately, allowing patients to receive their models without waiting weeks in advance
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the mechanical casting process with optical scanning and digital image processing. This substitution eliminates the time-consuming physical casting steps and allows for immediate digital model generation, significantly reducing the time patients must wait between visits
3Manufacturing precision
If conventional teeth-cast methods are used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to requiring dental technician involvement and specialized casting equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts and eliminates the need for dental technician involvement and specialized casting equipment by performing all measurements and model generation using optical scanning devices and software. This extraction of complex manual processes simplifies the overall system while maintaining sufficient geometric quality for dental applications
Solution Approach 2:
The invention enables the system to perform all measurement and model generation functions automatically without requiring dental technicians to manually create casts. The optical scanning and digital processing are self-contained, reducing the need for specialized human expertise and equipment complexity
4Manufacturing precision
If conventional teeth-cast methods are used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but cost increases due to requiring specialized equipment and multiple patient visits
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses optical scanning to create digital copies of jaw geometry, replacing expensive physical casting materials and technician labor. These digital models can be generated, stored, and modified at lower cost without requiring additional patient visits, thereby improving cost-effectiveness while maintaining adequate geometric quality
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs all necessary measurements and model generation in a single patient visit, eliminating the need for multiple visits and associated costs. The preliminary optical scanning and digital processing are completed immediately, reducing overall treatment costs while maintaining sufficient geometric accuracy
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of generating a model of a real object derived from a model of a second object, the model of the second object being defined by an array of data points, a number of identifiable components and a number of further components, comprises measuring parameters of corresponding identifiable components of a real object corresponding tothe identifiable components in the model of the second object. An array of data points defining a first model of the real object is generated the measured parameters. A further model of the real object is generated by substantially aligning the model ofthe second object with the first model of the real object, placing identifiable components represented in the model of the second object into positions corresponding to positions of equivalent components in the real object as defined by the measured parameters, placing the further components represented in the model of the second object into positions on the first model of the real object to represent corresponding components in the real object and adjusting the positions of one or more of the components placed on the first model of the real object to generate the further model of the real object. There is also disclosed an apparatus for generating a model of a real object.