Optical Scanning Device for Dental Models
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for scanning tooth models face challenges in accurately capturing the relative position and complete shape of teeth, especially when adjacent teeth are scanned together, due to shadowing effects, which hinders the production of dental prostheses like bridges.
Innovation Solution
A method using an optical scanning device with a base plate and holding device that allows for an overview scan of multiple model parts and subsequent single scans of individual parts, enabling 3D matching to combine data sets while accommodating different resolutions and providing flexibility in positioning and accessibility, including rotational and adjustable components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple model parts are scanned together in an overview scan, then the relative position of model parts can be determined, but shadowing effects occur that prevent complete shape capture of individual teeth
Solution Approach 1:
The scanning process is divided into two segments: an overview scan that captures multiple model parts together to determine relative positions, and individual scans of each model part to capture complete shapes without shadowing. This segmentation allows each scanning phase to optimize for its specific purpose, resolving the contradiction between capturing relative position and capturing complete shape.
2Loss of information
If individual model parts are scanned separately to avoid shadowing, then complete shape data is obtained, but the relative position information between parts is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The overview scan is performed as a preliminary action before the individual scans. This preliminary scan captures the relative positions of all model parts, and this information is then used to correctly assemble the individually scanned parts. By performing the relative position determination first, the subsequent individual scans can focus solely on capturing complete shapes without shadowing.
3Productivity
If the scanning area is increased to cover multiple teeth, then productivity improves, but resolution and optical accessibility decrease due to shadowing
Solution Approach 1:
The scanning process is segmented into a quick overview scan of multiple parts for positioning, followed by detailed individual scans for precise shape capture. This allows the system to maintain high productivity through the rapid overview scan while ensuring manufacturing precision through the subsequent high-resolution individual scans without shadowing interference.
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
This approach allows for precise determination of the relative position and complete shape capture of teeth, improving the accuracy and efficiency of data collection for dental prosthesis production by minimizing shadowing effects and enabling quick scanning of complex tooth models.
Implementation Method 1
an optical scanning device with which a model can be scanned in a scanning area
Data Source
Figure 1a~1d
Figure 2a~2e
Figure 2f~3a
AI summary
The method involves holding different model parts of tooth models by a model part holder. The model parts are scanned in a configuration, where each model part is obtained independently from other model parts. Interior and exterior of the tooth models are scanned, and data obtained from the individual model parts are brought together by data processing, where the data is obtained from the parts that are stretched in the model part holder. An independent claim is also included for a device for scanning a tooth model.