Pixel Size Estimation for Dental Image Distortion Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current image analysis techniques are not reliable in resolving small differences in teeth positions during orthodontic treatment, particularly in millimeter-scale measurements, which is crucial for accurate treatment planning and monitoring.
Innovation Solution
The development of methods and apparatuses that estimate pixel sizes in dental images by registering 3D models with 2D images, allowing for precise scaling and correction of distortions due to camera orientation, enabling accurate measurements of teeth positions and dental conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional image analysis techniques are used to measure teeth positions, then the analysis process is simple, but the measurement precision is insufficient for millimeter-scale differences
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D image analysis to 3D model-based analysis. By registering 3D dental models with 2D images and utilizing the third dimension, the system achieves millimeter-scale measurement precision that conventional 2D techniques cannot provide, while managing complexity through automated processing pipelines
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a 3D dental model as an intermediary between the 2D image and the measurement process. This intermediary enables precise pixel size estimation and distortion correction by providing known geometric references, thereby achieving high measurement precision without requiring direct complex image processing
2Measurement precision
If pixel size estimation is performed for each region in the image, then the measurement accuracy is improved, but the computational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the image into multiple regions and estimates pixel size independently for each region. This segmentation approach allows the system to account for local variations in camera orientation and distortion, achieving high pixel size accuracy while managing computational complexity through region-based processing rather than whole-image processing
3Reliability
If 3D models are registered with 2D images to correct camera orientation distortions, then the measurement reliability is improved, but the processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs 3D model registration and pixel size estimation as preliminary steps before actual measurement. By pre-computing the registration parameters and pixel size maps, the system ensures measurement reliability while reducing the time required for subsequent measurements, as the complex registration process is performed once rather than for each measurement
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses and methods for dental image analysis including determining pixel sizes of an image. A pixel size enables conversion of a two-dimension image-based measurement into a 3D measurement. The pixel sizes vary over the image due to differences in distance between the camera taking the image and the object of interest. A three-dimensional model may be registering to the two-dimension image, and the pixel sizes may be identified on a per-object (e.g., per-tooth) basis, per-region basis or at each point in the image. The pixel size scaling may be used to identify features in the image for diagnostic or other dental application purposes.