Dental Scanner Probe Head Automation for Precision Imaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current 3D scanning devices for dental structures face challenges such as patient discomfort, inaccuracies, and inefficiencies due to the need for handheld operation and manual manipulation, which can introduce errors and increase processing time, especially in capturing images of complex and curved surfaces like teeth and gums.

Innovation Solution

A portable, self-contained 3D scanning device with a novel scanner probe head that moves only along the X and Y axes, eliminating the need for manual operation and using a fixed-reference system, incorporating a mobility mechanism and multiple light sources and cameras to capture images from multiple angles, thereby reducing errors and improving accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a handheld wand-type scanner is used for 3D dental imaging, then the device can be operated manually to capture images, but manual manipulation introduces errors and reduces measurement precision

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemanual operation capabilityVSAvoidimaging accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The scanning device is designed to perform scanning operations automatically without requiring manual manipulation of a handheld wand. The system self-positions and self-scans the dental structures, eliminating operator-induced errors while maintaining ease of use through simple activation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical wand-operating system with an automated scanning mechanism. The mechanical manipulation by the operator is substituted with an automated positioning and scanning system that uses controlled movement along defined axes to achieve precise imaging without human intervention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a handheld scanner is used to capture complex curved surfaces, then the device can access various angles, but manual operation increases processing time and reduces productivity

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to capture complex surfacesVSAvoidscanning speed

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The scanning device incorporates dynamic automated movement along X and Y axes, allowing the scanner to efficiently navigate complex curved dental surfaces. The system dynamically adjusts its position and orientation automatically, maintaining adaptability to various surface geometries while significantly reducing the time required compared to manual operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system is pre-configured with knowledge of the scanning path and geometry of dental structures. The automated mechanism performs preliminary positioning and follows predetermined scanning patterns, eliminating the need for real-time manual adjustment while efficiently capturing complex surfaces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If manual wand operation is used for 3D scanning, then the operator can control the scanning process, but manual control introduces errors and reduces manufacturing precision

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperator controlVSAvoid3D model accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The automated scanning system incorporates feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor position and scanning parameters along the defined axes. This feedback ensures high manufacturing precision by automatically correcting any deviations, while the system remains easy to operate through simple initiation without requiring skilled manual control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

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 device provides accurate, efficient, and comfortable 3D imaging of dental structures without the need for manual wand operation, reducing errors and processing time, and allowing for precise generation of 3D models for dental prosthetics manufacturing.

Implementation Method 1

The scanning probe head comprises a light source for projecting light onto a surface of an object and a sensor for receiving the light reflected from the surface

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentEP3145436B1Novel dental scanner device and system and methods of use

Publication Date: 2019.10.02 APOLLO ORAL SCANNER LLC

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AI summary

A three-dimensional (3D) scanner device for generating a three dimensional (3D) surface model of shaped objects, such as dental structures, applicable for use in the field of dentistry, particularly to dental prosthetics manufacturing is described. The scanning device can include a probe head having a particular configuration and utility. Methods and systems relating to the device and components thereof are also disclosed.