Dental Model Scanner Sine Wave Projection for Occlusion Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dental scanners are time-consuming and costly due to the need for multiple scans of dental models, which can result in expensive operator time and equipment costs, and may cause damage to the models from over-tightening during the scanning process.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the use of non-collinear markers on dental models to facilitate accurate alignment and scanning, combined with a dental model scanner employing a sine wave intensity modulation pattern projected by a light source, allowing for quick creation of 3D images and reducing the need for multiple scans by triangulating pixel positions from multiple camera views.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple scans are performed to capture the entire model, then measurement completeness is improved, but scanning time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D grid line projection to 3D sine wave intensity modulation. By projecting sine wave patterns that vary in intensity across the model surface and capturing them from multiple angular positions simultaneously, the system achieves complete 3D coverage in a single scanning operation, eliminating the need for multiple sequential scans while maintaining measurement completeness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic angular positioning of the model during scanning. The model is rotated to multiple predetermined angular positions, and cameras capture images at each position. This dynamic approach allows the system to gather complete spatial information through a single continuous scanning process rather than multiple static scans, reducing total scanning time while ensuring complete model coverage.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the fixture is over-tightened to secure the model, then model stability is improved, but model damage occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical clamping system with an optical alignment and securing system. Instead of using physical fixtures that require tightening, the system uses markers positioned on the model that are detected by cameras. The model is secured using minimal mechanical force, and precise alignment is achieved through optical detection of marker positions, eliminating the risk of damage from over-tightening while maintaining stability during scanning.
3Measurement precision
If grid or line patterns are projected onto the model, then depth information can be captured, but defocus makes edge detection difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses sine wave intensity modulation that creates varying brightness patterns across the model surface. Instead of relying on geometric grid lines that become blurred at edges, the system projects sinusoidal intensity variations that maintain clear detectable transitions even when slightly out of focus. The intensity variations create distinct bright and dark regions that are easier to detect and measure, improving edge detection accuracy while maintaining depth information capture.
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 significantly reduces scanning time and costs by enabling efficient alignment and scanning of dental models, minimizing model damage, and producing accurate 3D images with improved depth and color representation.
Implementation Method 1
a light source which projects a sine wave intensity modulation pattern onto the dental model
Implementation Method 2
The geometric distortion of those squares or lines is recorded using a camera... triangulating pixel positions from multiple camera views
Data Source
AI summary
A dental model scanner comprising a plurality of cameras set apart from one another, a model holder and a light source. The light source projects a sine wave pattern directed onto the surface of the dental model and the relative phase of at least one pixel can be recorded by the plurality of cameras. A method of scanning and creating an occlusion view from upper and lower models with help of makers on the upper and lower jaw.