Dual-Path Intraoral Scanner for Integrated Face and Oral Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dental and orthodontic scanning methods do not allow for concurrent or sequential scanning of a subject's face and intraoral cavity in a single platform with precision and ease, necessitating separate devices and processes.
Innovation Solution
An intraoral scanner wand is adapted with a first optical path for intraoral scanning and a second optical path for facial scanning, allowing for simultaneous data capture of both the intraoral cavity and face, with the ability to switch between modes using a control or removable sleeve, and integrating the data into a unified patient-specific structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate devices are used for facial scanning and intraoral scanning, then each device can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall system complexity increases and the workflow becomes more cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines facial scanning and intraoral scanning capabilities into a single scanner device. The scanner includes a handle with a scanning head that can capture both facial features and intraoral cavity data using integrated sensors and optical components, eliminating the need for separate devices and reducing system complexity while maintaining scanning precision for both applications
Solution Approach 2:
The scanner is designed as a multi-functional device that can perform both facial scanning and intraoral scanning. The scanning head includes sensors and optical components that are capable of capturing data from different regions (face and intraoral cavity) by adjusting the scanning mode or position, making the device universal for both dental and facial assessment purposes
2Measurement precision
If separate scanning processes are used for face and intraoral cavity, then each scan can be performed with dedicated optimization, but the treatment planning time and data integration complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary data capture by simultaneously or sequentially scanning both the face and intraoral cavity in a single workflow. The scanner captures facial features, soft tissue contours, and intraoral cavity geometry together, creating a comprehensive digital dataset upfront that eliminates the need for separate scanning appointments and accelerates treatment planning
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges facial scan data and intraoral cavity scan data into a single integrated digital model. The processing unit combines these datasets with spatial registration to create a unified 3D representation that can be used for comprehensive treatment planning, reducing the time required to integrate data from separate sources
3Ease of operation
If a single scanner is used for both facial and intraoral scanning, then the workflow is simplified and data integration is easier, but the device must accommodate multiple scanning modes which increases design complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The scanner is designed as a multi-functional device with a scanning head that can operate in different modes. The same physical device and scanning head are used for both facial and intraoral scanning, with the system automatically or manually switching between scanning modes. This universal design simplifies the workflow by using a single device while managing design complexity through software control and standardized hardware components
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
Facilitates streamlined treatment planning and monitoring by providing integrated 3D models of the intraoral cavity and face, reducing the need for additional devices and simplifying the imaging process.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor(s), lens(es), filter(s), etc., used for intraoral scanning may be adapted by additional optical components, e.g., lenses, filters, etc., that may extend the depth of focus from a depth that is appropriate to intraoral scanning
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses (e.g., systems, devices, etc.) and method for scanning both a subject’s face as well as the subject’s intra oral cavity to provide two-dimensional (2D) and/or three dimensional (3D) data that may be subsequently used in prosthodontic and orthodontic procedures, including smile planning (e.g., designing or modifying a subject’s overall smile or facial aesthetics).