Compact Intraoral Scanner Optics for Precise 3D Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing intraoral scanners face challenges in achieving high scanning accuracy and patient comfort due to deformation of impression materials and the need for a non-contact scanning mechanism that allows for precise 3D imaging without compromising on size and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
The intraoral scanner incorporates multiple optical systems with specific reflective configurations, including prisms and mirrors, to capture stereo images without the need for angle adjustment, allowing for a compact design that can be easily inserted and maneuvered within the oral cavity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a non-contact scanning mechanism is used to improve patient comfort and scanning accuracy, then the scanner can be inserted into the oral cavity without contact, but the device size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nesting by placing the light source unit within the case, positioning optical systems inside the case, and arranging components such that the image sensor unit is disposed between the light source unit and the first optical system. This nested arrangement allows multiple functional components to occupy a compact space, reducing the overall scanner volume while maintaining non-contact scanning capability for improved accuracy and patient comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs optical systems that redirect light paths through reflective surfaces and prisms, effectively using spatial dimensionality to pack multiple optical components into a compact volume. The second optical system reflects light from the first optical system toward the image sensor unit, creating an efficient light path that reduces the linear dimensions required for the scanner.
2Measurement precision
If multiple optical systems are arranged inside the case to achieve precise 3D imaging, then scanning accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the light source unit and image sensor unit within the same case, integrating multiple optical systems (first and second optical systems) into a unified scanning device. The first optical system reflects light toward the subject and back, while the second optical system reflects light from the first optical system to the image sensor unit. This merged configuration achieves precise 3D imaging through coordinated optical functions while managing complexity through integrated design.
3Ease of operation
If the scanner is designed for easy insertion and maneuverability in the oral cavity, then patient comfort improves, but the internal component arrangement becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces internal component arrangement difficulty by nesting the light source unit, optical systems, and image sensor unit within a compact case designed for insertion into the oral cavity. The case provides a confined space that naturally organizes components in a nested configuration, making the device easy to maneuver while the internal arrangement follows a logical nested structure that simplifies assembly and maintenance.
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 configuration enables precise 3D imaging with reduced manufacturing costs and improved patient comfort by minimizing scanner volume and optimizing internal components, facilitating easy scanning and maneuverability.
Implementation Method 1
a first optical system disposed in the opening and reflecting the light emitted from the light source unit toward a subject and reflecting light reflected from the subject toward the light source unit
Implementation Method 2
a second optical system disposed between the light source unit and the first optical system and reflecting light reflected from the first optical system
Data Source
AI summary
An intraoral scanner is provided, including a case including an opening formed at one end thereof, a light source unit disposed at the other end of the case and emitting light toward the opening, a first optical system disposed in the opening and reflecting the light emitted from the light source unit toward a subject and reflecting light reflected from the subject toward the light source unit, a second optical system disposed between the light source unit and the first optical system and reflecting light reflected from the first optical system, and an image sensor unit that detects the light reflected from the second optical system.