3D Intraoral Scanner Transverse Optical Path Redirection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Stereo vision-type intraoral scanners face challenges in arranging imaging boards and maximizing internal space due to the requirement of two cameras facing the same direction, limiting the design and usability of the device, especially in the slim design needed for oral cavity insertion.
Innovation Solution
A 3D intraoral scanner design with a pair of lenses spaced apart in the transverse direction, using light path changing portions with reflector surfaces to redirect light paths towards imaging sensors, allowing for more flexible arrangement and increased internal space usability, and a slim tip housing for easy insertion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If two cameras are used for stereo vision, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and housing size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate cameras into a single integrated imaging unit where both cameras share common structural components including the housing, optical system, and support mechanisms. This merging approach maintains the stereo vision capability for precise 3D measurement while reducing overall device complexity by eliminating redundant structures that would be present if two independent cameras were used.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent positions the two cameras in a transverse arrangement within the imaging unit, utilizing the lateral dimension to accommodate both sensors. This spatial arrangement allows the cameras to face the object from different angles simultaneously, enabling stereo vision for accurate 3D reconstruction without requiring a complex multi-layer or volumetric structure.
2Measurement precision
If two cameras face the same direction, then stereo vision is enabled, but internal space utilization deteriorates and housing size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the optical systems and support structures of both cameras into a single compact imaging unit. By sharing common components such as the housing, mounting mechanisms, and optical pathways, the design achieves space-efficient accommodation of two cameras that face the same direction, thereby reducing the overall housing volume while maintaining stereo vision capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent arranges the two cameras in a transverse configuration within the imaging unit, utilizing the lateral dimension to position the sensors side by side. This arrangement allows both cameras to face the object from the same direction while occupying minimal internal space, as the transverse positioning enables compact integration without requiring excessive housing depth or volume.
3Device complexity
If imaging boards are arranged traditionally, then device structure is simple, but internal space is wasted and slim design is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the imaging boards from a conventional arrangement to a transverse configuration, aligning them perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the scanner. This dimensional change allows the imaging boards to be disposed against the side walls of the housing rather than occupying longitudinal space, thereby enabling a slim tip housing design while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs an asymmetric arrangement where the imaging boards are positioned at different locations along the transverse axis, with each board oriented to receive light from its corresponding camera. This asymmetric positioning optimizes the use of available internal space and facilitates a compact, slim profile for the scanner tip housing while keeping the overall structure simple and easy to manufacture.
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 design enables more accurate and reliable 3D oral cavity data capture while allowing for a slimmer main housing and easier replacement of components, enhancing the device's usability and accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
a pair of light path changing portions disposed to redirect light paths of the light, which has passed through the pair of lenses, toward the imaging boards
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a three-dimensional oral scanner. In particular, the present invention comprises: a case which can be drawn in and out of an oral cavity and has an opening formed in a manner such that the shape of the inside of the oral cavity (hereinafter, abbreviated as “image”) is introduced to the inside in the form of light through one end thereof; a pair of lenses disposed inside the case and spaced apart from each other in the width direction of the case so as to pass light incident from one end of the case in different paths; a pair of imaging boards having an imaging sensor for imaging the respective lights transmitted through the pair of lenses and disposed in close contact with a widthwise side wall and the other widthwise side wall of the case; and a pair of light path changing units arranged to change the respective paths of the lights transmitted through the pair of lenses toward the imaging board. As such, it is possible to manufacture an oral scanner to be slim overall, while providing the advantage of maximizing the utilization of the internal space of the oral scanner.