4D Tooth Modeling With Mobile RGB and LiDAR for Low-Cost Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current dental imaging methods, such as manual impressions and 2D X-rays, are uncomfortable, time-consuming, and costly, failing to provide sufficient detail for complex dental treatments and requiring expensive equipment, limiting accessibility and convenience.
Innovation Solution
A 4D tooth modeling system using mobile devices with RGB cameras and LiDAR depth sensors for non-invasive dental scans, processing RGB videos and depth data to create accurate 4D tooth models, enhancing patient comfort and reducing equipment and maintenance costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional dental imaging methods (manual impressions, 2D X-rays) are used, then equipment cost is reduced, but measurement precision and detail quality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using a standard mobile device camera that can serve multiple purposes: capturing RGB images for visual documentation and acquiring depth data through optical sensing for 3D reconstruction. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for specialized dental imaging equipment while maintaining high measurement precision for tooth morphology capture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical imaging systems (manual impressions, X-ray machines) with an optical-based system using mobile device cameras and depth sensors. This substitution uses light fields and optical sensing to capture tooth geometry, eliminating the need for bulky mechanical equipment while achieving superior measurement precision and detail quality.
2Ease of operation
If traditional dental imaging methods are used, then equipment cost is reduced, but patient comfort and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling dental professionals to perform high-precision imaging using readily available mobile devices that are already familiar to patients. The system transforms a common personal device into a professional imaging tool, eliminating the need for patients to adapt to unfamiliar, complex equipment while maintaining ease of operation and comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs the principle of using inexpensive, widely available mobile devices instead of expensive, specialized dental imaging equipment. By leveraging the ubiquity of mobile cameras and depth sensors, the system achieves professional-grade imaging capabilities without requiring costly, maintenance-intensive equipment, thereby improving patient comfort and accessibility.
3Productivity
If traditional dental imaging methods are used, then equipment cost is reduced, but productivity and scanning speed worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by transitioning from 2D image capture to 3D depth mapping using optical sensing technology. The mobile device camera captures depth information along the Z-axis, enabling rapid construction of three-dimensional tooth models. This dimensional enhancement significantly improves scanning speed and productivity while eliminating the need for time-consuming manual impressions and multiple 2D X-ray shots.
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 system provides precise and detailed 4D tooth models efficiently, improving dental treatment planning and patient experience while being cost-effective and accessible.
Implementation Method 1
LiDAR depth sensors, on mobile devices to perform accurate and non-invasive dental scans
Data Source
AI summary
A 4D tooth modeling system that utilizes mobile device-based RGB videos and optical sensing technology to determine depth of teeth and a method for modeling teeth in 4D via mobile device-based RGB video and optical sensing technology are disclosed. The 4D tooth modeling system leverages RGB videos and optical sensing technology, such as LiDAR depth sensors, on mobile devices to perform accurate and non-invasive dental scans by way of the method for modeling teeth in 4D via mobile device-based RGB video and optical sensing technology. The 4D tooth modeling system substantially enhances patient comfort, expedites the scanning process, and significantly reduces both equipment and maintenance costs, making the 4D tooth modeling system a highly accessible and convenient solution for dental practices.