Reference Surface Devices for Intra-oral 3D Model Stitching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D modeling techniques for intra-oral scenes using structured illumination face limitations such as edge imaging restrictions, stitching discontinuities, and inadequate modeling of small or reflective features, which hinder accurate positioning and stitching of 3D models.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of supplemental reference surface devices with identifiable positional characteristics and mounting points allows for precise 3D positioning and orientation of intra-oral features, enabling improved stitching and modeling of small areas and features within the mouth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If structured illumination is used for 3D modeling of intra-oral scenes, then 3D position data can be obtained with minimal equipment, but edge imaging limitations and stitching discontinuities occur
Solution Approach 1:
A reference surface device is introduced as an intermediary element between the imaging system and the intra-oral scene. This reference surface contains known geometric features and positional characteristics that serve as mediators for establishing accurate spatial relationships, enabling precise stitching and positioning while maintaining the simplicity of the imaging equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The reference surface device provides known parameter information (positions, orientations, geometries) that changes the parameter space available for 3D reconstruction. By introducing these additional known parameters, the system can achieve higher modeling precision through improved triangulation and stitching calculations
2Measurement precision
If structured illumination patterns are projected onto the scene, then 3D position data can be derived, but edge imaging restrictions prevent accurate positioning at scene boundaries
Solution Approach 1:
The reference surface device is positioned and configured in advance within the intra-oral scene before imaging begins. Its known geometric features and positional characteristics are pre-established, allowing the imaging system to use these predetermined reference points for accurate triangulation and positioning throughout the imaging process, including at scene boundaries
3Area of stationary object
If multiple 3D model tiles are stitched together to create comprehensive models, then complete intra-oral scenes can be modeled, but stitching discontinuities occur at tile boundaries
Solution Approach 1:
The reference surface device serves as a common intermediary reference framework that is visible across multiple imaging positions. By providing consistent known geometric features and positional characteristics in the reference surface, the system can accurately correlate and stitch multiple 3D model tiles together while maintaining continuity and eliminating stitching discontinuities at tile boundaries
4Manufacturing precision
If small intra-oral features are imaged, then detailed 3D models can be created, but inadequate reference information prevents accurate positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The reference surface device acts as an intermediary that provides abundant known reference information independent of the size of the intra-oral features being imaged. These reference features in the reference surface compensate for the lack of sufficient reference information in small or isolated intra-oral features, enabling accurate positioning and 3D modeling of even the smallest features
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
Enhances the accuracy of 3D modeling by overcoming edge imaging limitations and stitching discontinuities, allowing for precise positioning and stitching of small features, and facilitating the creation of comprehensive 3D models of intra-oral scenes.
Implementation Method 1
project light reference patterns onto the scene, take an image of the scene showing the projected patterns
Data Source
AI summary
Supplemental reference surface devices are provided for use in three-dimensional modeling of intra-oral scenes using identifiable positional characteristics from structured illumination or other techniques. Reference surface devices having at least one substantially plane smooth non-polished face are disclosed for locating the positions of intra-oral features, and for stitching together separate 3D tiles according to the identifiable positional characteristics. Reference can be attached to an intra-oral feature in or adjacent to the imaged intra-oral scene. Disclosed are reference surface devices having orientation and position indicia, as well as reference surface devices having a multiplicity of faces distributed in spatial position and angular orientation to facilitate correlation of 2D images obtained by imaging systems in different positions.