3D Scanner Omni-Directional Lens Dental Imaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current 3D scanners for oral cavities face challenges in creating precise 3D models with minimal error and rapid data processing, particularly in the dental field, where traditional methods are time-consuming and prone to inaccuracies due to user skill variations and mechanical vibrations.

Innovation Solution

A 3D scanner equipped with an omni-directional lens and a pattern generating device that uses a combination of refractive and reflective surfaces, along with a micro-mirror system, to capture 360-degree images and generate high-resolution 3D models by synchronizing light patterns with image sensing, reducing the need for multiple scans and minimizing image distortion.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional contact-type or coordinate measuring methods are used, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to time-consuming manual processes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement precisionVSAvoidproductivity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual contact-type measurement methods with a non-contact 3D scanning system using optical components. The imaging device captures multiple images from different angles, and the processing device automatically generates 3D models through computational algorithms, eliminating the need for manual coordinate measurement and significantly improving productivity while maintaining precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transforms measurement parameters from manual coordinate data to optical image data. By capturing images with specific light patterns and analyzing their distortion characteristics, the system derives 3D geometric information automatically, changing the measurement approach from point-based manual measurement to image-based automated analysis

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If 3D scanners are used to scan objects at high speed, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to errors in combining multiple scan images

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveproductivityVSAvoidmeasurement precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the processing device analyzes the consistency and accuracy of combined images continuously. If distortion or misalignment is detected in the merged scan results, the system identifies and corrects errors by adjusting the registration parameters, ensuring high measurement precision even when scanning at high speeds

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary processing stage that acts as a mediator between raw scan images and final 3D models. This intermediate processing layer performs automatic registration, distortion correction, and quality validation, filtering out errors before they affect the final measurement precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Measurement precision

If multiple scan images are combined to obtain complete 3D data, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to lengthy data processing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement precisionVSAvoidloss of time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-processing individual scan images to extract key geometric features and calibration data before combining them. By preparing and organizing this preliminary information in advance, the final merging process becomes much faster while maintaining the precision benefits of combining multiple images

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent optimizes the merging process by combining multiple scan images through efficient algorithms that automatically register and fuse data from different angles. The processing device integrates these images into a single coherent 3D model much faster than traditional methods, reducing the time loss while preserving measurement precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Adaptability or versatility

If manual operations are used for processing artificial dentures, then adaptability is improved for custom treatments, but productivity deteriorates due to labor-intensive processes

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidproductivity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a precise digital copy (3D model) of the patient's oral cavity and teeth from scan images. This digital copy serves as a virtual template that can be processed and modified automatically through computer-aided design and manufacturing, maintaining the adaptability for custom treatments while dramatically improving productivity by replacing manual fabrication processes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

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 solution enables the creation of high-quality, high-resolution 3D models with reduced processing time, minimizing errors and operator variability, thus enhancing efficiency and patient satisfaction in dental diagnostics and treatments.

Implementation Method 1

receiving an image of a subject irradiated with light in an omni-directional region

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

having at least one refractive surface and at least one reflective coating surface

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRefraction: Refraction

Implementation Method 3

having at least one refractive surface and at least one reflective coating surface

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 4

along with a micro-mirror system, to capture 360-degree images and generate high-resolution 3D models

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentEP3485841B1Three-dimensional scanner and apparatus for processing artificial object using same
Publication Date: 2021.04.21 DDS
  • EP3485841B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3485841B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3485841B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

A 3D scanner according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a pattern generating device irradiating a light pattern to a subject and an imaging device receiving an omni-directional image of the subject to which the light pattern is irradiated.