18610122. COMPACT INTRAORAL SCANNER simplified abstract (Align Technology, Inc.)
Contents
COMPACT INTRAORAL SCANNER
Organization Name
Inventor(s)
Yossef Atiya of Modiin-Maccabim-Reut (IL)
COMPACT INTRAORAL SCANNER - A simplified explanation of the abstract
This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18610122 titled 'COMPACT INTRAORAL SCANNER
The abstract describes an intraoral scanner with a focus shifting mechanism that allows for the detection of returning light reflected off an intraoral object.
- The scanner includes a housing, a light source, an optics system, a detector, and a focus shifting mechanism.
- The optics system is designed to ensure that the outermost chief ray of the light is divergent to the optical axis, while the outermost marginal ray is parallel or divergent to the optical axis.
Potential Applications:
- This technology can be used in dentistry for creating accurate digital impressions of teeth and oral structures.
- It can also be utilized in orthodontics for treatment planning and monitoring progress.
Problems Solved:
- Provides a non-invasive and efficient way to capture detailed intraoral images.
- Eliminates the need for messy traditional impression materials.
Benefits:
- Improves patient comfort during dental procedures.
- Increases accuracy and precision in treatment planning.
- Streamlines the workflow for dental professionals.
Commercial Applications:
- Dental clinics and orthodontic practices can integrate this technology for improved patient care and treatment outcomes.
- Dental equipment manufacturers can develop and market advanced intraoral scanners based on this innovation.
Prior Art:
- Prior art related to this technology may include other intraoral scanners with focus shifting mechanisms or similar optical configurations.
Frequently Updated Research:
- Stay updated on advancements in intraoral scanning technology, including improvements in image resolution and software integration.
Questions about Intraoral Scanners: 1. How does the focus shifting mechanism in this intraoral scanner improve image quality?
- The focus shifting mechanism allows for precise focusing on the intraoral object, resulting in clear and detailed images.
2. What are the key differences between traditional dental impressions and digital impressions using this scanner?
- Traditional dental impressions involve the use of messy materials that can be uncomfortable for patients, while digital impressions with this scanner are non-invasive and more accurate.
Original Abstract Submitted
An intraoral scanner comprises a housing, a light source for generating light, an optics system for focusing the light, a detector for detecting returning light reflected off an intraoral object, and a focus shifting mechanism configured to shift a focal plane of the optics system. The optics system is configured such that, after having passed through the optics system, an outermost chief ray of the light with respect to an optical axis of the optics system is divergent to the optical axis and an outermost marginal ray of the light with respect to the optical axis is parallel or divergent to the optical axis.
