초록 ▼

The present invention provides a method and apparatus for the scanning and recording of coordinates describing three dimensional objects of complex and unique geometry. A computer acquires data describing an object and its surroundings, and constructs a computer-based three dimensional model of the

The present invention provides a method and apparatus for the scanning and recording of coordinates describing three dimensional objects of complex and unique geometry. A computer acquires data describing an object and its surroundings, and constructs a computer-based three dimensional model of the object from that data. The present invention comprises two general preferred embodiments for scanning three dimensional objects of complex and unique geometry and recording the resulting coordinates into a computer. Also disclosed are scanning methods specifically oriented to dental applications.

대표청구항 ▼

A method of fabricating a dental prosthesis, comprising: (a) digitizing and recording first coordinates from a prepared tooth surface, second coordinates from contact areas with adjacent proximal teeth, and third coordinates from contact areas with opposing teeth in an open position, a static closed

A method of fabricating a dental prosthesis, comprising: (a) digitizing and recording first coordinates from a prepared tooth surface, second coordinates from contact areas with adjacent proximal teeth, and third coordinates from contact areas with opposing teeth in an open position, a static closed position, and in paths of motion during function; (b) scaling a digitized generic form using gap, height, width, and margin measurements determined from said first and second coordinates, so that said digitized generic form is sized to fit said prepared tooth; (c) scaling said digitized generic form using mesial-distal measurements determined from said second coordinates, so that a mesial-distal distance between contact areas of said digitized generic form matches a mesial-distal distance between contact areas of said adjacent proximal teeth; (d) scaling said digitized generic form using occlusal measurements determined from said third coordinates, so that fossae and cusps of said digitized generic form are raised and lowered to match fossae and cusps of said opposing teeth; (e) resolving interferences in occlusal surfaces of said digitized generic form using relative position measurements between mandible and maxilla teeth determined from said third coordinates; and (f) fabricating said dental prosthesis based on said digitized generic form.