Method and apparatus for colour imaging a three-dimensional structure
AssigneeCadent Ltd.
InventorNoam Babayoff
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A device for determining the surface topology and associated color of a structure, such as a teeth segment, includes a scanner for providing depth data for points along a two-dimensional array substantially orthogonal to the depth direction, and an image acquisition means for providing color data for each of the points of the array, while the spatial disposition of the device with respect to the structure is maintained substantially unchanged. A processor combines the color data and depth data for each point in the array, thereby providing a three-dimensional color virtual model of the surface of the structure. A corresponding method for determining the surface topology and associated color of a structure is also provided.
Claims42
Device for determining the surface topology and associated color of at least a portion of a three dimensional structure, comprising:
- (a) scanning means adapted for providing depth data of said portion corresponding to a two-dimensional reference array substantially orthogonal to a depth direction;
- (b) imaging means adapted for providing two-dimensional color image data of said portion associated with said reference array;
- wherein the device is adapted for maintaining a spatial disposition with respect to said portion that is substantially fixed during operation of said scanning means and said imaging means.
Method for determining the surface topology and associated color of at least a portion of a three dimensional structure, comprising:
- (a) providing depth data of said portion corresponding to a two-dimensional reference array substantially orthogonal to a depth direction;
- (b) providing two-dimensional image data of said portion associated with said reference array;
- (c) ensuring that a spatial disposition with respect to said portion during steps (a) and (b) is substantially fixed;
- (d) conformally mapping said color data to said depth data for said reference array.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.