Apparatus and method for measuring the color of teeth
US5871351A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 12, 1997 |
| Grant date | Feb 16, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 12, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2562/247
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Color measuring systems and methods such as for determining the color or other characteristics of teeth are disclosed. Perimeter receiver fiber optics are spaced apart from a central source fiber optic and receive light reflected from the surface of the object/tooth being measured. Light from the perimeter fiber optics pass to a variety of filters. The system utilizes the perimeter receiver fiber optics to determine information regarding the height and angle of the probe with respect to the object/tooth being measured. Under processor control, the color measurement may be made at a predetermined height and angle. Various color spectral photometer arrangements are disclosed. Translucency, fluorescence and/or surface texture data also may be obtained. Audio feedback may be provided to guide operator use of the system. The probe may have a removable or shielded tip for contamination prevention. A method of producing dental prostheses based on measured data also is disclosed. Measured data also may be stored and/or organized as part of a patient data base.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.