Align Technology, Inc.

United States of America

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2024 April (MTD) 18
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IPC Class
A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions 710
A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers 608
A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor 480
A61C 13/00 - Dental prostheses; Making same 233
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44 - Medical, veterinary, hygienic and cosmetic services; agriculture, horticulture and forestry services 120
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1.

VISUAL PROSTHETIC AND ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT PLANNING

      
Application Number 18403340
Status Pending
Filing Date 2024-01-03
First Publication Date 2024-04-25
Owner ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor Kopelman, Avi

Abstract

Systems and methods for improved visual prosthetic and orthodontic treatment planning are provided herein. In some aspects, a method for preparing a tooth of a patient is disclosed. The method may comprise building a model of a dentition of the patient including a model of the initial shape of tooth. The method may also include determining a final prepared shape of the tooth. In some aspects, the method may also include generating a treatment plan comprising a plurality of steps to modify the initial shape of the tooth to the final prepared shape of the tooth. The method may also include rendering visualizations for the plurality of steps of the treatment plan. The visualizations may depict the removal of tooth material to modify the initial shape of the tooth to the final prepared shape of the tooth.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61B 34/00 - Computer-aided surgery; Manipulators or robots specially adapted for use in surgery
  • A61B 34/10 - Computer-aided planning, simulation or modelling of surgical operations
  • A61C 1/08 - Machine parts specially adapted for dentistry
  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • A61C 13/00 - Dental prostheses; Making same

2.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR GENERATING DIRECTLY MANUFACTURABLE DENTAL APPLIANCES

      
Application Number 18490649
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-18
First Publication Date 2024-04-25
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Li, Chunhua
  • Pesenti, Bastien
  • Roschin, Roman A.
  • Sato, Jun
  • Wang, Yuxiang

Abstract

Systems, methods, and devices for computer-aided design, digital treatment planning, and direct additive manufacturing of dental appliances are provided. In some embodiments, a method includes receiving a treatment plan for a patient's teeth, the treatment plan specifying a target arrangement for the teeth and a plurality of treatment stages to reposition the teeth from an initial arrangement toward the target arrangement. The method can include identifying appliance design parameters for one or more dental appliances to implement at least one treatment stage of the plurality of treatment stages. The appliance design parameters can include one or more manufacturability parameters corresponding to an additive manufacturing process to be used to directly fabricate the one or more dental appliances. The method can further include determining an appliance geometry for the one or more dental appliances using the set of appliance design parameters.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B29C 64/386 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing
  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • B33Y 10/00 - Processes of additive manufacturing
  • B33Y 30/00 - ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING, i.e. MANUFACTURING OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL [3D] OBJECTS BY ADDITIVE DEPOSITION, ADDITIVE AGGLOMERATION OR ADDITIVE LAYERING, e.g. BY 3D PRINTING, STEREOLITHOGRAPHY OR SELECTIVE LASER SINTERING - Details thereof or accessories therefor
  • B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes

3.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR GENERATING DIRECTLY MANUFACTURABLE DENTAL APPLIANCES

      
Application Number US2023077346
Publication Number 2024/086752
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-10-19
Publication Date 2024-04-25
Owner ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Li, Chunhua
  • Pesenti, Bastien
  • Roschin, Roman A.
  • Sato, Jun
  • Wang, Yuxiang

Abstract

Systems, methods, and devices for computer-aided design, digital treatment planning, and direct additive manufacturing of dental appliances are provided. In some embodiments, a method includes receiving a treatment plan for a patient's teeth, the treatment plan specifying a target arrangement for the teeth and a plurality of treatment stages to reposition the teeth from an initial arrangement toward the target arrangement. The method can include identifying appliance design parameters for one or more dental appliances to implement at least one treatment stage of the plurality of treatment stages. The appliance design parameters can include one or more manufacturability parameters corresponding to an additive manufacturing process to be used to directly fabricate the one or more dental appliances. The method can further include determining an appliance geometry for the one or more dental appliances using the set of appliance design parameters.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • B33Y 10/00 - Processes of additive manufacturing
  • B33Y 80/00 - Products made by additive manufacturing

4.

AUTOMATIC DETECTION AND PROCESSING OF POOR-QUALITY VIRTUAL THREE-DIMENSIONAL DENTAL MODELS

      
Application Number 18487047
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-14
First Publication Date 2024-04-18
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Popov, Sergei
  • Paraketsov, Vasily

Abstract

Methods and apparatuses for the automatic determination of the quality of a digital three-dimensional (3D) models of a patient's dentition. These methods and apparatuses may determine the if a digital 3D model is of sufficient quality for use in treatment planning and may use a machine learning agent (e.g., neural network) that is trained using a set of defects that are recognized as impacting the quality and/or utility of the digital 3D model for treatment planning of a particular treatment.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • A61C 13/34 - Making or working of models, e.g. preliminary castings, trial dentures; Dowel pins
  • G06T 7/00 - Image analysis
  • G06T 7/73 - Determining position or orientation of objects or cameras using feature-based methods
  • G06T 19/00 - Manipulating 3D models or images for computer graphics

5.

IMAGE QUALITY ASSESSMENT AND MULTI MODE DYNAMIC CAMERA FOR DENTAL IMAGES

      
Application Number 18487942
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-16
First Publication Date 2024-04-18
Owner ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Li, Guotu
  • Shi, Chao
  • Brown, Chad Clayton
  • Cramer, Christopher E.
  • Harris, Phillip Thomas
  • Sill, Adam
  • Neville, Will
  • Bansal, Ritvik

Abstract

Various apparatuses are disclosed (e.g., system, device, method, or the like) for guiding the capture and assessing the quality of an image, including dental images. The apparatuses may use trained neural networks to examine images and provide users feedback regarding image quality. The neural networks may be trained based on images within image groups that have been ranked based on perceived image quality.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 1/24 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor for the mouth, i.e. stomatoscopes, e.g. with tongue depressors; Instruments for opening or keeping open the mouth
  • A61B 1/00 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
  • A61B 1/045 - Control thereof
  • A61B 1/32 - Devices for opening or enlarging the visual field, e.g. of a tube of the body
  • G06T 7/00 - Image analysis
  • G06T 7/11 - Region-based segmentation
  • G06V 20/50 - Context or environment of the image
  • G06V 40/16 - Human faces, e.g. facial parts, sketches or expressions
  • H04N 23/60 - Control of cameras or camera modules
  • H04N 23/611 - Control of cameras or camera modules based on recognised objects where the recognised objects include parts of the human body
  • H04N 23/667 - Camera operation mode switching, e.g. between still and video, sport and normal or high and low resolution modes

6.

POWER SOURCES FOR WIRELESS INTRAORAL SCANNERS

      
Application Number 18486058
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-12
First Publication Date 2024-04-18
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Fridman, Edi
  • Alboher, Moshe

Abstract

In embodiments set forth herein, an intraoral scanner comprises a body, and a probe at one end of the body, the probe comprising a scanner head. The intraoral scanner further comprises a wireless communication module disposed within the body, and one or more optical sensor to receive light that enters the scanner head and generate intraoral scan data based on the light, wherein the wireless communication module is to wirelessly send the intraoral scan data to a computing device. The intraoral scanner further comprises a primary power source disposed within the body, wherein the primary power source comprises at least one of a long distance wireless power transfer (LDWPT) receiver or a replaceable battery. The intraoral scanner further comprises a secondary power source disposed within the body, wherein the secondary power source comprises at least one of a rechargeable battery or a capacitor.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 1/00 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
  • A61B 1/24 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor for the mouth, i.e. stomatoscopes, e.g. with tongue depressors; Instruments for opening or keeping open the mouth

7.

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING MATERIAL DISTRIBUTION IN POLYMERS

      
Application Number 18091306
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-12-04
First Publication Date 2024-04-18
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Meenakshisundaram, Viswanath
  • Chavez, Jennifer
  • Cole, Michael Christopher

Abstract

The present disclosure provides photo-polymerizable components, photo-curable resins comprising one or more of such monomers, as well as polymeric materials formed from the photo-curable resins. Further provided herein are methods of producing the compositions and using the same for the fabrication of medical devices, such as orthodontic appliances.

IPC Classes  ?

8.

DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR DENTAL ARCH EXPANSION

      
Application Number 18465736
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-09-12
First Publication Date 2024-04-18
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Cam, Bruce
  • Webber, Peter
  • Wang, Yuxiang
  • Sato, Jun
  • Choi, Jeeyoung

Abstract

Methods and systems are provided for generating a treatment plan for arch expansion where a polymeric shell appliance is utilized to generate one or more activation forces that facilitate tooth movement. The polymeric shell appliances may comprise one or more tooth receiving cavities, in which each of the plurality of tooth receiving cavities is shaped and arranged to provide a counter moment of each of the plurality of teeth.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/10 - Devices having means to apply outwardly directed force, e.g. expanders
  • A61C 5/00 - Filling or capping teeth
  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • A61C 7/28 - Securing arch wire to bracket

9.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS INCLUDING MOTION COMPENSATION IN A THREE- DIMENSIONAL SCAN

      
Application Number 18482822
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-06
First Publication Date 2024-04-11
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor Levin, Adi

Abstract

The present disclosure provides systems and computer implemented methods that include motion compensation in a three-dimensional (3D) scan. Motion compensation can include receiving 3D scans of a dentition, estimating a velocity of the 3D scanner during the 3D scan using a rigid body transformation based on input from a position tracking device in response to input from a 2D imager, and compensating for motion during the 3D scan based on the estimated velocity from the position tracking device.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 6/51 - for dentistry
  • A61B 1/24 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor for the mouth, i.e. stomatoscopes, e.g. with tongue depressors; Instruments for opening or keeping open the mouth
  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • G06T 7/20 - Analysis of motion
  • G06T 7/38 - Registration of image sequences

10.

AUTOMATIC APPLICATION OF DOCTOR'S PREFERENCES WORKFLOW USING STATISTICAL PREFERENCE ANALYSIS

      
Application Number 18536204
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-12-11
First Publication Date 2024-04-11
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Roschin, Roman A.
  • Karnygin, Evgenii Vladimirovich
  • Kirsanov, Dmitry
  • Yazykov, Grigoriy
  • Sabirov, Ilfat
  • Matvienko, Ruslan
  • Paraketsov, Vasily

Abstract

Methods and apparatuses for automatic treatment planning, including recommendation systems, quality assurance, error prevention, text mining, text matching, and treatment planning optimization.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • G06F 40/10 - Text processing

11.

INTRAORAL SCANNING APPARATUS

      
Application Number 18536966
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-12-12
First Publication Date 2024-04-11
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Elbaz, Gilad
  • Lampert, Erez
  • Atiya, Yossef
  • Kopelman, Avi
  • Saphier, Ofer
  • Moshe, Maayan
  • Ayal, Shai
  • Sabina, Michael
  • Kuo, Eric
  • Weiss, Assaf
  • Malka, Doron
  • Nizard, Eliahou Franklin
  • Tishel, Ido

Abstract

Methods and apparatuses for generating and displaying a model of a subject's teeth. Described herein are intraoral scanning methods and apparatuses for generating a three-dimensional model of a subject's intraoral region (e.g., teeth). These methods and apparatuses may be used for identifying and evaluating lesions, caries and cracks in the teeth.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • A61B 1/00 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
  • A61B 1/04 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor combined with photographic or television appliances
  • A61B 1/06 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor with illuminating arrangements
  • A61B 1/24 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor for the mouth, i.e. stomatoscopes, e.g. with tongue depressors; Instruments for opening or keeping open the mouth

12.

HOLE FILLING FOR 3D DENTAL MODELS

      
Application Number 18542592
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-12-15
First Publication Date 2024-04-11
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Sabina, Michael
  • Rasovsky, Leon

Abstract

A system includes an intraoral scanner that generates a plurality of intraoral images of a dental site and a computing device. The computing device receives the plurality of intraoral images of the dental site during the intraoral scan session, registers the plurality of intraoral images together based on overlapping data of the plurality of intraoral images to generate a virtual three-dimensional (3D) model of the dental site, and fills in one or more missing areas in the virtual 3D model using data from a historical template.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • A61C 13/00 - Dental prostheses; Making same
  • G06T 7/00 - Image analysis
  • G06T 7/11 - Region-based segmentation
  • G06T 7/30 - Determination of transform parameters for the alignment of images, i.e. image registration
  • G06T 17/00 - 3D modelling for computer graphics

13.

SEVERITY MAPS OF DENTAL CLINICAL FINDINGS

      
Application Number 18481172
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-04
First Publication Date 2024-04-11
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Moshe, Maayan
  • Kopelman, Avi
  • Ben Dov, Moti
  • Feder, Ran
  • Matok, Yarden
  • Saphier, Ofer

Abstract

A method includes receiving intraoral scan data of an intraoral cavity of a patient; processing the intraoral scan data to determine, for each dental condition of a plurality of dental conditions, whether the dental condition is detected for the patient and a severity of the dental condition; and presenting indications of the plurality of dental conditions together in a graphical user interface (GUI), wherein the indications show, for each dental condition of the plurality of dental conditions, whether the dental condition was detected for the patient and the severity of the dental condition.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes ; Identification of persons
  • A61B 5/103 - Measuring devices for testing the shape, pattern, size or movement of the body or parts thereof, for diagnostic purposes
  • A61C 13/34 - Making or working of models, e.g. preliminary castings, trial dentures; Dowel pins
  • G06T 7/00 - Image analysis

14.

LOWER ARCH EXPANSION

      
Application Number 18478975
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-09-29
First Publication Date 2024-04-04
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Riley, Jeremy
  • Sato, Jun
  • Derakhshan, Mitra
  • Li, Chunhua
  • Kimura, Ryan
  • Liu, Siyi
  • Xia, Damin
  • Su, Kangning
  • Peri, Somesh
  • Wang, Yuxiang

Abstract

Dental appliances and methods for expanding the lower dental arch. The appliances may be removable mandibular expander devices for efficient arch expansion while being comfortable to wear and easy to use. The appliances may include a lingual portion that is shaped and sized to apply an expansion force to lingual surfaces of one or more teeth. The shape and size of the lingual portion may be configured to distribute the forces among posterior and/or anterior teeth. A series of expander devices may be designed to provide the expansion forces in a stepwise fashion toward a target lower arch configuration according to a treatment plan

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/10 - Devices having means to apply outwardly directed force, e.g. expanders
  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers

15.

METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR TREATMENT QUALITY ASSESSMENT

      
Application Number 18480483
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-03
First Publication Date 2024-04-04
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Grebenkin, Sergey
  • Bogina, Victoria
  • Thummeti, Amarendra
  • Derakhshan, Mitra
  • Choi, Jeeyoung
  • Cramer, Christopher E.
  • Nurmukhametova, Zalina
  • Sabirov, Iifat

Abstract

Methods and apparatuses (e.g., system, including software) for processing dental workflows. In particular, described herein are methods and apparatuses for processing dental treatment plan for aligning a patient's teeth when a dental professional submits a patient-specific prescription for a series of dental aligners.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • G16H 50/50 - ICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data mining; ICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for simulation or modelling of medical disorders

16.

LOWER ARCH EXPANSION

      
Application Number US2023075651
Publication Number 2024/073753
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-09-29
Publication Date 2024-04-04
Owner ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Riley, Jeremy
  • Sato, Jun
  • Derakhshan, Mitra
  • Li, Chunhua
  • Kimura, Ryan
  • Liu, Siyi
  • Xia, Damin
  • Su, Kangning
  • Peri, Somesh
  • Wang, Yuxiang

Abstract

Dental appliances and methods for expanding the lower dental arch. The appliances may be removable mandibular expander devices for efficient arch expansion while being comfortable to wear and easy to use. The appliances may include a lingual portion that is shaped and sized to apply an expansion force to lingual surfaces of one or more teeth. The shape and size of the lingual portion may be configured to distribute the forces among posterior and/or anterior teeth. A series of expander devices may be designed to provide the expansion forces in a stepwise fashion toward a target lower arch configuration according to a treatment plan.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • A61C 7/10 - Devices having means to apply outwardly directed force, e.g. expanders

17.

ADJUSTING A TOOTH POSITION

      
Application Number 18465151
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-09-11
First Publication Date 2024-04-04
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor Kopelman, Avi

Abstract

The present disclosure provides methods, devices, and systems for adjusting a tooth position. A system for adjusting a tooth position can include an attachment configured to be attached to a tooth to be moved, a dental appliance including a guide slot configured to receive the attachment and to define an adjustment trajectory of the tooth, and an adjustment band to generate force on the tooth to move the tooth along the adjustment trajectory.

IPC Classes  ?

18.

ACCURATE METHOD TO DETERMINE CENTER OF RESISTANCE FOR 1D/2D/3D PROBLEMS

      
Application Number 18520090
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-11-27
First Publication Date 2024-04-04
Owner ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Shojaei, Iman
  • Shirazi Aghjari, Reza
  • Morton, John Y.
  • Matov, Vadim
  • Yau, Eric
  • Wu, Fuming
  • Brodsky, Sergei

Abstract

A system and method for determining a center of resistance of a tooth may include receiving a 3D digital representation of an initial arrangement and a final arrangement of a patient's teeth and determining a 3D treatment plan. The 3D treatment plan may include a plurality of 3D stages for rearranging the teeth from the initial arrangement toward the final arrangement. The method may also include determining, in accordance with the 3D treatment plan, an intended movement of the teeth for each of the stages and deriving, using a 3D resistance model, an applied force system for achieving the intended movement of the teeth for each of the stages. The method may also include deriving 3D geometries of oral appliances for the stages in response to the applied force system. Various other systems and methods are also disclosed.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • G16H 20/40 - ICT specially adapted for therapies or health-improving plans, e.g. for handling prescriptions, for steering therapy or for monitoring patient compliance relating to mechanical, radiation or invasive therapies, e.g. surgery, laser therapy, dialysis or acupuncture
  • G16H 50/50 - ICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data mining; ICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for simulation or modelling of medical disorders

19.

TREATMENT OF TEMPEROMANDIBULAR JOINT DYSFUNCTION WITH ALIGNER THERAPY

      
Application Number 18461307
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-09-05
First Publication Date 2024-03-28
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Cam, Bruce
  • Morton, John Y.
  • Matov, Vadim
  • Sato, Jun

Abstract

Methods and systems are provided for diagnosing and generating a treatment plan for temporomandibular joint dysfunction where a polymeric shell appliance is utilized to generate one or more activation forces that facilitate tooth movement. The polymeric shell appliances may comprise one or more tooth receiving cavities, in which each of the plurality of tooth receiving cavities is shaped and arranged to provide a counter moment of each of the plurality of teeth.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • A61F 5/56 - Devices for preventing snoring
  • A63B 71/08 - Body-protectors for players or sportsmen

20.

MODULAR BUILD PLATFORMS FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

      
Application Number US2023074797
Publication Number 2024/064832
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-09-21
Publication Date 2024-03-28
Owner
  • CUBICURE GMBH (Austria)
  • ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Förster-Romswinckel, Thomas
  • Gmeiner, Robert
  • Martl, Otmar
  • Kesel, Oliver
  • Busetti, Bernhard
  • Kury, Markus
  • Cole, Michael Christopher
  • Dorfinger, Peter
  • Stromenger, Shawn
  • Meenakshisundaram, Viswanath
  • Pickens, Lance Robert

Abstract

Systems, methods, and devices for additive manufacturing are provided. In some embodiments, a method includes: coupling a plurality of build platforms to a carrier; forming a plurality of 3D objects on the plurality of build platforms using an additive manufacturing process, where each build platform receives at least one 3D object thereon; removing the plurality of build platforms from the carrier; performing post-processing of the plurality of 3D objects while the 3D objects remain on the respective build platforms; and separating the plurality of 3D objects from the respective build platforms.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B29C 64/106 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material
  • A61C 13/00 - Dental prostheses; Making same
  • B29C 64/124 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified
  • B29C 64/245 - Platforms or substrates
  • B29C 64/35 - Cleaning
  • B33Y 10/00 - Processes of additive manufacturing
  • B33Y 30/00 - ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING, i.e. MANUFACTURING OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL [3D] OBJECTS BY ADDITIVE DEPOSITION, ADDITIVE AGGLOMERATION OR ADDITIVE LAYERING, e.g. BY 3D PRINTING, STEREOLITHOGRAPHY OR SELECTIVE LASER SINTERING - Details thereof or accessories therefor
  • B33Y 40/20 - Post-treatment, e.g. curing, coating or polishing

21.

MODULAR BUILD PLATFORMS FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

      
Application Number 18472100
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-09-21
First Publication Date 2024-03-28
Owner
  • Cubicure GmbH (Austria)
  • Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Förster-Romswinckel, Thomas
  • Gmeiner, Robert
  • Martl, Otmar
  • Kesel, Oliver
  • Busetti, Bernhard
  • Kury, Markus
  • Cole, Michael Christopher
  • Dorfinger, Peter
  • Stromenger, Shawn
  • Meenakshisundaram, Viswanath
  • Pickens, Lance Robert

Abstract

Systems, methods, and devices for additive manufacturing are provided. In some embodiments, a method includes: coupling a plurality of build platforms to a carrier; forming a plurality of 3D objects on the plurality of build platforms using an additive manufacturing process, where each build platform receives at least one 3D object thereon; removing the plurality of build platforms from the carrier; performing post-processing of the plurality of 3D objects while the 3D objects remain on the respective build platforms; and separating the plurality of 3D objects from the respective build platforms.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B29C 64/379 - Handling of additively manufactured objects, e.g. using robots
  • B29C 64/124 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified
  • B29C 64/223 - Foils or films, e.g. for transferring layers of building material from one working station to another
  • B29C 64/245 - Platforms or substrates
  • B29C 71/00 - After-treatment of articles without altering their shape; Apparatus therefor
  • B29C 71/02 - Thermal after-treatment

22.

DENTAL ARCH WIDTH MEASUREMENT TOOL

      
Application Number 18527187
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-12-01
First Publication Date 2024-03-28
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Makarenkova, Svetlana
  • Agafonov, Ilya
  • Likhtman, Boris
  • Sokolov, Pavel
  • Fedorov, Vladimir

Abstract

Systems and methods for rapidly and reliably determining an arch width of a patient's dental arch. A three-dimensional (3D) model of a patient's teeth, including a target tooth, can be received. Dental features from the 3D model may be extracted. The dental features may include a point of intersection between an occlusal surface of a tooth and a long axis of the tooth. An arch width between the target tooth and an opposing tooth may be determined based on the extracted dental features.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61B 5/107 - Measuring physical dimensions, e.g. size of the entire body or parts thereof
  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • G06T 19/20 - Editing of 3D images, e.g. changing shapes or colours, aligning objects or positioning parts
  • G16H 30/20 - ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of medical images for handling medical images, e.g. DICOM, HL7 or PACS

23.

IMAGE-BASED DEFECT DETECTION OF DIRECTLY FABRICATED DENTAL APPLIANCES

      
Application Number 18536052
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-12-11
First Publication Date 2024-03-28
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Cherkas, Andrey
  • Chesnokov, Danila
  • Parpara, Anatoliy

Abstract

A system comprises a memory comprising instructions for detecting one or more defects in a customized dental appliance manufactured via direct fabrication, and a processing device. Execution of the instructions causes the processing device to determine an area of the one or more images of the customized dental appliance to be compared with a digital model of the customized dental appliance, compare the area of one or more images of the customized dental appliance with the digital model of the customized dental appliance, determine a difference between a representation of the customized dental appliance in the area of the one or more images and the digital model of the customized dental appliance at a region of the customized dental appliance, and responsive to determining that the difference satisfies a defect criterion, determine that the customized dental appliance has a manufacturing defect at the region associated with the difference.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06T 7/00 - Image analysis
  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • G06T 5/00 - Image enhancement or restoration
  • G06T 7/11 - Region-based segmentation
  • G06T 7/136 - Segmentation; Edge detection involving thresholding
  • G06T 7/32 - Determination of transform parameters for the alignment of images, i.e. image registration using correlation-based methods
  • G06T 7/38 - Registration of image sequences
  • G06T 17/20 - Wire-frame description, e.g. polygonalisation or tessellation

24.

ORTHODONTIC DISTALIZER APPARATUS AND METHODS

      
Application Number US2023073973
Publication Number 2024/059560
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-09-12
Publication Date 2024-03-21
Owner ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Liu, Siyi
  • Wang, Yuxiang
  • Sato, Jun
  • Riley, Jeremy
  • Nishimuta, James

Abstract

Apparatuses (e.g., distalizers) and methods for distalizing a subject's teeth while preventing or reducing undesirable tipping and/or rotation of the teeth. The distalizer apparatuses may include tooth engagement regions shaped to accommodate molars, canines and/or premolar teeth, may include a transpalatal region extending between engagement regions having an anterior edge that is posterior to a premolar region of the first tooth engagement region, and may include an attachment site for an elastic band on the outer buccal surface.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • A61C 7/10 - Devices having means to apply outwardly directed force, e.g. expanders
  • A61C 7/36 - Devices acting between upper and lower teeth

25.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TEETH WHITENING SIMULATION

      
Application Number US2023073977
Publication Number 2024/059564
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-09-12
Publication Date 2024-03-21
Owner ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Gao, Yun
  • Shi, Chao
  • Cramer, Christopher E.

Abstract

Methods, apparatuses, and systems are disclosed for simulating a tooth whitening procedure. The simulation may generally obtain a patient's two-dimensional or three-dimensional dental scan and color space convert color information from a first or native color space to a color space based on an International Commission on Illumination color space (CIELAB). The simulation may include modifying color information in the CIELAB color space then returning the modified color information to the native color space.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06T 11/00 - 2D [Two Dimensional] image generation

26.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MODIFYING SURFACES OF ADDITIVELY MANUFACTURED OBJECTS

      
Application Number 18467584
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-09-14
First Publication Date 2024-03-21
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Singh, Paramjot
  • Pickens, Lance Robert
  • Li, Chunhua

Abstract

Systems and methods for processing additively manufactured objects are described herein. In some embodiments, for example, a system includes a controller configured to provide one or more control signals; a heater coupled to the controller, where the heater comprises one or more heating elements arranged to heat a blasting medium in response to the one or more control signals; a chamber coupled to the controller, where the chamber comprises an agitatable drum shaped to receive a plurality of additively manufactured objects, and to agitate the plurality of additively manufactured objects in response to the one or more control signals; and an applicator coupled to the controller, where the applicator comprises a nozzle operative to direct, in response to the one or more control signals, a plurality of thermally conductive particles in the blasting medium toward the plurality of additively manufactured objects within the agitatable drum.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B24C 3/28 - Apparatus using nozzles
  • B24C 7/00 - Equipment for feeding abrasive material; Controlling the flowability, constitution, or other physical characteristics of abrasive blasts
  • B33Y 40/20 - Post-treatment, e.g. curing, coating or polishing

27.

DURABLE ORNAMENTAL INDICIA CARRIER

      
Application Number 18526805
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-12-01
First Publication Date 2024-03-21
Owner ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Venkatasanthanam, Sriram
  • Heydarpour, Ramin
  • Morton, John Y.
  • Sato, Jun
  • Cole, Michael Christopher
  • Mojdeh, Mehdi
  • Vanchy, Prashanth
  • Powers, Natalia Lysaya
  • Narin, Sibel
  • Riley, Jeremy

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to ornamental indicia carrier and method of producing the same. In some embodiments, the ornamental indicia carrier comprises an ultraviolet light (“UV”) cured ink printed on a thin flexible film and combined with an adhesive layer. The ornamental indicia carrier is capable of enduring the conditions inside the mouth for an extended period of time and can be used in conjunction with a dental appliance.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • A61C 13/00 - Dental prostheses; Making same
  • B32B 7/06 - Interconnection of layers permitting easy separation
  • B32B 7/12 - Interconnection of layers using interposed adhesives or interposed materials with bonding properties
  • B32B 27/20 - Layered products essentially comprising synthetic resin characterised by the use of special additives using fillers, pigments, thixotroping agents
  • B32B 38/00 - Ancillary operations in connection with laminating processes
  • B41M 5/00 - Duplicating or marking methods; Sheet materials for use therein
  • B44C 3/02 - Superimposing layers
  • C09D 11/101 - Inks specially adapted for printing processes involving curing by wave energy or particle radiation, e.g. with UV-curing following the printing

28.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MODIFYING SURFACES OF ADDITIVELY MANUFACTURED OBJECTS

      
Application Number US2023074250
Publication Number 2024/059749
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-09-14
Publication Date 2024-03-21
Owner ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Singh, Paramjot
  • Pickens, Lance Robert
  • Li, Chunhua

Abstract

Systems and methods for processing additively manufactured objects are described herein. In some embodiments, for example, a system includes a controller configured to provide one or more control signals; a heater coupled to the controller, where the heater comprises one or more heating elements arranged to heat a blasting medium in response to the one or more control signals; a chamber coupled to the controller, where the chamber comprises an agitatable drum shaped to receive a plurality of additively manufactured objects, and to agitate the plurality of additively manufactured objects in response to the one or more control signals; and an applicator coupled to the controller, where the applicator comprises a nozzle operative to direct, in response to the one or more control signals, a plurality of thermally conductive particles in the blasting medium toward the plurality of additively manufactured objects within the agitatable drum.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B24C 1/08 - Methods for use of abrasive blasting for producing particular effects; Use of auxiliary equipment in connection with such methods for polishing surfaces, e.g. by making use of liquid-borne abrasives
  • A61C 7/10 - Devices having means to apply outwardly directed force, e.g. expanders
  • B24C 3/28 - Apparatus using nozzles
  • B24C 9/00 - Appurtenances of abrasive blasting machines or devices, e.g. working chambers, arrangements for handling used abrasive material
  • B24C 11/00 - Selection of abrasive materials for abrasive blasts
  • B29C 64/30 - Auxiliary operations or equipment
  • B33Y 40/20 - Post-treatment, e.g. curing, coating or polishing
  • B29C 71/02 - Thermal after-treatment
  • B29C 59/08 - Surface shaping, e.g. embossing; Apparatus therefor by flame treatment
  • B29C 59/10 - Surface shaping, e.g. embossing; Apparatus therefor by electric discharge treatment
  • B29C 59/14 - Surface shaping, e.g. embossing; Apparatus therefor by plasma treatment

29.

NONLINEAR TOOTH MODELING FOR ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT

      
Application Number 18451641
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-08-17
First Publication Date 2024-03-14
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Matov, Vadim
  • Brodsky, Sergei
  • Pesenti, Bastien
  • Syrov, Yuri
  • Tang, Ping
  • Valdivieso Casique, Manlio Fabio
  • Matusevich, Olga
  • Kvasov, Igor

Abstract

A method for digital treatment planning may include defining a set of contact points on a tooth of a patient's dentition and a plurality of connections between pairs of the plurality of contact points. The plurality of connections may include Hookian stiffness parameters of a dental appliance between the plurality of contact points. The method may also include generating a relaxed model of a dental appliance using the plurality of contact points and the plurality of connections. The method may also include generating a deformed model of the dental appliance using the plurality of contact points and plurality of connections. The method may also include transforming the relaxed model to the deformed model to direct the patient dentition towards a target tooth arrangement.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • G06T 17/20 - Wire-frame description, e.g. polygonalisation or tessellation
  • G16H 20/00 - ICT specially adapted for therapies or health-improving plans, e.g. for handling prescriptions, for steering therapy or for monitoring patient compliance

30.

METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR DENTAL PROCEDURES

      
Application Number 18453884
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-08-22
First Publication Date 2024-03-14
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor Kopelman, Avi

Abstract

A device including a coded pattern for use in dental procedures is provided. Related methods and systems are also provided.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 19/045 - Measuring instruments specially adapted for dentistry for recording mandibular movement, e.g. face bows
  • A61B 1/00 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
  • A61B 1/24 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor for the mouth, i.e. stomatoscopes, e.g. with tongue depressors; Instruments for opening or keeping open the mouth
  • A61B 90/90 - Identification means for patients or instruments, e.g. tags
  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • A61C 13/00 - Dental prostheses; Making same
  • A61C 19/04 - Measuring instruments specially adapted for dentistry

31.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TEETH WHITENING SIMULATION

      
Application Number 18465862
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-09-12
First Publication Date 2024-03-14
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Gao, Yun
  • Shi, Chao
  • Cramer, Christopher E.

Abstract

Methods, apparatuses, and systems are disclosed for simulating a tooth whitening procedure. The simulation may generally obtain a patient's two-dimensional or three-dimensional dental scan and color space convert color information from a first or native color space to a color space based on an International Commission on Illumination color space (CIELAB). The simulation may include modifying color information in the CIELAB color space then returning the modified color information to the native color space.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06T 11/00 - 2D [Two Dimensional] image generation
  • H04N 1/60 - Colour correction or control
  • H04N 1/62 - Retouching, i.e. modification of isolated colours only or in isolated picture areas only

32.

METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR DENTAL IMAGES

      
Application Number 18487042
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-13
First Publication Date 2024-03-14
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Carrier, Jr., Maurice K.
  • Harris, Phillip Thomas
  • Vinnichenko, Sergey
  • Blanco, Samuel
  • Karsakov, Aleksandr Sergeevich
  • Hareng, Sebastien
  • Rasovsky, Leon

Abstract

Described herein are methods and apparatuses to obtain an image, or a set of images, of a patient's teeth from one or more predetermined viewing angles. These methods and apparatuses may include the use an overlay comprising an outline of teeth for each predetermined viewing angle. The overlay may be used for automatically capturing, focusing and/or illuminating the teeth. Also described herein are methods and apparatuses for using a series of images of the patient's teeth including a set of predetermined views to determine if a patient is a candidate for an orthopedic procedure.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61B 1/24 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor for the mouth, i.e. stomatoscopes, e.g. with tongue depressors; Instruments for opening or keeping open the mouth
  • A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes ; Identification of persons
  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • A61C 19/04 - Measuring instruments specially adapted for dentistry
  • G06T 7/00 - Image analysis
  • G06T 7/13 - Edge detection
  • G06V 10/764 - Arrangements for image or video recognition or understanding using pattern recognition or machine learning using classification, e.g. of video objects
  • G06V 20/50 - Context or environment of the image
  • H04N 5/272 - Means for inserting a foreground image in a background image, i.e. inlay, outlay
  • H04N 23/56 - Cameras or camera modules comprising electronic image sensors; Control thereof provided with illuminating means
  • H04N 23/74 - Circuitry for compensating brightness variation in the scene by influencing the scene brightness using illuminating means

33.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR GENERATING A VIRTUAL DEPICTION OF AN ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT

      
Application Number 18514083
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-11-20
First Publication Date 2024-03-14
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Pokotilov, Pavel
  • Chekh, Dmitry Yurievich
  • Ten, Dmitriy Konstantinovich
  • Blanco, Samuel
  • Lopes, David Patrick
  • Ramos, Jason
  • Sterental, Rene M.
  • Karnygin, Evgenii Vladimirovich
  • Miryaha, Vladislav Andreevich
  • Vysokanov, Boris Aleksandrovich
  • Brailov, Yury A.
  • Kuanbekov, Artem

Abstract

Systems and methods including: receiving, from a digital imaging device, one or more 2D images of a patient's face including a mouth region, where the one or more 2D images include a depiction of the patient's teeth in an initial arrangement; generating, using a neural network, a 2D rendering depicting a post-treatment arrangement of the patient's teeth based on the one or more received 2D images; generating a realistic composite 2D image depicting the patient's face with the 2D rendering depicting the post-treatment arrangement of the patient's teeth, where the generating includes positioning the 2D rendering within a mouth opening of the patient's face in the realistic composite 2D image; and sending the realistic composite 2D image to an output device for display on a user interface of the output device.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • G06T 17/20 - Wire-frame description, e.g. polygonalisation or tessellation
  • G16H 20/40 - ICT specially adapted for therapies or health-improving plans, e.g. for handling prescriptions, for steering therapy or for monitoring patient compliance relating to mechanical, radiation or invasive therapies, e.g. surgery, laser therapy, dialysis or acupuncture
  • G16H 50/20 - ICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data mining; ICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for computer-aided diagnosis, e.g. based on medical expert systems

34.

DOMAIN SPECIFIC IMAGE QUALITY ASSESSMENT

      
Application Number 18371347
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-09-21
First Publication Date 2024-03-14
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Shi, Chao
  • Li, Yingjie
  • Brown, Chad Clayton
  • Cramer, Christopher E.

Abstract

In a technique to assess the blurriness of an image, an image of a face is received, the image including a depiction of lips. A processing device determines a region of interest in the image, wherein the region of interest comprises an area inside of the lips. The processing device applies a focus operator to the pixels within the region of interest, and calculates a sharpness metric for the region of interest using an output of the focus operator. The processing device determines whether the sharpness metric satisfies a sharpness criterion, and one or more additional operations are performed responsive to determining that the sharpness metric satisfies the sharpness criterion.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06T 5/00 - Image enhancement or restoration
  • G06N 20/00 - Machine learning
  • G06T 11/20 - Drawing from basic elements, e.g. lines or circles
  • G06V 10/98 - Detection or correction of errors, e.g. by rescanning the pattern or by human intervention; Evaluation of the quality of the acquired patterns
  • G06V 40/16 - Human faces, e.g. facial parts, sketches or expressions

35.

METHOD FOR SUB-GINGIVAL INTRAORAL SCANNING

      
Application Number 18376035
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-03
First Publication Date 2024-03-14
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor Moalem, Yosi

Abstract

A system includes an optical probe with a sensing face. The optical probe to emit optical signals and receive reflected optical signals. The system includes a computing device, coupled to the optical probe, to receive intraoral scan data of a tooth. The intraoral scan data includes first optical scan data and second optical scan data. The computing device to process the received intraoral scan data to adjust the first optical scan data associated with a sub-gingival surface of the tooth based on the second optical scan data associated with a material covering the sub-gingival surface of the tooth. The computing device to generate a three-dimensional model that includes the sub-gingival surface of the tooth using the adjusted first optical scan data that is associated with the sub-gingival surface of the tooth.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • A61B 1/00 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
  • A61B 1/24 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor for the mouth, i.e. stomatoscopes, e.g. with tongue depressors; Instruments for opening or keeping open the mouth
  • A61C 13/00 - Dental prostheses; Making same
  • G06T 19/20 - Editing of 3D images, e.g. changing shapes or colours, aligning objects or positioning parts

36.

ORTHODONTIC DISTALIZER APPARATUS AND METHODS

      
Application Number 18465848
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-09-12
First Publication Date 2024-03-14
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Liu, Siyi
  • Wang, Yuxiang
  • Sato, Jun
  • Riley, Jeremy
  • Nishimuta, James

Abstract

Apparatuses (e.g., distalizers) and methods for distalizing a subject's teeth while preventing or reducing undesirable tipping and/or rotation of the teeth. The distalizer apparatuses may include tooth engagement regions shaped to accommodate molars, canines and/or premolar teeth, may include a transpalatal region extending between engagement regions having an anterior edge that is posterior to a premolar region of the first tooth engagement region, and may include an attachment site for an elastic band on the outer buccal surface.

IPC Classes  ?

37.

WEAK COVALENT CROSSLINKS IN THERMOSET MATERIALS FOR INCREASED TOUGHNESS

      
Application Number 18498709
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-31
First Publication Date 2024-03-14
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor Cole, Michael Christopher

Abstract

This disclosure provides polymeric materials comprising weak crosslinking covalent bonds and/or weak crosslinking units comprising a weak covalent bond. Weak covalent bonds can be used in place of hydrogen bonds present in traditional polymeric materials (e.g., polyurethanes). Advantageously, the toughness can be controlled by varying the strength of weak covalent bonds and/or by varying the number of weak covalent crosslinks. Crosslinked materials applying the weak covalent crosslinking bonds can be used to create tough materials able to resist stress relaxation. Further, the present disclosure provides polymer chains and polymeric materials comprising inchain loops (also referred to herein as rings). The inchain loops comprise weak bonds and/or weak bridges comprising at least one weak bond. This disclosure also provides compositions comprising the polymer chains, materials comprising the polymer chains, monomer units that can react to form inchain loop-comprising polymer chains, resins comprising the monomer units, and related materials, appliances, and uses.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C09D 133/06 - Homopolymers or copolymers of esters of esters containing only carbon, hydrogen and oxygen, the oxygen atom being present only as part of the carboxyl radical
  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • A61C 7/10 - Devices having means to apply outwardly directed force, e.g. expanders
  • B33Y 70/00 - Materials specially adapted for additive manufacturing
  • C08F 220/18 - Esters of monohydric alcohols or phenols of phenols or of alcohols containing two or more carbon atoms with acrylic or methacrylic acids
  • C09D 4/00 - Coating compositions, e.g. paints, varnishes or lacquers, based on organic non-macromolecular compounds having at least one polymerisable carbon-to-carbon unsaturated bond

38.

RECONSTRUCTION OF NON-VISIBLE PART OF TOOTH

      
Application Number 18215804
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-06-28
First Publication Date 2024-03-07
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Chelnokov, Fedor
  • Roschin, Roman A.
  • Ushanov, Petr

Abstract

A computer-implemented method for modeling a complete tooth of a patient to facilitate dental and/or orthodontic treatment. The method includes generating a first set of digital data representing a clinical crown; generating a second set of digital data representing a plurality of digital tooth models of a particular tooth type each having a first parameterization; processing the second set of digital data to obtain a third set of digital data representing an average tooth model of the particular tooth type having a second parameterization which is less than the first parameterization; fitting the third set of digital data to the first set of digital data to create a set of digital data representing an interim tooth model; and morphing the set of digital data representing the interim tooth model to substantially mimic the anatomical shape of the clinical crown of the first set of digital data.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61C 13/00 - Dental prostheses; Making same

39.

3D FACIAL RECONSTRUCTION AND VISUALIZATION IN DENTAL TREATMENT PLANNING

      
Application Number US2023031561
Publication Number 2024/049918
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-08-30
Publication Date 2024-03-07
Owner ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Chang, Michael
  • Huber, Niko Benjamin
  • Meyer, Eric Paul
  • Tanskanen, Petri
  • Saurer, Olivier

Abstract

The present disclosure is directed to capturing a 3-dimensional representation of a patient's face from multiple angles to be integrated with (fused) with at least a 3-dimensional intra-oral mesh of the patient's teeth for purposes of visualizing a dental treatment plan. In one aspect, a method includes capturing media of a patient's face from multiple angles, using at least one device; transforming the media into a 3-dimensional representation of the patient's face; and transmitting, the 3-dimensional representation of the patient's face to one or more processing components to be integrated with a 3- dimensional representation of the patient's intra-oral scan to visualize a dental treatment plan for the patient.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06T 19/20 - Editing of 3D images, e.g. changing shapes or colours, aligning objects or positioning parts
  • G06T 19/00 - Manipulating 3D models or images for computer graphics
  • A61C 1/00 - Dental machines for boring or cutting

40.

DEFFOGGING OF PROTECTIVE SLEEVE FOR INTRAORAL SCANNER

      
Application Number 18383850
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-25
First Publication Date 2024-02-29
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor Makmel, Nir

Abstract

An intraoral scanning device comprises a housing having a longitudinal axis and comprising a head configured for insertion into an oral cavity of a patient, the head comprising an aperture for transmission of optical signals, a transparent element positioned within the aperture, wherein the transparent element is non-orthogonal to the longitudinal axis, and a defogging unit comprising a heating unit. A protective sleeve is configured to cover at least a part of the head and comprises an additional aperture that aligns with the aperture and an additional transparent element in the additional aperture. A gap separates the additional transparent element from the transparent element when the protective sleeve is coupled to the housing. The housing and the protective sleeve are configured such that heat generated by the heating unit is transferred from the heating unit to the additional transparent element despite the gap that separates the additional transparent element from the transparent element.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H05B 3/84 - Heating arrangements specially adapted for transparent or reflecting areas, e.g. for demisting or de-icing windows, mirrors or vehicle windshields
  • A61B 1/00 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
  • A61B 1/12 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor with cooling or rinsing arrangements

41.

3D FACIAL RECONSTRUCTION AND VISUALIZATION IN DENTAL TREATMENT PLANNING

      
Application Number 18239712
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-08-29
First Publication Date 2024-02-29
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Chang, Michael
  • Huber, Niko Benjamin
  • Meyer, Eric Paul
  • Tanskanen, Petri
  • Saurer, Olivier

Abstract

The present disclosure is directed to capturing a 3-dimensional representation of a patient's face from multiple angles to be integrated with (fused) with at least a 3-dimensional intra-oral mesh of the patient's teeth for purposes of visualizing a dental treatment plan. In one aspect, a method includes capturing media of a patient's face from multiple angles, using at least one device; transforming the media into a 3-dimensional representation of the patient's face; and transmitting, the 3-dimensional representation of the patient's face to one or more processing components to be integrated with a 3-dimensional representation of the patient's intra-oral scan to visualize a dental treatment plan for the patient.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61B 1/00 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
  • A61B 1/24 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor for the mouth, i.e. stomatoscopes, e.g. with tongue depressors; Instruments for opening or keeping open the mouth
  • G06T 17/00 - 3D modelling for computer graphics
  • G06T 19/00 - Manipulating 3D models or images for computer graphics

42.

ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT PLANNING SYSTEMS AND METHODS

      
Application Number 18504071
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-11-07
First Publication Date 2024-02-29
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Derakhshan, Mitra
  • Maura, Angelo

Abstract

Please cancel the previous version of the Abstract and replace with the following amended Orthodontic treatment planning systems and associated methods are provided. In some embodiments, a treatment planning system can generate at least one treatment plan for a patient based on an initial tooth data set. The at least one treatment plan can include a plurality of planned successive tooth arrangements for moving teeth along a treatment path from an initial arrangement toward a selected final arrangement. The at least one treatment plan can further include a series of one or more treatment stages to move teeth along the treatment path. The treatment planning system can further display tooth arrangements for each of the one or more treatment stages and allow a user to compare tooth arrangements for at least two different treatment stages. Furthermore, the treatment planning system can allow the user to select a treatment plan after comparing tooth arrangements.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • G16H 50/50 - ICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data mining; ICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for simulation or modelling of medical disorders

43.

LASER CUTTING

      
Application Number 18506103
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-11-09
First Publication Date 2024-02-29
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor Culp, James C.

Abstract

Laser cutting systems and methods are described herein. Systems may include a laser, an optical component, a fixture for holding a dental appliance, and a controller. A cut path for trimming excess material from the dental appliance may be derived from a virtual cut path in a virtual version of the dental appliance. The excess material may be trimmed from the dental appliance along the cut path with the laser while adjusting a laser energy applied to the dental appliance to reduce a brittleness at an edge of the cut path. Adjusting the applied laser energy may include adjusting one or more of: a power of the laser, an optical component of the laser to adjust a focal length of the laser, and a relative orientation of the laser with respect to the dental appliance in at least three axes of movement.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B23K 26/06 - Shaping the laser beam, e.g. by masks or multi-focusing
  • A61C 13/00 - Dental prostheses; Making same
  • B23K 26/064 - Shaping the laser beam, e.g. by masks or multi-focusing by means of optical elements, e.g. lenses, mirrors or prisms
  • B23K 26/08 - Devices involving relative movement between laser beam and workpiece
  • B23K 26/142 - Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring using a fluid stream, e.g. a jet of gas, in conjunction with the laser beam; Nozzles therefor for the removal of by-products
  • B23K 26/38 - Removing material by boring or cutting
  • G05B 15/02 - Systems controlled by a computer electric

44.

VINYL ETHER-BASED INKJET INK PHOTOPOLYMERIZED BY THIOL-ENE CLICK CHEMISTRY USED FOR TOUGHENING OF PHOTOPOLYMERS

      
Application Number 18450258
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-08-15
First Publication Date 2024-02-22
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Koch, Bettina
  • Theuer, Timon
  • Hochwallner, Alexander
  • Liska, Robert
  • Stampfl, Jürgen
  • Chen, Yan
  • Li, Chunhua
  • Dorfinger, Peter

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a range of printed materials comprising discrete layers or segment with distinct compositions, and which can collectively lend to high levels of strength, toughness, and break resistance, and these printed materials may contain thin, ductile layers interspersed between thicker, harder layers, thus in printing such materials, the present disclosure further provides a range of compositions and methods, including low viscosity, air stable, and rapidly solutions amenable to thin layer inkjet printing.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C09D 129/10 - Homopolymers or copolymers of unsaturated ethers
  • C09D 11/102 - Printing inks based on artificial resins containing macromolecular compounds obtained by reactions other than those only involving unsaturated carbon-to-carbon bonds
  • C09D 11/107 - Printing inks based on artificial resins containing macromolecular compounds obtained by reactions only involving carbon-to-carbon unsaturated bonds from unsaturated acids or derivatives thereof
  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • B33Y 70/00 - Materials specially adapted for additive manufacturing
  • B33Y 80/00 - Products made by additive manufacturing

45.

OCCLUSAL BLOCKS FOR MANDIBULAR RELOCATION

      
Application Number 18497534
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-30
First Publication Date 2024-02-22
Owner ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Nishimuta, James
  • Sato, Jun

Abstract

A first appliance and a second appliance comprise engagement surfaces that provide mandibular relocation forces and forces to limit lateral movement of the jaw, such as opposing inclined surfaces on opposite sides of the mouth. In some embodiments, engagement surfaces between oral appliances comprise a curvature difference, which allows engagement at differing angles and positions.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/36 - Devices acting between upper and lower teeth
  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers

46.

METHODS FOR PRODUCING ADDITIVELY MANUFACTURED OBJECTS WITH HETEROGENEOUS PROPERTIES

      
Application Number US2023072172
Publication Number 2024/040029
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-08-14
Publication Date 2024-02-22
Owner ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Dorfinger, Peter
  • Cole, Michael Christopher

Abstract

Methods for manufacturing objects are provided herein. In some embodiments, a method includes receiving a digital data set representing an object, and applying energy to a curable material based on the digital data set to form the object. The object (400) can include at least two object portions (402, 404) formed from the curable material using different energy application parameters. The method can further include removing residual curable material from the object (400). A different amount of the residual curable material can be removed from each of the at least two object portions (402, 404). After the residual curable material is removed, the at least two object portions can each have different material properties.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • A61C 13/15 - Curing devices for plastics prostheses for curing by the action of light
  • B22F 10/12 - Formation of a green body by photopolymerisation, e.g. stereolithography [SLA] or digital light processing [DLP]
  • B22F 10/38 - Process control to achieve specific product aspects, e.g. surface smoothness, density, porosity or hollow structures
  • B22F 10/60 - Treatment of workpieces or articles after build-up
  • B29C 35/02 - Heating or curing, e.g. crosslinking or vulcanising
  • B29C 35/08 - Heating or curing, e.g. crosslinking or vulcanising by wave energy or particle radiation
  • B29C 64/124 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified
  • B29C 64/35 - Cleaning
  • B29C 71/00 - After-treatment of articles without altering their shape; Apparatus therefor
  • B29C 71/02 - Thermal after-treatment
  • B29C 71/04 - After-treatment of articles without altering their shape; Apparatus therefor by wave energy or particle radiation
  • B33Y 10/00 - Processes of additive manufacturing
  • B33Y 40/20 - Post-treatment, e.g. curing, coating or polishing
  • B33Y 70/00 - Materials specially adapted for additive manufacturing
  • B29C 64/10 - Processes of additive manufacturing

47.

AUGMENTATION OF 3D SURFACE OF DENTAL SITE USING 2D IMAGES

      
Application Number 18366565
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-08-07
First Publication Date 2024-02-22
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Saphier, Ofer
  • Weiss, Assaf
  • Moshe, Maayan
  • Gerth, Maik
  • Alesinskyy, Evgeni

Abstract

Methods and systems are described that use 2D images and intraoral scans to generate and/or augment 3D models of dental site. In one example a method includes receiving a plurality of intraoral scans of a dental site generated by an intraoral scanner and a plurality of two-dimensional (2D) images of the dental site generated by the intraoral scanner, generating a three-dimensional (3D) surface of the dental site from the plurality of intraoral scans, determining a correspondence between points on the 3D surface and points in one or more 2D images of the plurality of 2D images, and performing one or more operations using the correspondence between the points on the 3D surface and the points on the one or more 2D images.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • G06T 17/00 - 3D modelling for computer graphics

48.

AUGMENTATION OF 3D SURFACE OF DENTAL SITE USING 2D IMAGES

      
Application Number US2023029779
Publication Number 2024/039547
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-08-08
Publication Date 2024-02-22
Owner ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Saphier, Ofer
  • Weiss, Assaf
  • Moshe, Maayan
  • Gerth, Maik
  • Alesinskyy, Evgeni

Abstract

Methods and systems are described that use 2D images and intraoral scans to generate and/or augment 3D models of dental site. In one example a method includes receiving a plurality of intraoral scans of a dental site generated by an intraoral scanner and a plurality of two-dimensional (2D) images of the dental site generated by the intraoral scanner, generating a three-dimensional (3D) surface of the dental site from the plurality of intraoral scans, determining a correspondence between points on the 3D surface and points in one or more 2D images of the plurality of 2D images, and performing one or more operations using the correspondence between the points on the 3D surface and the points on the one or more 2D images.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes ; Identification of persons
  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • G06T 17/00 - 3D modelling for computer graphics

49.

VINYL ETHER-BASED INKJET INK PHOTOPOLYMERIZED BY THIOL-ENE CLICK CHEMISTRY USED FOR TOUGHENING OF PHOTOPOLYMERS

      
Application Number US2023030274
Publication Number 2024/039675
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-08-15
Publication Date 2024-02-22
Owner ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Koch, Bettina
  • Theuer, Timon
  • Hochwallner, Alexander
  • Liska, Robert
  • Stampfl, Jürgen
  • Chen, Yan
  • Li, Chunhua
  • Dorfinger, Peter

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a range of printed materials comprising discrete layers or segment with distinct compositions, and which can collectively lend to high levels of strength, toughness, and break resistance, and these printed materials may contain thin, ductile layers interspersed between thicker, harder layers, thus in printing such materials, the present disclosure further provides a range of compositions and methods, including low viscosity, air stable, and rapidly solutions amenable to thin layer inkjet printing.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G03F 7/027 - Non-macromolecular photopolymerisable compounds having carbon-to-carbon double bonds, e.g. ethylenic compounds

50.

USER INTERFACE FOR INTRAORAL SCANNING WITH TOOTH COLOR DETECTION

      
Application Number 18243032
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-09-06
First Publication Date 2024-02-15
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Furst, Gilad
  • Verker, Tal
  • Saphier, Ofer

Abstract

A system includes an intraoral scanner and a computing device operatively connected to the intraoral scanner. The intraoral scanner generates three-dimensional scan data of a tooth and further generates color data of the tooth under multi-chromatic light. The computing device receives the three-dimensional scan data and the color data of the tooth during a first mode of operation. The computing device invokes a second mode of operation, and presents, in a graphical user interface (GUI), an image of the tooth. The computing device further presents, in the GUI, data indicating a plurality of color zones of the tooth and further indicating, for at least one color zone of the plurality of color zones, that insufficient color data has been received, wherein each color zone indicates a separate region of the tooth that is expected to have approximately uniform color.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H04N 13/257 - Colour aspects
  • G02B 27/10 - Beam splitting or combining systems
  • G02B 23/24 - Instruments for viewing the inside of hollow bodies, e.g. fibrescopes
  • A61B 1/06 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor with illuminating arrangements
  • A61B 1/24 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor for the mouth, i.e. stomatoscopes, e.g. with tongue depressors; Instruments for opening or keeping open the mouth
  • A61B 1/00 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
  • A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes ; Identification of persons
  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • A61B 1/247 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor for the mouth, i.e. stomatoscopes, e.g. with tongue depressors; Instruments for opening or keeping open the mouth with means for viewing areas outside the direct line of sight, e.g. dentists' mirrors
  • A61B 1/07 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor with illuminating arrangements using light-conductive means, e.g. optical fibres
  • G01J 3/46 - Measurement of colour; Colour measuring devices, e.g. colorimeters
  • A61B 1/04 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor combined with photographic or television appliances
  • H04N 23/55 - Optical parts specially adapted for electronic image sensors; Mounting thereof
  • H04N 23/56 - Cameras or camera modules comprising electronic image sensors; Control thereof provided with illuminating means
  • H04N 23/74 - Circuitry for compensating brightness variation in the scene by influencing the scene brightness using illuminating means

51.

VISUALIZATION OF POST-TREATMENT OUTCOMES FOR MEDICAL TREATMENT

      
Application Number 18384340
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-26
First Publication Date 2024-02-15
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Dibra, Endri
  • Huber, Niko Benjamin

Abstract

Embodiments include obtaining an input image depicting a body part of a person and processing the input image against a set of semantic landmarks representing landmarks of the body part; obtaining a mesh model for a set of images; generating, from the mesh model and the set of semantic landmarks, a body part mesh of the person, wherein the body part mesh is an approximation of a 3D model for the body part depicted in the input image; obtaining a target body part mesh data structure, distinct from the body part mesh; and generating a modified view image of the body part, modified to reflect differences between the target body part mesh data structure and the body part mesh while retaining at least some texture of the body part from the input image.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06T 17/00 - 3D modelling for computer graphics
  • A61B 34/10 - Computer-aided planning, simulation or modelling of surgical operations
  • A61B 90/00 - Instruments, implements or accessories specially adapted for surgery or diagnosis and not covered by any of the groups , e.g. for luxation treatment or for protecting wound edges
  • G16H 20/40 - ICT specially adapted for therapies or health-improving plans, e.g. for handling prescriptions, for steering therapy or for monitoring patient compliance relating to mechanical, radiation or invasive therapies, e.g. surgery, laser therapy, dialysis or acupuncture
  • G16H 50/50 - ICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data mining; ICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for simulation or modelling of medical disorders
  • G16H 30/20 - ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of medical images for handling medical images, e.g. DICOM, HL7 or PACS
  • G16H 50/70 - ICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data mining; ICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for mining of medical data, e.g. analysing previous cases of other patients
  • G16H 30/40 - ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of medical images for processing medical images, e.g. editing
  • G06N 3/04 - Architecture, e.g. interconnection topology
  • G06N 3/08 - Learning methods
  • G06T 7/00 - Image analysis
  • G06T 15/20 - Perspective computation
  • G06T 17/20 - Wire-frame description, e.g. polygonalisation or tessellation
  • G06F 18/214 - Generating training patterns; Bootstrap methods, e.g. bagging or boosting

52.

METHODS FOR PRODUCING ADDITIVELY MANUFACTURED OBJECTS WITH HETEROGENEOUS PROPERTIES

      
Application Number 18449589
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-08-14
First Publication Date 2024-02-15
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Dorfinger, Peter
  • Cole, Michael Christopher

Abstract

Methods for manufacturing objects are provided herein. In some embodiments, a method includes receiving a digital data set representing an object, and applying energy to a curable material based on the digital data set to form the object. The object can include at least two object portions formed from the curable material using different energy application parameters. The method can further include removing residual curable material from the object. A different amount of the residual curable material can be removed from each of the at least two object portions. After the residual curable material is removed, the at least two object portions can each have different material properties.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B29C 64/264 - Arrangements for irradiation
  • B29C 64/386 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing

53.

METHODS FOR SELECTIVE POST-CURING OF ADDITIVELY MANUFACTURED OBJECTS

      
Application Number 18449593
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-08-14
First Publication Date 2024-02-15
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Dorfinger, Peter
  • Cole, Michael Christopher

Abstract

Methods for manufacturing objects are provided herein. In some embodiments, a method includes receiving a dental appliance formed using an additive manufacturing process, the dental appliance including a plurality of appliance portions. The method can include identifying, based on sensor data, a location of a subset of the appliance portions on the dental appliance. The method can further include applying energy to a subset of the appliance portions to selectively modify one or more material properties of the subset of the appliance portions.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B29C 71/04 - After-treatment of articles without altering their shape; Apparatus therefor by wave energy or particle radiation
  • A61C 13/14 - Curing devices for plastics prostheses
  • A61C 13/15 - Curing devices for plastics prostheses for curing by the action of light

54.

REAL-TIME BITE ARTICULATION

      
Application Number US2023028793
Publication Number 2024/030310
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-07-27
Publication Date 2024-02-08
Owner ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Saphier, Ofer
  • Kopelman, Avi
  • Ben Dov, Moti
  • Katz, Ran
  • Farkash, Shai
  • Fahn, Roy
  • Chang, Michael
  • Huber, Niko Benjamin
  • Meyer, Eric
  • Ismael, Gustavo
  • Relic, Zelko
  • Gerth, Maik

Abstract

A method may include obtaining a first 3D model of an upper jaw of a patient using an intraoral scanner and obtaining a second 3D model of the lower jaw of the patient using the intraoral scanner. The method may also include capturing a series of 2D images of the upper and lower jaws of the patient as the patient is moves the upper jaw and lower jaw in dynamic occlusion and processing the captured series of 2D images to identify features associated with the upper jaw of the patient and the lower jaw of the patient. For each 2D image in the captured series of 2D images, the method may include identifying a relative position of the first 3D model and the second 3D model based on alignment of features in the first 3D model and second 3D model with the features identified in the 2D image to generate a series of relative positions of the first 3D model and the second 3D model. The method may also include modeling dynamic occlusion of the upper jaw and the lower jaw of the patient based on the series of relative positions of the first 3D model and the second 3D model.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 19/05 - Measuring instruments specially adapted for dentistry for determining occlusion
  • A61C 19/04 - Measuring instruments specially adapted for dentistry
  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor

55.

DIRECT FABRICATION OF ORTHODONTIC APPLIANCES WITH ELASTIC REGIONS

      
Application Number 18483315
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-09
First Publication Date 2024-02-08
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Kopelman, Avi
  • Choi, Jeeyoung

Abstract

Improved orthodontic appliances, along with related systems and methods, are provided. In one aspect, an appliance includes a shell having a plurality of cavities shaped to receive teeth, a discontinuity formed in the shell, and an elastic member positioned to interact with the discontinuity. In another aspect, an appliance includes a plurality of discrete shell segments joined by an elastic material to form a single appliance shell. In another aspect, an appliance includes a shell having an exterior layer and an interior layer having a stiffness less than a stiffness of the exterior layer, and a discontinuity formed in the exterior layer. In another aspect, an appliance includes a shell comprising an interior surface and an exterior surface, and an elastic coating covering at least a portion of one or more of the interior surface or exterior surface of the shell.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • A61C 7/14 - Brackets; Fixing brackets to teeth
  • G06F 30/00 - Computer-aided design [CAD]

56.

INTEGRATED TISSUE MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS IN ORTHODONTIC ALIGNERS

      
Application Number 18358908
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-07-25
First Publication Date 2024-02-01
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Garrubba, David Francisco
  • Blankenburg, Magdalena

Abstract

Methods and apparatuses for managing soft tissue in preparation for a restorative implant procedure. The methods and apparatuses may be used shape the soft tissue in a manner that improves an emergence profile of the restorative implant, thereby providing a natural-looking and protective base for the implant. The apparatuses may include a tissue shaping feature, which may be used with one or more dental aligners, to apply a tissue shaping pressure to the soft tissue. The methods may be integrated with orthodontic treatment planning systems to provide a specialized treatment plan.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 8/00 - Means to be fixed to the jaw-bone for consolidating natural teeth or for fixing dental prostheses thereon; Dental implants; Implanting tools
  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers

57.

METHOD OF DETERMINING TOOTH ROOT APICES USING INTRAORAL SCANS AND PANORAMIC RADIOGRAPHS

      
Application Number 18358913
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-07-25
First Publication Date 2024-02-01
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Chernov, Vitaliy Vladimirovich
  • Khromov, Egor Artemovich
  • Rychagov, Mikhail Nikolaevich

Abstract

Methods, apparatuses, and systems are disclosed for determining accurate tooth root apices from two-dimensional panoramic radiograph data and/or three-dimensional intraoral scan data. In some variations, one or more deep learning networks may be trained to determine coordinates of tooth root apices based on training data that may include cone beam computer tomography tooth data and corresponding two-dimensional panoramic radiograph data and three-dimensional intraoral scan data.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • G06T 7/00 - Image analysis

58.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR OCCLUSAL MANDIBULAR ADVANCEMENT BLOCK PLACEMENT

      
Application Number 18360125
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-07-27
First Publication Date 2024-02-01
Owner ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Tanugula, Rohit
  • Nishimuta, James
  • Joshi, Nilesh
  • Jansen, Thomas
  • Gorelova, Anna
  • Menshova, Ekaterina
  • Trotsko, Artem
  • Prokopenko, Andrey
  • Yakshibaeva, Arina

Abstract

A method of treating malocclusions of teeth may include receiving a scan of a patient's teeth and generating a treatment plan to move a patient's teeth from a first position toward a second position. The treatment plan may include moving a jaw from a first position towards a second position. The treatment plan may include a series of jaw movement stages to move the jaw from the first position towards the second position. The method may include generating a digital model of an aligner having mandibular relocation structures. A location of the mandibular relocation structures may be based on a set of location constraints. The method may include fabricating a physical aligner based on the digital model of the aligner.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions

59.

TOOTH SEGMENTATION BASED ON ANATOMICAL EDGE INFORMATION

      
Application Number 18446445
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-08-08
First Publication Date 2024-02-01
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Shi, Chao
  • Li, Yingjie
  • Miryaha, Vladislav Andreevich
  • Vysokanov, Boris Aleksandrovich
  • Bushev, Andrey

Abstract

Provided herein are orthodontic systems and methods for automatically segmenting a person's teeth. Systems, methods and processes are provided to properly segment the teeth of a person's teeth from an image of the person's face showing at least some of the person's teeth (e.g., dental arch). Methods and systems are provided to automatically detect dental edges after a dental scan. Also described herein are methods and systems for generating a simulated image of the person's face from the final segmentation of the person's teeth in which the segmented teeth have been moved from their original position, including a new position based on an orthodontic treatment plan.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor

60.

FULL-SCANNER BARRIER FOR AN INTRA-ORAL DEVICE

      
Application Number 18449660
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-08-14
First Publication Date 2024-02-01
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Shalev, Ariel
  • Green, Eran
  • Ginzburg, Zakhar
  • Durban, Matthew
  • Gorfinkel, Roee
  • Saphier, Ofer
  • Verker, Tal
  • Makmel, Nir
  • Ishay, Eran
  • Levy, Raphael

Abstract

Removable barrier devices (e.g., sleeves) for covering medical scanning devices to reduce the chance of cross-contamination between patients and/or to protect the scanning devices from physical damage. The barrier device can include a cover that has an integrated window for passing optical signals between the scanning device and an external environment. The cover can include a sleeve that covers a handle portion of the scanning device to prevent contamination of the handle from a user's hand or glove. The cover and sleeve may both be formed of the same flexible material, or the cover may be rigid to maintain the window in a fixed position and the sleeve may be flexible to allow a user to activate a button or touchpad on the handle. An interface region between the cover and sleeve may provide a hermetic seal. The window may include a nanostructured antireflective material to limit internal reflections.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 46/17 - Surgical drapes specially adapted for instruments the drapes entering the patient's body closed at the distal end
  • A61B 46/00 - Surgical drapes
  • A61B 6/14 - Applications or adaptations for dentistry

61.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR OCCLUSAL MANDIBULAR ADVANCEMENT BLOCK PLACEMENT

      
Application Number US2023028785
Publication Number 2024/025987
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-07-27
Publication Date 2024-02-01
Owner ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Tanugula, Rohit
  • Nishimuta, James
  • Joshi, Nilesh
  • Jansen, Thomas
  • Gorelova, Anna
  • Menshova, Ekaterina
  • Trotsko, Artem
  • Prokopenko, Andrey
  • Yakshibaeva, Arina

Abstract

A method of treating malocclusions of teeth may include receiving a scan of a patient's teeth and generating a treatment plan to move a patient's teeth from a first position toward a second position. The treatment plan may include moving a jaw from a first position towards a second position. The treatment plan may include a series of jaw movement stages to move the jaw from the first position towards the second position. The method may include generating a digital model of an aligner having mandibular relocation structures. A location of the mandibular relocation structures may be based on a set of location constraints. The method may include fabricating a physical aligner based on the digital model of the aligner.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • A61C 7/36 - Devices acting between upper and lower teeth

62.

INTEGRATED TISSUE MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS IN ORTHODONTIC ALIGNERS

      
Application Number US2023070918
Publication Number 2024/026296
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-07-25
Publication Date 2024-02-01
Owner ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Garrubba, David Francisco
  • Blankenburg, Magdalena

Abstract

Methods and apparatuses for managing soft tissue in preparation for a restorative implant procedure. The methods and apparatuses may be used shape the soft tissue in a manner that improves an emergence profile of the restorative implant, thereby providing a natural-looking and protective base for the implant. The apparatuses may include a tissue shaping feature, which may be used with one or more dental aligners, to apply a tissue shaping pressure to the soft tissue. The methods may be integrated with orthodontic treatment planning systems to provide a specialized treatment plan.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • A61C 8/00 - Means to be fixed to the jaw-bone for consolidating natural teeth or for fixing dental prostheses thereon; Dental implants; Implanting tools
  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions

63.

ULTRAMINIATURE PATTERN PROJECTOR

      
Application Number 18226651
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-07-26
First Publication Date 2024-02-01
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Atiya, Yossef
  • Saphier, Ofer
  • Shekel, Noam

Abstract

An apparatus for intraoral scanning comprises an elongate wand comprising a probe at a distal end of the elongate wand. The apparatus further comprises one or more structured light projectors disposed within the probe, each structured light projector comprising: (a) a housing; (b) a light source disposed within the housing and comprising: a semiconductor laser die; and a beam shaping optical element; and (c) a pattern generating optical element. A distance D between an emission point of the semiconductor laser die and an input face of the beam shaping optical element is 50-250 microns. Each structured light projector is configured to project a pattern of light onto an intraoral surface when the light source of the structured light projector is activated to emit light through the pattern generating optical element of the structured light projector.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G03B 21/14 - Projectors or projection-type viewers; Accessories therefor - Details
  • A61B 1/00 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
  • G03B 21/20 - Lamp housings
  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • G03B 21/16 - Cooling; Preventing overheating
  • G03B 17/54 - APPARATUS OR ARRANGEMENTS FOR TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS OR FOR PROJECTING OR VIEWING THEM; APPARATUS OR ARRANGEMENTS EMPLOYING ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR - Details of cameras or camera bodies; Accessories therefor adapted for combination with other photographic or optical apparatus with projector

64.

STAINING AND SCANNING TEETH FOR DENTAL APPLICATIONS

      
Application Number 18360141
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-07-27
First Publication Date 2024-02-01
Owner ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Saphier, Ofer
  • Fahn, Roy
  • Farkash, Shai

Abstract

A method for dental treatment may include generating an initial digital model of a patient's oral cavity and generating a first updated digital model of the patient's oral cavity, the first updated digital model including data representing stained locations on the patient's oral cavity. The method may also include comparing the initial digital model to the first updated digital model to identify locations of an oral problem.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • G06T 7/00 - Image analysis

65.

REAL-TIME BITE ARTICULATION

      
Application Number 18360161
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-07-27
First Publication Date 2024-02-01
Owner ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Saphier, Ofer
  • Kopelman, Avi
  • Ben Dov, Moti
  • Katz, Ran
  • Farkash, Shai
  • Fahn, Roy
  • Chang, Michael
  • Huber, Niko Benjamin
  • Meyer, Eric P.
  • Ismael, Gustavo
  • Relic, Zelko
  • Gerth, Maik

Abstract

A method may include obtaining a first 3D model of an upper jaw of a patient using an intraoral scanner and obtaining a second 3D model of the lower jaw of the patient using the intraoral scanner. The method may also include capturing a series of 2D images of the upper and lower jaws of the patient as the patient is moves the upper jaw and lower jaw in dynamic occlusion and processing the captured series of 2D images to identify features associated with the upper jaw of the patient and the lower jaw of the patient. For each 2D image in the captured series of 2D images, the method may include identifying a relative position of the first 3D model and the second 3D model based on alignment of features in the first 3D model and second 3D model with the features identified in the 2D image to generate a series of relative positions of the first 3D model and the second 3D model. The method may also include modeling dynamic occlusion of the upper jaw and the lower jaw of the patient based on the series of relative positions of the first 3D model and the second 3D model.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor

66.

DYNAMIC THERMOFORMING OF DENTAL APPLIANCES

      
Application Number 18378616
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-10
First Publication Date 2024-02-01
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Martínez González, Luis Carlos
  • Garcia Saucedo, Rowan Fernando
  • Rito Martinez, Mario Alfonso
  • Núñez García, Ismael
  • Alfaro, René David
  • Sambu, Shiva P.

Abstract

A method includes identifying one or more images of a mold of a dental arch, identifying a digital model corresponding to the mold of the dental arch, providing the one or more images and the digital model as input into a trained machine learning model, receiving, from the trained machine learning model, output, and determining, based on the output, whether the mold matches the digital model.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B29C 51/46 - Measuring, controlling or regulating
  • B29C 51/18 - Thermoforming apparatus
  • B29C 51/26 - Component parts, details or accessories; Auxiliary operations
  • B29C 51/08 - Deep-drawing or matched-mould forming, i.e. using mechanical means only

67.

ULTRAMINIATURE PATTERN PROJECTOR

      
Application Number US2023028839
Publication Number 2024/026016
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-07-27
Publication Date 2024-02-01
Owner ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Atiya, Yosef
  • Saphier, Ofer
  • Shekel, Noam

Abstract

An apparatus for intraoral scanning comprises an elongate wand comprising a probe at a distal end of the elongate wand. The apparatus further comprises one or more structured light projectors disposed within the probe, each structured light projector comprising: (a) a housing; (b) a light source disposed within the housing and comprising: a semiconductor laser die; and a beam shaping optical element; and (c) a pattern generating optical element. A distance D between an emission point of the semiconductor laser die and an input face of the beam shaping optical element is 50-250 microns. Each structured light projector is configured to project a pattern of light onto an intraoral surface when the light source of the structured light projector is activated to emit light through the pattern generating optical element of the structured light projector.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor

68.

METHOD OF DETERMINING TOOTH ROOT APICES USING INTRAORAL SCANS AND PANORAMIC RADIOGRAPHS

      
Application Number US2023070913
Publication Number 2024/026293
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-07-25
Publication Date 2024-02-01
Owner ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Chernov, Vitaliy Vladimirovich
  • Khromov, Egor A.
  • Rychagov, Mikhail Nikolaevich

Abstract

Methods, apparatuses, and systems are disclosed for determining accurate tooth root apices from two-dimensional panoramic radiograph data and/or three-dimensional intraoral scan data. In some variations, one or more deep learning networks may be trained to determine coordinates of tooth root apices based on training data that may include cone beam computer tomography tooth data and corresponding two-dimensional panoramic radiograph data and three-dimensional intraoral scan data.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes ; Identification of persons
  • A61B 6/00 - Apparatus for radiation diagnosis, e.g. combined with radiation therapy equipment
  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • G06T 7/70 - Determining position or orientation of objects or cameras

69.

2D-TO-3D TOOTH RECONSTRUCTION, OPTIMIZATION, AND POSITIONING FRAMEWORKS USING A DIFFERENTIABLE RENDERER

      
Application Number 18340025
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-06-22
First Publication Date 2024-01-25
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Li, Guotu
  • Cramer, Christopher E.

Abstract

Provided herein are systems and methods for optimizing a 3D model of an individual's teeth. A 3D dental model may be reconstructed from 3D parameters. A differentiable renderer may be used to derive a 2D rendering of the individual's dentition. 2D image(s) of an individual's dentition may be obtained, and features may be extracted from the 2D image(s). Image loss between the 2D rendering and the 2D image(s) can be derived, and back-propagation from the image loss can be used to calculate gradients of the loss to optimize the 3D parameters. A machine learning model can also be trained to predict a 3D dental model from 2D images of an individual's dentition.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • G06T 19/20 - Editing of 3D images, e.g. changing shapes or colours, aligning objects or positioning parts
  • G06T 7/13 - Edge detection
  • G06T 7/11 - Region-based segmentation
  • G06T 7/00 - Image analysis
  • G16H 50/50 - ICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data mining; ICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for simulation or modelling of medical disorders
  • G16H 30/40 - ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of medical images for processing medical images, e.g. editing
  • G16H 20/40 - ICT specially adapted for therapies or health-improving plans, e.g. for handling prescriptions, for steering therapy or for monitoring patient compliance relating to mechanical, radiation or invasive therapies, e.g. surgery, laser therapy, dialysis or acupuncture
  • G06N 3/04 - Architecture, e.g. interconnection topology
  • G06N 3/084 - Backpropagation, e.g. using gradient descent
  • G06T 17/20 - Wire-frame description, e.g. polygonalisation or tessellation

70.

INTRAORAL SCANNER SLEEVE AUTHENTICATION AND IDENTIFICATION

      
Application Number 18351479
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-07-12
First Publication Date 2024-01-25
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Kopelman, Avi
  • Sabina, Michael
  • Makmel, Nir
  • Levin, Adi
  • Zulti, Arad
  • Hsieh, Arthur

Abstract

Apparatuses, including sleeves, intraoral scanning systems to use these sleeves, and methods of using the sleeve, that authenticate the sleeve for use with an intraoral scanning system. Authentication may include verifying that the sleeve is new (unused) and/or verifying that the sleeve is appropriate and/or intended for use with the intraoral scanning system. Once authenticated, operation parameters of the intraoral scanning system can be automatically set based on information from a scanned identifier on the sleeve.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 1/00 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
  • G16H 40/67 - ICT specially adapted for the management or administration of healthcare resources or facilities; ICT specially adapted for the management or operation of medical equipment or devices for the operation of medical equipment or devices for remote operation
  • A61B 1/24 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor for the mouth, i.e. stomatoscopes, e.g. with tongue depressors; Instruments for opening or keeping open the mouth
  • A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes ; Identification of persons
  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor

71.

COMBINED FACE SCANNING AND INTRAORAL SCANNING

      
Application Number 18355300
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-07-19
First Publication Date 2024-01-25
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor Fridman, Edi

Abstract

A system comprises an intraoral scanner, a three-dimensional (3D) image capture device, and a computing device operatively coupled to the intraoral scanner and to the 3D image capture device. The computing device receives intraoral scan data of a dental site of a patient generated by the intraoral scanner during intraoral scanning. The computing device further receives one or more 3D images of a face of the patient generated by the 3D image capture device during the intraoral scanning, wherein the intraoral scanner is captured in the one or more 3D images. The computing device registers the one or more 3D images of the face of the patient to the first intraoral scan data based at least in part on a first position of the intraoral scanner relative to the face of the patient in the one or more 3D images.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • A61C 13/34 - Making or working of models, e.g. preliminary castings, trial dentures; Dowel pins
  • G06T 5/00 - Image enhancement or restoration
  • G06T 7/33 - Determination of transform parameters for the alignment of images, i.e. image registration using feature-based methods
  • G06T 19/20 - Editing of 3D images, e.g. changing shapes or colours, aligning objects or positioning parts
  • G16H 30/20 - ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of medical images for handling medical images, e.g. DICOM, HL7 or PACS
  • G16H 50/50 - ICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data mining; ICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for simulation or modelling of medical disorders

72.

MINIMALISTIC INTRAORAL SCANNING SYSTEM

      
Application Number 18216554
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-06-29
First Publication Date 2024-01-25
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor Fridman, Edi

Abstract

In embodiments set forth herein, an intraoral scanning system includes an intraoral scanner and a cradle and/or charging station for the intraoral scanner. The intraoral scanner generates intraoral scans and two-dimensional (2D) images during scanning, where the 2D images are generated according to a first frame rate. The intraoral scanner sends the intraoral scanner and the 2D images to the cradle. The cradle stores the intraoral scans and outputs a subset of the 2D images to a display according to a second frame rate that is lower than the first frame rate.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 1/24 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor for the mouth, i.e. stomatoscopes, e.g. with tongue depressors; Instruments for opening or keeping open the mouth
  • A61B 1/00 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • A61C 13/34 - Making or working of models, e.g. preliminary castings, trial dentures; Dowel pins
  • G06T 7/11 - Region-based segmentation

73.

APPARATUSES AND METHODS FOR THREE-DIMENSIONAL DENTAL SEGMENTATION USING DENTAL IMAGE DATA

      
Application Number 18305323
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-04-21
First Publication Date 2024-01-25
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Brown, Chad C.
  • Gao, Yun
  • Agniashvili, Pavel
  • Zulti, Avraham
  • Coslovsky, Jonathan
  • Cramer, Christopher E.
  • Gudchenko, Roman
  • Saphier, Ofer
  • Levin, Adi
  • Moshe, Maayan
  • Malka, Doron

Abstract

Methods and apparatuses (including systems and devices), including computer-implemented methods for segmenting, correcting and/or modifying a three-dimensional (3D) model of a subject's oral cavity to determine individual components such as teeth, gingiva, tongue, palate, etc., that may be selective and/or collectively digitally manipulated. In some implementations, artificial intelligence uses libraries of labeled 2D images and 3D dental models to learn how to segment a 3D dental model of a subject's oral cavity using 2D images, height map and/or other data and projection values that relate the 2D images to the 3D model. As noted herein, the dental classes can include a variety of intra-oral and extra-oral objects and can be represented as binary values, discrete values, a continuum of height map data, etc. In some implementations, several dental classes are predicted concurrently.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06T 7/11 - Region-based segmentation
  • G06T 7/00 - Image analysis
  • G16H 30/20 - ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of medical images for handling medical images, e.g. DICOM, HL7 or PACS
  • G06N 20/00 - Machine learning
  • G06T 17/20 - Wire-frame description, e.g. polygonalisation or tessellation
  • G06T 19/20 - Editing of 3D images, e.g. changing shapes or colours, aligning objects or positioning parts
  • G06N 3/045 - Combinations of networks

74.

COMPACT INTRAORAL 3D SCANNER

      
Application Number 18371348
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-09-21
First Publication Date 2024-01-25
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Atiya, Yossef
  • Verker, Tal

Abstract

An apparatus for determining surface topography of a patient's teeth comprises a probe sized to be at least partially inserted into an intraoral cavity of the patient, a light source to output light; and a light focusing assembly. The light focusing assembly comprises a first lens, a second lens and a focus changing assembly comprising one or more additional lenses that shares an optical axis with the first lens and the second lens and being configured to focus the light to a plurality of external focal planes to illuminate the patient's teeth, wherein the focus changing assembly has a movement gain factor, and wherein as a result of the movement gain factor a change in separation between lenses of the focus changing assembly by a first distance results in a change in a focus setting by a second distance that is 2-10 times greater than the first distance. The apparatus further comprises a detector configured to measure one or more characteristics of incident light returning from the illuminated patient's teeth and a processor coupled to the detector and configured to generate data representative of a topography of the patient's teeth based on the one or more measured characteristics of the incident light returning from the illuminated patient's teeth.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • A61C 1/08 - Machine parts specially adapted for dentistry
  • A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes ; Identification of persons
  • A61B 1/247 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor for the mouth, i.e. stomatoscopes, e.g. with tongue depressors; Instruments for opening or keeping open the mouth with means for viewing areas outside the direct line of sight, e.g. dentists' mirrors
  • A61B 1/06 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor with illuminating arrangements
  • A61B 1/00 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
  • G01B 11/24 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring contours or curvatures
  • G01B 11/30 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring roughness or irregularity of surfaces

75.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT PROGRESS TRACKING

      
Application Number 18448878
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-08-11
First Publication Date 2024-01-25
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Kitching, Ian
  • Sterental, Rene
  • Kuo, Eric
  • Singer, Maia

Abstract

The present invention relates to systems and methods of developing and tracking delivery and patient progression through an orthodontic treatment plan. One method includes identifying deviations from an orthodontic treatment plan, including receiving a digital representation of an actual arrangement of a patient's teeth after an orthodontic treatment plan has begun for the patient and prior to completion of the orthodontic treatment plan. The method further includes comparing the actual arrangement to a pre-determined planned arrangement to determine if the actual arrangement substantially deviates from the planned arrangement, the comparing comprising matching teeth from a previously segmented model to a surface of an unsegmented representation of the actual arrangement; and calculating one or more positional differences between the actual and planned arrangements of at least some of the corresponding teeth.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers

76.

SYSTEMS FOR VISUALIZING TEETH AND TREATMENT PLANNING

      
Application Number 18472209
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-09-21
First Publication Date 2024-01-25
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Makarenkova, Svetlana
  • Kuanbekov, Artem
  • Zhulin, Aleksandr
  • Likhtman, Boris
  • Grenaderov, Vladimir

Abstract

Orthodontic devices such as aligners, palatal expanders, retainers, and dental implants can be used to adjust the position of teeth and to treat various dental irregularities. To help the clinician or doctor (i.e., orthodontist) design and plan the subject's treatment plan, a 3D digital model of the subject's teeth, dentition, and gingiva can be constructed from a 3D scan of the subject's mouth, teeth, dentition, and gingiva. The 3D model of the subject's teeth and dentition can be displayed graphically to the doctor on a display using a computing system with memory and software.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/04815 - Interaction with a metaphor-based environment or interaction object displayed as three-dimensional, e.g. changing the user viewpoint with respect to the environment or object
  • G06F 3/04845 - Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] for the control of specific functions or operations, e.g. selecting or manipulating an object, an image or a displayed text element, setting a parameter value or selecting a range for image manipulation, e.g. dragging, rotation, expansion or change of colour
  • G06F 3/0482 - Interaction with lists of selectable items, e.g. menus
  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions

77.

Systems for protecting and repositioning teeth

      
Application Number 18475906
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-09-27
First Publication Date 2024-01-25
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor Kuo, Eric

Abstract

The present invention provides protective repositioning appliances, accommodating mouth guards, and covering guards that protect an orthodontic patient against impact-induced injuries, as well as related systems and methods. A protective appliance can include teeth receiving cavities shaped to receive and reposition a patient's teeth and can include an occlusal portion having an impact-absorbing compliance. An accommodating mouth guard can include teeth receiving cavities shaped to accommodate a patient's teeth from a first arrangement to a second arrangement and can include an occlusal portion having an impact-absorbing compliance. A covering guard can include a guard segment that covers at least a portion of an appliance. The combination of a guard segment and an appliance can provide an occlusal compliance that absorbs impacts.

IPC Classes  ?

78.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MANDIBULAR ADVANCEMENT

      
Application Number 18480006
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-03
First Publication Date 2024-01-25
Owner ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Cam, Bruce
  • Tjhia, Crystal
  • Li, Chunhua
  • Matov, Vadim
  • Morton, John

Abstract

Improved systems, methods, and devices for treating sleep apnea are provided herein. In one aspect, an intraoral appliance for treating sleep apnea in a patient comprises an appliance shell comprising a plurality of cavities shaped to receive teeth of a jaw of the patient. The appliance shell can comprise an advancement structure arranged to interact with an opposing jaw of the patient so as to displace the lower jaw anteriorly relative to the upper jaw. The plurality of cavities can comprise cavity geometries shaped to reduce repositioning of one or more received teeth elicited by displacement of the lower jaw anteriorly relative to the upper jaw.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61F 5/56 - Devices for preventing snoring
  • A61C 7/36 - Devices acting between upper and lower teeth
  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions

79.

SCHEDULE OF MOVEMENT MODIFICATIONS IN ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT TO AVOID COLLISIONS

      
Application Number 18481798
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-05
First Publication Date 2024-01-25
Owner ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Kitching, Ian
  • Dmitriev, Alexander
  • Vishnevskiy, Alexey

Abstract

Apparatus, system, and methods for utilizing one or more computing devices to stage the movement of teeth during an alignment treatment are disclosed. The computing device receives an electronic representation of the patient's teeth in their initial position and an electronic representation of the teeth a final position for each tooth. A route each tooth will travel to reach its final position is determined, and the teeth are scheduled to move according to a movement pattern. Moreover, the schedule of movement takes into account a maximum rate of tooth movement for each tooth, the path of movement for each tooth, the distance each tooth needs to move, any needed tooth staggering, any needed round-tripping or tooth movement slowing. The invention also includes techniques for determining an optimum number of stages for the treatment based on the schedule of movement.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions

80.

METHODS FOR ADDITIVELY MANUFACTURING MEDICAL DEVICES USING BIOGLASS FIBER REINFORCED POLYMERS

      
Application Number 18348133
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-07-06
First Publication Date 2024-01-18
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Stampfl, Jürgen
  • Chen, Yan
  • Li, Chunhua
  • Dorfinger, Peter
  • Hochwallner, Alexander

Abstract

Disclosed herein are methods for manufacturing medical devices, such as implants, joint replacements, graft materials, augmentation materials, prosthetic materials, etc., from solid material reinforced curable resins. Methods of repositioning a patient's teeth using such medical devices are also provided.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • A61C 7/10 - Devices having means to apply outwardly directed force, e.g. expanders
  • C08K 7/14 - Glass
  • C08L 33/10 - Homopolymers or copolymers of methacrylic acid esters
  • C08J 3/28 - Treatment by wave energy or particle radiation

81.

CURABLE COMPOSITIONS WITH CROSSLINKERS FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

      
Application Number 18348262
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-07-06
First Publication Date 2024-01-18
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Durban, Matthew
  • Riedesel, John Michael
  • Dorfinger, Peter
  • Chen, Yan

Abstract

Disclosed herein are curable compositions containing an initiator and two or more crosslinkers for additive manufacturing. The curable compositions comprise high-crosslinker content, and yield tough, lightweight polymeric materials suitable for dental appliances, including but not limited to aligners, attachment placement devices, incremental palatal expanders, dentures, crowns, etc.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C08F 222/10 - Esters
  • C08K 3/36 - Silica
  • C08F 2/50 - Polymerisation initiated by wave energy or particle radiation by ultraviolet or visible light with sensitising agents
  • B29C 64/129 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified characterised by the energy source therefor, e.g. by global irradiation combined with a mask
  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • A61C 13/08 - Artificial teeth; Making same

82.

ADDITIVELY MANUFACTURED DENTAL ATTACHMENT PLACEMENT DEVICES USING CURABLE COMPOSITIONS

      
Application Number 18348279
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-07-06
First Publication Date 2024-01-18
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Durban, Matthew
  • Riedesel, John Michael
  • Dorfinger, Peter
  • Chen, Yan

Abstract

Disclosed herein are dental attachment placement devices generated from curable compositions by additive manufacturing. The curable compositions contain a high crosslinker content, and after curing, yield tough and color neutral materials suitable for dental attachment placement devices.

IPC Classes  ?

83.

CURABLE COMPOSITION WITH POLYMERIZABLE MONOMERS AND FILLERS FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

      
Application Number 18348289
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-07-06
First Publication Date 2024-01-18
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Durban, Matthew
  • Riedesel, John Michael
  • Dorfinger, Peter
  • Chen, Yan

Abstract

Disclosed herein are curable compositions containing a plurality of polymerizable monomers comprising at least 80 wt % of a crosslinker for additive manufacturing. The curable compositions comprise high-crosslinker content, and yield tough, lightweight polymeric materials suitable for dental appliances, including but not limited to aligners, attachment placement devices, incremental palatal expanders, dentures, crowns, etc.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C08F 222/10 - Esters
  • C08K 3/36 - Silica
  • C08F 2/50 - Polymerisation initiated by wave energy or particle radiation by ultraviolet or visible light with sensitising agents
  • B29C 64/129 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified characterised by the energy source therefor, e.g. by global irradiation combined with a mask
  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • A61C 13/08 - Artificial teeth; Making same

84.

IMAGE REGISTRATION OF INTRAORAL IMAGES USING INK MARKINGS

      
Application Number 18369750
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-09-18
First Publication Date 2024-01-18
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Kopelman, Avi
  • Levin, Adi
  • Katz, Ran
  • Kuo, Eric

Abstract

Embodiments include receiving intraoral scan data comprising a plurality of intraoral images of a dental site generated during scanning of the dental site by an intraoral scanner, a plurality of ink markings each comprising a pattern of ink having been temporarily stamped or tattooed onto a gingival surface at the dental site prior to the scanning of the dental site, wherein at least two intraoral images of the plurality of intraoral images comprise representations of one or more ink markings of the plurality of ink markings. Embodiments further include performing registration between the plurality of intraoral images based at least in part on the one or more ink markings, generating a three-dimensional (3D) model of the dental site using the plurality of intraoral images that have undergone registration, and outputting the generated 3D model to a display.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • G06T 7/593 - Depth or shape recovery from multiple images from stereo images
  • A61B 90/00 - Instruments, implements or accessories specially adapted for surgery or diagnosis and not covered by any of the groups , e.g. for luxation treatment or for protecting wound edges

85.

DENTAL APPLIANCES WITH ORNAMENTAL DESIGNS AND ASSOCIATED METHODS

      
Application Number 18476215
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-09-27
First Publication Date 2024-01-18
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Mason, David
  • Sambu, Shiva
  • Li, Chunhua
  • Chen, Yan

Abstract

Dental appliances having ornamental designs and associated methods are provided. In some embodiments, a method of providing a design on a dental appliance having a geometry configured to receive teeth includes providing the appliance, and altering an appearance of at least a portion of the appliance to provide the design on the appliance.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 19/06 - Implements for therapeutic treatment
  • B44C 1/28 - Uniting ornamental elements on a support, e.g. mosaics
  • G16H 30/20 - ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of medical images for handling medical images, e.g. DICOM, HL7 or PACS
  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • A61C 7/10 - Devices having means to apply outwardly directed force, e.g. expanders
  • A61C 13/00 - Dental prostheses; Making same
  • B23K 26/362 - Laser etching
  • B44C 1/22 - Removing surface-material, e.g. by engraving, by etching
  • G06Q 30/0601 - Electronic shopping [e-shopping]

86.

ORTHODONTIC APPLIANCES WITH ELASTIC SEGMENTS

      
Application Number 18476858
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-09-28
First Publication Date 2024-01-18
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor Kopelman, Avi

Abstract

Improved orthodontic appliances, along with related systems and methods, are provided. In one aspect, an orthodontic appliance is provided. The appliance includes a plurality of discrete shell segments, each including one or more cavities shaped to receive at least portions of teeth. The discrete shell segments are joined by an elastic material to form a single appliance shell.

IPC Classes  ?

87.

IMAGE BASED ASSESSMENT OF DENTAL TREATMENTS MONITORING

      
Application Number 18340793
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-06-23
First Publication Date 2024-01-18
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Borovinskih, Artem
  • Derakhshan, Mitra
  • Morik, Carina
  • Meyer, Eric
  • Tolstaya, Ekaterina
  • Brailov, Yury

Abstract

Systems and methods for monitoring a dental patient's progress during treatment. A camera coordinate system of a virtual camera is aligned to be coincident with a world coordinate system of a 3D) model representing a expected configuration of the patient's teeth at a particular time during treatment. One or more expected 2D images generated by mapping points from the 3D model to points on an image plane of the virtual camera. One or more 2D images of the patient's teeth taken at the particular time during treatment are compared to the expected 2D images to determine whether a configuration of the patient's teeth is within a threshold level of correspondence to the expected configuration of the patient's teeth. An indication about whether the dental treatment is proceeding as expected based on whether the configuration of the patient's teeth is within the threshold level can be provided.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • G06T 5/20 - Image enhancement or restoration by the use of local operators
  • G06T 7/00 - Image analysis
  • G06T 7/32 - Determination of transform parameters for the alignment of images, i.e. image registration using correlation-based methods
  • G06T 7/136 - Segmentation; Edge detection involving thresholding
  • G06T 3/00 - Geometric image transformation in the plane of the image
  • G06T 7/269 - Analysis of motion using gradient-based methods
  • G06T 17/00 - 3D modelling for computer graphics
  • G06V 30/182 - Extraction of features or characteristics of the image by coding the contour of the pattern

88.

SEGMENTATION QUALITY ASSESSMENT

      
Application Number 18351473
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-07-12
First Publication Date 2024-01-18
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Roschin, Roman A.
  • Karnygin, Evgenii Vladimirovich
  • Grebenkin, Sergey
  • Guskov, Dmitry
  • Ischeykin, Dmitrii
  • Potapenko, Ivan
  • Durdin, Denis
  • Gudchenko, Roman
  • Paraketsov, Vasily
  • Gorodilov, Mikhail
  • Solovyev, Roman
  • Vladykin, Alexey
  • Beliaev, Alexander
  • Vovchenko, Alexander

Abstract

Methods and systems for improving segmentation of a digital model of a patient's dentition into component teeth.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • G06F 30/10 - Geometric CAD
  • G06F 30/27 - Design optimisation, verification or simulation using machine learning, e.g. artificial intelligence, neural networks, support vector machines [SVM] or training a model
  • G06T 17/00 - 3D modelling for computer graphics
  • G06T 7/10 - Segmentation; Edge detection
  • G06T 7/00 - Image analysis

89.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS INCLUDING PALATAL EXPANDERS WITH ANCHOR INTERFACES

      
Application Number 18477513
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-09-28
First Publication Date 2024-01-18
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Riley, Jeremy
  • Kuo, Eric
  • Li, Chunhua

Abstract

A series of a palatal expanders increasing width can be used to gradually expand a patient's palate. Each palatal expander may have a palatal region flanked by teeth regions. The palatal region can have a plurality of anchor-receiving features (e.g., anchor interfaces) that allow the palatal expander to be attached to temporary anchorage device anchors that have been implanted into the patient's maxilla.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/10 - Devices having means to apply outwardly directed force, e.g. expanders
  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61C 8/00 - Means to be fixed to the jaw-bone for consolidating natural teeth or for fixing dental prostheses thereon; Dental implants; Implanting tools

90.

BIOGLASS FIBER REINFORCEMENT POLYMERS FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

      
Application Number 18348111
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-07-06
First Publication Date 2024-01-11
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Stampfl, Jürgen
  • Chen, Yan
  • Li, Chunhua
  • Dorfinger, Peter
  • Hochwallner, Alexander

Abstract

Disclosed herein are curable resins comprising solid reinforcement materials and solid material reinforced polymeric materials formed by curing the curable resins using additive manufacturing. In various implements, the solid material reinforced polymeric materials may be used in medical devices such as implants, joint replacements, graft materials, augmentation materials, prosthetic materials, etc. to treat a patient.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • A61C 7/10 - Devices having means to apply outwardly directed force, e.g. expanders
  • C08K 7/10 - Silicon-containing compounds
  • C08K 3/40 - Glass
  • B33Y 70/10 - Composites of different types of material, e.g. mixtures of ceramics and polymers or mixtures of metals and biomaterials
  • B33Y 80/00 - Products made by additive manufacturing

91.

METHODS FOR VERIFYING MANUFACTURING DATA

      
Application Number 18471253
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-09-20
First Publication Date 2024-01-11
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Borovinskih, Artem
  • Lu, Qinghui
  • Dhagat, Maneesh
  • Sambu, Shiva P.
  • Timofeyev, Evgeny
  • Sultanov, Dmitry
  • Spiridonov, Anton
  • Ionov, Ivan
  • Nikolskiy, Sergey
  • Ivanov, Vasily
  • Vishnevskiy, Alexey

Abstract

Methods for verifying manufacturing data are provided. In some embodiments, a method includes retrieving a fabrication data package including manufacturing data for one or more dental appliances, where the manufacturing data includes one or more treatment stages for repositioning a patient's teeth using the one or more dental appliances. The method can include determining whether there is an error in the manufacturing data of the fabrication data package. In response to a determination that there is an error in the manufacturing data, the method can include requesting a corrected fabrication data package, and transmitting the corrected fabrication data package to at least one fabrication terminal configured to execute a fabrication process for manufacturing the one or more dental appliances.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06Q 50/04 - Manufacturing
  • B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes

92.

METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR FABRICATING DENTAL APPLIANCES HAVING VARIABLE STIFFNESSES

      
Application Number 18473908
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-09-25
First Publication Date 2024-01-11
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Boronkay, Allen
  • Cheng, Jihua
  • Wu, Fuming
  • Chen, Yan
  • Morton, John

Abstract

Methods for fabricating dental appliances and associated systems are provided. In some embodiments, a method includes defining a plurality of object cross-sections of a dental appliance, and sequentially polymerizing the plurality of object cross-sections to create the dental appliance. The dental appliance can include an outer shell having a plurality of teeth-receiving cavities, and an inner structure coupled to an inner surface of the outer shell. The outer shell can have a first stiffness, and the inner structure can have a second stiffness less than the first stiffness. The sequential polymerization can include integrally forming the outer shell concurrently with the inner structure.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • A61C 7/14 - Brackets; Fixing brackets to teeth
  • A61C 7/36 - Devices acting between upper and lower teeth
  • B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
  • A61C 7/10 - Devices having means to apply outwardly directed force, e.g. expanders
  • B33Y 80/00 - Products made by additive manufacturing

93.

GENERATING A MODIFIED PATIENT IMAGE FOR AN ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT PLAN

      
Application Number 18473922
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-09-25
First Publication Date 2024-01-11
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Mednikov, Dmitry
  • Makarenkova, Svetlana
  • Pokotilov, Pavel
  • Zhulin, Aleksandr
  • Likhtman, Boris

Abstract

Method, systems, and devices including: accessing a 3D model including a virtual representation of a patient's dentition at a treatment stage of an orthodontic treatment plan; obtaining an image of the patient's face and at least a portion of the patient's dentition; projecting the obtained image into a 3D space to create a projection of the patient's face and the at least the portion of the patient's dentition; generating a modified image of the patient representing the patient in the treatment stage of the orthodontic treatment plan, where the modified image is formed by combining the patient's dentition of the accessed 3D model with the patient's face of the projection; and sending instructions to display the modified image of the patient on an output device.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • G16H 50/50 - ICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data mining; ICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for simulation or modelling of medical disorders
  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • G06T 15/10 - Geometric effects
  • G06T 19/20 - Editing of 3D images, e.g. changing shapes or colours, aligning objects or positioning parts

94.

BIOGLASS FIBER REINFORCEMENT OF ADDITIVELY MANUFACTURED POLYMERS

      
Application Number US2023027041
Publication Number 2024/010873
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-07-06
Publication Date 2024-01-11
Owner ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Stampfl, Jürgen
  • Chen, Yan
  • Li, Chunhua
  • Dorfinger, Peter
  • Hochwallner, Alexander

Abstract

Curable resins and polymeric materials generated therefrom containing property-modifying solids capable of chemical- and site-selective removal from printed products, and such resins and materials can be used to generate devices with minimal surface extrusion by the property-modifying solids, thereby enabling use of higher concentrations of the property-modifying solids and extending the utilities of the materials therewith.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/06 - Extra-oral force transmitting means, i.e. means worn externally of the mouth and placing a member in the mouth under tension
  • A61F 2/02 - Prostheses implantable into the body
  • A61K 6/76 - Fillers comprising silicon-containing compounds
  • A61K 6/77 - Glass
  • A61K 6/887 - Compounds obtained by reactions only involving carbon-to-carbon unsaturated bonds
  • A61L 27/54 - Biologically active materials, e.g. therapeutic substances
  • B33Y 70/10 - Composites of different types of material, e.g. mixtures of ceramics and polymers or mixtures of metals and biomaterials
  • B33Y 80/00 - Products made by additive manufacturing
  • C08F 18/04 - Vinyl esters

95.

USER INTERFACE FOR TAKING IMAGES OF A PATIENT'S TEETH WITH A MOBILE DEVICE AND A RETRACTOR

      
Application Number 18475197
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-09-26
First Publication Date 2024-01-11
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Meyer, Eric P.
  • Roschin, Roman A.
  • Lim, Tzishing Jesse
  • Mittal, Palak
  • Dumothier, Stephan Albert Alexandre
  • Su, Norman C.
  • Chu, Huameng Ivan

Abstract

Methods and systems for taking images of a patient's teeth for tracking a progress of an orthodontic procedure. The methods and systems include a mobile device holder with one or more adjustable stops for providing a compressive force on a mobile device placed therein; a cheek retractor coupled to the mobile device holder; and a user interface on the mobile device indicating whether the mobile device holder is in a correct position relative to the patient's teeth as the mobile device holder is moved while the cheek retractor engages a cheek of the patient to expose the patient's teeth, while taking one or more visual images of the exposed teeth using a camera of the mobile device.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 1/24 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor for the mouth, i.e. stomatoscopes, e.g. with tongue depressors; Instruments for opening or keeping open the mouth
  • A61C 19/04 - Measuring instruments specially adapted for dentistry
  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • A61C 13/34 - Making or working of models, e.g. preliminary castings, trial dentures; Dowel pins
  • G06T 7/70 - Determining position or orientation of objects or cameras
  • A61C 5/90 - Oral protectors for use during treatment, e.g. lip or mouth protectors
  • H04B 1/3877 - Arrangements for enabling portable transceivers to be used in a fixed position, e.g. cradles or boosters
  • G06T 7/60 - Analysis of geometric attributes
  • A61B 1/00 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
  • G06T 7/62 - Analysis of geometric attributes of area, perimeter, diameter or volume
  • G06T 7/73 - Determining position or orientation of objects or cameras using feature-based methods

96.

3D PRINTABLE MATERIAL FOR THE FABRICATION OF PRINTED DENTAL ATTACHMENTS AND DENTAL ATTACHMENT PLACEMENT DEVICES

      
Application Number US2023027046
Publication Number 2024/010877
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-07-06
Publication Date 2024-01-11
Owner ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Durban, Matthew
  • Riedesel, John Michael
  • Dorfinger, Peter
  • Chen, Yan

Abstract

Disclosed herein are curable compositions which can contain high crosslinker content and cure to form tough, color neutral materials effective for a wide range of dental applications. In various implementations, the compositions and/or polymers produced therefrom may be used for dental appliances, including but not limited to aligners, attachment placement devices, incremental palatal expanders, dentures, crowns, etc.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • A61K 6/16 - Refractive index
  • A61K 6/60 - Preparations for dentistry comprising organic or organo-metallic additives
  • A61K 6/62 - Photochemical radical initiators
  • A61K 6/76 - Fillers comprising silicon-containing compounds
  • A61K 6/77 - Glass
  • A61K 6/78 - Pigments
  • A61K 6/887 - Compounds obtained by reactions only involving carbon-to-carbon unsaturated bonds
  • B33Y 70/00 - Materials specially adapted for additive manufacturing
  • B33Y 80/00 - Products made by additive manufacturing

97.

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING DYNAMIC ORTHODONTIC ASSESSMENT AND TREATMENT PROFILES

      
Application Number 18186655
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-03-20
First Publication Date 2024-01-04
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Sherwood, Mark
  • Kimball, Paul

Abstract

Method and system for displaying an orthodontic related image including one or more image segments, selecting one or more movement indicators associated with a corresponding one or more of the image segments, and dynamically displaying a modified orthodontic related image based on the selected one or more movement indicators are provided.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • G06F 16/2458 - Special types of queries, e.g. statistical queries, fuzzy queries or distributed queries
  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • G16H 30/20 - ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of medical images for handling medical images, e.g. DICOM, HL7 or PACS
  • G16H 30/40 - ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of medical images for processing medical images, e.g. editing
  • G16H 50/70 - ICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data mining; ICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for mining of medical data, e.g. analysing previous cases of other patients
  • G16H 50/50 - ICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data mining; ICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for simulation or modelling of medical disorders

98.

GENERATION OF IMAGES WITH TOOTH COLOR DETERMINED USING DEPTH INFORMATION

      
Application Number 18213789
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-06-23
First Publication Date 2024-01-04
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Gao, Yun
  • Li, Yingjie
  • Shi, Chao

Abstract

A method includes determining depth values associated with a first set of pixel locations in a first image of a mouth. One or more function is generated for one or more color channels based on intensities of the one or more color channels at the first set of pixel locations and depth values associated with the first set of pixel locations. Image data comprising a new representation of the teeth is received, wherein the image data comprises a second set of pixel locations and new depth values associated with the second set of pixel locations. A new image is generated based on the image data and the one or more functions.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06T 11/00 - 2D [Two Dimensional] image generation
  • G06T 7/70 - Determining position or orientation of objects or cameras
  • G06T 17/00 - 3D modelling for computer graphics
  • G06T 19/20 - Editing of 3D images, e.g. changing shapes or colours, aligning objects or positioning parts
  • G06T 5/50 - Image enhancement or restoration by the use of more than one image, e.g. averaging, subtraction
  • G06T 5/00 - Image enhancement or restoration
  • A61C 13/34 - Making or working of models, e.g. preliminary castings, trial dentures; Dowel pins
  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • A61B 34/10 - Computer-aided planning, simulation or modelling of surgical operations
  • G06T 7/50 - Depth or shape recovery

99.

SMILE PREDICTION

      
Application Number 18217391
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-06-30
First Publication Date 2024-01-04
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Cramer, Christopher E.
  • Brown, Chad Clayton

Abstract

Embodiments include receiving image data comprising contours of teeth of an individual and generating a new image based on the image data and one or more parametric functions associated with tooth color that comprise a first variable for a first image axis and a second variable for a second image axis, wherein a shape of the teeth in the new image is based on the image data and a color of the teeth in the new image is based on applying the one or more parametric functions to at least a portion of the image data.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • G06T 7/90 - Determination of colour characteristics

100.

FILLING UNDERCUT AREAS OF TEETH RELATIVE TO AXES OF APPLIANCE PLACEMENT

      
Application Number 18314106
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-05-08
First Publication Date 2024-01-04
Owner Align Technology, Inc. (USA)
Inventor Kuo, Eric E.

Abstract

The present disclosure provides computing device implemented methods, computing device readable medium, and molds for filling undercut areas of teeth relative to an axis of placement. Filling undercut areas of teeth relative to an axis of placement can include calculating an undercut area of a tooth relative to an axis of placement of part of a dental appliance over a number of teeth and a height of contour that is defined based on the axis of placement. Filling undercut areas of teeth relative to an axis of placement can also include filling in a part of the undercut area of the tooth with a virtual filler wherein the undercut is filled to within a threshold distance from the tooth that is defined relative to the axis of placement and the height of contour.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61C 7/00 - Orthodontics, i.e. obtaining or maintaining the desired position of teeth, e.g. by straightening, evening, regulating, separating, or by correcting malocclusions
  • A61C 7/08 - Mouthpiece-type retainers
  • A61C 9/00 - Impression methods specially adapted for dental prosthetics; Impression cups therefor
  • G16H 50/50 - ICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data mining; ICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for simulation or modelling of medical disorders
  • G16Z 99/00 - Subject matter not provided for in other main groups of this subclass
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