Abstract: Color measuring systems and methods such as for determining the color or other characteristics of teeth are disclosed. Perimeter receiver fiber optics are spaced apart from a central source fiber optic and receive light reflected from the surface of the object/tooth being measured. Light from the perimeter fiber optics pass to a variety of filters. The system utilizes the perimeter receiver fiber optics to determine information regarding the height and angle of the probe with respect to the object/tooth being measured. Under processor control, the color measurement may be made at a predetermined height and angle. Various color spectral photometer arrangements are disclosed. Translucency, fluorescence and/or surface texture data also may be obtained. Audio feedback may be provided to guide operator use of the system. The probe may have removable or shielded tip for contamination prevention. A method of producing dental prostheses based on measured data also is disclosed.

Abstract: A circuit for supplying power to an IC memory card by using primary and secondary batteries as a data preserving power means for the memory IC according to the present invention, includes: primary and secondary batteries; a secondary battery charging circuit for charging the secondary battery; and a primary and secondary battery backup circuit for connecting the primary and secondary batteries to the memory IC when an external power source is disconnected; a serial-parallel switching means for connecting the primary and secondary batteries in series or in parallel; a voltage detecting means for comparing a power voltage of the memory IC with a reference voltage to generate a voltage detection signal upon finding the power voltage dropped to below the reference voltage; and a switching control means for receiving the voltage detection signal of the voltage detecting means to control the serial-parallel switching means so as to connect the primary and secondary batteries in series or in parallel.