Abstract: The three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction of visible part of the human jaw is becoming required for many diagnostic and treatment procedures. The present invention improves upon Statistical Shape from Shading (SSFS) framework by using a novel approach to automatically extract prior information. This two-step framework consists of interdental gingiva regions extraction for each individual tooth and detection of the centerline across the jaw span. These two steps help extract the anatomical landmark points and detect the status of the jaw. Experimental results highlight the accuracy of the extracted prior information and how this information boosts recovering 3D models of the human jaw.

Abstract: The present development is a method for the visualization and automatic examination of the inner surface of tubular objects. The method uses a virtual camera rig arranged in a specific pattern within the tubular objects inner surface. The rig can be physical or virtual or hypothetical; graphics-based, providing the same functionality of a sequence of virtual cameras. This “Fly-In” method is a more general visualization technique than techniques of the prior art, it is more flexible and does not create distortion, it does not require alternation to the surface for viewing and it can handle multi-branches with variable diameter. It can also provide a clear assessment of the inner surface for immediate examination of the object.

Abstract: The present invention is a method to stitch images of human teeth that are captured by an intraoral camera. Oral dental applications based on visual data pose various challenges such as low lighting conditions and saliva. Herein we describe a stitching algorithm of low-texture/low-resolution imaging. First, normals of tooth surface are extracted using shape from shading. An algorithm to rectify the imprecise values of the surface normal due to the oral environment is applied and normal maps generated. Second, the normal maps are used to detect, extract and match the corresponding features. Finally, to enhance the stitching process for these unidealized data, normal maps are used to estimate as-projective-as-possible warps. The proposed approach outperforms the state-of-the-art auto-stitching approach and shows a better performance in such cases of low-texture regions.

Abstract: The present development is a method for generating a computer-aided accurate segmentation of an irregular structure, such as a colon The approach is based on a multi-tiered information propagation framework using statistical and variational methods. First, an initial segmentation using a method such as intensity based or shape-model registration for a volume of a typical CT is generated. The segmented image is subjected to a global/convex continuous minimization approach. After minimization, the data goes through post processing, and then the final segmented irregular structure output volume is generated.

Abstract: The present invention is a unique method for tubular object visualization. The method involves rendering the exterior of the tube invisible while keeping the interior visible. This “One-sided-transparency” technique renders a more complete view of the tube's interior. When applied to virtual colonoscopy (VC), it compares favorably to existing methods.