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February 6, 2010 | dlpmagazine.com

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Scanner manufacturers develop model-generation options

There is an increasing number of options for labs working with dentists who prefer the traditional tray-based route of impression capture yet want to eliminate models from workflow procedures.

by Richard Palmer, Managing Editor 

Even as more and more intraoral digital impression capture systems come onto the marketplace, for labs working with dentists who prefer to follow the traditional tray-based route of impression capture yet want to eliminate models from there workflow procedures, there is an increasing number of options for scanning the tray impression from the dentist directly into a CAD system using a benchtop scanner. Depending on the system, a number are designed for the clinician to scan the tray impression in the practice and send the digital data to the lab.

To accommodate conventional porcelain buildup procedures, scanner suppliers are looking to partner with manufacturers of CAM milling or stereolithographic 3D printing equipment for the fabrication of models generated from the scan data. To date, only 3Shape, DentalWings, and 3dO have announced working relationships that would provide trimmed and sectioned models to labs from scanned tray impression data, which is an integral component of most chairside digital impression capture systems. Undoubtedly, more scanner manufacturers will include model-generation through partnerships or internal equipment development.

3dO/Solutionix
Rexscan DS2
Developed by Solutionix Corp. the open-architecture Rexscan DS2 high-precision 3D scanner features twin high-resolution cameras with a 15° triangulation angle combined with a dual LED white-light source and a 2-axis rotary stage movement to ensure secure line of sight for complicated models and impressions. It can scan tray impressions in silicone, alginate, alginate alternative, PVS, and polyether as well as wax, gypsum, and epoxy models.
877-482-7904
www.3do.ca

3Shape
D700
The D700 digital scanner uses a laser and dual cameras with a reduced angle as well as three axes of movement to capture data from deep inside impressions as well as stone models. It also has an upgraded camera throttle and bi-directional scanning to minimize overall scan times of dies, bridges, single-unit waxups, antagonist bites, double scans, and impressions. The scanner’s proprietary Adaptive Scanning Technology automatically rescans any missing or incomplete areas. Using the same application, the operator/user trims, sections and builds a virtual 3D model that can then subsequently be rapid prototyped either by means of a 3D printer or a milling machine having model milling capability. Having created the digital model, the user can proceed into DentalDesigner software to design the restoration using the scanned preparation and antagonist for automatic approximation and control of occlusal design. Scan files are output in open STL and DCM formats
908-219-4642
www.3shape.com

Bien Air
Scan 200
Working as a comprehensive system with the Mill200 CAM unit, the Scan200 high-precision scanning unit scans single dies to full arches at 60 to 90 seconds per element up to 16 units per batch, while the CAD software provides simple-to-use graphic user interface for simplified, automatic design of copings and bridges. It combines white light technology, dual cameras, and an ultra-precise drive mechanism for precision and clarity with no holes or dead zones.
800-433-2436 www.bienair.com

D4D Technologies
(distr. by Zahn Dental)
Labworks
Using a handheld laser scanner, E4D Labworks has the ability to scan models or impressions without the need for contrast agents. Once scanning is complete, the System’s proprietary DentaLogic™ software creates a true 3-D virtual model and restoration proposal using intuitive design tools along with the System’s Autogenesis™ design process. Finalize the design and send the data to the E4D milling unit for fabrication of inlays, onlays, veneers, and full-coverage restorations, including IPS e.max CAD thin veneers (@150 microns).
972-234-3880
www.d4dtech.com

D4D Technologies
(distr. by Zahn Dental)
E4D Flash
Available in Q3 of 2010, the E4D Flash benchtop scanner incorporates a multiple line laser and 5 axes of rotation (140° vertical, 360° horizontal) to scan a range of impression materials as well as wax, gypsum, epoxy, and metal. It outputs data in proprietary a selectively open formats to in-house CAD/CAM equipment or to an outsource provider via the E4D Sky Network (also available Q3).

Delcam
Imetric IScan D101
The open-architecture Imetric IScan D101 white-light scanner requires only 2 axes due to a large field of view, thus reducing inaccuracy due to error stack up. In addition to impression scanning, the Swiss-made system provides high-accuracy scanning for copings, partials, orthodontics, custom abutments as well as implant position determination for dental bars and superstructures. It offers unique rapid calibration within a minute.
877-DELCAM-1
www.delcam-dental.com

Laserdenta
OpenLaser Scanner 100
Providing robust Germany craftsmanship for small-to-medium-sized labs, the OpenLaser Scanner Model OL100 5-Axis 3D laser scanner provides the users the ability to scan solid unsectioned full-arch models as well as cut and trimmed working models, impression trays and bite registrations, single dies, and implant and trajectories to create surgical drilling guides. It features 5 axes of movement and a 3D laser line for detecting and saves files to open STL/STA file formats.
866-328-5011
www.laserdenta.com

Nobel Biocare
NobelProcera
The NobelProcera optical scanner uses proprietary conoscopic holography technology for fast, precise data acquisition of impressions, models, and single dies. The unit’s co-linear scanning technology allows measurements of steep angles up to 85° as well as deep cavities such as those found in dental impressions. It features an open-air design for ease of access and setup, an intuitive holder design for batch scanning of single copings, and a high-speed, stable platform for fast and accurate scanning.
800-993-8100
www.nobelbiocare.com

Zahn Dental
Dental Wings DW-IS
The 5-axis DW-IS Dental Wings impression scanner with an embedded Quadcore computer is fully dedicated to scanning impressions in the dental office or dental laboratory. The scanned impressions are electronically transmitted with minimum human intervention, eliminating expansion of physical properties, saving time, and eliminating shipping costs. Accessories include an impression holder, an axis finder holder for scanning models and opposing using Vertex-like articulators, and a multi-die plate for the simultaneous scanning of up to 16 single dies
800-496-9500
www.zahndental.com

Richard Palmer is managing editor for DLP. Contact him at rpalmer@advanstar.com.

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