A stick-shaped multi-aperture camera for intra-oral diagnosis

A stick-shaped TOMBO (thin observation module by bound optics) was developed for intra-oral diagnosis. The module consists of 3×3 imaging units which are designed to capture different optical signals. Embedded functions were stereo 3D monitoring, depth estimation, and tissue assessment. Illumination equipments and a pattern projector were integrated in the module. Teeth and gingiva of several subjects were observed. 3D shape of gingiva was retrieved from a couple of unit images. The boundary between the attached gingiva and the alveolar mucosa as well as the spatial distribution of melanin were estimated using multiple linear regression analysis. The observed signals were confirmed to be useful for odontotherapy.