Jaw movement tracking device development

Abstract

This project introduces an affordable jaw movement tracking system that utilizes LED optical markers, a standard webcam, and a Python-based OpenCV processing framework. This innovative approach aims to provide a cost-effective solution for diagnosing temporomandibular joint disorders, designing dental prosthetics, and analyzing speech articulation, making advanced technology accessible to a wider range of dental clinics and research institutions. The system underwent iterative hardware phases. These phases evolved from a glove-mounted LED prototype to a dental training model, then to direct jaw attachment, followed by a 3D-printed tooth support, a customized tooth clip with condyle markers, and ultimately, a dual-camera three-dimensional tracking setup. Each phase tackled the shortcomings identified in the preceding one. Each phase tackled the shortcomings identified in the preceding one. The software pipeline analyzes each video frame by converting it to grayscale, applying Otsu thresholding, detecting contours, calculating centroids, and calibrating pixels to millimeters using a ruler within the frame. Enhancements were made at every stage to incorporate angular displacement, measure pixel area, track multiple LEDs, and ultimately compute 3D displacement.