Optical characteristic measuring systems and methods such as for determining
the color or other optical characteristics of an object are disclosed. Perimeter
receiver fiber optics are spaced apart from a source fiber optic and receive light
from the surface of the object 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 being measured. Under processor control, the optical characteristics
measurement may be made at a predetermined height and angle. Various color spectral
photometer arrangements are disclosed. Translucency, fluorescence, gloss 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 a removable or shielded tip for
contamination prevention. A method of producing prostheses based on measured data
also is disclosed. Measured data also may be stored and/or organized as part of
a data base.
