A simple photogrammetric system for automatic capture and measurement of facial soft tissues during movement

A proper diagnostic classification of developmental disharmonies, congenital or acquired malformations is essential for assessing spontaneous or induced rehabilitation of facial soft tissue and skullfacial structures, and for monitoring the changes induced by surgical, esthetic and functional treatment methodologies. In this work the authors describe a digital close-range photogrammetric system developed to acquire the spatial coordinates of facial landmark points and track their movements. The obtained results allow biometric measurements and tests to be made to evaluate the clinical and functional characteristics of a subject. The system produces a 3D animated model (wireframe, tasseled and textured surfaces), which accurately reproduces the subject's facial movements during opening and closure of the mouth. Recognition and tracking of facial landmarks were achieved by automated procedures that required minor human intervention.