Hardware-Software Co-Design for Intelligent Oral Healthcare: From Embedded Sensing to Real-Time 3D Computing

ABSTRACT

Modern dentistry is undergoing a rapid digital transformation, shifting from empirical treatments to data-driven, precision medicine. This project aims to bridge the gap between computer engineering and clinical dentistry by developing next-generation intelligent oral healthcare solutions. We focus on core infrastructure that spans the entire computing spectrum, including smart embedded sensing (IoT), hardware-accelerated 3D image reconstruction, edge-computing algorithms for real-time surgical tracking, and adaptive robotics control for minimally invasive procedures. Rather than focusing on a single isolated clinical problem, this research establishes a generalized, high-performance computing and hardware framework applicable to diverse clinical workflows. Selected students will investigate advanced hardware-software co-design strategies to optimize processing latency, system reliability, and rendering accuracy. The final, specific research thesis or subsystem development will be tailored to the enrolled student’s background, technical strengths, and future career goals.

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

Motivated undergraduate students from both engineering (ECE/CS/Automation) and dental backgrounds who are excited about healthcare innovation. Engineering applicants should have a foundation in basic programming (Python or C/C++) and basic math like Linear Algebra, while dental applicants should possess strong clinical interest, familiarity with oral anatomy, and a desire to learn digital healthcare workflows (such as 3D imaging or CAD/CAM).