Method and system for creating replicas of anatomical structures

Abstract

To provide improvements or advances that reduce cycle time in the creation of anatomical structure replicas.SOLUTION: A method for creating replicas of anatomical structures is provided. In one embodiment, the method comprises: accepting a picture of the subject's anatomical structure; creating an object file containing an initial model of the anatomical structure's outer surface; creating a positive model by cutting the initial model to a predetermined outline surrounding the anatomical structure; creating a negative model from the positive model; placing a stem tool object on the outer surface of the negative model in relation to the orifice, thereby creating a final negative model; placing zeroing and angling objects to align the negative model at a predetermined angle; placing a base tool object by joining it to the outer surface; printing the final negative model using a 3D printer to create a negative mold; and casting a replica of the anatomical structure using the negative mold.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] Creating replicas of anatomical structures in the related art is a time-consuming process. Before advances in computer technology, replica creation involved making a plaster cast of the subject to be replicated to create a negative image, and then using the negative image to cast a positive image, such as an elastomer gel that simulates human skin. This technique was used for all anatomical structures, not just the face, such as the legs, hands, and feet.

[0002] As computer technology has advanced, the ability to create digital images of existing structures, such as faces, has improved significantly. Furthermore, advances in three-dimensional printing technology theoretically allow for the printing of a positive image of the subject or portion of the subject to be replicated without the need to mix a vat of plaster. However, while these advances have eliminated the use of plaster and perhaps sped up the process, the various technologies have not been well integrated. Creating replicas of anatomical structures in related technologies remains a time-consuming process that cannot support the mass production of replicas of anatomical structures, where each anatomical structure is unique. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Therefore, any improvement or advancement that reduces the cycle time in creating replicas of anatomical structures provides a competitive advantage in the marketplace.

[0004] For a detailed description of exemplary embodiments, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0005] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates a system according to at least some embodiments.

[0006] [Figure 2] 1 illustrates a method according to at least some embodiments.

[0007] [Figure 3] 1 illustrates a perspective view of an initial model of an anatomical structure, according to at least some embodiments.

[0008] [Figure 4] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a product according to at least some embodiments.

[0009] [Figure 5] 1 illustrates a perspective view of an initial model after extrusion, according to at least some embodiments.

[0010] [Figure 6A] 1 illustrates a side view of an object according to at least some embodiments. [Figure 6B] 1 illustrates a side view of an object according to at least some embodiments. [Figure 6C] 1 illustrates a side view of an object according to at least some embodiments.

[0011] [Figure 7A] 1 illustrates an overhead view of a mold tool object, according to at least some embodiments. [Figure 7B] 1 illustrates an overhead view of a stem tool object, according to at least some embodiments.

[0012] [Figure 8] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a cutting tool object partially intersecting with an initial model, according to at least some embodiments.

[0013] [Figure 9] 9 shows a cross-sectional side view taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 8, according to at least some embodiments.

[0014] [Figure 10] 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary positive model, according to at least some embodiments.

[0015] [Figure 11] 1 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of a mold tool object intersecting a positive model, according to at least some embodiments.

[0016] [Figure 12] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a negative model according to at least some embodiments.

[0017] [Figure 13] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a stem tool object intersecting a negative model, according to at least some embodiments.

[0018] [Figure 14] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a casting system according to at least some embodiments.

[0019] [Figure 15] 1 illustrates a computer system according to at least some embodiments.

[0020] [Figure 16] 1 illustrates a method according to at least some embodiments.

[0021] [Figure 17] 1 illustrates a method according to at least some embodiments.

[0022] [Figure 18] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a zeroing tool and an angling tool according to at least some embodiments.

[0023] [Figure 19] 1 illustrates a side view of an angle tool and a zeroing tool included in a negative model, according to at least some embodiments.

[0024] [Figure 20]10A-10C illustrate perspective views of angulation and tool zeroing included in a negative model according to at least some embodiments.

[0025] [Figure 21A] FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of a base tool object included in a negative model according to at least some embodiments.

[0026] [Figure 21B] 1 illustrates a side view of a base tool object included in a negative model according to at least some embodiments.

[0027] [Figure 22] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a base tool object according to at least some embodiments.

[0028] [Figure 23] 1 illustrates a top view of a base tool object according to at least some embodiments.

[0029] [Figure 24] 1 illustrates a side view of a base tool object and a bracing tool object included in a negative model according to at least some embodiments.

[0030] [Figure 25] 1 illustrates a top view of a base tool object including tabs for a bracing tool object according to at least some embodiments.

[0031] [Figure 26A] 10 illustrates another side view of a base tool object and a bracing tool object included in a negative model according to at least some embodiments.

[0032] [Figure 26B]10 illustrates another side view of a base tool object and a bracing tool object included in a negative model according to at least some embodiments.

[0033] [Figure 27] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a base tool object and a bracing tool object included in a negative model according to at least some embodiments.

[0034] [Figure 28] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a base tool object and a bracing tool object according to at least some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0035] (Notes and Terminology) Various terms are used to refer to particular system components. Different companies may refer to components by different names. This specification does not intend to distinguish between components that differ in name but not function. In the following description and claims, the terms "including" and "comprising" are used in an open-ended manner and, therefore, should be interpreted to mean "including, but not limited to." Also, the terms "couple" or "couple" are intended to mean either an indirect or direct connection. Thus, when a first device couples to a second device, the connection may be through a direct connection or through an indirect connection via other devices and connections.

[0036] (Detailed explanation) The following discussion is directed to various embodiments of the present invention. While one or more of these embodiments may be preferred, the disclosed embodiments should not be construed or otherwise used as limiting the scope of the present disclosure, including the claims. In addition, those skilled in the art will understand that the following description has broad applicability, and that the discussion of any embodiment is meant only as an example of that embodiment and is not intended to imply that the scope of the present disclosure, including the claims, is limited to that embodiment.

[0037] Exemplary embodiments are directed to creating replicas of anatomical structures. More specifically, exemplary embodiments are directed to creating replicas of anatomical structures, where the replicas are cast into negative molds that are printed on a three-dimensional (3D) printer. Even more specifically, exemplary embodiments are directed to methods and related systems for creating replicas of anatomical structures on demand from a series of pictures (such as a video) of the anatomical structures. Various embodiments are developed in the context of creating replicas of anatomical structures (e.g., replicas of external genitalia) for male masturbation devices, and thus the following description is based on the development context. However, the development context should not be construed as limiting the scope of the technology. With the benefit of this disclosure, one skilled in the art can expand the scope to include creating replicas of any anatomical structure, such as facial features for use in movies, replica breasts for use by cancer patients who have undergone mastectomy, etc. This specification first turns to a description of an exemplary system to familiarize the reader.

[0038] 1 illustrates a system according to at least some embodiments. Specifically, the exemplary system includes a person or subject 100 who desires to create a replica of the subject's anatomical structures, such as the subject's mouth, external genitalia (e.g., female external genitalia), or anus. To create the replica, the subject 100 interacts with a replica system 102 through a computing device 104, such as a desktop computer, laptop computer, or mobile computing device or cell phone. In the exemplary system, the subject 100 communicates over the Internet 106, although any number of local area networks, wide area networks, and / or private networks may exist between the computing device 104 and the replica system 102.

[0039] The replica system 102 is conceptually divided into a customer interface computer system 108, a mold creation computer system 110, a 3D printer 112, and a casting system 114. The exemplary casting system 114 includes a negative mold 116, created on demand, as described in more detail below, and an outer mold assembly 118 containing features to be included in each replica (e.g., features that hold the replica within an outer cover). In some cases, the result of the casting process of the casting system 114 is an elastomeric insert bearing a replica of an anatomical structure at its distal end. The elastomeric insert may be placed within an outer cover, such as a hard plastic casing, to create the final product, illustratively shown as a male masturbation device 120. The exemplary male masturbation device 120 is shown in an outer cover similar to FLESHLIGHT® brand products available from Interactive Life Forms, LLC of Austin, Texas, although the outer cover may take any suitable form or may be omitted, depending on the circumstances.

[0040] Still referring to FIG. 1 , as the name implies, the customer interface computer system 108 is the computer system with which a customer, such as subject 100, interacts when interacting with the replica system 102. The customer interface computer system 108 may be a desktop computer system, a laptop computer system, a group of computer systems operating in tandem, a rack-mounted computer system (e.g., a server), multiple servers located in the same or different locations, a cloud-based computer system whose physical location may change from time to time depending on workload, or a combination of any of these computer systems. Because the anatomical structures to be replicated may include the external genitalia and / or anus, federal law may require certain explicit procedures and record-keeping. For example, 18 USC § 2557 prescribes specific actions that must be followed, such as verifying the subject's name, date of birth, maiden name, aliases, and nicknames, among other things. Other regulations, such as 28 CFR § 75.2(e), stipulate that information collected under § 2557 be stored separately from other data. These are merely examples illustrating that customer interface computer system 108 performs a specific set of functions (in some cases mandated by federal law), which is one of the reasons why customer interface computer system 108 is shown as a separate computer system from mold making computer system 110.

[0041] More specifically, the exemplary customer interface computer system 108 then allows the subject 100 to create an account within the replica system 102, for example, by interacting with the replica system 102 via the computing device 104. Once the account is created, the subject 100 is required to provide proof of age and identity before the replica system will accept a representation of the anatomical structure to be replicated. In one embodiment, the subject 100 is prompted to submit several pictures, such as a picture of the front of the subject's 100 driver's license, a picture of the back of the subject's 100 driver's license, a facial photograph of the subject 100 with the front of the driver's license held next to the subject's head, and / or a facial photograph of the subject 100. The information provided by the subject 100 during account creation can then be verified against the driver's license. In one exemplary embodiment, the picture of the front (and possibly the back) of the driver's license is subjected to character recognition software that extracts information such as name, address, and date of birth to create verification data. The customer interface computer system 108 may then automatically compare the verification data with the data provided by the subject 100 during account creation. If the information does not match, the login may be flagged or passed to a human reviewer for analysis.

[0042] Similarly, the customer interface computer system 108 may verify that the subject 100 is indeed the person depicted in the driver's license picture. For example, a picture including a facial photograph of the subject 100, along with a picture of the front of the subject's 100 driver's license, may each be provided to a facial recognition program. The size of the face in the facial photograph compared to the face in the driver's license picture may differ, and if the pictures are of the same subject, the relative location, spacing, and size of facial features should be the same between the two pictures. More specifically, the exemplary customer interface computer system 108 may compare facial features, such as between a picture including a facial photograph of the subject 100 and the picture on the subject's 100 driver's license, to determine whether the two faces are the same face. Alternatively, a single picture including a facial photograph of the subject 100 next to the subject's 100 driver's license may be provided to the facial recognition program, and the same determination may be made. In yet other cases, a facial recognition program may be provided with a picture of the subject's 100 face, a picture of the face next to their driver's license, and a picture of the driver's license, and the facial recognition program may determine whether all faces are from the same subject based on selecting facial features in each picture (including the facial features of multiple faces in a single picture). If the facial recognition program confirms that the faces are the same, the subject 100 is considered age-verified. If the facial recognition program cannot verify that the faces are the same, or if the confidence index for the facial recognition is low, the pictures may be provided to a human reviewer to make a decision.

[0043] Upon creation of the login or after verifying the subject's 100 age, the customer interface computer system 108 assigns a unique identification number or unique identifier to the subject 100. The unique identifier may be used by other parts of the replica system 102, such as the mold creation computer system 110, as a means of identifying the particular mold created without including personally identifiable information of the subject 100.

[0044] Still referring to FIG. 1 , once the subject 100's age is verified, the customer interface computer system 108 may send a notification to the subject 100 that the subject has been approved to upload. The message may take any suitable form, such as a text message, an email message, or an automated or manual phone call. Regardless of the form of notification, the customer interface computer system 108 is enabled to accept the anatomical structure representation that the subject 100 wishes to replicate. Any attempt by the subject 100 to upload an anatomical structure representation prior to age verification will be rejected. To upload, in an exemplary system, the subject 100 interacts with the customer interface computer system 108 using the computing device 104 to upload the anatomical structure representation to be replicated. The discussion will proceed under the assumption that the subject 100 does not have access to software tools for creating intermediate (e.g., positive) or negative molds of the anatomical structure; therefore, the uploaded anatomical structure representation is in the form of a video or a series of still pictures. Alternative situations are discussed further below.

[0045] Specifically, the subject 100 may record a video of the anatomical structure or take a series of still pictures. While the video or series of still pictures can be taken without preparing the anatomical structure, better results may be achieved if certain preliminary steps are taken beforehand. For example, removing all hair (e.g., shaving), regardless of the anatomical structure, provides a more consistent surface for later programming stages of the process. To the extent the subject 100 desires to include representations of hair (e.g., pubic hair, mustache, and goatee) in the final product, textures simulating hair can be added later (as described in more detail below). In instances where the anatomical structure is the female external genitalia, such a replica is likely a gift for a spouse. Prior to capturing the video or taking pictures, physical arousal of the subject 100 to induce swelling and flushing is recommended. Relatedly, physical separation of the labia to better expose the vaginal opening is recommended. Next, visual contrast of various anatomical structures (e.g., labia, clitoral hood) may be obtained by enhancing the contrast of the skin, for example, by using baby oil or, in some cases, by using baby powder. If the replica is a mouth, applying lipstick may provide increased contrast (however, the lipstick color may not be reproduced in the replica). Beyond the preparation stage for the anatomical structures, the camera used (e.g., the camera on the computing device 104) may be set for maximum resolution and an appropriate frame rate (e.g., 60 frames per second). The anatomical structures should be well illuminated, either by the computing device 104 or by external lighting.

[0046] Multiple pictures of an anatomical structure should be obtained from multiple distinct viewing angles relative to the anatomical structure. For example, in the case of female external genitalia, video may be taken starting with the legs spread wide and the computing device 104 resting against the first leg. In some embodiments, the motion of the imaging device used to obtain the video may be drone-like, in that it moves in a zigzag pattern from one leg to the other while imaging the female external genitalia. Such a technique allows for easier and more thorough coverage of the target. For example, images obtained by performing a drone-like flyover may cover the target from multiple different angles, allowing for a more robust and accurate depiction of the target when the images are stitched together and overlapping images are removed. The video is initiated, and then the computing device is smoothly moved to the second leg, keeping the labia and vaginal opening in the frame during the movement. In the case of the mouth, video is taken starting from the first side of the face and moving smoothly with the computing device 104 to the second side, keeping the mouth in the frame during the movement. With respect to the anus as an anatomical structure, the video may be taken laterally across the buttocks in a manner similar to the labia. In other cases, rather than video, the subject 100 or an assistant may take a series of still pictures, with the camera location for each picture being within an arc partially around the anatomical structure (e.g., the anatomical structure being at the focus of the arc).

[0047] Regardless of the form of the anatomical structure representation, in the exemplary system, the subject 100 uploads the representation to the replica system 102. More specifically, the anatomical structure representation (e.g., video, a series of still pictures) is received by the customer interface computer system 108. If the video taken by the computing device 104 is a smartphone with an Android® or WINDOWS® operating system, the video may have MP4 format. If the video taken by the computing device 104 is an iPhone® brand device with an IOS operating system, the video may be in QUICKTIME® or .MOV format. Other video formats, including later-developed video formats, are possible. If the representation is a series of still pictures, the format may be any suitable picture format, such as JPEG, .jpg, .png, or Adobe® .pdf format. Other picture formats, including later-developed formats, are also possible. Personally identifiable information is removed (e.g., removed from the file name and removed from the metadata), and the representation is identified using a unique identifier pre-assigned to the subject (e.g., file name). The customer interface computer system 108 then passes the representation of the anatomical structure, identified by the unique identifier, to the mold making computer system 110. In some embodiments, the customer interface computer system 108 then discards the representation of the anatomical structure so that personally identifiable information is kept separate. In other words, in an exemplary system, the customer interface system 108 is a separate and distinct computer system from the mold making computer system 110 (or set of computer systems). In the event of a data security breach on one system, a hacker cannot obtain both the personally identifiable information of the subject 100 and a picture or other representation of the subject's anatomical structure.

[0048] A series of steps performed by the combination of mold creation computer system 110, 3D printer 112, and casting system 114 will now be discussed. Figure 2 illustrates a method according to at least some embodiments. Specifically, Figure 2 is presented as a high-level overview of an exemplary process for creating a replica of an anatomical structure according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 2 serves as an organizational guide to balance the discussion. The exemplary method begins (block 200) by receiving, by a first computer system, a plurality of pictures of a subject's anatomical structure, each picture of the plurality of pictures being from a distinct viewing angle of the anatomical structure (block 202); creating, by the first computer system, an object file including an initial model of the exterior of the anatomical structure (block 204); cutting, by the first computer system, the initial model into a predetermined outline surrounding the anatomical structure, the cutting leaving the anatomical structure within the predetermined outline. The method includes creating and cutting a positive model of the anatomical structure (block 206), creating, by a first computer system, a negative model of the anatomical structure from the positive model (block 208), placing, by the first computer system, a stem tool object on the outer surface of the negative model in abutting relation with the orifice of the anatomical structure, thereby creating a final negative model (block 210), printing, by a three-dimensional printer, the final negative model to create a negative mold (block 212), and using the negative mold to cast a replica of the anatomical structure (block 214). Thereafter, the method ends (block 216), although the process could potentially begin anew with a new set of pictures of the anatomical structure of another subject. Each step will be addressed in more detail in turn.

[0049] The first step of the exemplary method is accepting multiple pictures of an anatomical structure of subject 100, with each picture of the multiple pictures being obtained from a distinct viewing angle relative to the anatomical structure (block 200). In the exemplary system, accepting the multiple pictures is via customer interface computer system 108 (FIG. 1) to mold creation computer system 110 (also FIG. 1). However, in other cases, mold creation computer system 110 may receive the multiple pictures directly or through any suitable intermediate computer system. In some examples, mold creation computer system 110 receives or accepts the multiple pictures in the form of a video including multiple frames. In such situations, mold creation computer system 110 may extract the multiple pictures from the video, with each picture of the multiple pictures corresponding to a frame of the video. When a video is received, the mold creation computer system 110 may extract pictures by discarding frames from the first few seconds of the video (e.g., the first 3 seconds), discarding frames from the last few seconds of the video (e.g., the last 3 seconds), and then selecting frames from the remaining frames (e.g., selecting 40-50 frames from the remaining frames). If multiple pictures are received or accepted directly, the extraction may be omitted.

[0050] Next, the exemplary method creates an object file containing an initial model of the anatomical structure's exterior surface (block 204). That is, the initial model is a digital representation of the anatomical structure's exterior surface in any suitable file format. For example, the initial model may be a series of points in three-dimensional space, where each point defines a vertex of a triangle, and all the triangles viewed together give the visual appearance of a three-dimensional object. Exemplary file formats for the initial model include ".OBJ" geometry definition files, stereolithography ".STL" definition files, as well as any currently available or later-developed file format representing three-dimensional surfaces.

[0051] According to at least some embodiments, extracting the pictures and creating the object file may be accomplished by feeding the pictures into a photogrammetry program, such as 3DF Zephyr, produced by 3Dflow of Verona, Italy (www.3dflow.net). Other photogrammetry programs, including later-developed photogrammetry programs, may equally be used. An example of 3DF Zephyr accepts video and / or still pictures in a variety of file formats and generates a point cloud model of the scene in the pictures in .OBJ format.

[0052] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an initial model of an anatomical structure according to at least some embodiments. Specifically, the exemplary anatomical structure in FIG. 3 is a simplified diagram of the female external genitalia. Visible in FIG. 3 are the perineum 300, labia 302, labia 304, and clitoral hood 306. In an exemplary embodiment, the point cloud model created from a photogrammetry program is initial model 308. Initial model 308 includes data regarding the exterior of the anatomical structure in three dimensions, depicted as XYZ on the coordinate axes of FIG. 3 , as shown. In other words, initial model 308 has or includes information regarding the three-dimensional aspects of the exterior of the anatomical structure. However, depending on the photogrammetry software used and, in some cases, its settings, in an exemplary embodiment, initial model 308 itself has very little thickness or no thickness at all. FIG. 3 illustrates an example of thickness T1 measured along the Z axis of the coordinate system. The thickness T1 is exaggerated in FIG. 3 for illustrative purposes, but in an exemplary embodiment, the thickness T1 of the initial model is only the thickness of the points in the point cloud, if any.

[0053] The next step in the exemplary method is cutting the initial model 308 to create a positive model of the anatomical structures (block 206 of FIG. 2). However, before describing the cutting process in detail, a description of an exemplary final product will aid in understanding various embodiments as well as variations. FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the final product of an exemplary form of male masturbation device 120. Specifically, male masturbation device 120 includes an elastomeric or polymer sleeve 402 at least partially disposed within the interior volume of an outer cover 404 of a rigid material, such as plastic. In the illustrated example, outer cover 404 is in the shape of a FLESHLIGHT® brand product, although any suitable shape for outer cover 404 may be used. In the view of FIG. 4, insertion end 406 of polymer sleeve 402 is visible and includes a replica of the anatomical structures of subject 100 (FIG. 1). The remainder of polymer sleeve 402 resides within outer cover 404. The polymer sleeve 402 may be made of a low durometer-rated thermoplastic elastomer gel, or other materials such as silicone, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or elastomeric rubber. The exemplary male masturbation device 120 may further include a cover or lid 408 defining an inner diameter D2 slightly larger than the outer diameter D1 of the insertion end 406 of the polymer sleeve 402, such that the lid 408 is stretched over the insertion end 406 and connects to the outer cover 404 when not in use. The lid 408 may, for example, protect the insertion end 106 from damage when not in use. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the outer shape of the outer case 404 is circular with a diameter D1 (e.g., 3 inches), the circular shape surrounding anatomical structures. The male masturbation device 120 may further include a second cap or lid 410 that connects to the outer cover 404 opposite the lid 408. The lid 410 may act as a controllable venting mechanism during use.

[0054] The insertion end 406 of the exemplary male masturbation device 120 includes a main orifice 412 that leads to a main passageway (the main passageway is not visible in FIG. 4 but is discussed further below). As shown, the main orifice 412 is defined between the clitoral hood 306 and the perineum 300, and between the exemplary labia 302 and 304. If the anatomical structure is the mouth, the main orifice 412 resides between the lips. If the anatomical structure is the anus, the main orifice is defined by the anus. The main passageway is coaxial with a central longitudinal axis 418 of the polymer sleeve 402 and outer cover 404.

[0055] Returning briefly to FIG. 2 , the next step in the exemplary method is to cut the initial model 308 ( FIG. 3 ) to a predetermined contour that surrounds the anatomical structure (block 206). More specifically, the next step in the exemplary method is to cut the initial model to have not only the predetermined contour, but also, in some cases, a predetermined depth. The predetermined depth is related to the distance that the polymer sleeve 402 ( FIG. 4 ) extends beyond the outer cover 404. However, as discussed above, the initial model 308 has a small or no thickness T1. Thus, prior to cutting, the initial model 308 is stretched or extruded to have a thickness greater than the predetermined depth.

[0056] FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of the initial model after extrusion, according to at least some embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 5 shows that the initial model 308 is extruded to have a thickness T2 (and thus define a volume). For reasons that will become more clear below, thickness T2 is greater than the distance the polymer sleeve extends beyond the edge of the outer cover. In some cases, the extruded thickness T2 is at least 1 inch, and in some cases, 3 inches or more. For clarity, the initial model 308 is not a physical object. Rather, the initial model 308 (both before and after extrusion) is data within an electronic file in any suitable file format. The file containing the data regarding the initial model 308 is opened in a digital sculpting software program to perform the extrusion. For example, the extrusion of the initial model 308 is performed within ZBRUSH®, a digital sculpting software program available from Pixologic Inc. (pixologic.com).

[0057] Cutting the initial model 308 after extrusion involves electronically removing portions of the initial model 308 that are not needed and then creating a negative image to serve as a mold for subsequent casting. Prior to the innovations described herein, a skilled craftsman using a carving software program, such as a ZBRUSH® brand product, would need more than a day to "hand" remove portions of the initial model 308 after extrusion to derive a positive model and then create a negative image to be used as a mold. A day or more per negative mold was too slow and expensive for mass production of replicas of anatomical structures because each replica is unique and therefore has its own negative mold to be used in the casting process. Using the tools, techniques, and methods described below, what once took more than a day to complete can now be completed in less than an hour, and in some cases, less than 30 minutes. Furthermore, automation can be applied to portions of the process, reducing the time to 15 minutes or less, in some cases, 10 minutes or less, and in some cases, without any human interaction.

[0058] According to an exemplary embodiment, cutting the initial model 308 after extrusion to create a positive model having not only a predetermined outer shape but also a predetermined depth can be conceptually described as intersecting or merging two 3D objects (one of which is the initial model 308) and then removing the portion of the initial model 308 that does not intersect with the second 3D volume. The inventors of the present application have created several "tools" that speed up and enable automation of the process. Accordingly, this specification turns to a description of exemplary "tools" that are a cutting tool object, a mold tool object, and a stem tool object.

[0059] 6A, 6B, and 6C show side views of three objects according to at least some embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 6C shows a cutting tool object 600, FIG. 6B shows a mold tool object 602, and FIG. 6A shows a stem tool object 604. Objects 600, 602, and 604 are not physical objects. Rather, the objects are data in one or more electronic files (in any appropriate file format) that define the objects, including their three-dimensional characteristics. Cutting tool object 600 has a circular cross-section (a cross-section cut in a plane perpendicular to the plane of the page), with the exception of tab 606, which helps distinguish cutting tool object 600 from mold tool object 602. The cutting tool object defines a central axis 608 that is perpendicular to and centered within the circular cross-section, and a diameter D3 that, in some embodiments, is 3 inches. As described further below, the circular cross-section of cutting tool object 600 may be a predetermined outline that surrounds an anatomical structure, although other shapes are possible. Additionally, the cutting tool object 600 defines a thickness T3 (measured from the flat surface 610 to the apex 612 of the conical section 614). The exemplary cutting tool object 600 also defines an annular channel 616 that surrounds the outer surface of the cutting tool object 600. The purpose of the annular channel 616 will become clearer in a later discussion.

[0060] FIG. 6B further illustrates an exemplary mold tool object 602. The mold tool object 602 has a circular cross-section (the circular cross-section cuts a plane perpendicular to the plane of the page). The mold tool object 602 also defines a circular disk or knob 618 that not only helps distinguish the mold tool object 602 from the cutting tool object 600 but also aids in aligning the final negative mold in casting, as described below. The mold tool object 602 defines a central axis 620 that is perpendicular to and centered within the circular cross-section, and a diameter D4 that is larger than diameter D2. If the diameter D3 of the cutting tool object 602 is 3 inches, then diameter D4 is 3 inches plus twice the wall thickness of the final negative mold. If diameter D3 is changed, then diameter D4 will also be changed. As described further below, the circular cross-section of the mold tool object 602 similarly defines a predetermined contour that surrounds an anatomical structure. Additionally, the mold tool object 602 defines a thickness T4 (measured from the flat surface 622 to the apex 624 of the conical section 626).

[0061] FIG. 6A also illustrates an exemplary stem tool object 604. As will become more clear based on the following description, the stem tool object 604 aids in defining a main hole in the polymer sleeve. The exemplary stem tool object 604 defines a tab 628 in the form of an inverted frustum of a cone having a central axis 636. The tab 628 couples to a transition portion 630. The exact form of the transition portion 630 depends on the anatomical structure to be replicated. If the anatomical structure is the mouth, the transition portion defines a long dimension L that is approximately the width of the mouth (e.g., 2 inches). If the anatomical structure to be replicated is the external female genitalia, the stem tool object 604 may omit either the first wing 632 or the second wing 634 (each wing is hereafter defined by a dashed line through portion 630). Finally, if the anatomical structure to be replicated is the anus, both the wings 632 and 634 may be omitted. In some cases, the wings may be electronically removed before use, and in other cases, the tool may include three stem tool objects, one for each possible anatomical structure.

[0062] 7A and 7B show overhead views of a mold tool object and a stem tool object, respectively, according to at least some embodiments. Specifically, the view in FIG. 7A shows a top surface 622 of the mold tool object 602, thus indicating that the mold tool object 602 has a circular cross-section. A central axis 620 of the mold tool object 602 is also visible in FIG. 7A; however, the central axis 620 is perpendicular to the page in the view in FIG. 7A and is therefore shown as a dot. In an exemplary embodiment, the mold tool object 602 also defines an annular trough 638 at the top surface 622, the annular trough 638 being centered within the top surface 622 and surrounding the central axis 620. The annular trough 638 defines a diameter D5 that is smaller than the diameter D4. In an exemplary embodiment, the distance between the diameters D4 and D5 at any location ultimately defines and controls the wall thickness of the final negative mold. The view of the top surface 610 of the cutting tool object 600 has been omitted for simplicity, as such a view would be very similar to the view of the top surface 622 of the mold tool object 602, but without the annular trough 638.

[0063] 7B shows an overhead view of an exemplary stem tool object 604. Specifically, the view in FIG. 7B shows the tab 628 with a central axis 636, which is perpendicular to the page in the view in FIG. 7B and is therefore shown as a dot. The exemplary transition portion 630 defines an oval cross-section that includes a length L and a width W that is less than half of width L, and in some cases less than one-quarter of width L. The stem tool object 604 is therefore for an anatomical structure that is a mouth, but by removing one or both of wings 632 and / or 634 along the curved dashed line, the stem tool object 604 may be positioned for other anatomical structures.

[0064] More precisely, cutting the initial model 308 to have not only a predetermined outline but also, in some cases, a predetermined depth to create a positive model can be conceptualized as first intersecting or merging the extruded initial model 308 with the cutting tool object 600, and then removing the portion of the initial model 308 that does not intersect with the cutting tool object 600. Referring simultaneously to FIGS. 5 and 6, in an exemplary embodiment, the central or medial axis of the anatomical structure is identified based on characteristic features of the anatomical structure within the initial model 308. In the illustration of FIG. 4, identifying the characteristic features may include identifying the labia 302 and 304 of the external female genitalia, identifying a labial intersection, i.e., an exemplary intersection shown as dashed line 500, and identifying at least one of the perineum 300 or the clitoral hood 306. From some or all of the identified features, a central longitudinal axis 418 may be identified, the center being the intersection of the central longitudinal axis 418 and the outer surface of the initial model 308 (such as at the intersection of the labia indicated by dashed line 500). If the anatomical structure to be replicated is the mouth, the features might include the upper lip, lower lip, philtra ridge (which creates "Cupid's bow"), and mentolabial sulcus. Identifying such features may be performed programmatically, such as by software designed to find features (such as facial features) in an image, or by a human observer.

[0065] Once the central axis and / or central longitudinal axis 418 are found, the exemplary method may include merging the cutting tool object 600 with the initial model 308 after extrusion. More precisely, in the exemplary embodiment, merging involves positioning the central axis 608 of the cutting tool object 600 within a predetermined distance of the center of the anatomical structure. In some cases, the central axis 608 is positioned parallel to and within a predetermined distance of the central longitudinal axis 418. In yet other cases, the central axis 608 is positioned coaxially with the central longitudinal axis 418. The cutting tool object 600 is then intersected with the initial model 308. For example, in a situation where the central axis 608 is coaxial with the central longitudinal axis 418, the cutting tool object 600 is pushed “into” the initial model 308 so that the two intersect in 3D space and the conical section 614 resides outside or “above” the outer surface of the anatomical structure. Although described as two steps, the placing and crossing may occur simultaneously.

[0066] 8 shows a perspective view of a cutting tool object that is partially intersected with the initial model, according to at least some embodiments. Specifically, in the example of FIG. 8, the central axis 608 of the cutting tool object 600 is coaxial with the central longitudinal axis 418 that passes through the center of the anatomical structure (not visible in FIG. 8). As shown, a portion of the volume of the cutting tool object 600 overlaps or intersects with a portion of the volume defined by the initial model 308.

[0067] Figure 9 shows a cross-sectional view taken along line 9-9 in Figure 8, according to at least some embodiments. Specifically, visible in Figure 9 is an initial model 308 including a side view of an exemplary anatomical structure in the form of external female genitalia. Also visible in Figure 9, shown in dashed lines, is a cutting tool object 600. Thus, the cutting tool object 600 is intersected with the initial model 308 such that the anatomical structure is approximately centered within a predetermined outline. Furthermore, the intersection of the initial model 308 and the cutting tool object 600 may stop when a distal-most portion 900 of the anatomical structure is within a predetermined offset O from an outer surface 902 of the cutting tool object 600 (e.g., the predetermined offset is one centimeter or less).

[0068] Once the relationship between the initial model 308 and the cutting tool object 600 is finalized, an exemplary merging of models and objects proceeds with removing portions of the initial model 308 that lie outside the cutting tool object 500. In FIG. 9 , the removed portions are indicated by single cross-hatching. Portions of the cutting tool object 600 that do not intersect with the initial model 308 are then removed. In FIG. 9 , the removed portions are indicated by double cross-hatching. Thus, the removal step produces a positive model. In at least some exemplary systems, the intersection of the initial model 308 and the cutting tool object 600 is performed in the ZBRUSH® brand sculpting software program. In the particular case of removing non-intersecting portions, the operation is called Boolean remove, although other sculpting software programs may use different terminology.

[0069] FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of an exemplary positive model, according to at least some embodiments. Specifically, by cutting initial model 308 with cutting tool object 600, as described above, what remains is positive model 1000, which shows anatomical structures surrounded by a predetermined contour. Positive model 1000 represents the shape of a portion of male masturbation device 120 (also FIG. 4) replicated on the exterior surface of polymer sleeve 402 (FIG. 4). Because positive model 1000 was created from cutting tool object 600, positive model 1000 is aligned with or inherits central axis 608 (which, in some cases, is coaxial with central longitudinal axis 418). Furthermore, because positive model 1000 was created from cutting tool object 600, positive model 1000 is aligned with or inherits annular channel 616. In some exemplary embodiments, the method may proceed directly to creating a negative mold (described in more detail below) that is used to cast the polymer sleeve 402 having the replica anatomical structures. However, in other exemplary embodiments, the positive model 1000 may be manipulated to make the final product more lifelike and / or to achieve certain additional features.

[0070] Still referring to FIG. 10 , positive model 1000 was created by merging the initial model with a cutting tool object and then removing the portions of the cutting tool object that did not intersect with initial model 308. Thus, portions of the exterior surface of positive model 1000 have texture features carried over from the initial model, and portions of the exterior surface are smooth and have no texture. The boundary between the portions with texture features from initial model 308 and the smooth surface is indicated in FIG. 10 by lines 1002 and 1004. For example, that portion of the exterior surface of positive model 1000 to the left of line 1002 may have no texture features, while that portion of the exterior surface of positive model 1000 (closer to labia 304) is likely to have surface texture carried over from the initial model. According to at least some embodiments, the exterior surface of positive model 1000 is smoothed at sharp transitions in the positive model (e.g., line 1002). Even more specifically, in an exemplary case, a zone having a predetermined width (e.g., centimeters) and centered along a sharp transition may be smoothed by averaging the surface texture across the zone.

[0071] Additionally, fine details of the skin texture of subject 100 (FIG. 1) may not be visible in video and / or still pictures. Even if such skin texture is visible, some or all of the skin texture details may be lost in the process of creating the initial model. Thus, in some exemplary embodiments, certain features of the anatomical structures may be modified to include or enhance surface texture. For example, the clitoral hood 306, labia 302, and labia 304 may be modified to include or enhance surface texture to more closely match the skin texture. Relatedly, features such as texture simulating the presence of hair removed prior to capturing the video and / or still pictures of the anatomical structures may be added. If subject 100 did not properly prepare the anatomical structures, physical modifications may be made, such as “opening” the labia to better define their intersection. The positive model 1000 may also be modified, for example, to include the subject's 100 unique identification number along the predetermined contours of the positive model 1000. If the subject 100 is a professional entertainer, the positive model may be modified to include branding information, such as the subject's stage name, signature, trademark, or other identifying indicia. Whether or not the positive model 1000 is modified as described above, the next step in the exemplary method is to create a negative model of the anatomical structures from the positive model 1000.

[0072] Creating a negative model can be conceptually described as intersecting or merging the positive model 1000 with the mold tool object 602 and then removing the portions of the mold tool object 602 that intersect with the positive model. Referring simultaneously to FIGS. 6 and 10 , in an exemplary embodiment, creating the negative model includes merging the mold tool object 602 with the positive model 1000. In an exemplary embodiment, the merging may be performed by locating the central axis 620 of the mold tool object 602 within a predetermined distance of the center of the positive model 1000. Centering the positive model 1000 within the mold tool object 602 may be checked and corrected by viewing the relationship of the positive model 1000 to the annular trough 638 ( FIG. 7A ) on the flat surface 622 of the mold tool object 602. In some cases, the central axis 620 is located parallel to and within a predetermined distance of the central axis 608. In still other cases, the central axis 620 is positioned coaxially with the central axis 608, in which case the positive model 1000 is automatically centered. The mold tool object 602 is then intersected with the positive model 1000. For example, in a situation where the central axis 620 is coaxial with the central axis 608 of the positive model 1000, the mold tool object 602 is "pushed" into the positive model 1000 so that the two intersect in 3D space, and the conical section 626 is located outside or "above" the outer surface of the anatomical structure of the positive model 1000. Although described as two steps, the positioning and intersection may occur simultaneously.

[0073] FIG. 11 shows a cross-sectional side view of a mold tool object 602 intersecting with a positive model 1000, according to at least some embodiments. Specifically, in the example of FIG. 11, the central axis 620 of the mold tool object 602 is coaxial with the central axis 608 of the positive model 1000. Note that having the central axis 620 and the central axis 608 is not strictly necessary, but having them coaxial not only speeds the merging process but also allows for the operation to be automated. In an exemplary embodiment, the mold tool object 602 is intersected with the positive model 1000 by translating it along the shared axis until the planar surface 622 of the mold tool object 602 intersects with the annular channel 616. Thus, the annular channel 616 of the cutting tool object is carried over to the positive model 1000 and serves as a guide for depth alignment along the central axes 608 / 620. Once the mold tool object 602 and the positive model 1000 are properly aligned, an exemplary method involves removing the portions of the mold tool object 602 that intersect with the positive model 1000, and then removing the positive model 1000. The exemplary portions that remain are shown in Figure 11 by the intersecting shaded lines. What remains is the negative model.

[0074] FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of a negative model according to at least some embodiments. Specifically, as described above, by removing the portion of mold tool object 602 that intersects with positive model 1000, what remains is negative model 1200, which shows a negative version of the anatomical structure surrounded by a predetermined contour. Negative model 1200 represents a negative of the shape of the portion of male masturbation device 120 (also FIG. 4) replicated on the outer surface of polymer sleeve 402 (FIG. 4). Because negative model 1200 was generated from mold tool object 600, negative model 1200 is carried along or inherits central axis 620 from mold tool object 600. Negative model 1200 defines a wall thickness T5, in the exemplary case (FIG. 7A), which is the distance between diameter D4 and diameter D5. In situations where the replica of the anatomical structure is not intended to have holes leading to the main passageway through the device, the exemplary method may proceed directly to printing the negative mold to create the negative mold. However, in embodiments where the final product is a male masturbation device, the negative model 1200 is further modified to support the formation of the main aperture 412 (FIG. 4) and main passageway during the casting process.

[0075] Modifying the negative model to support the creation of main holes and main passageways includes placing a stem tool object 604 on the outer surface of the negative model of the anatomical structure (block 210, FIG. 2). Referring simultaneously to FIGS. 6 and 12, in an exemplary embodiment, generating the final negative model includes merging the stem tool object 604 with the negative model 1200. In an exemplary embodiment, merging may be performed by placing the central axis 636 of the stem tool object 604 within a predetermined distance of the center of the negative model 1200. In some cases, the central axis 636 is positioned parallel to and within a predetermined distance of the central axis 620. In yet other cases, the central axis 636 is positioned coaxially with the central axis 620, in which case the stem tool object 604 is automatically centered within the negative model 1200. The stem tool object 604 is then abutted against the negative model 1200. For example, in a situation where the central axis 636 is coaxial with the central axis 620 of the negative model 1200, the stem tool object 604 is slightly "pushed" into the negative model 1200 so that the two at least abut and, if possible, intersect in 3D space. Although described as two steps, disposing and joining may occur simultaneously.

[0076] FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of a stem tool object 604 intersecting with the negative model 1200, according to at least some embodiments. Specifically, in the example of FIG. 13, the central axis 620 of the stem tool object 604 is coaxial with the central axis 620 of the negative model 1200. Note that having the central axis 636 and the central axis 620 is not strictly necessary, but having them coaxial not only speeds up the merging process but also allows for automated operations. In an exemplary embodiment, the stem tool object 604 intersects with the negative model 1200 by translating it along the shared axis until the bottom of the stem tool object 604 abuts the negative model. In an example where the anatomical structure is the external female genitalia, the stem tool object 604 has its length L aligned with the intersection of the labia. Once the stem tool object 604 and the negative model 1200 are properly aligned and abutted, the exemplary method involves merging the stem tool object 604 and the negative model 1200 to generate the final negative model 1300 .

[0077] 13 , the final negative model 1300 was generated by merging the stem tool object 604 and the negative model 1200. However, merging the stem tool object 604 and the negative model 1200 may generate a boundary having a surface texture from the stem tool object 604 that differs from the surface texture from the negative model 1200. An exemplary boundary is shown by line 1302. For example, that portion of the final negative model 1300 below line 1302 may have texture features carried forward (in the negative representation) from the positive model, while that portion above line 1302 has the surface texture of the stem tool object 604. According to at least some embodiments, the outer surface of the final negative model 1300 is smoothed at sharp transitions (e.g., line 1302) in the final negative model 1300. Even more specifically, in an exemplary case, a zone having a predetermined width and centered along a sharp transition may be smoothed by averaging the surface texture across the zone.

[0078] 12 and 13 are directed to an anatomical structure that is the external female genitalia, and therefore the stem tool object 604 includes only a single wing (or a specific stem tool object is used). However, if the anatomical structure is the mouth, the stem tool object 604 has both wings. If the anatomical structure is the anus, both wings are omitted from the stem tool object 604 (and a specific stem tool object is used).

[0079] The next step in the exemplary method is printing a final negative mold 1300 to generate the negative mold to be used in the casting process. In at least some exemplary embodiments, the final negative model 1300 is data contained in an electronic file, such as in .STL format. The data file may be provided to any suitable 3D printer or 3D printer technology, such as fused deposition modeling (FDM), stereolithography (SLA), digital light processing (DLP), selective laser sintering (SLS), selective laser melting (SLM), additive object manufacturing (LOM), or digital beam melting (EBM). For example, the 3D printer may be a Formlabs 3D printer available from Formlabs, Inc. (http: / / formlabs.com). In yet other exemplary embodiments, the final negative model 1300 may be printed on a 3D Systems printer (e.g., 3D Systems model FIG. 4) available from 3D Systems Inc. (https: / / www.3dsystems.com). That is, the 3D printer 112 (FIG. 1) produces a physical object, referred to herein as a negative mold, called the final negative model 1300. Thus, FIG. 13 not only shows the final negative model 1300, but also an example of a negative mold printed from the negative mold.

[0080] Returning to FIG. 1 , the 3D printer 112 thus prints a negative mold 116 to be used in the casting process. In the example system, the 3D printer 112 uses a liquid resin that is cured by the focus of a laser light, although any suitable 3D printing technique may be used. Once the 3D printer 112 has completed printing, the negative mold 116 is removed from the printer, and any support structures created are removed. To remove residual resin, the negative mold 116 may undergo an alcohol rinse. Depending on parameters related to the casting process (e.g., the temperature of the liquid polymer), the negative mold 116 may need to be cured, for example, by baking the negative mold 116 in an oven. Depending on the casting process and / or the properties of the resin, the curing step may be omitted. The specification now proceeds to an example casting process.

[0081] FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of a casting system 114 according to at least some embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 14 shows an exemplary outer mold assembly 118 including a first mold member 1404 and a second mold member 1406. Each mold member 1404 and 1406 defines an interior surface, although only the interior surface 1408 of mold member 1406 is visible in the view of FIG. 14. The interior surface 1408 of mold member 1406 forms one half of a negative image of the portion of the exterior surface of polymer sleeve 402 (FIG. 4), specifically, the portion of polymer sleeve 402 that resides within outer cover 404 (FIG. 4). Similarly, the interior surface of mold member 1404 forms the other half of the negative image of polymer sleeve 402.

[0082] The casting system 114 further includes a negative mold 116 disposed in operative relationship with the inner surface defined by the outer mold assembly 118. As discussed in detail above, the negative mold 116 structurally defines a negative image of the outer portion of the insertion end 406 ( FIG. 4 ) of the polymer sleeve 402 ( FIG. 4 ). In other words, the negative mold 116 defines a negative image of an anatomical structure and is used to cast the insertion end 406 of the polymer sleeve 402. In some exemplary systems, the first mold member 1404 and the second mold member 1406 may be milled from a metallic material such as aluminum. Furthermore, in exemplary embodiments, the negative mold 116 is fabricated on demand, for example, by the 3D printing techniques described above. The negative mold 116 is coupled to the rod member 1414. The outer surface of the rod member 1414 defines a negative image of the inner surface of the main passageway through the polymer sleeve 402 .

[0083] The casting or molding process may include placing the negative mold 116 in operative relationship with the outer mold assembly 118 and coupling the rod member 1414 to tabs 628 (not visible in FIG. 14 ) of the negative mold 116 created by merging the negative mold with a stem tool object. The outer mold assembly 118 is closed around the various components and held in place in some manner. A polymer material in liquid form is injected through an injection port, such as through an injection hole 1418, into the volume defined by the inner surface 1408. The polymer material in liquid form fills the volume defined by the negative mold 116 and the inner surface 1408, displacing air, and then allowing the polymer material to harden. Once hardened, the outer mold assembly 118 is reopened, the rod member 1414 is withdrawn from the main passageway, and the polymer sleeve 402 may be removed from the negative mold 116. Trimming of the polymer sleeve 402 may be performed, for example, to remove any mold seams or marks formed by the interface of the hardened polymer material inside the injection hole and the outer mold assembly. In some cases, the resulting polymer sleeve 402 may be treated with a compound to reduce surface tension (e.g., by applying talcum powder). The polymer sleeve 402 may then be placed within the outer cover 404 and shipped to the subject 100.

[0084] The various embodiments discussed in this regard assume that the subject 100 recommends creating a male masturbation device 120 for his or her spouse. Thus, the anatomical structure replica embodied in the male masturbation device 120 is likely a one-off device created from video and / or still images. However, the subject 100 may be a professional model uploading data with the intent of selling anatomical structure replicas to the general public. Such a professional subject 100 may have an incentive to exercise greater control over the replica creation process. For example, the subject 100 may bypass certain of the steps described above and provide information for creating a male masturbation device directly in a suitable point cloud format. Similarly, the professional subject 1000 may directly provide an initial model, including all desired surface textures, signatures, trademarks, etc. In such cases, the exemplary process may proceed directly to the generation of the positive model 1000 and subsequent steps. Thus, depending on the sophistication of the subject 100 and the goal of on-demand creation of negative models and castings, certain of the steps discussed above may be omitted.

[0085] The various embodiments discussed in this regard have assumed that the replica anatomical structure has a main passageway and is therefore a male masturbation device. However, it is also possible to create a replica of the external male genitalia (e.g., penis and testicles) in both aroused and flaccid states. In such situations, the main passageway, along with associated considerations (e.g., the use of a stem tool), is omitted. Moreover, when casting an external male genitalia without a main passageway, in some cases, polymeric or elastomeric materials may be cast at room temperature (e.g., from a two-component mixture that creates a silicone gel). Because of room-temperature casting, the single-use mold assembly need not be thermoelastic. Taking these considerations into account, the initial model created by photogrammetry software may be passed directly to a 3D printer. To the extent that a software sculpting program is used, such programs may include cleanup, the addition of identifying indicia, and, in the case of professionals, signatures, trademarks, etc. The initial model (which is directly a positive model) may be passed directly to a 3D printer, which in some cases has a "shell tool" that can automatically create and print a negative mold from the initial model. Such shell tools are not standalone 3D structures and are not applicable to replicas of anatomical structures, including main passageways.

[0086] The exemplary replica system 102 includes two or more computer systems. Figure 15 illustrates a computer system according to at least some embodiments. Computer system 1500 is an example of a customer interface computer system 108 and / or a mold making computer system 110. The exemplary computer system 1500 includes a processor 1502 coupled to memory 1504 and a storage system or long-term storage device 1506. Processor 1502 may be any currently available or future processor or group of processors. Memory 1504 may be random access memory (RAM) that forms a working memory for processor 1502. In some cases, data and programs may be copied from storage device 1506 to memory 1504 as part of the operation of computer system 1500.

[0087] The long-term storage device 1506 is a device or devices that implement a non-volatile long-term storage device, sometimes referred to as a non-transitory computer-readable medium. In some cases, the long-term storage device is a hard drive or solid-state drive, while other examples include an optical disk 1508, a “floppy” disk 1510, and a flash memory device 1512. Thus, various programs used to implement the programmatic aspects discussed may be stored on the long-term storage device 1506 and executed by the processor 1502. Relatedly, the creation and interaction of the various objects and models of various embodiments may be implemented by the processor 1502 and communicated to the storage device 1506 (including exemplary optical disk 1508, floppy disk 1510, flash memory device 1512, or magnetic tape) via the telemetry channel 1514. In other words, the storage device 1506 may store instructions that, when executed by the processor, perform any of the program steps discussed above.

[0088] Figure 16 illustrates a method according to at least some embodiments. The method includes a series of steps performed by a combination of a mold creation computer system 110, a 3D printer 112, and a casting system 114. Figure 16 is presented as a high-level overview of an exemplary process for creating a replica of an anatomical structure according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 16 serves as an organizational guide to balance the discussion.The exemplary method starts (block 1600). The exemplary method includes accepting, by a first computer system, a plurality of pictures of an anatomical structure of a subject, each picture of the plurality of pictures being from a distinct viewing angle of the anatomical structure (block 1602). The first computer system creates an object file including an initial model of an exterior surface of the anatomical structure (block 1604). The first computer system cuts the initial model to a predetermined outline surrounding the anatomical structure, where cutting creates a positive model of the anatomical structure within the predetermined outline (block 1606). The first computer system creates a negative model of the anatomical structure from the positive model (block 1608). The first computer system places a stem tool object on the exterior surface of the negative model in abutting relationship with an orifice of the anatomical structure, thereby creating a final negative model (block 1610). The first computer system uses a zeroing object to align the negative model to the predetermined angle. The method includes placing a stem tool object and an angling object (block 1612), placing a base tool object by bonding, by the first computer system, a base tool object to the outer surface of the aligned negative model to create a finalized negative model (1614), placing a bracing tool object by bonding, by the first computer system, a bracing tool object to the stem tool object (block 1616), printing, by a three-dimensional printer, the final negative model to generate a negative mold (block 1618), and using the negative mold to cast a replica of the anatomical structure (block 1620). Thereafter, the method ends (block 1622), although the process could begin anew with a new set of pictures of the anatomical structure of another object. Each step is addressed in more detail in turn.

[0089] The steps performed at method blocks 1602, 1604, 1606, 1608, 1610, 1618, and 1620 in Figure 16 may be performed in a manner similar to that described herein with reference to method blocks 202, 204, 206, 208, 210, 212, and 214, respectively, in Figure 2. In some embodiments, the steps may be performed by a single computer system including one or more processing devices that perform the steps and execute computer instructions stored in one or more memory devices. In some embodiments, the steps may be performed by multiple computer systems that include multiple processing devices that perform the steps and execute computer instructions stored in multiple memory devices.

[0090] For ease of reference, blocks 1602, 1604, 1606, 1608, and 1610 will now be briefly summarized.

[0091] The first step in the exemplary method is accepting multiple pictures of the anatomical structure of the subject 100, each picture of the multiple pictures being from a different viewing angle relative to the anatomical structure (block 1602). In the exemplary system, accepting the multiple pictures is by the mold making computer system 110 (also FIG. 1) from the customer interface computer system 108 (FIG. 1). However, in other cases, the mold making computer system 110 may receive the multiple pictures directly or through any suitable intermediate computer system. In some exemplary cases, the mold making computer system 110 receives or accepts the multiple pictures in the form of a video including multiple frames. The video may be acquired by an imaging device (e.g., a camera) that is moved above the target in a drone-like manner (e.g., a zigzag pattern) to allow for a more thorough capture of the image of the target.

[0092] Next, the exemplary method creates an object file containing an initial model of the exterior surface of the anatomical structure (block 1604). That is, the initial model is a digital representation of the exterior surface of the anatomical structure in any suitable file format. For example, the initial model may be a series of points in three-dimensional space, where each point defines a vertex of a triangle, and all the triangles viewed together give the visual appearance of a three-dimensional object. Exemplary file formats for the initial model include ".OBJ" geometry definition files, stereolithography ".STL" definition files, as well as any currently available or later developed file format representing three-dimensional surfaces.

[0093] According to at least some embodiments, extracting the pictures and creating the object file may be accomplished by feeding the pictures into a photogrammetry program, such as 3DF Zephyr, produced by 3Dflow of Verona, Italy (www.3dflow.net). Other photogrammetry programs, including open-source photogrammetry programs, may equally be used. The exemplary 3DF Zephyr accepts video and / or still pictures in a variety of file formats and generates a point cloud model of the scene within the pictures in .OBJ format.

[0094] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of an initial model of an anatomical structure according to at least some embodiments. Specifically, the exemplary anatomical structure in Figure 3 is a simplified diagram of the external female genitalia. In an exemplary embodiment, a point cloud model generated from a photogrammetry program is initial model 308. Initial model 308 includes data regarding the exterior surfaces of the anatomical structure in three dimensions, shown as XYZ on the coordinate axes of Figure 3, as shown.

[0095] The next step in the exemplary method is to cut the initial model 308 to create a positive model of the anatomical structure (block 1606 of FIG. 16 ). In some embodiments, an artist may modify the positive model from block 1606 to create the finished anatomical structure. Additionally, in some embodiments, the files containing the positive model and the finished anatomical structure may be reviewed and approved by quality control, and a person's signature or other identifier may be added. Cutting the initial model 308 ( FIG. 3 ) may occur within a predetermined outline that encloses the anatomical structure (block 206). More specifically, the next step in the exemplary method is to cut the initial model to have not only a predetermined outline, but also, in some cases, a predetermined depth. The predetermined depth relates to the distance that the polymer sleeve 402 ( FIG. 4 ) extends beyond the outer cover 404. The initial model 308 is not a physical object. Rather, the initial model 308 (both before and after extrusion) is data in an electronic file in any suitable file format. The file containing the data for the initial model 308 is opened in a digital engraving software program to perform the extrusion. In an exemplary case, the extrusion of the initial model 308 is performed within ZBRUSH®, a digital engraving software program available from Pixologic Inc. (pixologic.com).

[0096] Cutting the initial model 308 after extrusion involves electronically removing portions of the initial model 308 that are not needed and then creating a negative image that will become the mold for subsequent casting. Various tools that facilitate the process of cutting the initial model and creating the negative model are shown in Figures 6A, 6B, and 6C. As previously discussed, Figures 6A, 6B, and 6C show side views of three objects according to at least some embodiments. Specifically, Figure 6C shows a cutting tool object 600, Figure 6B shows a mold tool object 602, and Figure 6A shows a stem tool object 604.

[0097] Tool objects may be used to electronically merge with one or more other models, tools, and / or objects existing in three-dimensional (3D) space and cause electronic removal of portions of various models, tools, and / or objects. The tools and / or techniques described herein may provide one or more technical solutions for precisely removing portions of models, tools, and / or objects at precise pixel locations so that the generated negative model may not contain excessive model data of the subject to be replicated (e.g., reduced file memory size). In other words, the negative model may include a reduced set of model data to be used to create the negative mold, which may reduce computational resources (e.g., processing, memory, and / or bandwidth) by accurately and efficiently cutting the initial model to an accurate representation of the subject. By using a reduced set of model data, a processing device may process data more quickly and may not waste processing cycles or memory device resources. Furthermore, physical materials may be conserved using the disclosed techniques. This is because an accurately represented negative model allows the printer to use just the right amount of physical resources needed to create an accurate negative mold of the subject without wasting physical resources.

[0098] As noted above, FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of a negative model according to at least some embodiments. Specifically, as noted above, by removing the portion of mold tool object 602 that intersects with positive model 1000, what remains is negative model 1200, which shows a negative version of the anatomical structure bounded by a predetermined contour. Negative model 1200 represents a negative mold in the form of a portion of male masturbation device 120 (also FIG. 4) replicated on the exterior surface of polymer sleeve 402 (FIG. 4). Because negative model 1200 was generated from mold tool object 600, negative model 1200 is carried or inherits from the mold tool object along central axis 620.

[0099] Modifying the negative model to support the formation of the main foramen and main passageway includes placing a stem tool object 604 on the outer surface of the negative model of the anatomical structure (block 1610, FIG. 16). Referring simultaneously to FIGS. 6 and 12, in an exemplary embodiment, generating the final negative model includes merging the stem tool object 604 with the negative model 1200 in 3D coordinate space.

[0100] In some embodiments, a processing device of the first computer system may position the zeroing object and the angle object to align the negative model to a predetermined angle (block 1612, FIG. 16). Exemplary zeroing object 1802 and angle object 1804 are presented in three-dimensional (3D) coordinate space 1800 of FIG.

[0101] The zeroed object 1802 may refer to a 3D modeling object having a particular geometric depth and dimensions. In some embodiments, the zeroed object 1802 may have a cubic shape, although any suitable shape may be used. The zeroed object 1802 may have a small size relative to other objects included in the 3D coordinate space 1800. For example, the zeroed object 1802 has a small size relative to an angled object 1804 in the 3D coordinate space. In some embodiments, the zeroed object 1802 may comprise a cube having a height of 5 pixels, a width of 5 pixels, and a length of 5 pixels in the 3D coordinate space. The zeroed object may be placed in the 3D coordinate space 1800 at an origin location to serve as a reference point when placing, aligning, configuring, etc., other objects in the 3D coordinate space 1800. The size of the zeroed object 1802 may be kept small to reduce the amount of memory (e.g., file size) and / or processing resources consumed by a computer system that implements the zeroed object in the 3D coordinate space.

[0102] An angled object 1804 may refer to a 3D modeling object having a particular shape, depth, and dimensions. In some embodiments, the angled object 1804 may include a wall with a straight edge and one wall 1806 with an angled edge. The angled wall 1806 may be configured at a predetermined angle (e.g., 1 to 20 degrees) relative to the XY plane in FIG. 18 . The angled object 1804 may be used to align the negative model at a predetermined angle. Such a technique may allow the negative mold generated using the negative mold to maintain its round shape when printed because the circular cross-section spans more than one vertical plane in the three-dimensional printing space.

[0103] Figure 17 illustrates a method for positioning zeroing objects 1802 and angle objects 1804 according to at least some embodiments. Thus, the method of Figure 17 may be performed as a sub-step of block 1612 of the method shown in Figure 16. The method in Figure 17 includes a series of steps performed by a combination of mold making computer system 110, 3D printer 112, and casting system 114. The exemplary method begins (block 1700) by placing a zeroing object at an origin in a three-dimensional (3D) coordinate space containing the negative model (block 1702), placing an angled object relative to the zeroing object in the 3D coordinate space so that the base of the angled object coincides with the base of the zeroing object (block 1704), placing the outer lip of the negative model flush against the angled wall portion of the angled object so that the negative model is angled at the desired angle specified by the angled wall portion (block 1706), and cutting the negative model to remove the angled object from the 3D coordinate space while leaving the zeroing object at the origin in the 3D coordinate space (block 1708). The method then ends (block 1710), although the process will likely begin anew when generating a subsequent final negative model to use for the negative mold. Each step will be addressed in more detail in turn.

[0104] 19 shows a side view of a zeroing object 1802 and an angle object 1804 included in the negative model 1200, according to at least some embodiments. As shown, block 1702 includes placing the zeroing object 1802 at an origin within a 3D coordinate space 1800 that includes the negative model 1200. The origin may be a predetermined location within the 3D coordinate space 1800 having specified pixel coordinates. The pixel coordinates of the origin location may be expressed, for example, in a matrix format (e.g., 2D, 3D, 4D, etc.). Note that placing the zeroing object 1802 at the origin may be performed only once, and the file may be digitally saved so that for future operations, the file already exists with the zeroing object 1802 in the correct location.

[0105] At block 1704, the processing device may position the angled object 1804 relative to the zeroed object 1802 in the 3D coordinate space 1800 so that the base of the angled object 1804 coincides with the base of the zeroed object 1802. As shown, a dotted line 1900 is used to indicate that the base of the zeroed object 1802 and the base of the angled object 1804 are aligned on the horizontal axis in the 3D coordinate space 1800. The angled object 1804 may be positioned a predetermined fixed distance from the zeroed object 1802 to ensure a certain amount of clearance between the negative mold 1200 and the zeroed object 1802. Again, the positioning of the angled object 1804 may be performed only once in the same file as the zeroed object 1802, and again, the file may be digitally saved so that the file is already present with the zeroed object 1802 and angled object 1804 in the correct location for future operations.

[0106] For example, the zeroing object 1802 and the angled object 1804 may be combined as a combined object saved in a single file. That is, each of the zeroing object 1802 and the angled object 1804 included in the combined object may be saved at a location in 3D coordinate space in a single file, and the combined object may then be combined with the negative model 1200 in a separate file. Thus, in some embodiments, the zeroing object 1802 and the angled object 1804 do not have to be individually positioned each time a final negative model is generated, but may be combined together in a single digital file, saved once, and then used repeatedly with different negative models. Merging a single tool with the negative model 1200 may ensure that the negative model 1200 is oriented at the appropriate location in 3D coordinate space 1800 and angled at a predetermined angle.

[0107] At block 1706, the processing device may position the lip 1902 of the exterior of the negative model 1200 flush against the angled wall 1806 portion of the angled object 1804 so that the negative model 1200 is angled at the desired angle specified by the angled wall 1806 portion. Aligning the lip 1902 may include tilting the negative model 1200 in the 3D coordinate space 1800 by the predetermined angle of the angled wall 1806 portion. As shown, aligning the lip 1902 of the exterior of the negative model 1200 flush against the angled wall 1806 portion raises at least a majority of the side surface 1904 off the dotted line 1900. Raising the majority of the side surface 1904 in such a manner may prevent the majority of the side surface from adhering to a flat platform surface during 3D printing. In some embodiments, a minority of the side surface 1904 may contact the dotted line 1900. In some embodiments, the zeroing object 1802 and / or the angle object 1804 may be placed automatically via computer instructions configured to place the objects 1802 and / or 1804 at predetermined locations. In some embodiments, the objects 1802 and / or 1804 may be placed in an engraving program (e.g., a ZBRUSH® brand product).

[0108] FIG. 20 shows a perspective view of the zeroing tool 1802 and the angle tool 1804 included in the negative model 1200 according to at least some embodiments. FIG. 20 shows a different perspective view of the lip 1902 of the negative model 1200 positioned flush against the angled wall 1806 portion of the angled object 1804. At block 1708, the processing device may cut the negative model 1200 to remove the angled object 1804 from the 3D coordinate space 1800 while leaving the zeroing object 1802 at the origin within the 3D coordinate space 1800. Positioning the negative model 1200 flush against the angled object 1804 within the 3D coordinate space 1800 may enable placement of the negative model 1200 in the correct location within the 3D coordinate space. Ensuring that the negative model 1200 is in the correct location may enable proper placement of a base tool object and / or a bracing tool object, as described further below.

[0109] The resulting negative model 1200 and zeroed object 1802 may be saved as an .STL file format and opened in a slicing software program that instructs a 3D printer how to print the negative mold. The slicing software program may merge one or more other objects, tools, and / or models with the negative model 1200 to generate the final negative model.

[0110] Returning to FIG. 16 , in some embodiments, a processing device of a first computer system may position a base tool object 2100 by bonding the base tool object to the outer surface of the aligned negative model (block 1614, FIG. 16 ). The .STL file may be opened in a slicing software program. Initially, the .STL file may include the zeroing object 1802 and the negative model 1200 (the angle object 1804 has previously been removed in ZBRUSH brand products). For example, in FIG. 21A , the 3D coordinate space 1800 may be modified by the slicing software program to merge the base tool object 2100 with the negative model 1200. In some embodiments, the base tool object 2100 may be configured to support the negative mold 1200 at a predetermined angle when printed, with the negative mold 1200 tilted based on the angle object 1804.

[0111] The base tool object 2100 may refer to a 3D modeling object having depth and / or dimensions. As shown in FIG. 21B , the base tool object 2100 may include a rear portion 2102 and a front portion 2104. The front portion 2104 may include one or more prongs that couple to the raised side 1904. The base tool object 2100 may be configured to attach to a flat platform of a 3D printer when the negative mold is used to print the negative mold 120. The base tool object 2100 may be configured to secure the negative mold to the platform as layers are printed and may enable maintaining the tilt angle of the negative mold away from the flat surface so that the round shape of the negative mold is maintained during printing. In some embodiments, the base tool object 2100 may be placed in the 3D coordinate space 1800 by coupling the base tool object 2100 to the negative model 1200 using the zeroing object 1802. For example, the base of the base tool object 2100 may be aligned with the base of the zeroed object 1802. In some embodiments, the base tool object may be located at specific coordinates in 3D coordinate space and saved as a separate file. A software program may merge the negative model 1200 and the base tool object 2100 based on their coordinate locations in 3D coordinate space such that the two objects are merged.

[0112] 22 shows a perspective view of a base tool object 2100 according to at least some embodiments. FIG. 22 does not include a negative model or zeroed object and is intended to provide a clearer depiction of the characteristic features of the example base tool object 2100. For example, the base tool object 2100 may include one or more (e.g., three) tabs arranged in a fan-like configuration. The tabs may include various slats to reduce the amount of resin material used when printing the base tool object 2100.

[0113] FIG. 23 shows a top view of a base tool object 2100 according to at least some embodiments. The base tool object 2100 is merged with the negative model 1200. As shown, the edge of the front portion abuts the edge of the lip of the negative model 1200. The base of the base tool object 2100 may be flat so that it is parallel to the flat surface of the 3D printer. The 3D coordinate space 1800 may include a zeroing object 1802 located at the origin, as previously described. As shown, the rear portion of the base tool object 2100 may include various elongated holes 2300 where no resin is used to print the base tool object 2100. In some embodiments, the negative model 1200 merged with the base tool object 2100 may be the final negative model saved as an .STL file and used to print the negative mold.

[0114] 16 , at block 1616, the processing device may place the bracing tool object 2400 by coupling the bracing tool object 2400 to the stem tool object 604. In some embodiments, placing the bracing tool object 2400 may include coupling the bracing tool object 2400 to the base tool object 2100. The bracing tool object 2400 may reference a 3D object model having dimensions and / or depth. The bracing tool object 2400 may be exclusively coupled to the stem tool object 604 and the base tool object 2100. In other words, the bracing tool object 2400 may not contact any other portion of the negative model other than the stem tool object 604 and the base tool object 2400.

[0115] FIG. 24 shows a side view of a bracing tool object 2400 and a base tool object 2100 included in the negative model 1200 to generate a final negative model 2402 in 3D coordinate space, according to at least some embodiments. In some embodiments, the bracing tool object 2400 may be merged with the stem tool object 604 and the base tool object 2100. The base tool object 2100 may be merged with a side of the negative model 1200, or may already be merged. The bracing tool object 2400 may be configured to provide structural support for the stem tool object 604 during 3D printing of the final negative model 2402. In some embodiments, as shown, the bracing tool object 2400 has a length approximately the same as the radius of the circular opening in the negative model 1200. Although one bracing tool object 2400 is depicted, in some embodiments, more than one bracing tool object may be merged with the negative model.

[0116] In some embodiments, instead of using a bracing tool object, various shaped patterns may be included in the inner lining of the surface of the negative model 1200. The shaped patterns may be configured to provide structural support when printed. However, generating the shaped patterns and including them in the inner lining may consume computational resources by electronically modifying the surface of the inner lining of the negative model. Such modifications may increase the size of the file containing the objects, tools, models, etc., and may be less computationally efficient than using a bracing tool object (which does not require modifying the inner lining surface of the negative model). Thus, the bracing tool object 2400 may provide a technical solution to the technical problem of providing support to the stem tool object 604.

[0117] Once the negative mold is printed, the bracing tool object 2400 is physically removed (e.g., cut out) from the negative mold so that the negative mold includes a representation of one or more of the anatomical structures (e.g., anus, external genitalia, etc.) and / or the base tool object 2100. Additionally, the negative model may include a unique identification number along its contour.

[0118] 25 shows a top view of the base tool object 2100 including a tab 2500 for the bracing tool object 2400 of the final negative model 2402 in 3D coordinate space 1800 according to at least some embodiments. As shown, the front portion 2104 of the base tool object includes a tab 2500 that extends beyond the edge of the negative model 1200. The tab 2500 may be any suitable shape that allows for coupling to the edge of the bracing tool object 2400.

[0119] 26A shows another side view of a bracing tool object 2400 and a base tool object 2100 included in a final negative model 2402, according to at least some embodiments. As shown, the bracing tool object 2400 is merged and connected to a portion of the stem tool object 604 and a tab 2500 of the base tool object 2100. The bracing tool object 2400 may include one or more main post objects 2600 that provide primary physical support and connection between the stem tool object 604 and the base tool object 2100, including the tab 2500. The bracing tool object 2400 may include one or more branch objects 2602 that protrude from one or more sides of the main post object 2600 and connect to the stem tool object 604 or the base tool object 2100. Any suitable number of branch objects 2602 may be used to support the stem tool object 604 during printing. For example, in some embodiments, the number of branch objects 2602, the size of the branch objects 2602, and / or the location of the branch objects 2602 may depend on the size, length, depth, etc. of the stem tool object 604 (e.g., a larger stem tool object 604 may require more branch objects 2602 than a smaller stem tool object 604). As shown, the bracing tool object 2400 includes two main post objects 2600 and two branch objects 2602 connected to tabs 2500 of the base tool object 2100 and connected to the stem tool object 604. The tips of the branch objects 2602 connected to the main post objects 2600 and the stem tool object 604 may have a conical, pointed shape to reduce the surface area of ​​the stem tool object 604 to which the branch objects 2602 are connected. Another example bracing tool object 2400 is shown in FIG. 26B.

[0120] In some embodiments, when the stem tool object 604 of the negative model 1200 includes an inherent support 2003, as shown in FIG. 20, the base tool object 2100 may not include a bracing tool object 2400 (as shown in FIG. 21). In such a scenario, the base tool object 2100 shown in FIG. 22 may be selected to be merged with the negative model 1200. In some embodiments, when the stem tool object 604 does not include an inherent support, as shown in FIG. 27, the base tool object 2100 (as shown in FIG. 28) including the bracing tool object 2400 may be selected and merged with the negative model 1200. In either scenario, the base tool object 2100, with or without the bracing tool object 2400, may be placed at a specific coordinate location in the 3D coordinate space 1800 so that when the file containing the base tool object 2100 and the file containing the negative model 1200 are combined, the base tool object 2100 merges accurately with the negative model 1200.

[0121] 27 shows a perspective view of a bracing tool object 2400 and a base tool object 2100 included in a final negative model 2402 according to at least some embodiments. The perspective view of FIG. 27 more clearly shows the attachment point of the bracing tool object 2400 to the stem tool object 604.

[0122] 28 shows a perspective view of a bracing tool object 2400 and a base tool object 2100, according to at least some embodiments. As shown, the front portion 2104 of the base tool object 2100 includes (i) a protrusion and (ii) a tab 2500 that comprises the connected end of the bracing tool object 2400. In some embodiments, when the negative mold is printed, the bracing tool object 2400 may be physically removed, while the base tool object 2100 remains coupled to the negative mold. In some embodiments, both the bracing tool object 2400 and the base tool object 2100 may be removed from the negative mold. In some embodiments, the bracing tool object 2400 and the base tool object 2100 may remain coupled to the negative mold.

[0123] Returning to FIG. 16 , the next step in the exemplary method (block 1618) is printing a final negative mold 2402 to create the negative mold to be used in the casting process. In at least some exemplary embodiments, the final negative model 2402 is data contained in an electronic file, such as in .STL format. The data file may be provided to any suitable 3D printer or 3D printer technology, such as fused deposition modeling (FDM), stereolithography (SLA), digital light processing (DLP), selective laser sintering (SLS), selective laser melting (SLM), additive object manufacturing (LOM), or digital beam melting (EBM). For example, the 3D printer may be a Formlabs 3D printer available from Formlabs, Inc. (http: / / formlabs.com). In yet other exemplary embodiments, the final negative model 2402 may be printed on a 3D Systems printer (e.g., 3D Systems model FIG. 4) available from 3D Systems Inc. (https: / / www.3dsystems.com). That is, via the 3D printer 112 (FIG. 1), the final negative model 2402 becomes a physical entity referred to herein as a negative mold. Further, at block 1620, the method may include casting a replica of the anatomical structure using the negative mold (block 1620). The method may end at block 1622.

[0124] In some embodiments, the processing device (e.g., processor 1502) may obtain information related to one or more social media platforms on which the subject is enrolled. The information may indicate the number of followers associated with the subject's social media account, the number of subscribers associated with the subject's social media account, the number of friends associated with the subject's social media account, or some combination thereof. For example, the processing device may access a database associated with the social media platform to query information related to the subject's account. In some embodiments, the processing device may be communicatively coupled to an application programming interface hosted by the social media platform that provides functionality for querying information related to users' accounts on the social media platform. In some embodiments, the processing device may use one or more web crawling applications to access the social media platform, including web pages or user interfaces related to the subject's social media account, and perform screen scraping techniques (e.g., object character recognition, optical character recognition, natural language processing, etc.) to obtain information related to the subject's social media account.

[0125] In some embodiments, the processing device may determine a volume demand for the subject's anatomical structure based on the information. In some embodiments, the information (e.g., the number of followers associated with the subject, the number of subscribers associated with the subject, the number of friends associated with the subject, etc.) may indicate that the subject is a "social influencer" or popular, meaning that the subject has a large number of users on social media accounts who are notified about the subject's social media posts and / or activity on the social media platform. In some embodiments, printing the negative final model 2402 may include printing a number of negative molds determined based on the volume demand. If the subject is a social influencer, the number of negative molds may be higher than if the subject is determined not to be a social influencer.

[0126] In some embodiments, the processing device may determine a volumetric requirement for the subject's anatomical structures based on the information. In some embodiments, the information (e.g., the number of followers associated with the subject, the number of subscribers associated with the subject, the number of friends associated with the subject, etc.) may indicate that the subject is a "social influencer" or popular, meaning that the subject has a large number of users on social media accounts who are notified about the subject's social media posts and / or activity on the social media platform. In some embodiments, the processing device may select, based on the information, a person from a group of people to whom a portion of the negative model is assigned to modify. The person may be a highly skilled 3D model artist who modifies the negative model associated with the anatomical structures of the subject determined to be socially influential.

[0127] In some embodiments, the processing device may determine a volume requirement for the subject's anatomical structure based on the information. In some embodiments, the information (e.g., the number of followers associated with the subject, the number of subscribers associated with the subject, the number of friends associated with the subject, etc.) may indicate that the subject is a "social influencer" or popular, meaning that the subject has a large number of users on social media accounts who are notified about the subject's social media posts and / or activity on the social media platform. In some embodiments, the processing device may determine a number of initial replicas to create based at least on the information. For example, if the information indicates that the subject follows very few users on the social media platform, the number of initial replicas may be very small. On the other hand, if the information indicates that the subject follows very many users on the social media platform, the number of initial replicas may be very large.

[0128] The above discussion is intended to illustrate the principles and various embodiments of the present invention. Numerous variations and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art once the above disclosure is fully understood. It is intended that the following claims be interpreted to embrace all such variations and modifications.

[0129] Terms

[0130] Clause 1. A method of creating a replica of an anatomical structure, comprising:

[0131] Accepting, by a first computer system, a plurality of pictures of an anatomical structure of the subject, each picture of the plurality of pictures being from a distinct viewing angle relative to the anatomical structure.

[0132] Creating, by a first computer system, an object file containing an initial model of the exterior surface of the anatomical structure.

[0133] A first computer system cuts the initial model into a predetermined outer shape surrounding the anatomical structure, the cutting creating a positive model of the anatomical structure within the predetermined outline.

[0134] Creating, by a first computer system, a negative model of the anatomical structure from the positive model.

[0135] Positioning, by a first computer system, a stem tool object on the exterior surface of the negative model in relationship to the orifice of the anatomical structure.

[0136] Positioning, by a first computer system, a zeroing object and an angle object to align the negative model to a predetermined angle.

[0137] Positioning the base tool object by bonding it to the outer surface of the aligned negative model by the first computer system to create a final negative model.

[0138] The final negative model is printed using a 3D printer to create a negative mold.

[0139] Casting replicas of anatomical structures using negative molds.

[0140] Clause 2. The method of any clause herein, further including, prior to printing the final negative model, positioning the bracing tool object by bonding the bracing tool object to the stem tool object to generate the final negative model.

[0141] Clause 3. The method of any clause herein, further comprising coupling the bracing tool object to the base tool object, wherein the bracing tool object is coupled only to the stem tool object and the base tool object.

[0142] Clause 4. The method of any clause herein, wherein the base tool object is configured to support the negative mold at a predetermined angle.

[0143] Clause 5. The method of any clause herein, wherein arranging the zeroing object and the angle object further comprises:

[0144] Placing a zeroed object at the origin in a three-dimensional (3D) coordinate space containing a negative model.

[0145] Positioning the angle object relative to the zeroed object in 3D coordinate space so that the base of the angle object coincides with the base of the zeroed object.

[0146] Placing the lip of the exterior surface of the negative model flush against the angled wall portion so that the negative model is angled at a predetermined angle specified by the angled wall portion of the angled object.

[0147] Clause 6. The method of any clause herein, further comprising cutting the negative model to remove the angled object from the 3D coordinate space while leaving the zeroed object at an origin in the 3D coordinate space.

[0148] Clause 7. The method of any clause herein, further comprising:

[0149] Cutting the negative model by the first computer system to remove the angled object from the negative model.

[0150] Clause 8. The method of any clause herein, further comprising:

[0151] Obtaining information regarding one or more social media platforms on which the subject is registered, the information indicating a number of followers associated with the subject, a number of subscribers associated with the subject, a number of friends associated with the subject, or a combination thereof.

[0152] At least an informed determination of the volume requirements of the subject's anatomy.

[0153] Printing the final negative model further includes printing a number of negative molds determined based on volume requirements.

[0154] Clause 9. The method of any clause herein, further comprising:

[0155] Obtaining information regarding one or more social media platforms on which the subject is registered, the information indicating a number of followers associated with the subject, a number of subscribers associated with the subject, a number of friends associated with the subject, or a combination thereof.

[0156] Selecting a person from the group(s) of people to whom to assign a portion of the correction to the negative model based at least on the above information.

[0157] Clause 10. The method of any clause herein, further comprising:

[0158] Obtaining information related to one or more social media platforms on which the subject is registered, the information indicating a number of followers associated with the subject, a number of subscribers associated with the subject, a number of friends associated with the subject, or a combination thereof.

[0159] Determining the number of initial replicas to produce based at least on the above information.

[0160] Clause 11. The method of any clause herein, wherein the base tool object is configured to maintain the round shape of the negative mold.

[0161] Clause 12. The method of any clause herein, further comprising adding a unique identification number along a predetermined outline of the positive model before creating the negative model.

[0162] Clause 13. The method of any clause herein, wherein the anatomical structure is at least one selected from the group including the mouth, external genitalia, and anus.

[0163] Clause 14. The method of any clause herein, wherein the first computer system comprises a plurality of separate computer systems.

[0164] Clause 15. A system for producing a negative model of an anatomical structure, comprising:

[0165] Processor.

[0166] Memory coupled to a processor.

[0167] The memory stores a program that, when executed by the processor, causes the processor to:

[0168] Accepting a plurality of pictures of the subject's anatomy, each picture of the plurality of pictures being from a distinct viewing angle relative to the anatomy.

[0169] Creating an object file containing an initial model of the exterior of the anatomical structure.

[0170] Cutting the initial model into a predetermined outline that surrounds the anatomical structure, where cutting produces a positive model of the anatomical structure within the predetermined outline.

[0171] Creating a negative model of an anatomical structure from a positive model.

[0172] Positioning the stem tool object on the exterior surface of the negative model in relationship to the orifice of the anatomical structure.

[0173] Placing zeroing and angle objects to align the negative model to a predetermined angle.

[0174] Positioning the base tool object by bonding it to the outer surface of the aligned negative model.

[0175] Printing the final negative model to create a negative mold.

[0176] Clause 16. The system of any clause herein, wherein, prior to printing the final negative model, the program causes the processor to position the bracing tool objects by bonding the bracing tool objects to the stem tool objects to generate the final negative model.

[0177] Clause 17. The system of any clause herein, wherein the program causes the processor to bind the bracing tool object to the base tool object, and the bracing tool object is bound only to the stem tool object and the base tool object.

[0178] Clause 18. The system of any clause herein, wherein the base tool object is configured to support the negative mold at a predetermined angle.

[0179] Clause 19. The system of any clause herein, wherein positioning the zeroing object and the angle object further includes:

[0180] Placing a zeroed object at the origin in a three-dimensional (3D) coordinate space containing a negative model.

[0181] Positioning an angle object relative to a zeroing object so that the base of the angle object coincides with the base of the zeroing object in three-dimensional coordinate space.

[0182] Placing the lip of the exterior surface of the negative model flush against the angled wall portion so that the negative model is angled at a predetermined angle specified by the angled wall portion of the angled object.

[0183] Clause 20. A tangible, non-transitory, computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed, cause a processing device to:

[0184] Accepting a plurality of pictures of the subject's anatomy, each picture of the plurality of pictures being from a distinct viewing angle relative to the anatomy.

[0185] Creating an object file containing an initial model of the exterior of the anatomical structure.

[0186] Cutting the initial model into a predetermined outline that surrounds the anatomical structure, where cutting produces a positive model of the anatomical structure within the predetermined outline.

[0187] Creating a negative model of an anatomical structure from a positive model.

[0188] Positioning the stem tool object on the exterior surface of the negative model in relationship to the orifice of the anatomical structure.

[0189] Placing zeroing and angle objects to align the negative model to a predetermined angle.

[0190] Positioning the base tool object by bonding it to the outer surface of the aligned negative model to create a final negative model.

[0191] Printing the final negative model to create a negative mold.

Claims

1. 1. A method for creating a replica of an anatomical structure, comprising: receiving, by a first computer system, a plurality of pictures of an anatomical structure of a subject, each picture of the plurality of pictures being from a distinct viewing angle of the anatomical structure; creating, by the first computer system, an object file containing an initial model of the exterior surface of the anatomical structure; cutting, by the first computer system, the initial model into a predetermined outline surrounding the anatomical structure, wherein cutting creates a positive model of the anatomical structure within the predetermined outline; generating, by the first computer system, a negative model of the anatomical structure from the positive model; placing, by the first computer system, a stem tool object on an outer surface of the negative model in relationship to an orifice of the anatomical structure; positioning, by the first computer system, a zeroing object and an angle object to align the negative model to a predetermined angle; positioning, by the first computer system, a base tool object by bonding the base tool object to the outer surface of the aligned negative model to create a final negative model; Printing the final negative model using a three-dimensional printer to create a negative mold; casting a replica of the anatomical structure using the negative mold; Including, method.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising coupling a bracing tool object to the base tool object, wherein the bracing tool object is coupled only to the stem tool object and the base tool object.

3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the base tool object is configured to support the negative mold at the predetermined angle.

4. 1. A system for creating a negative model of an anatomical structure, comprising: a processor; a memory coupled to the processor; The memory stores a program that, when executed by the processor, causes the processor to: accepting a plurality of pictures of the subject's anatomy, each picture of the plurality of pictures being from a distinct viewing angle relative to the anatomy; creating an object file containing an initial model of the exterior surface of said anatomical structure; cutting the initial model into a predetermined outline surrounding the anatomical structure, the cutting producing a positive model of the anatomical structure within the predetermined outline; creating a negative model of the anatomical structure from the positive model; placing a stem tool object on an outer surface of the negative model in relationship to an orifice of the anatomical structure; placing a zeroing object and an angle object to align the negative model to a predetermined angle; positioning the base tool object by bonding the base tool object to the outer surface of the aligned negative model; Print the final negative model and create a negative mold. system.

5. The system of claim 4 , wherein the program causes the processor to bind a bracing tool object to the base tool object, the bracing tool object being bound only to the stem tool object and the base tool object.

6. The system of claim 4 , wherein the base tool object is configured to support the negative mold at the predetermined angle.

7. A tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions, comprising: The instructions, when executed, cause a processing device to: accepting a plurality of pictures of the subject's anatomy, each picture of the plurality of pictures being from a distinct viewing angle relative to the anatomy; creating an object file containing an initial model of the exterior surface of said anatomical structure; cutting the initial model into a predetermined outline surrounding the anatomical structure, the cutting generating a positive model of the anatomical structure within the predetermined outline; creating a negative model of the anatomical structure from the positive model; placing a stem tool object on an outer surface of the negative model in relationship to an orifice of the anatomical structure; placing a zeroing object and an angle object to align the negative model to a predetermined angle; positioning a base tool object by bonding it to the exterior surface of the aligned negative model to create a final negative model; printing the final negative model to create a negative mold; Tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium.

Images