3D Anatomical Model Workflow for Faster Segmentation and Printing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Creating and obtaining 3D anatomical models is a time-consuming, manual, and expensive process, limiting the efficiency and accessibility of personalized healthcare tools.

Innovation Solution

A computer-implemented system that includes a server system to receive DICOM data and segmentation instructions, allowing for automated segmentation and 3D printing processes, enabling healthcare professionals to focus on other tasks and improving the efficiency of generating accurate 3D anatomical models.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual segmentation and 3D model creation processes are used, then accuracy and customization of anatomical models can be achieved, but the process becomes time-consuming and expensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of anatomical modelsVSAvoidtime for model creation
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical segmentation processes with automated computer-based image processing and 3D reconstruction algorithms. The system automatically segments medical images (CT, MRI) and generates 3D anatomical models without requiring manual manipulation, thereby maintaining accuracy while dramatically reducing the time required for model creation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service automated processing where the computer system autonomously performs segmentation, model generation, and preparation tasks without continuous human intervention. The automated workflow allows the system to service itself through programmed algorithms that handle the entire pipeline from raw medical images to finalized 3D models.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of manufacture

If manual segmentation processes are used, then detailed control over model creation can be maintained, but the complexity and cost of the process increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of model creationVSAvoidcomplexity of segmentation process
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex manual segmentation procedures with automated computer-based image processing systems. The system uses algorithms to automatically segment medical images and generate 3D models, reducing the complexity of the process while improving ease of manufacture. The automated system handles the intricate tasks of image analysis and model generation that would otherwise require highly skilled manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Productivity

If automated segmentation is implemented, then processing speed and efficiency improve, but the need for sophisticated software and algorithms increases complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespeed of model generationVSAvoidcomplexity of automation system
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements automated segmentation using computer-based image processing and 3D reconstruction algorithms, replacing manual mechanical processes. This substitution dramatically improves productivity and speed of model generation while managing system complexity through standardized software architectures and established image processing techniques.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs universal multi-functional software that can handle various types of medical images (CT, MRI, PET) and generate different types of 3D anatomical models. This multi-functionality approach improves productivity across multiple applications while avoiding the need for separate specialized systems for each task, thereby managing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20250291326A1Lifecycle management for processing anatomical models
Publication Date: 2025.09.18 RICOH 3D FOR HEALTHCARE LLC
  • US20250291326A1 patent drawing
  • US20250291326A1 patent drawing
  • US20250291326A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Techniques for managing the lifecycle of processing 3D print orders are provided. In one technique, image data and a request to print a 3D model are received, from a requester computer, over a computer network, through a web portal. Segmentation instructions about segmenting the image data are also received. A record that indicates a print order that is based on the request and the segmentation instructions and that includes the image data is generated in a database. Later, the database is searched for the record based on first input from a segmenting computer that is different than the requester computer. Segmented image data that has been segmented based on the segmentation instructions are received from the segmenting computer.