3D Appliance Shape Transformation via Datum Plane Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need to modify three-dimensional representations of body parts for producing prostheses and orthoses to accommodate variations in size and comfort, as existing methods do not allow for efficient adjustments to ensure a proper fit and comfort for patients.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for applying shape transformations to three-dimensional representations of appliances for living bodies, involving the identification of datum, constraint, and limit planes to define a transform volume, where input coordinates are modified within this volume to produce a modified representation that can be used to control computer-aided manufacturing machines for producing customized appliances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the three-dimensional representation is modified to accommodate variations in size and comfort, then the adaptability of the appliance is improved, but the complexity of the modification process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the three-dimensional representation into a transform volume defined by a datum plane and transform coordinates, allowing selective modification of specific regions. This segmentation enables independent adjustment of appliance portions (e.g., foot length) without affecting the entire representation, thereby improving adaptability while managing complexity through localized editing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a transform volume dimension extending normal to the datum plane, creating a three-dimensional editing space. This dimensional approach allows modifications to be applied along specific axes (e.g., lengthening the foot in the z-direction) while maintaining the integrity of other dimensions, thus achieving adaptability without proportionally increasing overall complexity.
2Ease of operation
If shape transformations are applied to modify the appliance shape, then the ease of operation for customization is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces transform coordinates and a datum plane as intermediary elements between the user's customization intentions and the final manufacturing specifications. These intermediaries provide a user-friendly interface for shape modification while automatically handling the complex coordinate transformations and precision requirements, thus improving ease of operation without compromising manufacturing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter transformations within the transform volume, allowing users to modify appliance shapes by adjusting transformation parameters (scaling, rotating, translating coordinates) rather than directly manipulating complex geometric data. This parameter-based approach simplifies operation while maintaining precision through mathematical transformation relationships.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the transform volume is extended to cover larger portions of the appliance, then the adaptability for different patient sizes is improved, but the loss of time for processing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the appliance representation into a transform volume and non-transform volume, allowing users to selectively apply modifications only to the necessary portions. This segmentation enables efficient processing by limiting computational operations to relevant regions rather than the entire appliance, thus improving adaptability for different patient sizes while minimizing processing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial transformations only to the transform volume containing the modified portion, rather than applying transformations to the entire appliance representation. This partial action approach achieves the necessary adaptability for specific patient requirements while reducing unnecessary computational processing time associated with transforming the complete model.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, apparatus, media and signals for applying a shape transformation to at least a portion of a three dimensional representation of an appliance for a living body is disclosed. The representation is defined by an input plurality of coordinates representing a general shape of the appliance. The method involves identifying a coordinate location of a datum plane with respect to the representation of the appliance, the datum plane defining a transform volume within which the shape transformation is to be applied, the transform volume extending outwardly from and normal to a first surface of the datum plane. The method also involves identifying input coordinates in the plurality of input coordinates that are located within the transform volume. The method further involves modifying the identified input coordinates in accordance with the shape transformation to produce a modified representation of the appliance, and storing the modified representation of the appliance in a computer memory.