Abstract: Direct slicing of CAD models to generate process planning instructions for solid freeform fabrication may overcome inherent disadvantages of using STL format in terms of the process accuracy, ease of file management, and incorporation of multiple materials. This paper will present the results of our development of a direct slicing algorithm for layered freeform fabrication. The direct slicing algorithm was based on a neutral, international standard (ISO 10303) STEP-formatted NURBS geometric representation and is intended to be independent of any commercial CAD software. The following aspects of the development effort will be presented: 1) Determination of optimal build direction based upon STEP-based NURBS models; 2) Adaptive subdivision of NURBS data for geometric refinement; and 3) Ray-casting slice generation into sets of raster patterns.

Abstract: A bone graft that is made at least partially of synthetic material or demineralized bone matrix and is of a suitable shape to fill a lower portion of a patient's maxillary sinus. The graft may be manufactured to patient-unique dimensions that may be determined radiographically prior to surgery and prior to manufacturing of the bone graft. Other aspects of the invention are a method of manufacture of the bone graft, and methods of installing the bone graft. The installation may make use of patient-unique templates to guide certain cutting operations. Another aspect of the invention is a kit comprising the bone graft, tools for its installation, templates and possibly other surgical items.

Abstract: The rapid design and manufacture of biomedical devices such as implants, oral dosage pills and implantable pharmaceuticals employs electronic data and modeling transmissions via a computer network. Patient information and patient-specific radiological data is captured and transmitted via a computer network to a design and/or manufacturing site. A multi-dimensional digital model is created based on the radiological data and patient information. Communications interchanges between a clinical/diagnostic site and a design/manufacturing site permit modification of the digital model until approved. The approved digital model is converted into machine instructions to construct the biomedical device. Alternatively, the digital model is employed in a best fit selection of a biomedical device from a pre-existing set of biomedical devices or machine-instructions. Transmittal of data over computer networks is further directed to the use of a Website to perform various client-interaction and follow-up tasks.

Abstract: The rapid design and manufacture of biomedical devices such as implants, oral dosage pills and implantable pharmaceuticals employs electronic data and modeling transmissions via a computer network. Patient information and patient-specific radiological data is captured and transmitted via a computer network to a design and/or manufacturing site. A multi-dimensional digital model is created based on the radiological data and patient information. Communications interchanges between a clinical/diagnostic site and a design/manufacturing site permit modification of the digital model until approved. The approved digital model is converted into machine instructions to construct the biomedical device. Alternatively, the digital model is employed in a best fit selection of a biomedical device from a pre-existing set of biomedical devices or machine-instructions. Transmittal of data over computer networks is further directed to the use of a Website to perform various client-interaction and follow-up tasks.

Abstract: The rapid design and manufacture of biomedical devices such as implants, oral dosage pills and implantable pharmaceuticals employs electronic data and modeling transmissions via a computer network. Patient information and patient-specific radiological data is captured and transmitted via a computer network to a design and/or manufacturing site. A multi-dimensional digital model is created based on the radiological data and patient information. Communications interchanges between a clinical/diagnostic site and a design/manufacturing site permit modification of the digital model until approved. The approved digital model is converted into machine instructions to construct the biomedical device. Alternatively, the digital model is employed in a best fit selection of a biomedical device from a pre-existing set of biomedical devices or machine-instructions. Transmittal of data over computer networks is further directed to the use of a Website to perform various client-interaction and follow-up tasks.