Abstract: A method for manufacturing a reproduction of a three-dimensional physical object by obtaining a digital two-dimensional representation of the object, manipulating the two-dimensional representation to input-data for a manufacturing machine, and manufacturing a reproduction of a three-dimensional physical object based on the input-data.

Abstract: A method and system for fabricating a dental prosthesis are provided. High resolution digital scanned images of a patient's oral structures are acquired. Three dimensional (3D) cone beam X-ray images of hard and soft oral tissues are acquired. The scanned images are integrated with the 3D cone beam X-ray images in a 3D space to obtain combined three dimensional images of the oral structures. The occlusal relationship between upper and lower oral structures are digitally simulated using the combined three dimensional images. The dental prosthesis is digitally modeled for planning intra-oral positioning and structure of the dental prosthesis. The digital dental prosthesis model is refined based on simulated force tests performed for assessing interference and retention of the digital dental prosthesis model. A prospective dental prosthesis model is created based on the refined digital dental prosthesis model. The dental prosthesis is fabricated based on a verified prospective dental prosthesis model.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for producing articular repair materials and for repairing an articular surface. In particular, methods for providing articular repair systems. Also provided are articular surface repair systems designed to replace a selected area cartilage, for example, and surgical tools for repairing articular surfaces.

Abstract: A computer implemented method, apparatus, and computer usable program code for providing ply lay-up data for a composite part. A designation of a location is received for the composite part in a three dimensional object from a requester. A three dimensional model is opened in which the composite part is located. The ply lay-up data is extracted for a section within the composite part within the three dimensional model to form extracted ply lay-up data for the section. An output file is created containing a two dimensional drawing for the section with the ply lay-up data identifying a ply stacking sequence, an orientation of each ply in the ply stacking sequence, and a material for the each ply in the ply stacking sequence. The output file is returned to the requester.

Abstract: A method and system for fabricating a dental prosthesis are provided. High resolution digital scanned images of a patient's oral structures are acquired. Three dimensional (3D) cone beam X-ray images of hard and soft oral tissues are acquired. The scanned images are integrated with the 3D cone beam X-ray images in a 3D space to obtain combined three dimensional images of the oral structures. The occlusal relationship between upper and lower oral structures are digitally simulated using the combined three dimensional images. The dental prosthesis is digitally modeled for planning intra-oral positioning and structure of the dental prosthesis. The digital dental prosthesis model is refined based on simulated force tests performed for assessing interference and retention of the digital dental prosthesis model. A prospective dental prosthesis model is created based on the refined digital dental prosthesis model. The dental prosthesis is fabricated based on a verified prospective dental prosthesis model.

Abstract: A wax model of a required coping is produced using CNC machining techniques based on a virtual model of the coping created from digital data obtained from the intraoral cavity. The dental coping is then fabricated from the wax model.

Abstract: A device for the production of a three-dimensional object made of solidifiable material having at least one processing unit (11) for the processing of the solidifiable material into a liquid phase to discharge the material from a material reservoir (12) via a discharge unit (13) in the direction of a construction space (17) in the form of intermittent drops (15). The conditions required for this can be satisfied (FIG. 2) via the closing mechanism featuring a plastic malleable solid body joint (24).

Abstract: Three-dimensional models are produced using a sheet material made of water-soluble paper. Each layer of the sheet material is made severable along the contour lines of the three-dimensional model by discharging water onto each layer of the sheet material. A coloring solution is discharged when each layer is deposited to color the sheet material. After the deposition is completed, the unnecessary parts of the sheet material can be pulled away to complete the three-dimensional model. Alternatively, by discharging a setting solution onto each layer of the sheet material, each layer of the sheet material in the section of the three-dimensional model can be insolubilized, and a color setting solution can be discharged to color and set the colored parts. After the deposition is completed, the deposition can be immersed in water to remove the sheet material that was not insolubilized and complete the three-dimensional model.

Abstract: A method for designing an ear insert device using anatomical information relating to the ear. A user record is that includes anatomical information relating to an ear of a user is received. The anatomical information comprises at least one sub-dermal feature of an ear canal. The user record is processed to obtain an ear insert device design record. The ear insert device design record comprises a three dimensional representation of a bounding surface shape having surface boundaries that substantially conform to surface boundaries of the ear canal and the at least one sub-dermal feature of the ear canal. An ear insert device may be produced using the ear insert design record.

Abstract: A computer implemented method, apparatus, and computer usable program code for providing ply lay-up data for a composite part. A designation of a location is received for the composite part in a three dimensional object from a requester. A three dimensional model is opened in which the composite part is located. The ply lay-up data is extracted for a section within the composite part within the three dimensional model to form extracted ply lay-up data for the section. An output file is created containing a drawing of the composite part overlaid with a grid containing the section with the ply lay-up data identifying a ply stacking sequence, an orientation of each ply in the ply stacking sequence, and a material for the each ply in the ply stacking sequence. The output file is returned to the requester.

Abstract: In a method of providing a material amount for a generative manufacturing method, a three-dimensional object (2) is formed by selectively solidifying layers of a material at locations corresponding to the cross-section of the object (2) in the respective layers. The quality of the manufactured objects is reproducibly recorded, thus, improving the method. At least one first material amount of a powder is provided, which is characterized by at least one feature. Data is detected, which relates to the at least one feature of the first material. Then, the data is stored, which relates to the at least one feature of the first material. Thus, the method can provide an identifiable powder amount used in manufacturing each layer of the object.

Abstract: A system for imaging one or more items produced by rapid prototyping may include, but is not limited to: control electronics including a memory containing a plurality of data sets representing design items; a user interface coupled to the control electronics and operative to select one or more of the data sets representing design items and operative to receive user view selections; a rapid prototyping device coupled to the control electronics and responsive to the selected one or more data sets representing design items to produce physical items; a positioning mechanism operable to accept the produced physical items from the rapid prototyping device and to position the produced physical items in a field; and an image capture device responsive to the received user view selections electronics to selectively image at least a portion of the field corresponding to the received user view selection.

Abstract: A reproduction is prepared wherein the length of the reproduction is varied by one scale factor and the deeps of the image produced in the reproduction is varied by a second scale factor. The reproduction may be prepared from a three dimensional article or a painting, art work or other two dimensional member having a topography in the surface thereof (such as brush strokes) or from a two dimensional substrate which has a picture thereon without any topography wherein the topography which is applied to the reproduction is prepared based upon computer interpretation of the objects present in the picture.

Abstract: A system for adapting a hearing aid to a user includes a unit generating an image of the user's ear together with a model of the hearing aid, wherein the model of the hearing aid in-situ includes a physical model of the hearing aid inserted in the user's ear prior to generating the image. The system also generates a mesh based on the image, calculates acoustic response to a simulated acoustic signal in the mesh, calculates a frequency response curve for a fixed position in the mesh, and identifies an optimal position of a microphone of the hearing aid in-situ from the acoustic response. They system also includes a comparator configured to compare the frequency response curve for the fixed position in the mesh with a maximum frequency response curve for the mesh stored by the system.

Abstract: A computational technique to construct a 3-D valve leaflet geometry. The invention pertains to methodology to construct a 3-D heart valve leaflet geometry using finite element analysis (FEA) to simulate the manual assembly process or, in other words, provide a virtual assembly process as an input to a subsequent simulated valve testing step. The simulated valves may be subjected to simulated cyclic valve opening and closings and the stress levels induced therein monitored. Simulated valve designs with lower principal stresses can then be selected for prototyping. Proposed valves can be subjected to cyclic fatigue stress testing under simulated physiologic conditions to study valve durability.

Abstract: A method of producing an object by sequentially printing layers of construction material one on top of the other, the method comprising: providing the construction material at a first lower temperature; flowing the construction material through a heated flow path in a flow structure to heat the construction material and delivering the heated construction material to a heated reservoir in a printing head; and dispensing the heated construction material from the reservoir to build the object layer by layer.

Abstract: Method for producing a base part of a set of artificial teeth, or a set of artificial teeth having a base part, comprising the step of forming the base part by a rapid prototyping process, e.g. 3D lithography and, in particular, 3D laser lithography. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method of establishing a data set representing the shape of a base part of a set of artificial teeth, wherein a gum area or a model thereof is scanned and/or a model of a base part is scanned and/or the shape of the base part is simulated on a computer.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing artificial implants, comprising 1) acquiring the pre-operation three dimensional volume image and the post-operation three dimensional volume image of the operation portion, thereby respectively producing the pre-operation target image and the post-operation target image including the target; 2) aligning the pre-operation target image with the post-operation target image so as to generate the aligned image; 3) acquiring the difference image of the incised part in the target based on the aligned image; 4) building the three dimensional model of mold points of the incised part based on the difference image; and 5) manufacturing the artificial implant having the same shape with the incised part based on such three dimensional model of mold points.

Abstract: A method and appertaining system implement the use of manufacturing protocols for hearing aid design such that the ability to build an instrument can be displayed as a numeric parameter based on the partial numerical and metrological contributions of all the essential parameters of the given impression, and a buildability index can be displayed as a 3D virtual image of the proposed shell or preferred shell types. The method utilizes a predefined parameter table comprising parameters to utilize for a buildability determination. The buildability index is computed based on impression shape data, selected shell type, selected number of device options, data obtained from the parameter table, and data obtained from a receiver table, and the buildability index is output to a display of a user interface device or an external system.

Abstract: A method of controlling the flow of unbound powder in a build chamber. A build surface for receiving the powder is provided, with the build surface including a first plate defining holes and a second plate defining a plurality of openings spaced apart and offset from the plurality of holes in the first plate. The second plate is disposed below and spaced from the first plate. A vacuum source is provided below the build surface.

Abstract: Described herein are bioprinters comprising: one or more printer heads, wherein a printer head comprises a means for receiving and holding at least one cartridge, and wherein said cartridge comprises contents selected from one or more of: bio-ink and support material; a means for calibrating the position of at least one cartridge; and a means for dispensing the contents of at least one cartridge. Further described herein are methods for fabricating a tissue construct, comprising: a computer module receiving input of a visual representation of a desired tissue construct; a computer module generating a series of commands, wherein the commands are based on the visual representation and are readable by a bioprinter; a computer module providing the series of commands to a bioprinter; and the bioprinter depositing bio-ink and support material according to the commands to form a construct with a defined geometry.

Abstract: Disclosed are apparatus and methods for manufacturing complex gears includes the creation of a data set to control a robotic machine tool enabling the tool to machine the contours of the gears accurately after the gear has been cut. Each gear is mounted to an indexable chuck which is used to position the gear for machining operations such as chamfering and deburring that heretofore have been done by hand. A machine cabinet allows debris from machining to be recovered by a vacuum-operated system and an air-cooling system cools the gear during machining without requiring the use of cooling oils or other liquids.

Abstract: A system for creating a package includes a processor, a memory, and computer-readable instructions that instruct the processor to receive a package description and generate content, formatting instructions, and a structural design features for a package. The system applies the content and structural design features to a substrate to convert a flat substrate into a three-dimensional package.

Abstract: A head mount for use in a digital manufacturing system, where the head mount comprises a first component supported by at least one gantry of the digital manufacturing system, and a second component configured to retain a deposition head of the digital manufacturing system, and to move relative to the first component in response to a load applied to the deposition head from a platform assembly of the digital manufacturing system.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method for the automated adjustment of the position of a cutting tool when cutting dental aligner material includes using a computer for generating digital data that define (a) a first cutting angle in a labial cutting area along a dynamic cutting curve, (b) a second cutting angle in a lingual cutting area along the dynamic cutting curve, and (c) a third cutting angle in a back molar cutting area along the dynamic cutting curve. The cutting tool is automatically moved from the labial cutting area to the back molar cutting area while gradually increasing a cutting tool angle from the first cutting angle to the third cutting angle. The cutting tool is also automatically moved from the lingual cutting area to the back molar cutting area while gradually increasing the cutting tool angle from the second cutting angle to the third cutting angle.

Abstract: Digital models of the application areas of a left-ear and of a right-ear hearing device are established. The models (140r# and 140l#) are displayed on a computer display. The location of the model (SP#) of the sagittal plane of individual's head is estimated with respect to one of the two digital mold models. Then that one digital model (140r#) is digitally mirrored at the digital model of the sagittal plane (SP#) resulting in a mirrored digital model (140m#). Then the other digital model of the application area (140l#) and the mirrored digital model (140mr#) are brought into best possible covering alignment (140?l#). Units to be positioned in predetermined mutual relationship are applied to the models in best possible alignment.

Abstract: A system and method for modeling of complete tooth, including root and crown, of a patient to facilitate orthodontic treatment are provided, wherein generic tooth modeling is combined with tooth crown modeling for a patient to yield complete tooth modeling. A generic tooth 3D model for a particular tooth is morphed with a 3D model of a patient's crown for the corresponding tooth to yield a complete 3D model for that tooth. Modeling techniques can be conducted with computer-based systems, such as systems configured for storing patient data and generic tooth data, morphing such data and/or facilitating additional orthodontic treatment applications, through the use of one or more algorithms. Adjustment of the complete tooth model for the tooth can be provided through additional patient information, such as X-ray imaging, to address variations in root shape between a generic root and an actual root shape for a patient.

Abstract: Apparatus for performing Raman analysis may include a laser source module, a beam delivery and signal collection module, a spectrum analysis module, and a digital signal processing module. The laser source module delivers a laser beam to the beam delivery and signal collection module. The beam delivery and signal collection module delivers the laser source beam to a sample, collects Raman scattered light scattered from the sample, and delivers the collected Raman scattered light to the spectrum analysis module. The spectrum analysis module demultiplexes the Raman scattered light into discrete Raman bands of interest, detects the presence of signal energy in each of the Raman bands, and produces a digital signal that is representative of the signal energy present in each of the Raman bands. The digital signal processing module is adapted to perform a Raman analysis of the sample.

Abstract: A conveyor or other transport mechanism is provided to support multiple, sequential builds from a three-dimensional fabrication machine. The conveyor may be heated/cooled, coated, or otherwise treated to assist in adhesion during a build, as well as removal of objects after a build. Each fabricated object may be automatically removed from the conveyor as the conveyor moves in order to restore a buildable surface for fabrication of additional objects.

Abstract: A method for fabricating a prosthetic limb socket component includes the following steps: (a) obtaining measurements of an individual's residual limb; (b) generating electronic data representing outer dimensions of the individual's residual limb utilizing (at least in part) the obtained measurements; (c) storing the electronic data representing outer dimensions of the individual's residual limb in an electronic record, where the electronic record includes cross-reference information; (d) manufacturing a first prosthetic limb socket component utilizing, at least in part, the electronic data representing outer dimensions of the individual's residual limb; (e) placing a permanent unique indicia on the prosthetic limb socket component, where the unique indicia includes data corresponding to the cross-reference information; and (f) utilizing the unique indicia data to access, with the assistance of a computer, the electronic record via the cross-reference information.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for designing and producing a custom-fit prosthesis. According to one embodiment, a mold is produced from which a custom-fit implant may be directly or indirectly manufactured. Medical image data representing surrounding portions of a patient's anatomy to be repaired by surgical implantation of the custom-fit implant are received. Then, three-dimensional surface reconstruction is performed based on the medical image data. Next, the custom-fit implant is designed based on the three-dimensional surface reconstruction and a positive or negative representation of a two-part mold is created with a void in the shape of the custom-fit implant by subtracting a representation of the custom-fit implant from a representation of a mold. Finally, the two-part mold is output from which the custom-fit implant may be directly manufactured; or an implant is directly output. Alternatively, an intermediate mold is created from which a two-part mold may be directly manufactured.

Abstract: Presented herein are methods, systems, devices, and computer-readable media for dental prosthesis connector design. Embodiments include providing a computer-based interface for manipulating a connector that connects a first dental restoration component and a second dental restoration component in a dental prosthesis; providing, via a cross-sectional representation of the connector, an acceptability design constraint for the connector, such as whether the connector meets production constraints and/or encompasses the intersection between neighboring teeth; modifying the connector based on operator input; determining whether the modified connector is acceptable with respect to the acceptability design constraint; and providing an acceptability indication for the modified connector, wherein said acceptability indication is determined based at least in part on whether the modified connector is acceptable with respect to the acceptability design constraint.

Abstract: An automated system for producing custom layouts for storage or transport molds made of foam or any other malleable material used for storage or package items, which is capable of identifying the type of item depicted by each image file, automatically generating the shape of each receptacle; automatically distributing the identified items in one or more molds; and automatically generating the accommodation layout of each receptacle in the one or more molds.

Abstract: A system produces orthodontic aligners by CNC machining. A digital model of the patient's dental anatomy is manipulated using CAD software to create a solid CAD model of an aligner. A CNC milling machine is then used to machine the inside and outside surfaces of the aligner from a block of suitable material. A progressive series of aligners can also be designed.

Abstract: A system and computer-implemented method for the creation of a structure using Lego building blocks is disclosed. Aspects of the methods are equally appropriate for numerous structures, including but not limited to, studs-up and studs-out configurations or a ‘wall’ style mosaic or a ‘floor’ style mosaic. Given the systems and methods disclosed, aspects of the invention are applicable to three-dimensional sculpture structures too. The system and method may use a recursive overlapping divide-and-conquer breadth-first search feature to improve the quality of the structures while only slightly, if at all, increasing the time and memory required. Furthermore, the system and method may use dithering algorithms and/or cost analysis to determine which building block can be used and placed to achieve high-quality structures. In another example, aspects of the invention may be used to more optimally schedule delivery trucks.

Abstract: Information with regard to each finished part model is transmitted from a part design terminal 1 to an exclusive server 3 at each time of finishing each part model formed in steps for designing a part. Further, the information with regard to the each part model is acquired by making access to the exclusive server 3 from a die design terminal 2. Therefore, tasks with regard to designing the die can be progressed in parallel based on the acquired information without awaiting for finishing all of the respective part models for designing the die.

Abstract: A method for modifying a computer-aided design model of a three-dimensional object, the method comprising establishing a threshold wall width, providing at least one sliced layer polyline of the computer-aided design model, determining a first distance between first and second portions of the at least one sliced layer polyline, and adjusting locations of the first and second portion to provide a second distance if the first distance is less than the threshold wall width, where the second distance is about equal to the threshold wall width, or greater.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method for rapidly forming a vehicle body model includes identifying a vehicle design using a computer. Sectioning data is determined by sectioning the vehicle design into multiple virtual sections using a design program implemented on the computer. The sectioning data is used by a machine to form multiple modeling sections that correspond to the multiple virtual sections. The multiple modeling sections are nested together to form the vehicle body model. The multiple modeling sections are fixed together once the vehicle body model is formed.

Abstract: A system includes an encoding module and a decoding module. The encoding module generates a three-dimensional (3D) model of a part, modifies the 3D model to include a 3D structure, and generates a computer-aided design (CAD) file based on the modified 3D model. The decoding module determines whether the CAD file includes the 3D structure, authorizes operation of analysis software on the CAD file when the CAD file includes the 3D structure, and prohibits operation of the analysis software when the CAD file does not include the 3D structure.

Abstract: Systems and methods for constructing custom orthotics are described. Several embodiments of the system use sensor pads to obtain both static and dynamic three dimensional information concerning the shape or topography of the bottom surface of a patient's foot. The information is analyzed to obtain information useful in constructing a custom orthotic from a selection of basic orthotic shells. Once constructed, the orthotic can modify a patient's gait. One embodiment of the present invention includes a user terminal including a sensor pad connected to a computer, a server configured to analyze three dimensional information acquired by the sensor pad, a manufacturing terminal configured to display the results of the server's analysis of the three dimensional information and a network that connects the user terminal to the server and the server to the manufacturing terminal.

Abstract: The acquisition and reproduction units of the system are interconnected by means of a network in order to survey and regenerate the outline of any kind of object and to reproduced it either virtually in a CAD 3D system or materially in plastic, composite or papery material.

Abstract: An optical projection system for use with a display surface includes at least one image source comprising an array of source image pixels, a projector to project a first projection of the array of source image pixels, and at least one mirror including at least one curved reflecting surface having a curved profile. The at least one curved reflecting surface is adapted to convert the first projection to a curved second projection directed onto the display surface to provide an array of displayed image pixels on the display surface corresponding to the array of source image pixels, wherein the array of displayed image pixels have constant pixel pitch among adjacent displayed image pixels.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing one or several dental prostheses, comprising the steps of: performing a rapid prototyping method for manufacturing one or several dental prostheses and subsequent working, such as reworking, of the one or several dental prostheses with a machining method, such as a milling method. In addition, a method for creating a data record which can be used for a rapid prototyping method for manufacturing a dental prosthesis wherein an end data record is obtained from a starting data record, so that in at least one area of a dental prosthesis manufactured with the end data record excess material is provided, compared to a dental prosthesis manufactured with the starting data record.

Abstract: A design module is a software module that is implemented in a computer system that comprises instructions stored in a machine-readable medium and a processor that executes the instructions. The design module receives inputs from a person to create a custom insert for a lighting control panel. The inputs identify the content and locations of labels and a decorative background of the insert. Each label is associated with a corresponding input device. Each input device is associated with an optical configuration or “scene” of an environment associated with the lighting control panel. Each label includes alphanumeric text and/or graphics that identify the scene of the label's corresponding input device. The design module causes the insert to be generated by instructing a printer to print the labels and background on a sheet of material, at the specified locations.

Abstract: Presented herein are methods and devices for designing dental components, such as physical models of a patient's anatomy, crowns and bridges. An operator of a prosthetic designing system can receive information, such as from a scanner, which provides information on the topology of the patient's dentition. The operator can use this information to design a custom prosthetic to fit the patient. Part of the designing process involves using a finish line defined for a preparation as a segmentation line for a physical die corresponding to the preparation, and using a path of draw line as an insertion axis line for a dental prosthetic.

Abstract: A wax model of a required coping is produced using CNC machining techniques based on a virtual model of the coping created from digital data obtained from the intraoral cavity. The dental coping is then fabricated from the wax model.

Abstract: Adaptive caching techniques are described. In an implementation, a head end defines a plurality of cache periods having associated criteria. Request data for content is obtained and utilized to associate the content with the defined cache periods based on a comparison of the request data with the associated criteria. Then, the content is cached at the head end for the associated cache period.

Abstract: A polishing machine is described in which a surface treatment tool is moved across the surface of a workpiece in accordance with a predefined tool-path, in order to carry out the desired treatment process. The tool-path is non-periodic and preferably pseudo-random. Various techniques are described for generating data representing the tool-path to be followed. A technique is also described for determining optimum control parameters used to control the polishing machine for a given tool-path. The surface treatment may be a shaping technique in which material is removed from the surface, or a technique for adding material to the surface of the workpiece, or a technique for modifying the surface or a region under the surface of the workpiece.

Abstract: A three-dimensional modeling apparatus includes a stage, a movement mechanism, first and second supply mechanisms, and a head. To the stage, a modeling material is supplied. The movement mechanism moves the stage in a predetermined direction. The first supply mechanism and the second supply mechanism are disposed along the predetermined direction. The first and second supply mechanisms supply the modeling material onto the stage that is moved by the movement mechanism. The head discharges a liquid to the modeling material on the stage. The liquid is capable of hardening the modeling material supplied from at least one of the first supply mechanism and the second supply mechanism.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing an object having a potential {x} which is generated in response to a field {f} applied thereto is provided. The method includes the step of designing a geometric model of the object. A computerized mathematical model of the object is generated by discretizing the geometric model of the object into a plurality of finite elements and defining nodes at boundaries of the elements, wherein values of the field {f} and potential {x} are specified at the nodes. A material property matrix [k] is then calculated based on the relationship {f}=[k]{x}. Material property coefficients are then extracted from the material property matrix [k] for each finite element in the computerized mathematical model and the extracted material property coefficients are compared to material property coefficients for known materials to match the extracted material property coefficients to the material property coefficients for known materials.