An Evaluation of Digital Methods in Reverse Engineering Using Selected Medical Applications

[摘要] This dissertation investigates the use of digital modeling methods for selected medicalapplications. The digital methods include the design of a cranial implant, auricularprosthesis and the duplication of an oral prosthesis. The digital process includesimaging, image processing, design and fabrication steps. Three types of imaging usedare contact and non-contact measurement systems and CT scanning. The investigationuses a Phantom haptic device for digital design. The implants and prostheses arefabricated using a Thermojet printer and investment casting. Traditional and digitalprocesses are compared using four case studies on selected criteria. The conclusionsof the investigation are that a digital process can be used and is equal to or better thantraditional methods in prosthesis and implant design.

[发布机构] University of the Witwatersrand