U.S. patent application number 14/766720 was filed with the patent office on 2016-01-07 for 3d platform for aesthetic simulation.
The applicant listed for this patent is CRISALIX SA. Invention is credited to Jaime Garcia Giraldez, Fabian Wyss.
Application Number | 20160005106 14/766720 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 47998774 |
Filed Date | 2016-01-07 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160005106 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Giraldez; Jaime Garcia ; et
al. |
January 7, 2016 |
3D PLATFORM FOR AESTHETIC SIMULATION
Abstract
The present invention is related to the field of aesthetics. It
concerns more particularly new methods for the generation of 3D
anatomical outputs and 3D simulations of any aesthetic procedure,
products obtained by such simulations, uses thereof and the
creation of platforms or 3D virtual worlds of connected users and
entities forming a virtual community using such methods and
creating or ordering accessories and/or products.
Inventors: |
Giraldez; Jaime Garcia;
(Lausanne, CH) ; Wyss; Fabian; (Le Mont,
CH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
CRISALIX SA |
Lausanne |
|
CH |
|
|
Family ID: |
47998774 |
Appl. No.: |
14/766720 |
Filed: |
February 7, 2014 |
PCT Filed: |
February 7, 2014 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/EP2014/052414 |
371 Date: |
August 7, 2015 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
705/14.73 ;
705/26.41; 705/27.2 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 30/0269 20130101;
A61B 34/10 20160201; G06Q 50/01 20130101; G06Q 30/0282 20130101;
G06Q 30/0613 20130101; G16H 50/50 20180101; G06Q 30/0643 20130101;
A61B 2034/104 20160201; A61B 2034/108 20160201; G06Q 30/0277
20130101 |
International
Class: |
G06Q 30/06 20060101
G06Q030/06; G06Q 30/02 20060101 G06Q030/02; G06Q 50/00 20060101
G06Q050/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Feb 7, 2013 |
GB |
1302194.4 |
Claims
1. A method of generating at least one 3D anatomical output, 3D
representation and/or 3D simulation of an animal body or human body
and/or of at least one part of said body, the method comprising:
receiving as input at least one image, at least one video and/or
anatomical information, generating at least one 3D anatomical
output from said body and/or of at least one part of said body, and
optionally performing one or more of the following steps: accessing
a service, starting a process, visualizing said 3D anatomical
output, linking users together, wherein said users are selected
from consumers, professionals and companies, creating at least one
object, product, creation, accessory, custom sizer and/or implant,
online ordering of at least one product, managing stock, data
mining, and producing statistics.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein said accessing the service is
either located directly in a form of web banner in a website or any
application belonging to a professional, in a website belonging to
an owner of said service, in any other website with whom the owner
of said service has an agreement with, in online social networks,
and/or accessible via any application, whether mobile phone,
tablet, computer and/or laptop.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein said receiving as input
comprises: i) generating at least one image and/or at least one
video with at least one imaging device, and optionally performing
one or more of the following steps: ii) obtaining anatomical
information by either automatically and/or by manually entering
said anatomical information, and iii) obtaining user information by
either manually entering said user information and/or by
automatically retrieving said user information.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein said generating at least one 3D
anatomical output comprises detecting an image feature, and
creating at least one 3D anatomical output or 3D representation,
and optionally performing one or more of the following steps:
defining image markings, checking the quality of said 3D anatomical
output or 3D representation, correcting said 3D anatomical output
or 3D representation and/or regenerating said 3D anatomical output
or 3D representation, generating at least one novel input,
selecting at least one 3D procedure or 3D simulation feature, and
simulating at least one 3D anatomical output based on said 3D
procedure or 3D simulation feature.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein said visualizing comprises: i)
visualizing 3D anatomy, at least one 3D anatomical output, 3D
representation and/or 3D simulation, and optionally performing one
or more of the following steps: ii) planning at least one 3D
simulation procedure or 3D implant simulation procedure, iii)
simulating 3D anatomical output based on: a) information provided
by the user, b) an automatic analysis of said 3D anatomy, said 3D
representation or said 3D anatomical output c) selection of at
least one implant, object, accessory, and/or product from a
catalogue or database of implants, objects, accessories and/or
products, and/or d) selection of at least one type of anatomy from
a catalogue or database of different anatomies, wherein said type
of anatomy is selected from a type of nose, type of lips, type of
eyes or eyebrows, type of chin and cheeks, type of haircuts, type
of ears, and/or type of skin, iv) editing said 3D anatomical
output, v) determining modifications in the shape of internal
components or parts of the body following at least one 3D procedure
or 3D simulation feature and simulating a 3D anatomical output
based on said modifications, vi) simulating at least one 3D desired
anatomical output following at least one 3D procedure or 3D
simulation feature and determining the resulting customized
object(s), accessory(ies), creations(s), products(s), implant(s),
sizer(s), surgical technique(s), anatomical position(s), and/or
modification(s) in the shape of internal components or parts of the
body based on said 3D desired anatomical output, vii) visualizing
and comparing 3D anatomical output before and after simulation,
wherein said visualization comprises either a split view or an
animation showing progressively the change in the anatomy, viii)
visualizing, holographic visualizing, retro-project visualizing,
augmented reality visualizing, storing, printing, customized
printing, sharing, and/or sending any 3D anatomical output in
either 2D form or 3D form, either as a video or image, and/or
either in a remote location, locally or point of care, and ix)
producing or manufacturing said 3D anatomical output or said
resulting customized object(s), product(s), accessory(ies),
implant(s), sizer(s), surgical technique(s), anatomical
position(s), modification(s) in the shape of internal components or
parts of the body based on said 3D desired anatomical output,
either in a remote location, locally or point of care.
6. The method of claim 5, wherein said simulating automatically
selects optimal object, creation, product, accessory or implant
characteristics and/or anatomical position outcome, and/or wherein
said simulating is performed by visualizing a range of different
sizes, and/or is based on attractiveness and/or on anatomical
proportions criteria.
7. The method of claim 5, wherein said editing permit modifying the
3D anatomical output comprising: adding and/or removing volume in a
region selected in the anatomy for fat injection simulation and/or
any other substance used for this purpose, and/or modifying and/or
smoothing the shape of a region and/or skin texture.
8. The method of claim 5, wherein said 3D implant simulation
procedure comprises the step of selecting at least one implant from
a catalogue and projecting said implant(s) into the 3D anatomy in
order to select the position inside the body and to create the
final 3D anatomical output or 3D simulation, and further comprises
optionally performing one or more of the following steps: analyzing
the anatomy and selecting best and/or appropriate implant(s) to be
used, calculating the volume of the selected anatomical region
before the procedure, analyzing potential asymmetries, calculating
the orientation of the selected anatomical region before and/or
after the procedure, making drawings over the surface of the 3D
representation, making linear and/or geodesical measurements in the
anatomy, displaying a symmetry plane in the middle of the body and
projecting one side to the other in order to visualize anatomical
differences, identifying/selecting the final shape and/or size
enabling automatic calculation of the corresponding implant(s) of
said selected final shape and/or size, calculating the optimal
position of the implant after surgery, and making annotations in
the 3D anatomy.
9. The method of claim 5, wherein said 3D simulation procedure
comprises the step of selecting at least one tool allowing
modification of the shape and/or texture of said selected
anatomical region in order to create the final 3D anatomical output
or 3D simulation, and further comprises optionally performing one
or more of the following steps: calculating the volume of the
selected anatomical region before the procedure, analyzing
potential asymmetries, making drawings over the surface of the 3D
representation, making linear and/or geodesical measurements in the
anatomy, displaying a symmetry plane in the middle of the body and
projecting one side to the other in order to visualize anatomical
differences, selecting pre-defined shapes of the anatomical region
under treatment in order to automatically try different templates,
and making annotations in the 3D anatomy.
10. The method of claim 1, further comprising simulating: i) an
additional procedure selected from a botox procedure, dermal
fillers procedure, fat injection procedure and/or any other
dermatological procedure, ii) real life movements of the body
involving gravity effects including jumping, running and/or
different positions of the body anatomy, movements related to
breathing and its impact on breast shape, facial expressions,
changes in muscular shapes, growth, impact of weight gain/loss,
and/or impact of the aging process, and/or iii) aging changes in
the human or animal body or any part of it, and/or any aging effect
in the procedure selected.
11. The method of claim 1, wherein said creating step comprises:
determining the shape of said object, creation, product, accessory,
implant or sizer, and producing said object, creation, product,
accessory, implant or sizer, and optionally performing the step of
shipping said object, creation, product, accessory, implant or
sizer.
12. The method of claim 1, wherein a shape of said custom sizer is
determined by automatically calculating the shape to be added to
existing breasts, and wherein said determining the shape of said
implant is performed by manually defining the shape of the implant
used for simulation and 3D anatomical output until final shape
selection.
13. The method of claim 1, wherein said online ordering of products
comprises: i) selecting at least one product, ii) paying through a
paying system, and iii) shipping said product(s).
14. The method of claim 13, wherein said product is selected either
from a catalogue of products available for simulation or from
products available in a marketplace related to the user's
simulation, and/or wherein said product is selected from clothes,
glasses, medical device, breast implant, botox, dermal filler,
sutures, plates and/or any other product, creation, accessory or
object that may be integrated in a 3D simulation procedure.
15. The method of claim 1, further comprising: selecting new or
existing 3D representation or 3D anatomical output, signing-up or
signing-in, receiving as input at least one image, at least one
video and/or anatomical information, generating at least one 3D
anatomical output from said body and/or of at least one part of
said body, visualizing said 3D anatomical output first by user, and
further comprises optionally performing one or more of the
following steps: entering payment information, settling payment
related to at least one selected 3D procedure or 3D simulation
feature, linking consumer to professional, creating at least one
custom sizer or implant, and online ordering of products.
16. The method of claim 1, further comprising: finding
professional, signing-up or signing-in, receiving as input at least
one image, at least one video and/or anatomical information,
generating at least one 3D anatomical output from said body and/or
of at least one part of said body, linking consumer to
professional, and further comprises optionally performing one or
more of the following steps: visualizing said 3D anatomical output
first by professional, creating at least one custom object,
product, creation, accessory, sizer or implant, and online ordering
of products.
17. A product, object, accessory, medical device, implant, sizer or
any creation obtained by a method according to the method of claim
1.
18. The method of claim 1, wherein the method is performed by at
least one user and/or entity of a community or a 3D virtual world
of users and/or entities, wherein said community or 3D virtual
world is provided by an online platform, wherein: said users and/or
entities may possess at least one 3D representation and/or 3D
simulation and with a possibility to interact with other users,
said entities comprise aesthetic professionals, aesthetic or beauty
companies, and/or institutions, with the possibility to generate at
least one 3D representation of their bodies, intangible or tangible
assets, trademarks, products or services, with the possibility to
generate at least one 3D simulation, and with the possibility to
interact with the community, said community comprise different
types of accounts or members: consumers, aesthetic professionals,
aesthetic companies, associations and/or groups, said users and
entities possessing at least one 3D representation and/or 3D
simulation become a 3D user of the community, said users and
entities may simulate using different available simulation options,
interact with other users inside the community, use a search tool
to find an aesthetic professional, use a search tool to find an
aesthetic company providing services in the community, interact
with aesthetic professionals and aesthetic companies, and/or share
an experience inside the community with other contacts through
other social networks and/or communities, said users, consumers
and/or entities may select a level of privacy, said aesthetic
professionals and/or aesthetic companies may propose their services
to all the users, be listed in a finder tool, be found by users,
aesthetic companies and/or aesthetic professionals, and/or actively
participate in activities inside the community, said members may
interact with each other, in a one to one interaction, a one to
several interaction and/or several to several interaction, said
interaction being either private, partially private and/or public,
said interaction being made either directly between said members or
through 3D simulation features or 3D procedure available in the
community, said user to user interaction and/or action comprise at
least one of: a. make friendship requests, b. share 3D results with
other users or groups of users, c. make comment in own 3D results
or others' results, d. participate in public, partially private
and/or private conversations, e. put ratings in own 3D results
and/or others' results, f. vote for best 3D results, g. propose 3D
visualizations of friends with an option to select and/or vote for
the most attractive 3D visualization, h. create videos with own 3D
results and with an option to share them with others, i.
participate in competitions between users, and/or j. write in
internal forums of said community. said user to aesthetic company
interaction and/or action comprise: a. contact companies and become
followers, b. order products from the companies online, c. use the
services provided by the companies in the community, and/or d.
comment and/or rate these companies. said aesthetic company to user
interaction and/or action comprise at least one of: a. launch
marketing campaigns and special offers to users, b. provide 3D
simulation services of their own products, and/or c. test new
products before they are launched in the market to gain market
studies said users to aesthetic professionals interaction and/or
action consists of or comprise at least one of: a. contact
aesthetic professionals and optionally with the option to become
followers, b. send their 3D results to professionals and ask for
advice, c. send their 3D results to professionals and ask for a
consultation, d. plan the procedure, book a date and calculate
prices per procedure, e. comment and/or rate these professionals,
and/or f. recommend aesthetic professionals to other users. said
aesthetic professionals to users interaction and/or action consists
of or comprise at least one of: a. launch marketing campaigns
and/or special offers to users, and/or b. provide 3D simulation
services and/or remote consultation. said aesthetic professionals
to aesthetic companies interaction and/or action comprise at least
one of: a. contact companies and become followers, and/or b. order
products online from companies. said aesthetic companies to
aesthetic professionals interaction and/or action comprise at least
one of: a. launch marketing campaigns and/or offers to
professionals, and/or b. provide 3D simulation services of their
own products. said member(s) of the community may contact other
member(s) through the finder tool, said finder tool having
different search options available selected from distance from
consumer's address, location, ratings, procedures done,
endorsements, 3D availability, and/or comparisons between real
outcomes and 3D simulations, said member(s) of the community may
have a search ranking based on parameters of said finder tool, with
different options provided in order to let said member(s) move up
in the ranking based on a paying service, said member(s) of the
community may use a paying service in order to let said member
appear in preferential sections of the application, said aesthetic
companies may possess a profile in order to share all the
information desired to the community about their products and
services, wherein said aesthetic companies have the option to
target either consumers only, aesthetic professionals only or
consumers and aesthetic professionals, said member(s) of the
community may use a search tool having different search options
selected from type of product, type of procedure, type of member,
ratings, recommendations, profile, and/or available 3D simulators,
wherein said search tool is adapted to the type of member, and/or
said member(s) of the community, an owner of said platform, a
developer or an owner of said community, a software or program
developer, and/or a software company may develop applications to be
integrated in said platform or community.
19. The method of claim 18, wherein said members create 3D virtual
shops and with an option to sell their creations to other members,
and/or wherein said creations are selected from 3D models of
clothes, accessories, products, objects, or creations based on
other member's 3D representations.
20. The method of claim 18, wherein said 3D procedure or 3D
simulation feature is selected from breast procedure, facial
procedure, gluteus procedure, muscle procedure, rhinoplasty
procedure, carnio-maxillo-facial procedure, fat injection
procedure, breast surgery simulation, facial surgery simulation,
facial aesthetic procedure or any other procedure in the plastic,
reconstructive or aesthetic field, 3D creation, body procedure,
movement sequence, video creation, facial gestures simulation,
cosmetics and make-up simulation, virtual clothes, glasses and
facial accessories, younger/older tools, thin/fat tools, morphing
to celebrity tool, find your celebrity match, morphing to friend
tool, find your 3D match, 3D daily horoscope, rental, licence
and/or sale of 3D images, and/or dating.
21. The method of claim 18, wherein said community or 3D virtual
world provided by the online platform is configured to enable:
aesthetic professional to show consumers, and/or any user(s) or
member(s) to show to any other user(s) or member(s) selected 3D
anatomical outcome(s) based on selected features and/or desired
outcome, and/or selected product, object, accessory, medical
device, implant, or sizer, consumers to send photo(s) through an
online access or mobile application, requesting a specific
aesthetic procedure, wherein the consumer gets the 3D results
through the aesthetic professional, either during the consultation
and/or by remote consultation, consumers to send their photos
through an online access and/or mobile application, and, after
paying a service fee, the consumer gets the 3D result(s) online,
aesthetic professionals to use the 3D system to simulate desires of
the consumer, and to request and/or produce themselves a product,
object, creation and/or accessory to be used by the consumer,
aesthetic professionals to use the 3D system to simulate the
desires of the consumer, and to request and/or produce themselves a
custom sizer to be used by the consumer, aesthetic professionals to
use the 3D system to simulate the desires of the consumer, and to
request and/or produce themselves a custom implant to be used
during the surgery, consumers to create an account in the community
or 3D virtual world, create their 3D representations and share them
with other members, wherein, during the process of simulating at
least one aesthetic, 3D procedure or 3D simulation feature, said
member may contact at least one aesthetic professional in order to
get a consultation, may order online specific beauty products,
and/or play with the different 3D tools or games available in said
community, and/or aesthetic professionals to create an account in
said community and pay for premium options including top ranking in
the search section of professionals, to launch promotions to all
members, and/or to contact aesthetic companies to order products.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention is related to the field of aesthetics.
It concerns more particularly new methods for the generation of 3D
anatomical outputs and 3D simulations of any aesthetic procedure,
products obtained by such simulations, uses thereof and the
creation of platforms or 3D virtual words of connected users and
entities forming a virtual community using such methods and
creating or ordering accessories and/or products.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] In the aesthetic field, professional-patient communication
is vital as the diagnosis, treatment and outcome are dominated by
the patient's subjective assessment of the visual results of the
elective surgical procedure. Failure to meet the patient's
expectations (for example augmentation volume or breast projection)
can lead to the need for re-operations and ultimately into legal
action. It is therefore essential that the patient be personally
involved in the process of implant selection, supported by a
realistic visual representation of their body, the
pre-visualization of the final result. The success of the surgical
outcome depends significantly on the choice of implant shape, size,
projection and anatomical placement and these are key factors in
the decision process.
[0003] To date, available computerized 3D anatomical visualization
can be divided into the following categories: [0004] Image morphing
techniques: solutions working exclusively in two dimensions and
projecting potential outcomes directly in the photos. [0005]
Templates and predefined software which allows the user to define a
set of parameters, relate them to a pre-defined model and a
pre-defined outcome. [0006] Educational software: use of avatars in
virtual reality learning environments. [0007] Three-dimensional
scans: allow an accurate 3D modeling of the patient's specific
shape and texture by means of hardware.
[0008] The above mentioned techniques have their inherent
limitations for application in the daily clinical work of a
professional.
[0009] Therefore, there was a need in the development of new
procedures allowing the professional to better pre-visualize the
impact of a proposed surgical procedure together with the patient,
preferably directly during the consultation. There was a need in
the development of novel procedures allowing enhanced
pre-visualization of results acting therefore as a guide for the
preoperative planning and decision process.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The invention relates to novel methods using digital photos
or videos for reconstruction into a 3D representation available for
interactive planning to the user. The simulation may be performed
on dedicated servers and/or accessible via internet.
[0011] In a first aspect, the invention provides a method of
generating at least one 3D anatomical output, 3D representation
and/or 3D simulation of an animal body or human body and/or of at
least one part of said body consisting of or comprising: [0012] i)
receiving as input at least one image, at least one video and/or
anatomical information (FIG. 1, 10) [0013] ii) generating at least
one 3D anatomical output from said body and/or of at least one part
of said body (FIG. 1, 20), and [0014] iii) visualizing said 3D
anatomical output (FIG. 1, 30).
[0015] In a second aspect, the invention provides a product,
object, accessory, medical device, implant, sizer or any creation
obtained by any method according to the invention.
[0016] In a third aspect, the invention provides a community or 3D
virtual world of users and/or entities (FIGS. 12, 100, 140 and
150), wherein said community or 3D virtual world is an online
platform characterized in that at least one user and/or entity of
said community or 3D virtual world use at least one method
according to the invention.
[0017] In a fourth aspect, the invention provides various uses of
any method of the invention, of a product, object, medical device,
implant, sizer or any creation according to the second aspect of
the invention, or of a community or 3D virtual world according to
the third aspect of the invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0018] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and
form a part of the specification illustrate preferred embodiments
of the present invention, and together with the description, serve
to explain the principles of the invention.
[0019] FIG. 1 represents the basic flow of generating a 3D
representation.
[0020] FIG. 2 represents the different information required as
input for the 3D representation generation.
[0021] FIG. 3 represents how the 3D representation is
generated.
[0022] FIG. 4 represents how the 3D representation is given to the
professional and different options available.
[0023] FIG. 5 represents the different steps involved in the
generation of the custom sizer/implant and its production.
[0024] FIG. 6 represents how the process of selecting and ordering
products is integrated in the system.
[0025] FIG. 7 represents the basic flow of the direct-to-consumer
application.
[0026] FIG. 8 represents an example of web-banner.
[0027] FIG. 9 represents the two different modalities of the
direct-to-consumer approach. Left: consumer solution involving the
consumer and the system. Right: consumer solution involving
consumer, professional and the system.
[0028] FIG. 10 represents the process of data mining and analysis
of data in a sequential or serial manner.
[0029] FIG. 11 represents the process of data mining and analysis
of data in a simultaneous or parallel manner.
[0030] FIG. 12 represents the concept of the system's community and
all interactions and tools available.
[0031] FIG. 13 illustrates the main services provided involving a
professional in the process of generating the 3D representation and
simulation of the consumer or directly done without the
professional. Different options before the input including the web
banner are represented, as well as the possible involvement of a
virtual assistant in the procedure.
[0032] FIG. 14 is a screenshot representing the step dedicated to
upload the 3 photos needed to create the 3D representation.
[0033] FIG. 15 is a screenshot representing the step of adding the
contact information after uploading the photos.
[0034] FIG. 16 is a screenshot representing the step of adding the
credit card information to proceed to payment for the 3D
service.
[0035] FIG. 17 is a screenshot representing the communication feed
to show the status of the 3D generation.
[0036] FIG. 18 is a screenshot representing the 3D viewer showing
the simulation of a patient with a specific volume, with the
catalog of implants on the right side and the "knife" button on the
top-left corner.
[0037] FIG. 19 is a screenshot representing a popup with the order
form appearing after clicking on the button "knife". On it, the
user may specify the implants to order, the surgery date, the
delivery address and leave comments among others.
[0038] FIG. 20 is a screenshot representing a list of orders sent
by the doctor, showing the date of ordering, their status (pending,
confirmed, cancelled), and all details related to products and
delivery.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0039] The following paragraphs provide definitions of the terms
according to the invention and are intended to apply uniformly
throughout the specification and claims unless an otherwise
expressly set out definition provides a broader definition.
[0040] The expression "3D representation" means 3D modeling of the
body or any parts of the body of a human being or animal.
[0041] The expression "3D simulation" means a modified 3D
representation following some requirements in order to represent a
desired outcome.
[0042] A 3D representation or 3D simulation is herein to be
considered as a 3D anatomical output.
[0043] The expression "Aesthetic professional" means any plastic,
reconstructive or aesthetic surgeon, dermatologist, professional
working on aesthetic or beauty centers, or any other professional
practicing in the aesthetic field.
[0044] The expression "Consumer" means any person interested in
aesthetics or beauty, or any person being a potential user of the
owner's herein described application or system.
[0045] The expression "Human Body" means the entire structure of a
human organism, comprising or consisting of a head, neck, torso,
two arms and two legs.
[0046] The expression "point-of-care" means all services provided
to patients at the bedside.
[0047] As shown in FIG. 1, the methods and technology of the
present invention are based on the generation of 3D representations
of the human or animal body, or parts of the human or animal body
such as the face, upper body, lower body and back side (FIG. 1,
20), by using a certain number of images of it taken from different
angles of view (FIG. 1, 10). Those images may be either standard
digital photos or frames extracted from a video. Optionally, the
system also works with a single image from one view. Optionally,
the system may use 3D images taken from 3D photographic devices.
Optionally, anatomical measures may be taken as input in order to
scale the 3D representation to real size. Based on the anatomy of
the body and information about the procedure the user wants to
simulate, the system creates a 3D simulation of the final desired
outcome. The 3D representation can be made of anybody using the
system.
[0048] The whole process and methods of the present invention may
be provided as an online service, where the user must enter into
his account by using identification such as login and password, or
it can be an application running in a local machine such as a
personal computer, tablet, smartphone, or any device being able to
visualize 3D results to the user.
[0049] Accordingly, in a first aspect, the invention provides a
method of generating at least one 3D anatomical output, 3D
representation and/or 3D simulation of an animal body or human body
and/or of at least one part of said body consisting of or
comprising: [0050] i) optionally accessing service (FIG. 7, 60),
[0051] ii) optionally starting process (FIG. 7, 70), [0052] iii)
receiving as input at least one image, at least one video and/or
anatomical information (FIG. 1, 10) [0053] iv) generating at least
one 3D anatomical output from said body and/or of at least one part
of said body (FIG. 1, 20), [0054] v) optionally visualizing said 3D
anatomical output (FIG. 1, 30), [0055] vi) optionally linking users
together, wherein said users are selected from consumers,
professionals and companies (FIG. 7, 80), [0056] vii) optionally
creating at least one object, creation, product, accessory, implant
and/or sizer (FIG. 5, 40), [0057] viii) optionally online ordering
of at least one product (FIG. 6, 50), [0058] ix) optionally
managing stock, [0059] x) optionally data mining, and [0060] xi)
optionally producing statistics.
[0061] Advantageously, there is no need of special equipment or
hardware dedicated to the acquisition of the images. Preferably,
the images are the output of any imaging device (FIG. 2, 10.1),
such as a standard digital camera, video camera, independent webcam
or integrated in the computer, or smartphones and tablets equipped
with camera. Optionally, the system may accept drawings as an input
in exchange of images. In order to generate the 3D representation
the system requires one or several images of the body preferably
taken from different angles at a certain distance. The images may
be directly standard digital photos or frames extracted from a
video. Preferably, the video requires taking views from one or
different angles (FIG. 2, 10.2; FIG. 14).
[0062] Optionally, if the user is using a mobile device, such as a
smartphone or tablet, a mobile application is available so that the
process of taking the photos or video and generating the 3D can be
done directly with it. Optionally, this application guides the user
through the process of the acquisition of photos/video by
displaying guiding information directly on the screen, and/or by
voice. Once the photos or video are acquired, the mobile
application either sends them online to the server to start the 3D
generation process or starts the 3D generation process directly in
the mobile device.
[0063] Optionally, the user may enter anatomical information about
the body or part of the body to create the 3D representation (FIG.
2, 10.3). This information may be used for scaling purposes, so it
must correspond to anatomical measures done on the body, such as
distances between anatomical points, height, weight and/or age.
Optionally, these measures may also be detected and calculated
automatically by image analysis so the user does not need to insert
them.
[0064] Optionally, the user may enter some information about the
consumer creating the 3D. It may be contact information like email,
phone number and address, or a medical profile to be kept for the
records, and/or his interests (FIG. 2, 10.4).
[0065] All this information about the anatomy and the consumer to
be modeled in 3D may be entered by the user directly to the system
by any means.
[0066] Optionally, the imaging input information may be provided by
medical devices such as MRi, CT or standard X-rays.
[0067] Accordingly, in a preferred embodiment, said accessing
service of step i) of the first aspect of the invention is either
located directly in a form of web banner in a website or any
application belonging to a professional, in a website belonging to
the owner of said service or system, in any other website with whom
the owner of said service has an agreement with, in online social
networks such as facebook or twitter, and/or accessible via any
application, whether mobile phone, tablet, computer or laptop.
[0068] Accordingly, in a first preferred embodiment, said step iii)
of the first aspect of the invention of receiving as input
comprises or consists of:
[0069] i) generating at least one image and/or at least one video
with at least one imaging device (FIG. 2, 10.2), [0070] ii)
optionally obtaining anatomical information by either automatic
means and/or by manually entering said anatomical information (FIG.
2, 10.3), and [0071] iii) optionally obtaining user information by
either manually entering said user information and/or by
automatically retrieving said user information (FIG. 2, 10.4).
[0072] The images and optionally the anatomical information are
taken as input to generate the 3D representation of the consumer.
Defining the image markings may be performed by the user, patient,
professional, aesthetic professional, or a virtual assistant (VA).
Preferably, the system automatically detects the image features and
creates the 3D representation (FIG. 3, 20.3.1). The 3D
representation created is the output passed on to the visualization
step.
[0073] Optionally, the user may define several markings in the
images as a previous step in order to help on the detection of
features (FIG. 3, 20.1.1). This marking process may also be done by
a support service provided by the software/application developer or
owner, system owner, or outsourced to a third party company in
order to simplify the process for the user, herein called virtual
assistant or VA (FIG. 3, 20.2.1).
[0074] All the steps of any of the method herein described that may
be performed by the user may be performed by a professional,
aesthetic professional, or a virtual assistant (VA). All the steps
of any of the method herein described that may be performed by a
professional may be performed by a virtual assistant (VA). Such
steps may be performed locally, point of care or in a remote
location.
[0075] Optionally, there may be a quality control process to verify
that the 3D representation created meet a minimum level of accuracy
(FIG. 3, 20.2.3). In case such minimum level is not reached, the
user or the VA may proceed to correct the 3D representation using a
3D shape and texture editor. In case the user decides the quality
of the 3D representation received doesn't meet his quality
requirements, the user may ask once again for example the VA to
re-do the 3D representation, or the user or professional may retake
images. Optionally, the VA may ask the user to take again the
images or data to be sent.
[0076] Optionally, if the user requests one or several simulations
of one or several procedures to the VA, the VA will prepare the
simulations and will make them available for the user as output
(FIG. 3, 20.2.4).
[0077] Accordingly, in a second preferred embodiment, said step iv)
of the first aspect of the invention of generating at least one 3D
anatomical output consists of or comprises: [0078] i) optionally
defining image markings (FIG. 3, 20.2.1), [0079] ii) detecting the
image features, preferably by automatic means (FIG. 3, 20.2.2),
[0080] iii) creating at least one 3D anatomical output or 3D
representation, [0081] iv) optionally checking the quality of said
3D anatomical output or 3D representation (FIG. 3, 20.2.3), [0082]
v) optionally correcting said 3D anatomical output or 3D
representation and/or regenerating said 3D anatomical output or 3D
representation, [0083] vi) optionally generating at least one novel
input according to any of the previous claims, [0084] vii)
optionally selecting at least one 3D procedure or 3D simulation
feature, and [0085] viii) optionally simulating at least one 3D
anatomical output based on said 3D procedure or 3D simulation
feature (FIG. 3, 20.2.4).
[0086] The output of the 3D generation process is the input for the
visualization and simulation step. Once the 3D representation is
created, the user may visualize it in the 3D interface of the
application. In case one or several simulations of a procedure were
requested, the user may also visualize them (FIG. 4, 30.1).
[0087] Optionally, the system may provide the user with different
planning methods available in the market for implant surgery, for
example breast surgery.
[0088] Optionally, in the case of an implant procedure, for example
for a breast implant procedure, the user may use a planning system
where he can analyze the anatomy and select the best implant to be
used (FIG. 4, 30.2).
[0089] The system may include a simulation engine that may be used
by the user to generate the outcome of any aesthetic or plastic
procedure (FIG. 4, 30.3). Preferably, based on the information
provided by the user, for instance the breast implant
characteristics in case of doing a breast augmentation, the system
may generate a 3D estimation of what could be the result in the
anatomy of the consumer.
[0090] Optionally, the system may provide the user with a catalogue
of implants, e.g. breast implants, that he may use to select the
implants for the simulation. This catalogue may contain all the
brands and types available in the market, and the user may find the
best implants using as input any of the parameters that define an
implant such as diameter, projection, volume, height, width, shape,
reference, brand, profile type and/or material. It may contain
implant information for both aesthetic and reconstructive
procedures. The catalogue may be used statically or dynamically.
Statically means showing the whole catalogue of implants and the
user may navigate through the categories until finding the desired
implant. Dynamically means providing the user with some search
tools to input the parameters and the catalogue may display the
closest implants fitting the defined search.
[0091] Optionally, for searching purposes the catalogue may
recognize both keyboard and voice recognition input.
[0092] Optionally, the user may be able to store the favorite's
implants of the user in order to optimize the search. The system
may also learn about the user behavior so it automatically proposes
implants or techniques that could fit based on previous cases.
[0093] Optionally, the catalogue may propose the user with a set of
several recommendations of the most suitable implants for the
consumer's anatomy, as well as the best position and/or surgical
technique. Such recommendation may be based but not limited to the
consumer's anatomy, consumer's desires, psychological and
sociological aspects, statistical analysis of similar consumers and
successful experiences, and/or aesthetic professional's
decisions.
[0094] Optionally, the system may provide the user with a catalogue
of different anatomies in order to simulate an outcome. These
anatomies may be different types of noses for rhinoplasty, types of
lips, types of eyes and eyebrows, types of chin and cheeks, types
of haircuts, types of ears, and/or types of skin among others. Once
selected, the system may transform the 3D anatomy of the consumer
into the anatomy of the outcome selected.
[0095] Optionally, the system may provide the user with a 3D editor
tool (FIG. 4, 30.4). The editor may provide the user with several
tools that allow modifying the 3D anatomy of the consumer.
[0096] Optionally, in order to provide the simulation of a
procedure on the 3D representation of the consumer, the system may
simulate changes in the internal organs and tissues of its body. By
using the information of the consumer, such as the images and
measurements, the system may create not only the 3D representation
of the surface, but may also predict the shape of internal
components. For instance, aesthetic or plastic procedures such as
breast augmentation, rhinoplasties or cranio-maxillo-facial
surgeries among others, imply changes or additions in internal
parts of the body. The system may simulate those changes and/or
additions, both forwards and backwards. Forwards means simulating
the changes and/or additions in the internal part and then the
system simulates the result in the shape of the 3D representation
accordingly. Backwards means simulating the desired 3D shape of the
representation and then the system simulates the changes and/or
additions to be done in the internal part of the body to obtain
such result.
[0097] Optionally, the system may provide the user with a backwards
simulation. In this process, the user first defines the final
outcome, and then the system calculates what to do to reach such
outcome. In the case of a breast augmentation it could be the best
implant, surgical technique and/or position. In the case of a chin
or cheek implants it may be also the best implants and/or
positions.
[0098] Optionally, the system may provide the user with tools to
compare results before and after simulation. Such tools may allow
the user to visualize in the same screen the 3D representations
before and after in a split view, and/or showing progressively the
change from before to after into the same anatomy.
[0099] Optionally, the system may provide a printout option wherein
the user may select the outcomes he wants to add into it, as well
as the information to be contained. This printout may then be
printed in paper, sent to an email recipient, and/or stored in the
profile of the consumer into the system.
[0100] Optionally, the printout may be done in a form of video with
the results that may then be sent by any electronic messaging
system and/or copied in a physical storage unit.
[0101] Optionally, the printout may be done in a form of a 3D file
that may then be printed with a 3D printer device.
[0102] Optionally, the visualization of the 3D outcomes may be done
or shown in a computer or TV screen, in a mobile device such as
smartphones, tablets or laptops, using a projector, or the system
may generate a 3D output that may be used for visualization in
special screen devices that support 3D images with or without 3D
glasses, and/or generate an output for an holographic visualization
system in order to create a more immersive 3D environment.
[0103] Optionally, by using image tracking algorithms, the system
may retro-project the results of the 3D outcome directly to the
images of the consumer, generating as such augmented reality
visualization. This augmented reality effect may also be generated
by modifying the real image of the consumer in real time in order
to obtain the desired outcome, both using a static photo or in the
video stream, and/or using a specific mirror-screen to project the
virtual images over the consumer.
[0104] Accordingly, in a third preferred embodiment, said step v)
of the first aspect of the invention of visualizing the 3D
anatomical output consists of or comprises: [0105] i) visualizing
3D anatomy, at least one 3D anatomical output, 3D representation
and/or 3D simulation (FIG. 4, 30.1), [0106] ii) optionally planning
at least one 3D simulation procedure or 3D implant simulation
procedure (FIG. 4, 30.2), [0107] iii) optionally simulating 3D
anatomical output based on (FIG. 4, 30.3): [0108] a) the
information provided by the user, [0109] b) the automatic analysis
of said 3D anatomy, said 3D representation or said 3D anatomical
output of step i), [0110] c) the selection of at least one implant,
object, accessory and/or product from a catalogue or database of
implants, objects, accessories and/or products, and/or, [0111] d)
the selection of at least one type of anatomy from a catalogue or
database of different anatomies, wherein said type of anatomy is
selected from a type of nose, type of lips, type of eyes or
eyebrows, type of chin and cheeks, type of haircuts, type of ears,
and/or type of skin, [0112] iv) optionally editing said 3D
anatomical output (FIG. 4, 30.4), [0113] v) optionally, preferably
automatically, a) determining modifications in the shape of
internal components or parts of the body following at least one 3D
procedure or 3D simulation feature and b) simulating a 3D
anatomical output based on said modifications, [0114] vi)
optionally, preferably automatically, a) simulating at least one 3D
desired anatomical output following at least one 3D procedure or 3D
simulation feature and b) determining, preferably automatically,
the resulting customized object(s), accessory(ies), creations(s),
products(s), implant(s), sizer(s), surgical technique(s),
anatomical position(s), modification(s) in the shape of internal
components or parts of the body based on said 3D desired anatomical
output, [0115] vii) optionally visualizing and comparing 3D
anatomical output before and after simulation, wherein said
visualization consists of either a split view or an animation
showing progressively the change in the anatomy, [0116] viii)
optionally visualizing, holographic visualizing, retro-project
visualizing, augmented reality visualizing, storing, printing,
customized printing, sharing, and/or sending any 3D anatomical
output in either 2D form or 3D form, either as a video or image,
and/or either in a remote location, locally or point of care,
[0117] ix) optionally producing or manufacturing said 3D anatomical
output or said resulting customized object(s), product(s),
accessory(ies), implant(s), sizer(s), surgical technique(s),
anatomical position(s), and/or modification(s) in the shape of
internal components or parts of the body based on said 3D desired
anatomical output, either in a remote location, locally or point of
care.
[0118] In one embodiment, the invention provides a method
consisting of or comprising: [0119] i) receiving input, [0120] ii)
generating 3D representation, [0121] iii) visualizing 3D
representation, [0122] iv) selecting 3D procedure or 3D simulation
feature, [0123] v) generating 3D simulation from said 3D procedure
or 3D simulation feature, and [0124] vi) visualizing 3D
simulation.
[0125] Optionally, the system may provide the user with a tool to
load and save the outcomes for further visualization.
[0126] Optionally, the user may create an online access so the 3D
results may be visualized remotely after the consultation and/or
shared with others.
[0127] Optionally, if the user needs assistance on performing a
simulation, he may click or use the virtual assistant option and
request the type of procedure desired. The virtual assistant may
then generate the outcome for the user.
[0128] Optionally, the planning methods may provide guidelines to
select the optimal implant sizes based on anatomical measures in
the anatomical region, e.g. breast area, before surgery, which are
then translated into specific measures in terms of diameter,
projection and/or volume of implants. Since the 3D representations
created may be scaled to the consumer's real size, those anatomical
measurements may be directly provided to any method of the present
invention.
[0129] Optionally, the user may store his planning methodology for
further usage in other consumers.
[0130] Optionally, the system may provide the user with simulations
without the need of giving the characteristics of the implants, for
instance visualizing a range of different sizes, or simulating
based on attractiveness and/or anatomical proportions criteria.
[0131] In a fourth preferred embodiment, the invention provides a
method according to the third preferred embodiment, wherein said
simulating of step iii) automatically selects optimal object,
creation, accessory, product or implant characteristics and/or
anatomical position outcome, and/or wherein said simulation is
performed by visualizing a range of different sizes, and/or is
based on the attractiveness and/or on anatomical proportions
criteria.
[0132] These tools available from the 3D editor tool may be used to
add and/or remove volume in a region selected in the anatomy in
order to simulate fat injection and/or any other substance used for
this purpose, to modify or smooth the shape of a region and/or to
modify the skin texture. These tools may be available as free-hand
tools and/or using pre-defined areas by the system.
[0133] Accordingly, in a fifth preferred embodiment, the invention
provides a method according to the third preferred embodiment,
wherein said step iv) of editing permit modifying the 3D anatomical
output comprising: [0134] adding and/or removing volume in a region
selected in the anatomy for fat injection simulation and/or any
other substance used for this purpose, and/or [0135] modifying
and/or smoothing the shape of a region or skin texture.
[0136] Optionally, the planning system allows the user to calculate
the volume of the anatomical region, e.g. the breasts, before the
procedure, to analyze potential asymmetries, to calculate the
orientation of the anatomical region, e.g. the breasts, before and
after the procedure, to make drawings over the surface of the 3D
representation, to make both linear and/or geodesical measurements
in the anatomy, to display a symmetry plane in the middle of the
body and project one side to the other in order to visualize
anatomical differences, to select a pair of implants or only one
implant from a catalogue and project them into the 3D anatomy in
order to select the position inside the body, to identify the final
shape and size and the system automatically calculates the
corresponding implants to obtain such result or final shape, to
calculate the optimal position of the implant after surgery, e.g.
the sub-mammary fold, and to make annotations in the 3D
anatomy.
[0137] Optionally, the system itself may provide the user with the
best implant characteristics and/or the optimal position in the
anatomy based on the analysis of the 3D anatomical model
generated.
[0138] Accordingly, in a sixth preferred embodiment, the 3D implant
simulation procedure consists of or comprises: [0139] i) optionally
analyzing the anatomy and selecting best or appropriate implant(s)
to be used, [0140] ii) optionally calculating the volume of the
anatomical region before the procedure, [0141] iii) optionally
analyzing potential asymmetries, [0142] iv) optionally calculating
the orientation of the selected anatomical region before and/or
after the procedure, [0143] v) optionally making drawings over the
surface of the 3D representation, [0144] vi) optionally making
linear and/or geodesical measurements in the anatomy, [0145] vii)
optionally displaying a symmetry plane in the middle of the body
and projecting one side to the other in order to visualize
anatomical differences, [0146] viii) selecting at least one implant
from a catalogue and projecting said implant(s) into the 3D anatomy
in order to select the position inside the body and to create the
final 3D anatomical output or 3D simulation, [0147] ix) optionally
identifying/selecting the final shape and/or size enabling
automatic calculation of the corresponding implant(s) of said
selected final shape and/or size, [0148] x) optionally calculating
the optimal position of the implant after surgery, and [0149] xi)
optionally making annotations in the 3D anatomy.
[0150] Optionally, the system may provide a planning system for
other parts of the body, such as facial implants, gluteus implants,
muscle implants or any other implant used in the plastic,
reconstructive or aesthetic field.
[0151] The fifth preferred embodiment relates to a 3D implant
simulation procedure. The invention also encompasses a procedure
not necessarily requiring the use of implants.
[0152] Accordingly, in a seventh preferred embodiment, the 3D
simulation procedure consists of or comprises: [0153] i) optionally
calculating the volume of the anatomical region before the
procedure, [0154] ii) optionally analyzing potential asymmetries,
[0155] iii) optionally making drawings over the surface of the 3D
representation, [0156] iv) optionally making linear and/or
geodesical measurements in the anatomy, [0157] v) optionally
displaying a symmetry plane in the middle of the body and
projecting one side to the other in order to visualize anatomical
differences, [0158] vi) selecting at least one tool allowing
modification of the shape and/or texture of said anatomical region
in order to create the final 3D anatomical output or 3D simulation,
[0159] vii) optionally selecting pre-defined shapes of the
anatomical region under treatment in order to automatically try
different templates, and [0160] viii) optionally making annotations
in the 3D anatomy.
[0161] Optionally, the system may provide the user with a set of
tools to simulate botox, dermal fillers, fat injection or any other
dermatological procedure. The user may either work at a level of
texture visualization, volume and/or surface.
[0162] Optionally, the system may provide the user with a set of
tools to simulate real life movements of the body involving gravity
effects, like jumping, running and/or different positions of the
body anatomy. Also movements related to breathing and its impact in
the breast shape, facial expressions, and changes in muscular
shapes, growth, impact of the weight gain/loss, and/or impact of
the aging process.
[0163] Optionally, the system may provide the user with a set of
tools to simulate aging changes in the human body or parts of it,
and/or the effects of the age in the procedure selected.
[0164] Accordingly, in an eight preferred embodiment, the invention
provides a method according to any aspects or embodiments of the
invention, further comprising simulating: [0165] i) an additional
procedure selected from a botox procedure, dermal fillers
procedure, fat injection procedure and/or any other dermatological
procedure, [0166] ii) real life movements of the body involving
gravity effects like jumping, running and/or different positions of
the body anatomy, movements related to breathing and its impact in
the breast shape, facial expressions, changes in muscular shapes,
growth, impact of the weight gain/loss, and/or impact of the aging
process, and/or [0167] iii) aging changes in the human or animal
body or any part of it, any aging effect in the procedure
selected.
[0168] In said additional procedure, the user may either work at a
level of texture visualization, volume and/or surface.
[0169] An implant sizer is a breast implant made just for testing
purposes, not to be implantable. Aesthetic professionals normally
have some of them with different sizes, provided by the implant
manufacturers, so when a consumer comes for a consultation, they
try together what could be the best size by putting them inside
their bra and looking at the mirror with an adjusted t-shirt. The
number of implant sizers provided by the manufacturers is limited
in number of shapes and volumes.
[0170] Concerning breast implants, manufacturers provide catalogues
of implants with a range of sizes and shapes in order to better fit
into the population. However, every consumer's anatomy is different
so sometimes the implants available are not optimal for their
anatomy.
[0171] After simulating the breast augmentation procedure in 3D
(FIG. 5, 30), the user has the option to order either a customized
sizer and/or customized implant (FIG. 5, 40). Once ordered, the
system may generate the shape of any or both devices.
[0172] After calculating the shape of the device, the production
process is different for sizers and implants (FIG. 5, 40.2). The
production of custom sizers may be done by an external manufacturer
on demand, internally by using standard 3D printers, and/or
directly by the users if they have a 3D printer available.
[0173] After production, the custom sizers or implants may be
shipped to the user by any standard shipping service (FIG. 5,
40.3). Optionally, the user may set the priority of its production
at the moment of ordering. The address of the receiver may be the
user himself or the consumer in case of a sizer.
[0174] Optionally, if the user has a 3D printer available, there is
no shipping process. The user may create the custom sizer and
immediately print it and have it ready to use. Alternatively the
user may send it directly to the consumer if he is doing everything
remotely.
[0175] Optionally, the system may provide the user with a 3D
printer specially designed to produce custom implants, creations,
objects and/or products. In case of implants and medical related
products and objects, such device may use bio-compatible materials
in order to produce in 3D the shape of the desired implant, objects
and/or products, being directly ready to be used in or on the human
body.
[0176] Accordingly, in a ninth preferred embodiment, said step vii)
according to the first aspect of the invention of creating at least
one object, creation, product, custom sizer and/or implant consists
of or comprises: [0177] i) determining the shape of said object,
creation, product, accessory, implant or sizer (FIG. 5, 40.1),
[0178] ii) producing said object, creation, product, accessory,
implant or sizer (FIG. 5, 40.2), and [0179] iii) optionally
shipping said object, creation, product, accessory, implant or
sizer (FIG. 5, 40.3).
[0180] The system may calculate the shape of any or both devices
according to:
[0181] 1. Custom sizer: the system calculates the shape to be added
to the existing breasts, and this shape may then be sent for
production.
[0182] 2. Custom implant: the system lets the user define the shape
of the implant used for simulation and visualize the results in 3D.
Once the user selects the final shape of the implant, this shape
may then be sent for production.
[0183] Accordingly, in a tenth preferred embodiment of the
invention, said step i) of the ninth preferred embodiment of the
invention of determining the shape of said sizer is performed by
automatically calculating the shape to be added to the existing
breasts, and wherein said step i) of determining the shape of said
implant is performed by manually defining the shape of the implant
used for simulation and 3D anatomical output until final shape
selection.
[0184] Being an online application with direct access to the user,
the system may act as a market place or lead generator for medical
devices such as breast implants, botox, dermal fillers, and/or any
other type of medical device or aesthetic procedure. Once the user
is at the visualization and simulation step (FIG. 6, 30), the user
may simulate using the products available in the catalogue included
in the product. Optionally, the system may show products available
in the market related to the procedure the user is simulating. For
instance, if the user is simulating a rhinoplasty, the system may
show related products such as sutures or plates. At any step in any
method of the present invention, the user may select the products
he would like to use or order, and add them into a shopping cart
(FIG. 6, 50.1). At any moment, the user may go to the list of
products selected and proceed to checkout.
[0185] Optionally, the system has a stock management tool for all
products used by the user. The user may maintain this tool updated
manually or letting the system to automatically update it any time
the user does a simulation using specific products. If the
procedure is confirmed with the products selected, the stock
manager may take out the units used.
[0186] Optionally, the stock management tool may warn the user if
he is running out of enough units of specific products. The user
may proceed to order more products both from the simulator itself
as specified above and/or from inside the stock management
tool.
[0187] Optionally, the stock management tool may generate
statistics in usage, projections for short and long term usage so
the user may optimize the ordering of products, and/or analyze
possible trends in usage.
[0188] Once the user proceeds to checkout, the system may check
availability with the manufacturer(s) of the products. Optionally,
several products available may be already manufactured by the
system itself.
[0189] A product may herein be defined, but not limited to, as a
creation, object, accessory, 3D procedure, 3D simulation feature,
3D feature, medical device, implant and/or sizer.
[0190] Once all the information is completed, the user may proceeds
to pay by any online payment method, bank transfer or equivalent
(FIG. 6, 50.2). Then the order may be sent to the respective
distributor and the products sent back to the user (FIG. 6, 50.3).
Optionally, the user may set a priority on the shipping of the
products bought.
[0191] Optionally, the system may give the option to pay after
reception or use a credit line. Any kind of payment method could be
used such as credit card, wire transfer, paypal and/or cash.
[0192] Optionally, the user may have a credit inside the system
which may be used for buying products and recharged any time
needed.
[0193] Accordingly, in an eleventh preferred embodiment, said step
viii) of the first aspect of the invention of online ordering of
products consists of or comprises: [0194] i) selecting at least one
product (FIG. 6, 50.1), [0195] ii) paying through a paying system
(FIG. 6, 50.2), and [0196] iii) shipping said product(s) (FIG. 6,
50.3).
[0197] In a twelfth preferred embodiment, said product of the
eleventh embodiment of the invention is selected either from a
catalogue of products available for simulation and/or from products
available in the marketplace related to the user's simulation,
and/or wherein said product is selected from clothes, glasses,
medical device, implant, breast implant, botox, dermal filler,
sutures, plates or any other product, object or accessory that may
be integrated in a 3D simulation procedure.
[0198] Accordingly, in one embodiment of the invention, said
selected products are added to a shopping cart.
[0199] The process of creating the 3D representation and simulating
a procedure may be done by an aesthetic professional or it may also
be started directly by the consumer itself without the need of a
professional. The system may provide services that consumers may
use to provide their data and obtain such 3D simulations. Such
consumer access (FIG. 7, 60) may be located directly in a form of a
web banner (example in FIG. 8) in the website or any other
application used by the aesthetic professional, in the system's
website or in any other website with whom the system's owner has an
agreement with, in online social networks such as facebook or
twitter, and/or being part of a mobile application.
[0200] Accordingly, in a thirteen preferred embodiment, the
invention provides (FIG. 7) a method of generating at least one 3D
anatomical output, 3D representation and/or 3D simulation of an
animal body or human body and/or of at least one part of said body
according to the first aspect of the invention consisting of or
comprising: [0201] i) optionally accessing service (FIG. 7, 60),
[0202] ii) optionally starting process (FIG. 7, 70), [0203] iii)
receiving as input at least one image, at least one video and/or
anatomical information (FIG. 7, 10), [0204] iv) generating at least
one 3D anatomical output from said body and/or of at least one part
of said body (FIG. 7, 20), [0205] v) optionally visualizing said 3D
anatomical output (FIG. 7, 30), and [0206] vi) optionally linking
users together, wherein said users are selected from consumers,
professionals and companies (FIG. 7, 80).
[0207] Preferably, the consumer is linked to the professional.
[0208] There are preferably two main services provided. The first
one involves a professional in the process of generating the 3D
representation and simulation of the consumer, and the second one
may be directly done without the professional.
[0209] The direct service for consumers gives the choice to create
a new 3D representation and/or to visualize an existing one (FIG.
9, 70.1). Selecting an existing one visualizes the 3D
representation and optionally simulations received (FIG. 9, 30). If
the consumer is a new consumer of the service, he may be prompted
to a sign-up process in order to create a new account. In the case
of an existing consumer, he may sign-in into the system (FIG. 9,
70.2). Optionally, the system may store the account information so
next time it automatically logs in the user. Before proceeding to
the process of generating the 3D representation, the consumer may
enter his payment information (FIG. 9, 70.3.1) with credit card,
paypal, mobile and/or any other electronic payment system
available. Once the 3D representation is properly created and
validated, the system may charge the consumer with the
corresponding price related to the procedure selected (FIG. 9,
70.3.2). Optionally, different discounts may be applied to the
price based on referrals, coupons and/or by sharing activity with
other. After entering the payment information, the consumer may
start with the process of taking and sending the images (FIG. 9,
10). The consumer may also enter its preferences in terms of
simulation to be done. Once the 3D representation and simulations
are available, the consumer may receive these results in form of
images, video and/or directly in 3D visualization (FIG. 9, 30).
After visualizing the results, the consumer may contact and
optionally send the results to an aesthetic professional by using
the professional finder tool available in the system or system's
owner affiliates, to several at the same time, and/or send a
message to any other professional not listed in this tool (FIG. 9,
80).
[0210] FIG. 13 illustrates as well the main services provided
involving a professional in the process of generating the 3D
representation and simulation of the consumer or directly done
without the professional. Different options before the input
including the web banner are represented, as well as the possible
involvement of a virtual assistant in the procedure.
[0211] Accordingly, in a fourteen preferred embodiment, the
invention provides a method of generating at least one 3D
anatomical output, 3D representation and/or 3D simulation of an
animal body or human body and/or of at least one part of said body
according to the first aspect of the invention consisting of or
comprising: [0212] i) selecting new or existing 3D representation
or 3D anatomical output (FIG. 9, 70.1), [0213] ii) signing-up or
signing-in (FIG. 9, 70.2), [0214] iii) optionally entering payment
information (FIG. 9, 70.3), [0215] iv) receiving as input at least
one image, at least one video and/or anatomical information (FIG.
9, 10), [0216] v) generating at least one 3D anatomical output from
said body and/or of at least one part of said body (FIG. 9, 20),
[0217] vi) optionally settling payment related to at least one
selected 3D procedure or 3D simulation feature (FIG. 9, 70.3.2),
[0218] vii) visualizing said 3D anatomical output first by user
(FIG. 9, 30), [0219] viii) optionally linking consumer to
professional (FIG. 9, 80), [0220] ix) optionally creating at least
one custom product, object, creation, sizer or implant (FIG. 5,
40), and [0221] x) optionally online ordering of products (FIG. 6,
50).
[0222] The service involving professionals and consumers works as a
service proposed by the professional itself through the system's
technology. If the consumer enters into this service from a
specific aesthetic professional selected, the 3D representation
generated is sent directly to the professional's account as a new
consumer available with all the information, selections and desires
of the consumer. If the consumer enters through the system's owner
website, its 3D representation does not have a receiver assigned
yet. Such receiver may be found through the system's professional
finder service or by any other service giving access to the
system's professional users (FIG. 9, 70.4). The process of
signing-up/in and sending the images and information, and the
generation of the 3D representation is the same as for the direct
solution. After receiving the 3D anatomical model and the
information from the consumer, the aesthetic professional have
several options available: [0223] contact the consumer using the
information received in order to propose a personal consultation
with the goal of showing the consumer the 3D result(s) and
simulation(s), [0224] prepare at least one simulation of the
desired procedure(s), optionally print the results and send them to
the consumer by any electronic messaging system having the
advantage to convince the consumer to perform the procedure with
this professional, [0225] do a web or phone conference with the
consumer in order to show the consumer the result(s) remotely,
and/or [0226] send back an access to the consumer to a second
portal (FIG. 7, 70), where the consumer may log in and see the
result(s) directly in 3D.
[0227] Accordingly, in a fifteen preferred embodiment, the
invention provides a method of generating at least one 3D
anatomical output, 3D representation and/or 3D simulation of an
animal body or human body and/or of at least one part of said body
according to the first aspect of the invention consisting of or
comprising: [0228] i) finding professional (FIG. 9, 70.4), [0229]
ii) signing-up or signing-in (FIG. 9, 70.2), [0230] iii) receiving
as input at least one image, at least one video and/or anatomical
information (FIG. 9, 10), [0231] iv) generating at least one 3D
anatomical output from said body and/or of at least one part of
said body (FIG. 9, 20), [0232] v) linking consumer to professional
(FIG. 9, 80), [0233] vi) optionally visualizing said 3D anatomical
output first by professional (FIG. 9, 30) [0234] vii) optionally
creating at least one custom product, object, creation, sizer or
implant (FIG. 5, 40), and [0235] viii) optionally online ordering
of products(FIG. 6, 50).
[0236] Optionally, in both solutions, the consumer may send his 3D
representation together with a request to all or a group of
aesthetic professionals based on but not limited to different
selection parameters such as location, ratings and/or reviews from
other consumers, and/or procedures practiced. The aesthetic
professionals receiving the request may answer by proposing an
offer to the consumer so the consumer may select the best or more
attractive offer.
[0237] In a second aspect, the invention provides a product,
object, accessory, medical device, implant, sizer or any creation
obtained by any method according to the invention.
[0238] By its unique solution, all users of the system are
generating data related to their actions or inactions. Such data
allows tracking consumer or professional behavior on an individual
or group basis (FIG. 10, 90; FIG. 11, 90). Combination of those
data allows generating statistics of any kind that are unique to
the system's model.
[0239] The methods of the present invention and/or the data mining,
may be processed in a sequential or parallel manner, or both. For
example, the system may generate 3D anatomical outputs, 3D
representations and/or 3D simulations in a sequential or parallel
manner, or by combining sequential and parallel. A user may select
various 3D simulations and the system process the information in
parallel, sequentially or both. Any treatment of the information
may therefore be processed in a sequential or parallel manner, or
both. Advantageously, parallel treatment may provide better
efficiency. For example, if multiple users select at the same time
3D simulations, the system is able to treat the information either
sequentially, in parallel or both. If the treatment is parallel,
all 3D simulations may be visualized at the same time by all users
and/or 3D simulations will be available in real time.
[0240] A sequential treatment of the information or data is shown
in FIG. 10, whereas a parallel treatment of the information or data
is shown in FIG. 11.
[0241] With a technology that allows any consumer to create a 3D
representation or 3D simulation of its body or part of it, the
system creates an online platform in a form of a community of users
and entities, preferably with the focus on the aesthetic and beauty
fields. The platform represents a virtual world where every user
may have one or several 3D representations or 3D simulations
associated and interact with other users. Aesthetic professionals
and/or aesthetic or beauty companies or institutions may also be
part of this community, with the abilities to also generate 3D
representations or 3D simulations of their bodies, products and/or
services, and interact with the community (FIG. 12).
[0242] The Platform is available either online and/or as a
stand-alone application and may include users or entities
generating at least one 3D anatomical output, 3D representation
and/or 3D simulation, optionally linking consumer to professional,
users or entities together, creating accessories and/or online
ordering of products related to the procedure, and the ability to
become a virtual community of users.
[0243] There are at least three different types of accounts:
consumers, aesthetic professionals and aesthetic companies.
Optionally there can be associations or groups.
[0244] As a basic option a consumer may create his own 3D
representations (FIG. 12, 10+20) and become a 3D user of the
community (FIG. 12, 100). Optionally, he may simulate using the
different simulation options available (FIG. 12, 110), interact
with other users inside the community (FIG. 12, 160), use a search
tool to find an aesthetic professional (FIG. 12, 130), use a search
tool to find an aesthetic company providing services in the
community (FIG. 12, 120), interact with aesthetic professionals
(FIG. 12, 180) and aesthetic companies (FIG. 12, 170), and/or share
the experience inside the community with other contacts through
other social networks or communities (FIG. 12, 200).
[0245] As a community, a consumer may decide whether to stay
private without any interaction with others or to be open to other
users. Users may be able to interact between them at different
levels of privacy in order to share information.
[0246] Aesthetic professionals may create an account and be part of
the community. They can propose their services to all the users
(FIG. 12, 140), be listed in the finder tool, be found by users and
aesthetic companies and/or actively participate in the activities
inside the community.
[0247] Aesthetic companies may create an account and be part of the
community. They may propose their services to all the users and/or
professionals (FIG. 12, 150), be listed in the finder tool, be
found by users and aesthetic professionals and/or actively
participate in the activities inside the community.
[0248] At least the following different types of users may interact
between them, for instance: [0249] Interaction between users (FIG.
12, 160): [0250] a. make friendship requests, [0251] b. share 3D
results with other users or groups of users, [0252] c. comment in
their own 3D results or others' results, [0253] d. participate in
public and/or private conversations, [0254] e. put ratings in their
own 3D results or others' results, [0255] f. vote for best 3D
results, [0256] g. propose 3D visualizations of their friends to
show them how they consider them the most attractive, [0257] h.
create videos with their own 3D results and share them with others,
[0258] i. participate in competitions between users, and/or [0259]
j. write in internal forums of the community. [0260] Interaction
between users and aesthetic companies (FIG. 12, 170): [0261] a.
users may contact companies and become followers, [0262] b. users
may order products from the companies online, [0263] c. users may
use the services provided by these companies in the community,
[0264] d. users may comment and rate these companies, [0265] e.
companies may launch marketing campaigns and special offers to
users, [0266] f. companies may provide 3D simulation services of
their own products, and/or [0267] g. companies may test new
products before they are launched in the market to gain market
studies. [0268] Interaction between users and aesthetic
professionals (FIG. 12, 180): [0269] a. users may contact aesthetic
professionals and become followers, [0270] b. users may send their
3D results to professionals and ask for advice, [0271] c. users may
send their 3D results to professionals and ask for a consultation,
[0272] d. users may plan the procedure, book a date and/or
calculate prices per procedure, [0273] e. users may comment and/or
rate these professionals, [0274] f. users may recommend aesthetic
professionals to other users, [0275] g. professionals may launch
marketing campaigns and/or special offers to users, and/or [0276]
h. professionals may provide 3D simulation services and/or remote
consultation. [0277] Interaction between aesthetic professionals
and aesthetic companies (FIG. 12, 190): [0278] a. aesthetic
professionals may contact companies and become followers, [0279] b.
aesthetic professionals may order products online from companies,
[0280] c. companies may launch marketing campaigns and/or offers to
professionals, and/or [0281] d. companies may provide 3D simulation
services of their own products.
[0282] Consumers being part of the community may be able to contact
the aesthetic professionals through a finder tool (FIG. 12, 130),
with different search options like distance from consumer's
address, location, ratings, procedures done, endorsements, 3D
availability, comparisons between real outcomes and/or 3D
simulations.
[0283] Aesthetic professionals may have a search ranking based on
the above parameters, but different options may be provided in
order to let them move up in the ranking based for example on a
paying service. Such paying service may let them appear in
preferential sections of the application, for example when a
consumer is simulating a specific 3D procedure or 3D simulation
feature. For example, a plastic surgeon may pay to appear in the
page of consumers in a certain city whenever they are doing a
simulation of breast augmentation. A promotional banner may appear
in a specific part of the page. Different parts of the page may be
defined for higher or lower priorities and/or prices.
[0284] Consumers may also contact the aesthetic companies being
members of the community. Such companies may have a profile sharing
all the information desired to the community about their products
and/or services. There may be aesthetic companies targeting
consumers, such as cosmetics manufacturers, and other targeting
aesthetic professionals such as sutures manufacturers, and others
targeting both, such as botox or breast implants manufacturers.
[0285] The platform may include a search tool (FIG. 12, 120) with
different search options like type of product, type of procedure,
ratings, recommendations and/or 3D simulators available.
[0286] Aesthetic professionals and companies inside the community
may have access to their respective search tools, for example
breast implant manufacturers looking for plastic surgeons and/or
dermatologists looking for dermal fillers producers.
[0287] All interaction between users, aesthetic professionals and
companies (FIG. 12, 160, 170, 180, 190) may be done directly
between them or through the Core 3D simulation features (FIG. 12,
110) available in the community.
[0288] Accordingly, in a third aspect, the invention provides a
community or 3D virtual world of users and/or entities (FIGS. 12,
100, 140 and 150), wherein said community or 3D virtual world is an
online platform characterized in that: [0289] at least one user
and/or entity of said community or 3D virtual world use at least
one method according to any of the previous claims, [0290] said
users and/or entities may possess at least one 3D representation
and/or 3D simulation and with the possibility to interact with
other users (FIG. 12, 10+20; FIG. 12, 110), [0291] said entities
comprise aesthetic professionals, aesthetic or beauty companies,
and/or institutions, with the possibility to generate at least one
3D representation of their bodies, intangible or tangible assets,
trademarks, products or services, with the possibility to generate
at least one 3D simulation, and with the possibility to interact
with the community (FIGS. 12, 100, 140 and 150; FIG. 12, 10+20;
FIG. 12, 110), [0292] said community comprise different types of
accounts or members: consumers, aesthetic professionals, aesthetic
companies, associations and/or groups (FIGS. 12, 100, 140 and 150),
[0293] said users and entities possessing at least one 3D
representation and/or 3D simulation become a 3D user of the
community (FIG. 12, 100), [0294] said users and entities may
simulate using the different available simulation options (FIG. 12,
110), interact with other users inside the community (FIG. 12, 160;
FIG. 12, 170; FIG. 12, 180), use a search tool to find an aesthetic
professional (FIG. 12, 130), use a search tool to find an aesthetic
company providing services in the community (FIG. 12, 120),
interact with aesthetic professionals and aesthetic companies (FIG.
12, 170; FIG. 12, 180), and/or share the experience inside the
community with other contacts through other social networks and/or
communities (FIG. 12, 200), [0295] said users, consumers and/or
entities may select the level of privacy, [0296] said aesthetic
professionals and/or aesthetic companies may propose their services
to all the users, be listed in the finder tool (FIG. 12, 110; FIG.
12, 120), be found by users, aesthetic companies and/or aesthetic
professionals, and/or actively participate in the activities inside
the community, [0297] said members may interact with each other
(FIG. 12, 190), in a one to one interaction, a one to several
interaction and/or several to several interaction, said interaction
being either private, partially private or public, said interaction
being made either directly between said members or through the Core
3D simulation features available in the community (FIG. 12, 110),
[0298] said user to user interaction and/or action consists of or
comprise (FIG. 12, 160): [0299] a. make friendship requests, [0300]
b. share 3D results with other users or groups of users, [0301] c.
make comment in own 3D results or others' results, [0302] d.
participate in public, partially private and/or private
conversations, [0303] e. put ratings in own 3D results or others'
results, [0304] f. vote for best 3D results, [0305] g. propose 3D
visualizations of friends with the option to select or vote for the
most attractive 3D visualization, [0306] h. create videos with own
3D results and optionally share them with others, [0307] i.
participate in competitions between users, and/or [0308] j. write
in internal forums of said community. [0309] said user to aesthetic
company interaction and/or action consists of or comprise (FIG. 12,
170): [0310] a. contact companies and become followers, [0311] b.
order products from the companies online, [0312] c. use the
services provided by the companies in the community, and/or [0313]
d. comment and rate these companies. [0314] said aesthetic company
to user interaction and/or action consists of or comprise (FIG. 12,
170): [0315] a. launch marketing campaigns and special offers to
users, [0316] b. provide 3D simulation services of their own
products, and/or [0317] c. test new products before they are
launched in the market to gain market studies. [0318] said users to
aesthetic professionals interaction and/or action consists of or
comprise (FIG. 12, 180): [0319] a. contact aesthetic professionals
and become followers, [0320] b. send their 3D results to
professionals and ask for advice, [0321] c. send their 3D results
to professionals and ask for a consultation, [0322] d. plan the
procedure, book a date and calculate prices per procedure, [0323]
e. comment and rate these professionals, and/or [0324] f. recommend
aesthetic professionals to other users. [0325] aesthetic
professionals to users interaction and/or action consists of or
comprise (FIG. 12, 180): [0326] a. launch marketing campaigns and
special offers to users, and/or [0327] b. provide 3D simulation
services and remote consultation. [0328] said aesthetic
professionals to aesthetic companies interaction and/or action
consists of or comprise (FIG. 12, 190): [0329] a. contact companies
and become followers, and/or [0330] b. order products online from
companies. [0331] said aesthetic companies to aesthetic
professionals interaction and/or action consists of or comprise
(FIG. 12, 190): [0332] a. launch marketing campaigns and/or offers
to professionals, and/or [0333] b. provide 3D simulation services
of their own products. [0334] said member(s) of the community may
contact other member(s) through a finder tool (FIG. 12, 120, 130),
said finder tool having different search options available selected
from distance from consumer's address, location, ratings,
procedures done, endorsements, 3D availability, and/or comparisons
between real outcomes and 3D simulations, [0335] said member(s) of
the community may have a search ranking based on the parameters of
said finder tool, with different options provided in order to let
said member(s) move up in the ranking based on a paying service,
[0336] said member(s) of the community may use a paying service in
order to let said member appear in preferential sections of the
application or of the method according to any of the previous
claims, [0337] said aesthetic companies may possess a profile in
order to share all the information desired to the community about
their products and services, wherein said aesthetic companies have
the option to target either consumers only, aesthetic professionals
only or consumers and aesthetic professionals, [0338] said
member(s) of the community may use a search tool having different
search options selected from type of product, type of procedure,
type of member, ratings, recommendations, profile, and/or available
3D simulators, wherein said search tool is adapted to the type of
member, and/or [0339] said member(s) of the community, the owner of
said platform, the developer or owner of said community, the system
owner, a software or program developer, and/or a software company
may develop applications to be integrated in said platform or
community.
[0340] Accordingly, in a sixteen preferred embodiment, the
invention provides a method according to the third aspect of the
invention, wherein said members may create 3D virtual shops and
sell their creations to other members, and/or wherein said
creations are selected from 3D models of clothes, accessories, or
creations based on other member's 3D representations.
[0341] The core 3D simulation features or 3D procedure may also be
selected from: [0342] 3D creation, wherein the consumer may create
its 3D representation by using photos or video. The 3D
representations are stored in his account, and they may be visible
by others if allowed by the user according to privacy settings.
[0343] breast surgery simulation wherein the simulation is selected
from breast augmentation, breast reduction, breast lift breast
reconstruction, breast implant revision and/or any other
breast-related procedure. [0344] facial surgery simulation wherein
the simulation is selected from different surgeries such as
rhinoplasty, face lifting, eyelid surgery, cheek implants, chin
implants, fat injection, brow lift, ears surgery and/or hair
transplantation. [0345] facial aesthetic procedures wherein the
simulation is selected from botox, dermal fillers, threads,
hyaluronic acid, PRP and/or any other facial procedure. [0346] body
procedures, wherein said body procedure is selected from tummy
tuck, abdominoplasty, body sculpturing, liposuction, and/or any
other body procedure. [0347] movement sequences, wherein the
movement sequence is selected from 3D animations of different parts
of the body with different movements selected from running,
jumping, and/or any other body movement. [0348] video creation,
wherein the video creation uses a tool to create video sequences
from the 3D content generated. Such videos may be shared with other
users, members and/or in other social networks. [0349] facial
gestures simulation, wherein the simulation consists of 3D
animations of different facial expressions selected from laughing,
crying, smiling, and/or any kind of simulations that can provide a
living-look to the 3D representation. [0350] cosmetics and make-up,
wherein the simulation is selected from make-up and/or effects of
different types of cosmetics. The types and parameters for each
product simulated might be provided by aesthetic companies or by
the system. An ordering system tool may be provided for each
product. [0351] virtual clothes, wherein the simulation consists of
3D clothes. It may be composed of different collections provided by
aesthetic and/or fashion companies, created by the system, and/or
by letting the users create their own 3D clothes. They may be full
body clothes or partial. An ordering system tool may be provided
for each product. [0352] glasses and facial accessories, wherein
the simulation is selected from glasses, facial accessories such as
piercings, earrings, and/or any other accessory. The products may
be provided by the manufacturers, by the system, and/or letting the
users create their own 3D accessories. An ordering system tool may
be provided for each product. [0353] younger/older tools, wherein
the simulation consists of changes to the morphology of the face
and/or body depending on the age. [0354] thin/fat tools, wherein
the simulation consists of change to the morphology of the face
and/or body depending on the weight/bmi. [0355] morphing to
celebrity tool, wherein the 3D morphing tool consist of mixing the
face of the user and a specific celebrity, [0356] find your
celebrity match, wherein said tool consists of searching for the
closest celebrity matching your or a selected facial 3D morphology.
[0357] morphing to friend tool, wherein said 3D morphing tool
consist of mixing or combining the face of the user with another
user. [0358] find your 3D match, wherein said tool consists of
searching for a user in the community, 3D virtual world, or online
matching the morphological parameters specified by the user,
matching the 3D representation and/or 3D simulation. [0359] 3D
daily horoscope, wherein the feature provides the user with the
horoscope, and it applies the state of mood and emotions into the
3D facial model of the user. Such 3D facial model is available as
the avatar of the user on his profile, and may be public to friends
and/or other users. Friends may share or follow their 3D
horoscopes. The possibility to apply the state of mood and emotions
into the 3D facial model or 3D anatomical output of the user may
also be independent of the horoscope. For example, the user might
select among different moods and emotional states and the system
will simulate generating a 3D simulation. [0360]
rental/license/sale of 3D images, wherein anyone may rent, license
and/or sell the different parts of the body or full body generated
by the system. Those may be used for communication, movie, games,
sex, and any other purpose. [0361] dating, wherein the feature may
use aesthetic matching solutions for finding people that fit best
selected morphologic criteria and/or wherein the feature may use
the creation of an avatar to search for similar and/or close
ones.
[0362] In a seventeen preferred embodiment, the invention provides
a method according to any of the aspects or embodiments of the
invention, wherein said 3D procedure or 3D simulation feature is
selected from breast procedure, facial procedure, gluteus
procedure, muscle procedure, rhinoplasty procedure,
carnio-maxillo-facial procedure, breast surgery simulation, facial
surgery simulation, facial aesthetic procedure or any other
procedure in the plastic, reconstructive or aesthetic field, 3D
creation, body procedure, movement sequence, video creation, facial
gestures simulation, cosmetics and make-up simulation, virtual
clothes, glasses and facial accessories, younger/older tools,
thin/fat tools, morphing to celebrity tool, find your celebrity
match, morphing to friend tool, find your 3D match, 3D daily
horoscope, rental, licence and/or sale of 3D images, and/or
dating.
[0363] In another aspect, the invention provides a 3D virtual
world, with all the characteristics of a 3D virtual world like 3D
buildings, 3D roads, 3D objects, i.e. all things represented in 3D,
wherein at least one 3D representation of an animal or human is
obtained by any method according to the invention. Such virtual
world may contain any creation, object, accessory, or product
obtained according to any method of the invention, according to the
second aspect of the invention and/or wherein any core 3D
simulation feature and/or 3D procedure may be performed. Any or all
characteristics or features herein described for the community or
else may similarly apply to the 3D virtual world.
[0364] In a fourth aspect, the invention provides a use of any
method of the invention, a product, object, accessory, medical
device, implant, sizer or any creation according to the second
aspect of the invention, a community or 3D virtual world or
platform according to the third aspect of the invention
for/enabling: [0365] aesthetic professional to show consumers or
any users or members to show to any other user(s) or member(s)
selected 3D anatomical outcome(s) based on selected features and/or
desired outcome, and/or selected product, object, medical device,
implant, or sizer obtained by any method of the invention. [0366]
consumers to send photo(s) through an online access or mobile
application, requesting a specific aesthetic procedure, wherein the
consumer gets the 3D results through the aesthetic professional,
either during the consultation or by remote consultation, [0367]
consumers to send their photos through an online access or mobile
application, and after paying the service fee, the consumer gets
the 3D results online, [0368] aesthetic professionals to use the 3D
system to simulate the desires of the consumer, and to request
and/or produce themselves a product, object, creation and/or
accessory to be used by the consumer, [0369] aesthetic
professionals to use the 3D system to simulate the desires of the
consumer, and to request or produce themselves a custom sizer to be
used by the consumer, [0370] aesthetic professionals to use the 3D
system to simulate the desires of the consumer, and to request or
produce themselves a custom implant to be used during the surgery,
[0371] consumers to create an account in the system's community,
platform or virtual world, create their 3D representations and
share them with other members, wherein during the process of
simulating at least one aesthetic procedure said member may contact
at least one aesthetic professional in order to get a consultation,
may order online specific beauty products, and/or play with the
different 3D tools or games available in said community, and/or
[0372] aesthetic professionals to create an account in the system's
community, platform or virtual world and pay for premium options
such as top ranking in the search section of professionals, to
launch promotions to all members, and/or to contact aesthetic
companies to order products.
[0373] A 3D procedure or 3D simulation herein described may be
applied to any aspect or any embodiment of the present invention. A
3D procedure or 3D simulation may for example apply to any step of
generating a 3D (anatomical) output.
[0374] In one embodiment, a method according to any aspect or
embodiment of the invention allows the synthesis, fabrication,
creation and/or manufacturing of an object, product, medical
device, implant, sizer, accessory, body or face accessory, cloth,
botox, dermal filler, sutures, plates or any other product or
object that may be integrated in a 3D simulation procedure.
[0375] In one embodiment, a method, 3D procedure or 3D simulation
feature according to any aspect or embodiment of the invention may
be applied on internal organs, tissue, bone and/or cartilage.
[0376] In one embodiment, a method, 3D procedure or 3D simulation
feature according to any aspect or embodiment of the invention is
performed automatically. For example, 3D simulation procedures may
be performed automatically.
[0377] In one embodiment, a method, step, 3D procedure or 3D
simulation feature according to any aspect or embodiment of the
invention may be performed either solely by a user, a virtual
assistant or a professional. Alternatively, any step performed by a
user may be performed by a relative, virtual assistant or
professional. Alternatively, it may be performed in a collaborative
manner.
[0378] Preferably, a method according to any aspect or embodiment
of the invention is applied on humans.
[0379] Preferably, a 3D procedure or 3D simulation feature
according to any aspect or embodiment of the invention is an
aesthetic or plastic procedure.
[0380] All the aspects and embodiments of the invention also apply
for example to facial 3D simulations, wherein the user may order
product(s) related to facial aesthetics in the same way as
described for breasts. When ordering a product, the order(s) may
also be sent from other parts of the online platform, not only in
the 3D visualization step or location. In one embodiment, ordering
may be done from the online platform. In another embodiment,
ordering may be done from the online platform, from the patient
profile directly and/or in a more general way from the
homepage.
EXAMPLES
Example 1
[0381] A prototype is being developed related to a method of the
present invention, wherein a consumer can access an online service
provided by the system and where he can get a 3D simulation of a
desired procedure. Once the consumer clicks on such service, a
video appears explaining what the results could be and how to take
the photos (as guidelines or help function). Then, the consumer
enters into a step where three photos must be uploaded to the
system, together with some physical and personal information. After
that, the consumer must enter his credit card details for the
payment of this service, and finally he ends up in a dashboard page
where he is informed about the process being held. Once the 3D
representation and simulation is done, the consumer gets an access
to visualize the 3D representation and simulation through the
dashboard.
[0382] A few screenshots representing some steps of the method have
been taken. FIG. 14 is a screenshot representing the step dedicated
to upload the 3 photos needed to create the 3D representation (see
also FIG. 2). FIG. 15 is a screenshot representing the step of
adding the contact information after uploading the photos (see also
FIG. 2, 10.4). FIG. 16 is a screenshot representing the step of
adding the credit card information to proceed to payment for the 3D
service. FIG. 17 is a screenshot representing the communication
feed to show the status of the 3D generation.
Example 2
[0383] Example 2 represent prototypes of a few aspects/embodiments
of the present invention illustrated by screenshots of the
application (including first aspect, 14.sup.th and 15.sup.th
embodiments of the invention).
[0384] After the 3D simulation procedure, with the selection of the
desired implants by the patient, results are directly displayed to
the user (e.g. patient or doctor), see FIG. 18. Hence, the user may
select currently manufactured implants that are integrated in the
system (database) and immediately see the results on his computer
and/or any other diplaying device (multiple diplaying devices may
be used for displaying the results).
[0385] Once the user (e.g. patient and/or doctor) has made his
choice among the different available 3D results by selecting one 3D
result, he just have to click on the button "knife" on the top-left
corner to open the ordering form (see FIG. 19). The ordering form
indicates the specific type of implants simulated with the
following information for each implant (left and right implants):
type of implant, volume required, diameter and projection. On this
form, the user (e.g. patient or doctor) may specify the date of
surgery, the type of surgery between aesthetic or reconstructive,
the address of delivery of the implants and write some comments. By
clicking on the button "Save and order", the user launches the
ordering system.
[0386] Once the order has been made, mobile messages and emails are
sent to the set of contacts the doctor has defined on his account.
A Customer Relationship Manager (CRM) system is available wherein
for any surgeon a list of contacts may be entered, defining who
receives notifications only and/or who is the responsible of
confirming the order (herein may be designated as the "master").
All notifications may be set to sms, email or both and/or any other
communication tool/channel.
[0387] Both the doctor and the distributor/merchant/manufacturer
have a list of orders with the current status (pending, confirmed,
cancelled), with all details about each order (including creation
date, comments, patient information and implants ordered). Other
options like stock management, products availability and tracking
system are being added.
[0388] Accordingly, the invention provides a method of generating
at least one 3D anatomical output, 3D representation and/or 3D
simulation of an animal body or human body and/or of at least one
part of said body and thereafter selecting, ordering,
creating/producing and/or delivering/receiving at least one product
derived from said 3D output/representation/simulation consisting of
or comprising: [0389] i) optionally accessing service (FIG. 7, 60),
[0390] ii) optionally starting process (FIG. 7, 70), [0391] iii)
optionally linking users together, wherein said users are selected
from consumers, professionals (e.g. healthcare professionals) and
companies (e.g. manufacturers) (FIG. 7, 80), [0392] iv) receiving
as input at least one image, at least one video and/or anatomical
information (FIG. 1, 10) [0393] v) generating at least one 3D
anatomical output from said body and/or of at least one part of
said body (FIG. 1, 20), [0394] vi) optionally visualizing said 3D
anatomical output (FIG. 1, 30), [0395] vii) optionally linking
users together, wherein said users are selected from consumers,
professionals and companies (FIG. 7, 80), [0396] viii) optionally
selecting at least one 3D anatomical output, [0397] ix) optionally
online ordering of at least one product (FIG. 6, 50), with the
option of selecting a professional providing advice and/or
performing any kind of assistance, activity and/or procedure
related to said ordered product, [0398] x) optionally informing
persons and/or users of said ordering, [0399] xi) optionally
generating a list of orders made and/or received for each user,
[0400] xii) optionally creating/producing at least one object,
creation, product, accessory, implant and/or sizer from said 3D
anatomical output (FIG. 5, 40), [0401] xiii) optionally
delivering/receiving at least one object, creation, product,
accessory, implant and/or sizer, [0402] xiv) optionally managing
stock, [0403] xv) optionally determining product(s) availability,
[0404] xvi) optionally using a tracking system, [0405] xvii)
optionally data mining, and [0406] xviii) optionally producing
statistics.
[0407] The skilled artisan will understand that the order of the
steps of any aspects of the invention may be easily modified and
the present invention shall not be limited to the specific order
disclosed herein. For example, the step of linking users together
may be made anytime during the process.
[0408] A user may be a customer, patient, doctor, healthcare
professional, healthcare center/institution, hospital, private
practice, manufacturer or distributor.
[0409] Selection of at least one 3D anatomical output according to
step viii) may be made by simple clicking on a button (e.g.
""knife" button).
[0410] Ordering of at least one product according to step ix) may
be made via an ordering form, which may comprise the following
information for each product selected (e.g. left and right
implants): type of product (e.g. implant), shape, size or volume
required, specific measures (e.g. diameter for implant), colour (or
black and white, gray scale) and/or projection. On this form, the
customer (e.g. patient) may select a professional (e.g. doctor)
that will provide advice and/or perform any kind of assistance,
activity and/or procedure (e.g. surgical procedure) related to the
product selected or ordered. On this form, the user (e.g. patient
or doctor) may also specify: [0411] i) the date (optionally
multiple dates selected with definitive choice made later,
optionally in agreement with others users, doctors and/or else) and
eventually time of any assistance, activity and/or procedure linked
to the product ordered (e.g. surgery) and/or to the delivery of the
product, [0412] ii) the type of assistance, activity and/or
procedure (e.g. surgery, between aesthetic or reconstructive),
[0413] iii) the address of delivery of the product (e.g. implants),
and/or [0414] iv) write some comments.
[0415] Ordering of the product(s) may be made by simple clicking on
a button (e.g. "Save and order" button).
[0416] All the aspects and embodiments of the invention also apply
for example to facial 3D simulations, wherein the user may order
product(s) related to facial aesthetics in the same way as
described for breasts. When ordering a product, the order(s) may
also be sent from other parts of the online platform, not only in
the 3D visualization step or location. In one embodiment, ordering
may be done from the online platform. In another embodiment,
ordering may be done from from the online platform, the patient
profile directly and/or in a more general way from the
homepage.
[0417] The step of informing persons and/or users of the ordering
according to step x) may be made via mobile messages and/or emails,
which may be sent to the set of contacts the doctor and/or user has
defined on his account. The step of informing persons and/or users
of the ordering according to step x) may take the form of a
Customer Relationship Manager (CRM) system wherein for any user
(e.g. surgeon) a list of contacts may be entered, defining who
receives notifications only and/or who is the responsible of
confirming the order. All notifications may be set to sms, email or
both and/or any other communication tool/channel.
[0418] The step of generating a list of orders made and/or received
for each user according to step xi) may take the form of a list of
orders with the current status (for example pending, confirmed or
cancelled), and may comprise all details about each order,
including creation date, comments, user information and/or product
ordered (e.g. implants). Such lists of orders may be generated for
the doctor and the distributor/merchant/manufacturer. For example,
in the case of a patient, all products that a patient has ordered
are displayed at least to him (information may be shared to another
user or other person). For example, in the case of a doctor, all
products that have been ordered by any patient selecting this
doctor are displayed to at least this doctor (information may be
shared to another user or other person). For example, in the case
of a manufacturer, all orders made by any user ordering a product
manufactured by this manufacturer are displayed to at least the
manufacturer (information may be shared to another user or other
person).
[0419] Other options like stock management, products availability
and tracking system are being added.
[0420] Advantageously, such aspects/embodiments of the invention
increase the conversion rate of plastic surgeons through 3D
simulation and enables online ordering of medical products with
just one click.
[0421] With the present ordering platform, users (doctors and
patients) may simulate the aesthetic procedure, agree on the
desired outcome (e.g. doctors agree with the patients), and order
the corresponding medical products needed all in the same
process.
[0422] Here are just a few of the advantages such system brings to
medical merchants/manufacturers: [0423] Save considerable time,
workflow and costs related to the ordering process, [0424] Increase
turnover and commissions per sales representative by keeping them
dedicated on client relationship and acquisition, [0425] Increase
sales through direct and easy order access, [0426] Competitive edge
towards other medical merchants, [0427] Diminish inventories and
errors, and [0428] Offer and manage all merchants/manufacturers'
products portfolio through the same platform.
* * * * *