Detecting and removing overlap meshes for the assembly of 3D-printed fractured bones

We propose an overlapping detection and removal algorithm to improve repositioned-fragments of the 3D bone model that significantly affect the assembled quality of 3D-printed bones. For this, we exploit the preliminary study show the 3D-printed bones obtained directly from CT images cannot be assembled easily and correctly. Our algorithm starts by detecting and isolating the overlapped-meshes on the fracture zone, then removing polygon meshes defects to eliminate the interferences on the assembly of two 3D-printed bones. Several cases of clinical fracture bone models are presented to evaluate the performance of the proposed algorithm. Based on the simulation result, the proposed algorithm is feasible to offer a well-made assembled 3D-printed bone, where the overlapping surface can be minimized especially on broken area.