Title: An improved collision detection and cutting algorithm of the soft tissue in virtual surgical simulation

Authors: Xiufen Ye; Jianguo Zhang; Yanyang Gu

Addresses: College of Automation, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150001, China ' College of Automation, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150001, China ' College of Automation, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150001, China

Abstract: In virtual surgery simulation, we have to balance the realistic biomechanics behaviour and the system real-time performance, hence, the study of soft tissue deformation efficiency and authenticity remain a challenge. In this paper, we first describe a novel interactive method of using a computer mouse to manipulate objects instead of using the haptic device, which makes the system development more convenient. The partial information lost is a serious issue in the medical preoperative diagnosis and surgery planning. Then, we present an improved collision detection algorithm based on the strategy of triangular mesh classification, as well as a surface cutting algorithm based on removing the intersecting grid cells to avoid local deformation. Finally, experimental results show that the improved collision detection method has improved the collision query rate. Furthermore, the cutting algorithm is implemented more easily. Besides, it retains original information better, which helps improve the diagnosis accuracy.

Keywords: virtual surgery; collision detection; projection cutting; local subdivision; soft tissue deformation; simulation; computer mouse; object manipulation; preoperative diagnosis; surgical planning; triangular mesh classification; surface cutting; healthcare technology.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMA.2014.066363

International Journal of Mechatronics and Automation, 2014 Vol.4 No.4, pp.236 - 247

Received: 16 Dec 2013
Accepted: 14 Mar 2014
Published online: 14 Jan 2015 *

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