Patent Description:
Creating replicas of anatomical structures in the related art is a time consuming process. Before advancements in computer technology, creating the replicas involved making a plaster cast of the subject to be replicated to create a negative image, and then using the negative image to cast a positive image, such as in an elastomer gel that simulates human skin. The techniques were used not just for faces, but any anatomical structure, like feet, hands, and legs. An example for the generation of a masturbation device is US patent application <CIT> which discloses an image-based method for creating a mould for the generating of a male masturbation device. Also, the publication by <NPL>, discloses such kind of masturbation device. Methods of 3D object reconstruction from multi-view images taken from different viewpoints are known e.g. from <NPL> or from "Autodesk 123D From Wikipedia, <NUM> Nov. A method of Boolean operations for geometric shapes is e.g. known from <NPL>.

As computer technology has advanced, the ability to create digital images of existing structures, like faces, has improved significantly. Moreover, advances in three-dimensional printing technology theoretically enable printing of positive images of a subject or portion of a subject to be replicated without the need to mix vats of plaster. However, while the advances have eliminated the use of plaster and arguably sped the process, the various technologies are not well integrated. Creating a replica of an anatomical structure in the related art is still a time consuming process that cannot support mass production of replicas of anatomical structures, where each anatomical structure is unique.

Thus, any improvement or advancement which shortens cycle time in the creation of replicas of anatomical structures would provide a competitive advantage in the marketplace.

For a detailed description of example embodiments, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings in which:.

Various terms are used to refer to particular system components. Different companies may refer to a component by different names - this document does not intend to distinguish between components that differ in name but not function. In the following discussion and in the claims, the terms "including" and "comprising" are used in an openended fashion, and thus should be interpreted to mean "including, but not limited to. " Also, the term "couple" or "couples" is intended to mean either an indirect or direct connection. Thus, if a first device couples to a second device, that connection may be through a direct connection or through an indirect connection via other devices and connections.

The following discussion is directed to various embodiments of the invention. Although one or more of these embodiments may be preferred, the embodiments disclosed should not be interpreted, or otherwise used, as limiting the scope of the disclosure, including the claims. In addition, one skilled in the art will understand that the following description has broad application, and the discussion of any embodiment is meant only to be exemplary of that embodiment, and not intended to intimate that the scope of the disclosure, including the claims, is limited to that embodiment.

Example embodiments are directed to creating replicas of anatomical structures. More particularly, example embodiments are directed to creating replicas of anatomical structures, where those replicas are cast in negative molds printed on three-dimensional (3D) printers. More particularly still, example embodiments are directed to methods and related systems of creating replicas of anatomical structures on demand from a series of pictures (such as a video) of the anatomical structure. The various embodiments were developed in the context of creating replicas of anatomical structures for male masturbation devices (e.g., replicas of external female genitalia), and thus the description that follows is based on the developmental context. However, the developmental context shall not be read as a limitation of the scope of the technology. The specification first turns to a description of an example system to orient the reader.

<FIG> shows a system in accordance with at least some embodiments. In particular, the example system comprises person or subject <NUM>, where the subject desires to create a replica of an anatomical structure of the subject <NUM>, such as the subject's mouth, external genitalia (e.g., external female genitalia), or anus. In order to create the replica, the subject <NUM> interacts with a replica system <NUM> by way of a computing device <NUM>, such as a desktop computer, a laptop computer, or a mobile computing device, or a mobile phone. In the example system, the subject <NUM> communicates by way of the Internet <NUM>, though there may be any number of local area networks, wide area networks, and/or private networks between the computing device <NUM> and the replica system <NUM>.

The replica system <NUM> is conceptually divided into a customer interface computer system <NUM>, a mold creation computer system <NUM>, a 3D printer <NUM>, and a cast system <NUM>. The example cast system <NUM> includes a negative mold <NUM> that, as discussed more below, is created on demand, and an outer mold assembly <NUM> that includes features that are included with each replica (e.g., features that hold the replica within an outer cover). In some cases the result of the casting process of the cast system <NUM> is an elastomeric insert that has a replica of the anatomical structure on a distal end thereof. The elastomeric insert may be placed within an outer cover, such as a casing of hard plastic, to create the final product illustratively shown as male masturbation device <NUM>. The example male masturbation device <NUM> is shown in an outer cover similar to a FLESHLIGHT® brand product available from Interactive Life Forms, LLC of Austin, Texas, but the outer cover may take any suitable form, or be omitted, depending on the situation.

Still referring to <FIG>, as the name implies, the customer interface computer system <NUM> is the computer system with which a customer, such as subject <NUM>, interacts when interacting with the with the replica system <NUM>. The customer interface computer system <NUM> may be a desktop computer system, a laptop computer system, a group of computer systems operating in tandem, a rack-mounted computer system (e.g., a server), a plurality of servers co-located or at disparate locations, a cloud-based computer system whose physical location may change from time-to-time depending on loading, or combinations of any of these computer systems. Because the anatomical structures to be replicated may include external genitalia and/or the anus, federal law may require certain explicit procedures and record keeping. For example, <NUM> U. §<NUM> prescribes certain conduct that must be followed, such as verifying the name, date of birth, maiden name, aliases, and nicknames, among others, of the subject. Other regulations, such as <NUM> C. §<NUM>(e) prescribes that information collected under Section <NUM> be stored segregated from other data. These are merely examples to show that the customer interface computer system <NUM> serves a specific (and in some cases federally mandated) set of functions, which is one of the reasons the customer interface computer system <NUM> is shown as a distinct computer system from the mold creation computer system <NUM>.

More particularly then, the example customer interface computer system <NUM> enables the subject <NUM> to create an account within the replica system <NUM>, such as by interacting with the replica system <NUM> by way of computing device <NUM>. Once an account has been created, and before the replica system accepts representations of an anatomical structure to be replicated, the subject <NUM> is required to provide proof of age and identity. In one example embodiment the subject <NUM> is prompted to submit several pictures such as: a picture of the front of the driver's license of the subject <NUM>; a picture of the back of the driver's license of the subject <NUM>; a headshot of the subject <NUM> with the front of the driver's license held next to the head of the subject; and/or a headshot of the subject <NUM>. The information provided by the subject <NUM> during creation of the account can then be verified against the driver's license. In one example embodiment, the pictures of the front (and possibly back) of the driver's license are subjected to character recognition software that extracts information such as name, address, and date of birth to create verification data. The customer interface computer system <NUM> may then automatically compare the verification data to data supplied by the subject <NUM> during creation of the account. If the information does not match, then the login may be flagged, or passed to a human reviewer to make the analysis.

Similarly, the customer interface computer system <NUM> may also verify that the subject <NUM> is indeed the person depicted in the driver's license picture. For example, the picture containing the head shot of the subject <NUM>, along with the picture of the front of the driver's license of the subject <NUM>, may each be provided to a facial recognition program. While the size of the face in the head shot compared to the face of the driver's license picture may be different, the relative location, spacing, and size of the facial features should be the same as between the two pictures if the pictures are of the same subject. More specifically, the example customer interface computer system <NUM> may compare the facial features as between the picture containing the head shot of the subject <NUM>, and the picture on the driver's license of the subject <NUM>, and determine whether the two faces are the same face. Alternatively, the single picture containing the head shot of the subject <NUM> next to the driver's license of the subject <NUM> may be supplied to the facial recognition program, and the same determination made. In yet still other cases, the facial recognition program may be provided the picture of head shot of the subject <NUM>, the picture of the head shot next to the driver's license, and the picture of the driver's license, and the facial recognition program may make a determination whether all the faces are from the same subject based on picking out facial features within each picture (including facial features of multiple faces within a single picture). If the facial recognition program ascertains that the faces are same, then the subject <NUM> is considered age verified. If the facial recognition program cannot verify that the faces are the same, or the confidence index regarding the facial recognition is low, then the pictures may be provided to a human reviewer to make the determination.

Either at the time the login is created, or after the subject <NUM> has been age verified, the customer interface computer system <NUM> assigns the subject <NUM> a unique identification number or unique identifier. The unique identifier may be used by other portions of the replica system <NUM>, such as the mold creation computer system <NUM>, as a means to identify the particular mold created without including personally identifiable information of the subject <NUM>.

Still referring to <FIG>, once the subject <NUM> has been age verified, the customer interface system computer system <NUM> may send a notification to the subject <NUM> that they have been approved for upload. That message may take any suitable form, such as a text message, an electronic mail message, or automated or manual phone call. Regardless of the form of the notification, the customer interface computer system <NUM> is enabled to accept representations of the anatomical structure which the subject <NUM> wishes to replicate. Any attempt by the subject <NUM> to upload representations of anatomical structures prior to age verification will be rejected. To upload, in example systems the subject <NUM> interacts with the customer interface computer system <NUM> using the computing device <NUM> to upload representations of the anatomical structure to be replicated. The discussion proceeds on an assumption that the subject <NUM> does not have access to software tools to create an intermediate mold (e.g., positive mold) or negative mold of the anatomical structure, and thus the representations of the anatomical structure uploaded will be in the form of a video or series of still pictures. Alternative situations are discussed more below.

In particular, the subject <NUM> may take a video of the anatomical structure, or may take a series of still pictures. While possible to take the video or series of still pictures without preparing the anatomical structure, better results may be achieved if certain preparatory steps are taken beforehand. For example, regardless of the anatomical structure, removing all hair (e.g., shaving) provides a more consistent surface for later programmatic steps in the process. To the extent the subject <NUM> wants the final product to include representations of hair (e.g., pubic hair, mustache, and goatee), a texture that simulates hair can be added later in the process (discussed more below). In an example of the anatomical structure being external female genitalia, such a replica is likely to be a gift for a mate. Prior to capturing the video or taking the pictures, physical arousal of the subject <NUM> to induce swelling and flushing is recommended. Relatedly, physically separating the labia to better expose the vaginal entrance is recommended. Next, visual contrast of the various anatomical structures (e.g., labia, clitoral hood) may be obtained by increasing the contrast of the skin, such as by use of baby oil, or in some cases baby powder. In the case of the replica being the mouth, application of lipstick may provide increased contrast (though the lipstick color may not be reproduced in the replica). Beyond preparatory steps regarding the anatomical structure, the camera used (e.g., camera on the computing device <NUM>) may be set for highest resolution, and a suitable frame rate (e.g., <NUM> frames per second). The anatomical structure should be well lit, either by the computing device <NUM> or by external lighting.

The plurality of pictures of the anatomical structure should be from a distinct plurality of viewing angles relative to the anatomical structure. For example, in the case of external female genitalia, a video may be taken with legs spread wide, and starting with the computing device <NUM> abutting a first leg. The video is started and then the computing device is moved smoothly to the second leg, keeping the labia and vaginal entrance within the frames during the movement. In the case of the mouth, a video may be taken starting from a first side of the face with smooth movement of the computing device <NUM> to a second side of the face, keeping the mouth with the frames during the movement. As for the anus as the anatomical structure, the video may be taken with movement laterally across the buttocks in a fashion similar to the labia. In other cases, rather than video, the subject <NUM> or an assistant may take a series of still pictures, where the location of the camera for each picture resides in an arc partially around the anatomical structure (e.g., the anatomical structure resides at the focal point of the arc).

Regardless of the form of the representations of the anatomical structure, in example systems the subject <NUM> uploads the representations to the replica system <NUM>. More particularly, the representations of the anatomical structure (e.g., video, series of still pictures) are received by the customer interface computer system <NUM>. In the case of video taken by a computing device <NUM> being a smart phone with an Android® or WINDOWS® operating system, the video may have an MP4 format. In the case of video taken by a computer device <NUM> being iPhone® brand device with an IOS operating system, the video may be in a QUICKTIME® or. MOV format. Other video formats, including after-developed video formats, are possible. If the representations are a series of still pictures, the format may be any suitable picture format, such as a JPEG. png, or Adobe®. pdf format. Other pictures formats, including after-developed formats, are possible. Personally identifiable information is removed (e.g., removed from file names, removed from metadata), and the representations are identified (e.g., file names) with the unique identifier previously assigned to the subject. The customer interface computer system <NUM> then passes the representations of the anatomical structure identified by the unique identifier, to the mold creation computer system <NUM>. In some embodiments the customer interface computer system <NUM> then discards the representation of the anatomical structure so as keep the personally identifiable information segregated. Stated differently, in example systems the customer interface system <NUM> is a separate and distinct computer system (or set of computer systems) from the mold creation computer system <NUM> (or set of computer systems) such that in the event of a data security breach to one system the hacker cannot obtain both personally identifiable information of the subject <NUM> and pictures or other representations of the subject's anatomical structure(s).

The discussion now turns to a series of steps performed by a combination of the mold creation computer system <NUM>, the 3D printer <NUM>, and the cast system <NUM>. <FIG> shows a method in accordance with at least some embodiments. In particular, <FIG> is presented as a high level overview of an example process to create a replica of an anatomical structure in accordance with example embodiments. <FIG> serves as an organizational guide to the balance of the discussion. The example method starts (block <NUM>) and comprises: accepting, by a first computer system, a plurality of pictures of the anatomical structure of a subject, each picture of the plurality of pictures from a distinct viewing angle relative to the anatomical structure (block <NUM>); creating, by the first computer system, an object file that contains an initial model of an outside surface of the anatomical structure (block <NUM>); cutting, by the first computer system, the initial model to a predetermined exterior shape circumscribing the anatomical structure, the cutting creates a positive model of the anatomical structure within the predetermined exterior shape (block <NUM>); creating, by the first computer system, a negative model of the anatomical structure from the positive model (block <NUM>); placing, by the first computer system, a stem tool object on an outside surface of the negative model in an abutting relationship to an orifice of the anatomical structure, and thereby creating a final negative model (block <NUM>); printing, by way of a three-dimensional printer, the final negative model to create a negative mold (block <NUM>); and casting the replica of the anatomical structure using the negative mold (block <NUM>). Thereafter the method ends (block <NUM>), though the process likely begins anew with a new set of pictures of an anatomical structure of another subject. Each step will be addressed in turn, and in greater detail.

The first step in the example method is accepting a plurality of pictures of the anatomical structure of the subject <NUM>, each picture of the plurality of pictures from a distinct viewing angle relative to the anatomical structure (block <NUM>). In the example system, the accepting of the plurality of pictures is by the mold creation computer system <NUM> (<FIG>) from the customer interface computer system <NUM> (also <FIG>). However, in other cases the mold creation computer system <NUM> may receive the plurality of pictures directly or through any suitable intermediate computer system. In some example cases, the mold creation computer system <NUM> receives or accepts the plurality of pictures in the form of a video comprising a plurality of frames. In such situations, the mold creation computer system <NUM> may extract the plurality of pictures from the video, with each picture of the plurality of pictures corresponding to a frame of the video. In cases where a video is received, the mold creation computer system <NUM> may extract the pictures by discarding frames from the first few seconds of video (e.g., first three second), discarding frames from the last few seconds of video (e.g., last three seconds), and then selecting frames from what remains (e.g., selecting <NUM> to <NUM> frames from the remaining frames). In the case of receiving or accepting the plurality of pictures directly, the extracting may be omitted.

Next, the example method creates an object file that contains an initial model of an outside surface of the anatomical structure (block <NUM>). That is, the initial model is a digital representation of the outside surface of the anatomical structure in any suitable file format. For example, the initial model may be series of points in a three-dimensional space, where each point defines the vertex of a triangle, and where all the triangles viewed together give the visual appearance of a three-dimensional object. Example file formats for the initial model include files in an ". OBJ" geometry definition, files in a stereolithography ". STL" definitions, as well as any currently available or after-developed file format that represents three-dimensional surfaces.

In accordance with at least some embodiments, extracting the plurality of pictures, and creating the object file, may be accomplished by supplying the plurality of pictures to a photogrammetry program, such as 3DF Zephyr produced by 3Dflow of Verona, Italy (www. Other photogrammetry programs, including after-developed photogrammetry programs, may be equivalently used. The example 3DF Zephyr accepts video and/or still pictures in a variety of file formats, and produces a point cloud model of the scene in the pictures in an. OBJ format.

<FIG> shows a perspective view of an initial model of anatomical structure in accordance with at least some embodiments. In particular, the example anatomical structure of <FIG> is a simplified drawing of external female genitalia. Visible in <FIG> are the perineum <NUM>, labium <NUM>, labium <NUM>, as well as the clitoral hood <NUM>. In example embodiments, the point cloud model produced from the photogrammetry program is an initial model <NUM>. The initial model <NUM> contains, and as shown depicts, data regarding the outside surface of the anatomical structure in three dimensions, shown as X-Y-Z on the coordinate axis in <FIG>. Stated otherwise, the initial model <NUM> has or contains information on the three-dimensional aspects of the outside surface of the anatomical structure. However, depending on the photogrammetry software used, and possibly settings thereof, in example embodiments the initial model <NUM> itself has very little or no thickness. <FIG> shows an example thickness T1 measured along the Z-axis of the coordinate system. The thickness T1 is exaggerated in <FIG> for purposes of discussion, but in example embodiments the thickness T1 of the initial model is merely the thickness, if any, of the points within the point cloud.

The next step in the example method is cutting the initial model <NUM> to create a positive model of the anatomical structure (block <NUM> of <FIG>). However, before describing in detail the cutting process, description of an example final product will aid in understanding not only various embodiments, but also variants. <FIG> shows a perspective view of a final product in the example form of a male masturbation device <NUM>. In particular, the male masturbation device <NUM> comprises an elastomeric or polymeric sleeve <NUM> at least partially disposed within an interior volume of an outer cover <NUM> of rigid material, such as plastic. In the example shown, the outer cover <NUM> is in the shape of a FLESHLIGHT® brand product, but any suitable shape of the outer cover <NUM> may be used. In the view of <FIG>, the insertion end <NUM> of the polymeric sleeve <NUM> is visible and includes the replica of the anatomical structure of the subject <NUM> (<FIG>). The remaining portions of the polymeric sleeve <NUM> reside within the outer cover <NUM>. The polymeric sleeve <NUM> may be made of a thermoplastic elastomer gel (TPE) of low durometer rating, or other material, such as silicon, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or elastomeric rubber. The example male masturbation device <NUM> may further comprise a cover or lid <NUM> that defines an inside diameter D2 slightly larger than the outside diameter of the D1 of the insertion end <NUM> of the polymeric sleeve <NUM> such that, when not in use, the lid <NUM> may be telescoped over the insertion end <NUM> and couple to the outer cover <NUM>. The lid <NUM> may, for example, protect the insertion end <NUM> from damage when not in use. In the example embodiments shown the exterior shape of the outer case <NUM> is circular having diameter D1 (e.g., three inches), and the circular shape circumscribes the anatomical structure. The male masturbation device <NUM> may further comprise a second cap or lid <NUM> that couples to the outer cover <NUM> opposite the lid <NUM>. The lid <NUM> may act as a controllable vent mechanism during use.

The insertion end <NUM> of the example male masturbation device <NUM> comprises a main aperture <NUM> which leads to a main passageway (the main passageway not visible in <FIG>, but discussed more below). As shown, the main aperture <NUM> is defined between the example labium <NUM> and labium <NUM>, between the clitoral hood <NUM> and the perineum <NUM>. In the case of anatomical structure being a mouth, the main aperture <NUM> would reside between the lips. In the case of the anatomical structure being the anus, the main aperture would be defined by the anus. The main passageway is coaxial with a longitudinal central axis <NUM> of the polymeric sleeve <NUM> and the outer cover <NUM>.

Returning briefly to <FIG>. The next step in the example method is cutting the initial model <NUM> (<FIG>) to a predetermined exterior shape circumscribing the anatomical structure (block <NUM>). More particularly still, the next step in the example method is cutting the initial model to have not only the predetermined exterior shape, but also in some cases a predetermined depth. The predetermined depth is related to a distance the polymeric sleeve <NUM> (<FIG>) extends beyond the outer cover <NUM>. However, as discussed above the initial model <NUM> has little or no thickness T1. Thus, prior to cutting, the initial model <NUM> is stretched or extruded to have a thickness greater than the predetermined depth.

<FIG> shows a perspective view of an initial model after extruding, in accordance with at least some embodiments. In particular, <FIG> shows that the initial model <NUM> is extruded to have a thickness T2 (and thus define a volume). For reasons that will become clearer below, the thickness T2 is greater than a distance that the polymeric sleeve extends beyond an end of the outer cover. In some cases, extruded thickness T2 is at least one inch, and in some cases three inches or more. To be clear, the initial model <NUM> is not a physical object; rather, the initial model <NUM> (both before and after extrusion) is data in an electronic file in any suitable file format. The file containing data regarding the initial model <NUM> is opened in a digital sculpting software program to perform the extrusion. In example cases, the extrusion of the initial model <NUM> is performed within ZBRUSH®, a digital sculpting software program available from Pixologic Inc. (pixologic.

Cutting the initial model <NUM> after extrusion involves electronically removing portions of the initial model <NUM> that are not needed, and then creating a negative image to be a mold for later casting. Prior to the innovations described in this application, a skilled artisan using a sculpting software program, such as the ZBRUSH® brand product, required a day or more to "manually" sculpt away portions of the initial model <NUM> after extrusion to wind up with a positive model, and then create the negative image to be used as a mold. A day or more per negative mold was too slow and expensive for mass production of replicas of anatomical structures, as each replica is unique and thus has its own negative mold to be used in the casting process. Using the tools, techniques, and methods described below, what once took a day or more to complete can now be completed in less than hour, and in some cases less than half an hour. Moreover, automation can be applied to portions of the process, cutting the time to <NUM> minutes or less, in some cases <NUM> minutes or less, and in some cases without human interaction.

In accordance with example embodiments, cutting the initial model <NUM> after extrusion to have not only the predetermined exterior shape, but also a predetermined depth, to create the positive model can be conceptually described as intersecting or merging of two 3D objects (one of which being the initial model <NUM>), and then removing portions of the initial model <NUM> that do not intersect the second 3D volume. The inventors of the current application have created several "tools" that speed the process and enable automation. The specification thus turns to a description of example "tools" being a cutting tool object, a mold tool object, and a stem tool object.

<FIG> show side elevation views of three objects in accordance with at least some embodiments. In particular, <FIG> shows a cutting tool object <NUM>, <FIG> shows a mold tool object <NUM>, and <FIG> shows a stem tool object <NUM>. The objects <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> are not physical objects, rather, the objects are data in one or more electronic files (in any suitable file format) that define the objects, including their three dimensional character. The cutting tool object <NUM> has a circular cross-section (the cross-section cut in a plane perpendicular to the plane of the page of the figure), with the exception of the tab <NUM> that helps distinguish the cutting tool object <NUM> from the mold tool object <NUM>. The cutting tool object defines a central axis <NUM> perpendicular to and centered within the circular cross-section, and a diameter D3 which in some embodiments is three inches. As discussed more below, the circular cross-section of the cutting tool object <NUM> may be the predetermined exterior shape that circumscribes the anatomical structure, but other shapes are possible. Moreover, the cutting tool object <NUM> defines a thickness T3 (measured from the flat surface <NUM> to the apex <NUM> of the conical section <NUM>). The example cutting tool object <NUM> also defines an annular channel <NUM> that circumscribes the outside surface of the cutting tool object <NUM>. The purpose of the annular channel <NUM> will become clearer in later discussions.

<FIG> further shows an example mold tool object <NUM>. The mold tool object <NUM> has circular cross-section (the cross-section cut in a plane perpendicular to the plane of the page). The mold tool object <NUM> also defines a circular disk or knob <NUM> that not only helps distinguish the mold tool object <NUM> from the cutting tool object <NUM>, but also helps align the final negative mold in the later described casting. The mold tool object <NUM> defines a central axis <NUM> perpendicular to and centered within the circular cross-section, and a diameter D4 greater than the diameter D2. If the diameter D3 of the cutting tool object <NUM> is three inches, then the diameter D4 will be three inches plus twice a wall thickness of the final negative mold. If the diameter D3 is changed, so too would the diameter D4. As discussed more below, the circular cross-section of the mold tool object <NUM> likewise defines the predetermined exterior shape that circumscribes the anatomical structure. Moreover, the mold tool object <NUM> defines a thickness T4 (measured from the flat surface <NUM> to the apex <NUM> of the conical section <NUM>).

<FIG> further shows an example stem tool object <NUM>. As will become clearer based on the discussion below, the stem tool object <NUM> helps define the main aperture into the polymeric sleeve. The example stem tool object <NUM> defines a tab <NUM> in the form of an inverted conic frustum with a central axis <NUM>. The tab <NUM> couples to a transition portion <NUM>. The precise form of the transition portion <NUM> depends on anatomical structure to be replicated. If the anatomical structure is a mouth, then the transition portion defines a long dimension L approximately the width of a mouth (e.g., two inches). If the anatomical structure to be replicated is exterior female genitalia, then the stem tool object <NUM> may omit either the first wing <NUM> or the second wing <NUM> (each wing defined by the dashed lines through the transition portion <NUM>). Finally, if the anatomical structure to be replicated is the anus, then both wings <NUM> and <NUM> may be omitted. In some cases, the wings may be electronically removed before use, and in other cases the tools may include three stem tool objects, one for each possible anatomical structure.

<FIG> show overhead views of the mold tool object and the stem tool object, respectively, in accordance with at least some embodiments. In particular, the view of <FIG> shows the upper surface <NUM> of the mold tool object <NUM>, and thus shows that the mold tool object <NUM> has a circular cross-section. Also visible in <FIG> is the central axis <NUM> of the mold tool object <NUM>, but the central axis <NUM> is perpendicular to the page in the view of <FIG>, and thus the central axis <NUM> is shown as a dot. In example embodiments, the mold tool object <NUM> also defines an annular trough <NUM> on the upper surface <NUM>, where the annular trough <NUM> is centered within the upper surface <NUM> and circumscribes the central axis <NUM>. The annular trough <NUM> defines a diameter D5 smaller than the diameter D4. In example embodiments, the distance between the diameter D4 and the diameter D5 at any location ultimately defines and controls the wall thickness of the final negative mold. A view of the upper surface <NUM> of the cutting tool object <NUM> is omitted for brevity, as such would look much like the view of the upper surface <NUM> of the mold tool object <NUM>, but without the annular trough <NUM>.

<FIG> shows an overhead view of the example stem tool object <NUM>. In particular, the view of <FIG> shows the tab <NUM> along with the central axis <NUM>, but the central axis <NUM> is perpendicular to the page in the view of <FIG>, and thus the central axis <NUM> is shown as a dot. The example transition portion <NUM> defines an oblong cross-section including the length L, as well as a width W less than half the width L, and in some cases less than a quarter of the width L. The stem tool object <NUM> is thus for an anatomical structure being a mouth, but by removing one or both of the wings <NUM> and/or <NUM> along the curved dashed lines, the stem tool object <NUM> may be arranged for other anatomical structures.

More precisely now, cutting the initial model <NUM> to have not only the predetermined exterior shape, and possibly a predetermined depth, to create the positive model can be conceptually described as first intersecting or merging the initial model <NUM> after extrusion with the cutting tool object <NUM>, and then removing portions of the initial model <NUM> that do not intersect cutting tool object <NUM>. Referring simultaneously to <FIG> and <FIG>, in example embodiments a center or central axis of the anatomical structure is identified based on the features of the anatomical structure within the initial model <NUM>. In the view of <FIG>, identifying the features may including: identifying labium <NUM> and labium <NUM> of external female genitalia; identifying an intersection the labia, the example intersection shown as dashed line <NUM>; and identifying at least one the perineum <NUM> or a clitoral hood <NUM>. From some or all the identified features, the longitudinal central axis <NUM> may be identified, with the center being the intersection of the longitudinal central axis <NUM> and an outer surface of the initial model <NUM> (such as at the intersection of the labia shown by dashed line <NUM>). If the anatomical structure to be replicated is the mouth, the features may include the upper lip, the lower lip, the philtra ridge (resulting in the "cupids bow"), and the mentolabial sulcus. Identifying such features may be performed programmatically, such as by software designed to find features (such as facial features) within images, or by a human observer.

Once the center and/or longitudinal central axis <NUM> is found, the example method may involve merging a cutting tool object <NUM> with the initial model <NUM> after extrusion. More precisely, in example embodiments the merging including placing the central axis <NUM> of the cutting tool object <NUM> within a predetermined distance of the center of the anatomical structure. In some cases, the central axis <NUM> is placed parallel to and within a predetermined distance of the longitudinal central axis <NUM>. In yet still other cases, the central axis <NUM> is placed coaxial with the longitudinal central axis <NUM>. Next, the cutting tool object <NUM> is intersected with the initial model <NUM>. For example, in the situation where the central axis <NUM> is coaxial with the longitudinal central axis <NUM>, the cutting tool object <NUM> is pushed "into" the initial model <NUM> such that the two intersect in 3D space, and the conical section <NUM> resides outside or "above" the outside surface of the anatomical structure. Though described as two steps, the placing and intersecting may take place simultaneously.

<FIG> shows a perspective view of the cutting tool object partially intersected with the initial model, in accordance with at least some embodiments. In particular, in the example of <FIG> the central axis <NUM> of the cutting tool object <NUM> is coaxial with the longitudinal central axis <NUM> that passes through the center of the anatomical structure (not visible in <FIG>). As shown, a portion of the volume of the cutting tool object <NUM> overlaps or intersects with a portion of the volume defined by the initial model <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a cross-sectional view taken along line <NUM>-<NUM> of <FIG>, in accordance with at least some embodiments. In particular, visible in <FIG> is the initial model <NUM>, including a side view of the example anatomical structure in the form of external female genitalia. Also visible in <FIG>, though shown in dashed lines, is the cutting tool object <NUM>. The cutting tool object <NUM> is thus intersected with the initial model <NUM> such that the anatomical structure is approximately centered within the predetermined exterior shape. Moreover, the intersection of the initial model <NUM> and cutting tool object <NUM> may stop when a distal-most portion <NUM> of the anatomical structure resides within a predetermined offset O from an exterior surface <NUM> of the cutting tool object <NUM> (e.g., the predetermined offset being a centimeter or less).

Once the relationship of the initial model <NUM> and the cutting tool object <NUM> is finalized, the example merging of the model and object proceeds to removing portions of the initial model <NUM> residing outside the cutting tool object <NUM>. In <FIG>, the portion removed is shown by single-line cross-hatching. Thereafter, portions of the cutting tool object <NUM> not intersected by the initial model <NUM> are removed. In <FIG>, the portion removed is shown by double-line cross-hatching. The removing steps thus create a positive model. In at least some example systems, the intersecting of the initial model <NUM> and the cutting tool object <NUM> is performed in the ZBRUSH® brand sculpting software program. In the specific case of the removing non-intersecting portions, the operation is referred to as Boolean remove, but other sculpting software programs may use different terminology.

<FIG> shows a perspective view of an example positive model, in accordance with at least some embodiments. In particular, by cutting the initial model <NUM> with the cutting tool object <NUM> as discussed above, what remains is a positive model <NUM> showing the anatomical structure circumscribed by the predetermined exterior shape. The positive model <NUM> represents the form of the portion of the male masturbation device <NUM> (<FIG>) replicated on the exterior surface of the polymeric sleeve <NUM> (also <FIG>). Because the positive model <NUM> was created from the cutting tool object <NUM>, the positive model <NUM> carries along or inherits the central axis <NUM> (which in some cases is coaxial with the longitudinal central axis <NUM>). Further because the positive model <NUM> was created from the cutting tool object <NUM>, the positive model <NUM> carries along or inherits annular channel <NUM>. In some example embodiments, the method may immediately to proceed to creating the negative mold (discussed more below) that will be used to cast the polymeric sleeve <NUM> with the replica anatomical structure. However, in other example embodiments, the positive model <NUM> may be manipulated to make the final product more lifelike and/or to implement certain additional features.

Still referring to <FIG>, the positive model <NUM> was created by merging the initial model with the cutting tool object, and then removing portions of the cutting tool object not intersected by the initial model <NUM>. It follows that some of the outer surface the positive model <NUM> has texture features carried forward from the initial model, and some of the outer surface will be smooth, having no texture. The boundaries between portions having texture features from the initial model <NUM> and the smooth surfaces are shown in <FIG> by lines <NUM> and <NUM>. For example, that portion of the exterior surface of the positive model to the left of line <NUM> may have no texture features, while that portion of the exterior surface of the positive model <NUM> (closer to the labium <NUM>) likely has surface texture carried forward from the initial model. In accordance with at least some embodiments, exterior surfaces of the positive model <NUM> are smoothed at the sharp transitions (e.g., line <NUM>) of the positive model. More particularly still, in example cases a zone having a predetermined width (e.g., a centimeter) and centered along the sharp transition may be smoothed by averaging the surface texture across the zone.

Further still, fine detail of skin texture of the subject <NUM> (<FIG>) may not be visible in the video and/or still pictures. Even if such skin texture is visible, in the process of creating the initial model some or all of the detail of the skin texture may be lost. Thus, in some example embodiments, certain features of the anatomical structure may be modified to include or enhance the surface texture. For example, the clitoral hood <NUM>, labium <NUM>, and labium <NUM> may be modified to include or enhance the surface texture to more closely match skin texture. Relatedly, features may be added, such as texture that simulates the presence of hair that was removed prior to capturing the video and/or still pictures of the anatomical structure. If the subject <NUM> did not adequately prepare the anatomical structure, physical modification may be made, such as "opening" the labia to better define the intersection thereof. The positive model <NUM> may also be modified to include the unique identification number of the subject <NUM>, such as along the predetermined exterior shape of the positive model <NUM>. In cases where the subject <NUM> is a professional entertainer, the positive model may also be modified to include branding information, such as the subject's stage name, signature, trademark, or other identifying indicia. Regardless of whether the positive model <NUM> is modified as discussed above or not, the next step in the example method is creating a negative model of the anatomical structure from the positive model <NUM>.

Creating the negative model can be conceptually described as intersecting or merging the positive model <NUM> with the mold tool object <NUM>, and then removing portions of the mold tool object <NUM> that intersect positive model. Referring simultaneously to <FIG> and <FIG>, in example embodiments creating the negative model comprises merging the mold tool object <NUM> with the positive model <NUM>. In example embodiments, the merging may be by placing the central axis <NUM> of the mold tool object <NUM> within a predetermined distance of a center of the positive model <NUM>. The centering of the positive model <NUM> within the mold tool object <NUM> may be checked and corrected by viewing the relationship of the positive model <NUM> to the annular trough <NUM> (<FIG>) on the flat surface <NUM> of the mold tool object <NUM>. In some cases, the central axis <NUM> is placed parallel to and within a predetermined distance of the central axis <NUM>. In yet still other cases, the central axis <NUM> is placed coaxial with the central axis <NUM>, in which case the positive model <NUM> is automatically centered. Next, the mold tool object <NUM> is intersected with the positive model <NUM>. For example, in the situation where the central axis <NUM> is coaxial with the central axis <NUM> of the positive model <NUM>, the mold tool object <NUM> is pushed "into" the positive model <NUM> such that the two intersect in 3D space, and the conical section <NUM> resides outside or "above" the outside surface of the anatomical structure in the positive model <NUM>. Though described as two the steps, placing and intersecting may take place simultaneously.

<FIG> shows cross-sectional side view of the mold tool object <NUM> intersected with positive model <NUM>, in accordance with at least some embodiments. In particular, in the example of <FIG> the central axis <NUM> of the mold tool object <NUM> is coaxial with the central axis <NUM> of the positive model <NUM>. It is noted that having the central axis <NUM> and the central axis <NUM> is not strictly required, but making them coaxial not only speeds the process of merging, but also enables automating the operation. In example embodiments, the mold tool object <NUM> is intersected with the positive model <NUM> by translating along the shared axis until the flat surface <NUM> of the mold tool object <NUM> meets the annular channel <NUM>. Thus, the annular channel <NUM> of the cutting tool object is inherited by the positive model <NUM>, and becomes a guide for depth alignment the along the central axis <NUM>/<NUM>. Once the mold tool object <NUM> and positive model <NUM> are properly aligned, the example method incudes removing portions of the mold tool object <NUM> that intersect with the positive model <NUM>, and then removing the positive model <NUM>. The example portions that remain are shown in <FIG> by cross-hatching. What remains is a negative model.

<FIG> shows a perspective view of a negative model in accordance with at least some embodiments. In particular, by removing portions of the mold tool object <NUM> intersected by the positive model <NUM> as discussed above, what remains is a negative model <NUM> showing a negative version of the anatomical structure circumscribed by the predetermined exterior shape. The negative model <NUM> represents a negative of the form of the portion of the male masturbation device <NUM> (<FIG>) replicated on the exterior surface of the polymeric sleeve <NUM> (also <FIG>). Because the negative model <NUM> was created from the mold tool object <NUM>, the negative model <NUM> carries along or inherits the central axis <NUM> from the mold tool object. The negative model <NUM> defines a wall thickness T5, in example cases being the distance between diameter D4 and diameter D5 (<FIG>). In situations where the replica of the anatomical structure is not intended to have an aperture which leads to a main passageway through the device, the example method may proceed directly to printing the negative model to create the negative mold. However, in embodiments where the final product is to be a male masturbation device, the negative model <NUM> is further modified to support creation of main aperture <NUM> (<FIG>) and main passageway during the casting process.

Modifying the negative model to support creation of the main aperture and main passageway involves placing the stem tool object <NUM> on an outside surface of the negative model of the anatomical structure (block <NUM>, <FIG>). Referring simultaneously to <FIG> and <FIG>, in example embodiments creating the final negative model comprises merging the stem tool object <NUM> with the negative model <NUM>. In example embodiments, the merging may be by placing the central axis <NUM> of the stem tool object <NUM> within a predetermined distance of a center of the negative model <NUM>. In some cases, the central axis <NUM> is placed parallel to and within a predetermined distance of the central axis <NUM>. In yet still other cases, the central axis <NUM> is placed coaxial with the central axis <NUM>, in which case the stem tool object <NUM> is automatically centered within the negative model <NUM>. Next, the stem tool object <NUM> is abutted against the negative model <NUM>. For example, in the situation where the central axis <NUM> is coaxial with the central axis <NUM> of the negative model <NUM>, the stem tool object <NUM> is pushed slightly "into" the negative model <NUM> such that the two at least abut, and possibly intersect, in 3D space. Though described as two steps, the placing and abutting may take place simultaneously.

<FIG> shows a perspective view of the stem tool object <NUM> intersected with negative model <NUM>, in accordance with at least some embodiments. In particular, in the example of <FIG> the central axis <NUM> of the stem tool object <NUM> is coaxial with the central axis <NUM> of the negative model <NUM>. It is noted that having the central axis <NUM> and the central axis <NUM> is not strictly required, but making them coaxial not only speeds the process of merging, but also enables automating the operation. In example embodiments, the stem tool object <NUM> is intersected with the negative model <NUM> by translating along the shared axis until a bottom of the stem tool object <NUM> abuts the negative model. In the example case of the anatomical structure being external female genitalia, the stem tool object <NUM> has its length L aligned with the intersection of the labia. Once the stem tool object <NUM> and negative model <NUM> are properly aligned and abutted, the example method incudes merging the stem tool object <NUM> and negative model <NUM> create the final negative model <NUM>.

Still referring to <FIG>, the final negative model <NUM> was created by merging the stem tool object <NUM> and the negative model <NUM>. However, merging of the stem tool object <NUM> and negative model <NUM> may create boundaries having surface texture from the stem tool object <NUM> different than surface texture from the negative model <NUM>. An example boundary is shown by line <NUM>. For example, that portion of the final negative model <NUM> below line <NUM> may have texture features carried forward (in negative representation) from the positive model, while that portion above the line <NUM> has surface texture of the stem tool object <NUM>. In accordance with at least some embodiments, exterior surfaces of the final negative model <NUM> are smoothed at the sharp transitions (e.g., line <NUM>) of the final negative model <NUM>. More particularly still, in example cases a zone having a predetermined width and centered along the sharp transition may be smoothed by averaging the surface texture across the zone.

The example embodiments of <FIG> and <FIG> are with respect to the anatomical structure being external female genitalia, and thus the stem tool object <NUM> comprises only a single wing (or a specific stem tool object would be used). However, if the anatomical structure is the mouth, the stem tool object <NUM> would have both wings. If the anatomical structure is the anus, both wings would be omitted from the stem tool object <NUM> (and a specific stem tool object would be used).

The next step in the example method is printing the final negative model <NUM> to create a negative mold to be used in the casting process. In at least some example embodiments, the final negative model <NUM> is data contained in an electronic file, such as in the. STL format. The data file may be provided to any suitable 3D printer or 3D printer technology, such as fused deposition modeling (FDM), stereolithography (SLA), digital light processing (DLP), selective laser sintering (SLS), selecting laser melting (SLM), laminated object manufacturing (LOM), or digital beam melting (EBM). For example, the 3D printer may be a Formlabs 3D printer available from Formlabs, Inc. (http://formlabs. In yet still other example embodiments, the final negative model <NUM> may be printed on a 3D Systems printer available from 3D Systems Inc. (https://www. com) (e.g., the 3D Systems model <FIG>). That is, by way of the 3D printer <NUM> (<FIG>), the final negative model <NUM> becomes a physical thing, termed herein a negative mold. Thus, <FIG> shows not only the final negative model <NUM>, but also shows an example of a negative mold printed from the negative model.

Returning to <FIG>. The 3D printer <NUM> thus prints the negative mold <NUM> to be used in the casting process. In example systems, the 3D printer <NUM> uses a liquid resin harden by focus of laser light, but any suitable 3D printing technology may be used. Once the 3D printer <NUM> completes the printing, the negative mold <NUM> is removed from printer, and any support structures created are removed. In order to remove residual resin, the negative mold <NUM> may be subjected to an alcohol wash. Depending on parameters associated with the casting process (e.g., temperature of liquid polymer), the negative mold <NUM> may need to be cured, such as by baking the negative mold <NUM> in an oven. Depending on properties of the resin and/or the casting process, the curing step may be omitted. The specification now turns to an example casting process.

<FIG> shows a perspective view of a cast system <NUM> in accordance with at least some embodiments. In particular, <FIG> shows an example outer mold assembly <NUM> comprising first mold member <NUM> and second mold member <NUM>. Each mold member <NUM> and <NUM> defines an interior surface, but in the view of <FIG> only the interior surface <NUM> of mold member <NUM> is visible. The interior surface <NUM> of mold member <NUM> forms half of a negative image of a portion of the exterior surface of the polymeric sleeve <NUM> (<FIG>), and in particular the portion of the polymeric sleeve <NUM> that resides within the outer cover <NUM> (<FIG>). Likewise, the interior surface of the mold member <NUM> forms the other half of the negative image of the polymeric sleeve <NUM>.

The cast system <NUM> further comprises negative mold <NUM> placed in operational relationship to the interior surfaces defined by the outer mold assembly <NUM>. As discussed in detail above, the negative mold <NUM> structurally defines a negative image of the outer portions of the insertion end <NUM> (<FIG>) of the polymeric sleeve <NUM> (<FIG>). Stated otherwise, the negative mold <NUM> defines a negative image of the anatomical structure, and is used to cast the insertion end <NUM> of the polymeric sleeve <NUM>. In some example systems, first mold member <NUM> and second mold member <NUM> may be milled from metallic material, such as aluminum. Further in example embodiments, the negative mold <NUM> is made on demand, such as by 3D printing techniques, discussed above. The negative mold <NUM> couples to a rod member <NUM>. An exterior surface of the rod member <NUM> defines the negative image of the interior surface of the main passageway through the polymeric sleeve <NUM>.

The casting or molding process may involve placing the negative mold <NUM> in operational relationship to the outer mold assembly <NUM>, and coupling the rod member <NUM> to the tab <NUM> (not visible in <FIG>) of the negative mold <NUM> crated by merging the negative model with the stem tool object. The outer mold assembly <NUM> is closed around the various components and held in place in some fashion. The polymeric material in liquid form is injected through an injection port into the volume defined by the interior surface <NUM>, such as injection through injection aperture <NUM>. The polymeric material in liquid form fills the volume defined by the negative mold <NUM> and interior surface <NUM>, displacing the air, and then the polymeric material is allowed to cure. Once cured, the outer mold assembly <NUM> is again opened, the rod member <NUM> withdrawn from the main passageway, and the polymeric sleeve <NUM> may be removed from the negative mold <NUM>. Trimming of the polymeric sleeve <NUM> may be performed, such as to remove the polymeric material that cured inside the injection aperture, and any mold seams or marks formed by the interface of the outer mold assembly. In some cases, the polymeric sleeve <NUM> created may be treated with compound to reduce surface tension (such as by application of talcum powder). Thereafter, the polymeric sleeve <NUM> may be placed in an outer cover <NUM>, and shipped to the subject <NUM>.

The various embodiments discussed to this point have assumed that the subject <NUM> commissions creation of the male masturbation device <NUM> for a mate. It follows that the replica of the anatomical structure embodied in the male masturbation device <NUM> will likely be a one-off device created from video and/or still pictures. However, the subject <NUM> may be a professional model, uploading data with the goal of selling replica of an anatomical structure to the general public. Such a professional subject <NUM> may have incentive to better control the replica creation process. For example, the subject <NUM> may provide information for creation of male masturbation devices directly in a suitable point cloud format, bypassing certain of the steps discussed above. Similarly, the professional subject <NUM> may directly provide the initial model having all desired surface textures, signatures, trademarks, and the like. In such a case, the example process may proceed directly to creation of the positive model <NUM> and subsequent steps. Thus, depending on the sophistication of the subject <NUM> and the goals of the on-demand creation of negative models and casting, certain of the steps discussed above may be omitted.

The various embodiment discussed to this point have assumed that the replica of the anatomical structure will have a main passageway, and thus be a male masturbation device. However, it is also possible to create replicas of external male genitalia (e.g., penis and testicles), in either a physically aroused state or flaccid state. In such situations, the main passageway is omitted, along with the related considerations (e.g., use of a stem tool). Moreover, when casting external male genitalia with no main passageway, in some cases the polymeric or elastomeric material may be cast at room temperature (e.g., from a two-component mixture creating a silicon gel). Because of the room temperature casting, single use mold assemblies need not be as temperature resilient. All these considerations taken together, the initial model created by the photogrammetry software may be passed directly to the 3D printer. To the extent a software sculpting program is used, such would be clean up, adding of identifying indicia, and in the case of professionals, signatures, trademarks, and the like. The initial model (which is directly the positive model) may be passed directly to the 3D printer, which in some cases has a "shell tool" that can automatically create and print a negative mold from the initial model. Such shell tools are not applicable to the replicas of anatomical structures that are not stand alone 3D structures, and that include main passageways.

The example replica system <NUM> contains two or more computer systems. <FIG> shows a computer system in accordance with at least some embodiments. The computer system <NUM> is an example of the customer interface computer system <NUM>, and/or the mold creation computer system <NUM>. The example computer system <NUM> comprises a processor <NUM> coupled to a memory <NUM> and a storage system or long term storage device <NUM>. The processor <NUM> may be any currently available or after-developed processor, or group of processors. The memory <NUM> may be random access memory (RAM) which forms the working memory for the processor <NUM>. In some cases, data and programs may be copied from the storage device <NUM> to the memory <NUM> as part of the operation of the computer system <NUM>.

The long term storage device <NUM> is a device or devices that implement nonvolatile long-term storage, which may also be referred to as a non-transitory computer-readable media. In some cases, the long term storage device is a hard drive or solid state drive, but other examples include optical discs <NUM>, "floppy" disks <NUM>, and flash memory devices <NUM>. The various programs used to implement the programmatic aspects discussed may thus be stored on the long term storage device <NUM>, and executed by the processor <NUM>. Relatedly, creation and interaction of the various objects and models of the various embodiments may be implemented by the processor <NUM> and communicated to the storage device <NUM> (including the example optical disc <NUM>, floppy disk <NUM>, flash memory device <NUM>, or magnetic tape) by way of a telemetry channel <NUM>. In other words, the storage device <NUM> may store instructions that, when executed by the processor, perform any of the programmatic steps discussed above.

Claim 1:
A method of creating a negative mold for molding a replica of an anatomical structure for a male masturbation device, comprising:
accepting, by a first computer system, a plurality of pictures of the anatomical structure of a subject, each picture of the plurality of pictures from a distinct viewing angle relative to the anatomical structure;
creating, by the first computer system, an object file that contains an initial model of an outside surface of the anatomical structure;
stretching or extruding the initial model to have a thickness greater than a predetermined depth;
cutting, by the first computer system, the initial model to the predetermined depth and a predetermined exterior shape circumscribing the anatomical structure, wherein the cutting creates a positive model of the anatomical structure within the predetermined exterior shape and wherein cutting the initial model further comprises:
intersecting a cutting tool object with the initial model;
wherein the cutting tool object defines the predetermined exterior shape and the predetermined depth;
removing portions of the anatomical structure residing outside the cutting tool object; and then
removing portions of the cutting tool object not intersected by the initial model, thereby creating the positive model;
creating, by the first computer system, a negative model of the anatomical structure from the positive model;
placing, by the first computer system, a stem tool object on an outside surface of the negative model in relationship to an orifice of the anatomical structure, thereby creating a final negative model configured to define an aperture of the male masturbation device, wherein the stem tool object comprises:
a tab in the form of an inverted conic frustum with a central axis; and
a transition portion coupled to the tab and having a form configured to replicate a portion of the anatomical structure; and
printing, by way of a three-dimensional printer, the final negative model to create a negative mold,
wherein the anatomical structure is at least one selected from the group comprising: a mouth; external female genitalia; an anus.