Biostereometrics is the analysis of biological form or function based on principles of analytic geometry. This technique defines the surface of an object by a finite set of three- dimensional coordinates generated from the analysis of pairs of two-dimensional images. Coordinates can be manipulated to determine body surface area, volume of specific parts or the whole, lengths, breadths, etc. The comparison of data over time also allows changes to be monitored: motion analysis for very short time periods and growth or degradation for longer periods. This project will develop an automated, computerized, image analysis system that will reduce the costs and improve utility over existing manual systems. The data collection system will use commercially available hardware and include: am MS-DOS computer, a RISC processor optimized for FORTH operation, four CCD/MOS video cameras, a four-channel frame grabber, a video display, data storage device(s), and dedicated data processing enhancements. Software routines will be developed to meet specific needs.
Potential Commercial Applications: Biostereometric systems can monitor growth and development; determine body composition when residual gas volumes are independently determined; monitor induced tissue catabolism; evaluate and visualize plastic and reconstructive surgery; develop molds for prosthetic devices; and analyze motion and range of motion.STATUS: Phase I Only
