We describe three-dimensional computer-generated models of the male and female body. Using specialized software developed for this project, the contours for each structure are hand-traced from the NLM Visible Human data. This tracing is assisted by automatic edge detection algorithms. After contours for any one structure (for example, the heart) have been acquired, the contours are stacked and joined using proprietary triangulation algorithms. Once the anatomical structure has been triangulated, other proprietary software is used to manipulate polygons, smooth surfaces, and filter data.

This has allowed us to produce the most accurate, realistic, and complete library of three-dimensional anatomical surface models that has been produced to date.

We will present animations which enable the user to travel through the bronchial tree down to the level of the alveolus or navigate the chambers of the heart and great vessels.

A custom-developed 3-D viewer will be demonstrated. It allows the user to manipulate the models by making objects transparent, dissecting away components, rotating, viewing wireframes and texture mapped images (on Macintosh, PC, and UNIX platforms). Another custom-developed program allows decimation, polygon manipulation, surface editing and free-form deformation of models. This program will also be demonstrated.

We have also produced an interactive CD-ROM (Bone Box) for learning skeletal anatomy, using QuickTime VR objects to simulate real-time manipulation of bones. Labeling is accomplished by using proprietary software which creates "hot spots" that allow identification of structures and muscle attachments at any angle of view with just a click of the mouse.

Future plans include the sectioning of a dog and cat to produce similar data to NLM Visible Human project. This data will serve as a basis for generating a veterinary 3-d anatomical model library.

Acknowledgments

BioGraphics Inc. is a division of Visible Productions which funded the research and development of the models and software described above.