Computer-aided Design Research Articles

Comparison of denture space and patient satisfaction for neutral zone versus standard-designed digital dentures restoring mandibular resorbed ridges: A crossover randomized clinical trial.

To compare neutral-zone-designed and standard-designed digital complete dentures used to restore severely resorbed ridges through differential digital analysis of teeth arrangement position, shape of the polished surface, and assessment of patient satisfaction. This study applied a within-subject comparison of two denture forms: computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) dentures designed based on the bone-support concept (control group) and CAD-CAM dentures designed based on the neutral-zone concept (test group). Twelve completely edentulous patients exhibiting advanced ridge atrophy were recruited, and they were randomly assigned to use one of the two dentures before the other. A comparison between the two groups' virtual denture confines was conducted using "Medit compare" digital software. The average values of three-dimensional deviations between the two dentures at different regions were calculated. The "patient denture assessment" questionnaire was used to gauge participants' satisfaction with their dentures. The obtained scores were used to compare the two denture types. The position of the neutral zone was significantly shifted at the level of both denture teeth and denture base outer limits (p = 0.001). The greatest deviation was calculated at the region of the palatal polished surface followed by lingual flange contours, while the buccal flanges displayed the least deviations (p≤0.05). Statistically significant differences were observed between patients' satisfaction with neutral zone and standard dentures regarding function and comfort, retention, and stability of lower dentures (p≤0.05). CAD-CAM neutral-zone dentures have distinctly different anatomical confines that can be clinically correlated to their better impact on patient acceptance.

CAD Sensitization, an Easy Way to Integrate Artificial Intelligence in Shipbuilding

There are two main areas in which the Internet of Ships (IoS) can help: firstly, the production stage, in all its phases, from material bids to manufacture, and secondly, the operation of the ship. Intelligent ship management requires a lot of information, as does the shipbuilding process. In these two phases of the ship’s life cycle, IoS acts as a key to the keyhole. IoS tools include sensors, process information and real-time decision-making, fog computing, or delegated processes in the cloud. The key point to address this challenge is the design phase. Getting the design process right will help in both areas, reducing costs and making agile use of technology to achieve a highly efficient and optimal outcome. But this raises a lot of new questions that need to be addressed: At what stage should we start adding control sensors? Which sensors are best suited to our solution? Is there anything that offers more than simple identification? As we begin the process of answering all these questions, we realize that a Computer Aided Design (CAD) tool, as well as Artificial Intelligence (AI), mixed in a single tool, could significantly help in all these processes. AI combined with specialized CAD tools can enhance the sensitization phases in the shipbuilding process to improve results throughout the ship’s life cycle. This is the base of the framework developed in this paper.

Evaluation of optical and mechanical properties of crown materials produced by 3D printing.

The various advantages of crown materials produced using three-dimensional (3D) printers have increased their use in restorative and prosthetic dentistry in recent years. Accordingly, their optical and mechanical properties have become more important. To evaluate the mechanical, surface and optical properties of crown materials produced with 3D printing and computer-aided design (CAD)/computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), which has recently been used frequently in the clinic. The 3-point bending test was used to evaluate the mechanical properties of 2 different crown materials produced with 3D printing (Permanent Crown and VarseoSmile Crown Plus) and a crown material produced using CAD/CAM (Vita Enamic). After the initial color and surface roughness measurements were made, the specimens were immersed in 4 different solutions. The most translucent material was VarseoSmile Crown Plus (p < 0.05). In all specimens, coffee caused the most discoloration (p < 0.05). The effects of the solutions on the roughness were mostly observed in Permanent Crown specimens (p < 0.05). Vita Enamic showed the highest statistically significant values in terms of flexural strength (p < 0.05). The stereolithographic technique among the materials produced by 3D printing can be recommended for use in restorations due to its higher flexural strength.

OpenDock: a pytorch-based open-source framework for protein-ligand docking and modelling.

Molecular docking is an invaluable computational tool with broad applications in computer-aided drug design and enzyme engineering. However, current molecular docking tools are typically implemented in languages such as C++ for calculation speed, which lack flexibility and user-friendliness for further development. Moreover, validating the effectiveness of external scoring functions for molecular docking and screening within these frameworks is challenging, and implementing more efficient sampling strategies is not straightforward. To address these limitations, we have developed an open-source molecular docking framework, OpenDock, based on Python and PyTorch. This framework supports the integration of multiple scoring functions; some can be utilized during molecular docking and pose optimization, while others can be used for post-processing scoring. In terms of sampling, the current version of this framework supports simulated annealing and Monte Carlo optimization. Additionally, it can be extended to include methods such as genetic algorithms and particle swarm optimization for sampling docking poses and protein side chain orientations. Distance constraints are also implemented to enable covalent docking, restricted docking or distance map constraints guided pose sampling. Overall, this framework serves as a valuable tool in drug design and enzyme engineering, offering significant flexibility for most protein-ligand modelling tasks. OpenDock is publicly available at: https://github.com/guyuehuo/opendock.

Optimizing Sheet Metal Formation through Advanced Hydroforming Simulation Technique

In this study, we investigate into the simulation of sheet metal hydroforming for crafting the cap of the axle-hub of a tip trailer within our manufacturing facility. This cap serves a crucial role in safeguarding wheel bearings from the detrimental effects of dust, sand, and dirt. The motivation for this work arises from the challenges encountered during the fixation of a conventional dust cap, which often falls off when subjected to pressure or threading, particularly when the tractor is in motion. The innovative approach pursued in this research involves the utilization of lightweight aluminum sheet metal for cap production, owing to its facile formability. The cap design incorporates four evenly distributed holes around its circumference and secures to the flange using screws. Prior to the manufacturing phase, a simulation of the cap-forming process was conducted using ANSYS Model 15, a computer-aided engineering program. The necessary models were crafted in CATIA, a computer-aided design program, streamlining the entire process to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize manpower requirements. The simulation encompassed three different thicknesses (1 mm, 2 mm, and 3 mm) for two distinct aluminum alloys, namely 1100 and 5652. The objective was to discern the optimal alloy for the forming process. Essential mechanical properties, including ultimate tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, and yield stress, were input into the ANSYS program to accurately reflect the materials' behavior during forming. The outcomes of our investigation revealed that aluminum alloy 5652 outperformed 1100 in terms of formability. The former exhibited a forming pressure of 300.2 MPa, while the latter required 298.3 MPa for the same forming depth (40 mm) across all three thickness variations. Additionally, the study demonstrated that 5652 is not only more efficient but also safer and more resilient than 1100.

Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing in Free Fibula Reconstruction of the Mandible: Comparison of Long-Term Outcomes with the Conventional Technique.

Pre-operative computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) revolutionized head and neck reconstruction after extirpative surgery. However, studies performing head-to-head comparison to the conventional technique have limited long-term follow-up. We aimed to compare short and long-term outcomes between conventional and CAD/CAM approaches for mandibular reconstruction with free fibula flaps. Patients undergoing free flap reconstruction from 2012 to 2021 were included. Data regarding patient demographics, past medical history, surgical details, complications, and reconstructive outcomes were collected. Patients who had CAD/CAM were compared with the patients who underwent reconstruction with the conventional technique. The cumulative incidence of hardware maintenance was displayed using the Kaplan-Meier method. A total of 215 patients (n=79 conventional, n=136 CAD/CAM) were included. Both cohorts had similar demographics except the CAD/CAM cohort was younger (p=0.043). The mean operative duration was 54 minutes shorter with the use of CAD/CAM (p=0.014). Total and partial flap loss rates were similar. Patients with CAD/CAM had significantly lower rates of early wound dehiscence (p=0.037). Median [interquartile range] follow-up duration was similar (931 [1854] days in conventional vs 728 [841] days in CAD/CAM, p=0.084). After excluding patients with major surgical complications in the first 30-days, CAD/CAM cohort had a lower hardware removal rate (28.8% vs 13.9%, p=0.011). The significance persisted after including only the patients with more than 2 years of follow-up. The use of preoperative CAD/CAM may reduce operative duration, while allowing for longer maintenance of hardware with reduced removal rates due to complications.

Three-dimensional finite element analysis of stress distribution on different complex macro designs in commercially available implants: An in-vitro study

ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the effects of different commercially available complex implant macro designs on stress distributions using Finite element analysis. The experiment is done under varying simulated bone conditions to provide reference for clinical application. Materials and methodsThe study employed the Finite Element Analysis (FEA) method to compare four commercially available complex implant macro designs on a Computer-Aided Design (CAD) model of a maxillary bone segment. The three-dimensional geometrical model of the implants was reconstructed from computed tomography (CT)-slices in Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) format and contact condition between the implant and the bone was considered as ‘Bonded’, implying perfect osseointegration. All materials used in the models were assumed to be isotropic, homogeneous, and linearly elastic. The Finite element simulations employed load of 400 N under both axial and non-axial conditions Stresses were analysed under different bone conditions. ResultsAverage values of von Mises stresses were used for comparing stress levels between implant designs. There was a definite increase in the equivalent stress values from higher density(D1)to lower density (D4) bone conditions for all implants. The percentage of increase ranged from 23.63 to 49.39 on axial loading and 20.39 to 57.19 when subjected to non-axial loading. The equivalent stress values resulted from non-axial loading were 1.78–2.94 times higher than that of axial loading for all implants under all bone densities. Among the complex designs Equinox Myriad Plus implant exhibited the least stress under axial loading (12.749–19.046 MPa) and (37.462–49.217 MPa) for non-axial loading. The stress on the crestal module was higher (1.49–2.99 times) than the overall stress on the implant regardless of the loading direction or bone conditions. ConclusionsData from the present study shows Equinox Myriad Plus implant generating the least equivalent stress and this can be taken as indicator in the biomechanical performance of the design.

Impact of 3D Printing Techniques on Bone Reconstruction: Systematic review and Descriptive Study

This article starts by providing a full history on the issue at hand, namely the influence of 3D printing on bone healing, current methods of repairing bone defects, such as autologous grafts, allografts, and synthetic grafts, are insufficient to meet clinical practice demands, bone tissue is complex, containing bioactive compounds, extracellular matrix, and bone cells; successfully regenerating this tissue is difficult, the growing incidence of bone abnormalities caused by osteo-degenerative diseases, cancer, and fractures emphasizes the need of efficient bone regeneration treatments, according to Genova et al, (2020), by analyzing the current obstacles, we can learn more about how 3D printing could change the game for bone repair, one potential application of 3D printing is the creation of scaffolds for bone tissue engineering, which could lead to personalized implants, this is because 3D printing combines computer-aided design with rapid prototyping, allowing for precise manipulation of scaffold materials and pore structure, the technique starts with gathering three-dimensional data from the repair location, then using computer-aided design (CAD) software to segment the model, and lastly discharging materials layer by layer. 3D printing has showed promise in the manufacture of bone tissue scaffolds, which may effectively restore a patient's lesion's original anatomical structure by precisely changing the scaffold's pore size, furthermore, 3D-printed scaffolds including active components such as cells and growth hormones have shown promising outcomes in cartilage and bone regeneration (Zhang et al, 2023), many cell types and signaling molecules restore bone tissue without scarring at fracture sites, large lesions limit healing, trauma, tumor removal, and illness cause non-union bone fractures that orthopedic and reconstructive surgeons struggle to fix, our evaluation begins with synthetic biomaterials and auto-, allo-, and xenograft transplants, our analysis also examines reconstructive therapy's efficacy elements, bone transplant survival and regeneration need vascularization, which current therapies typically lack, free or pedicled fibula flaps, masquelet membranes, or the patient's body as a bioreactor may overcome this issue, last, 3D printing and bioprinting tailored and vascularized scaffolds may help heal bone defects.

Hydrodynamic Performance Improvement of a Tirhandil Yacht by Stern Form Modifications

This paper presents a comprehensive investigation to improve the hydrodynamic performance of a Tirhandil hull form by modification efforts on the stern region. The form improvement approach combines computational fluid dynamics (CFD) methods with computer-aided design (CAD) systems. The design process for the reference and modified models was carried out by using CAD systems. The hydrodynamic characteristics of the reference hull form were evaluated by employing CFD methods and it was determined that form improvements should be concentrated on the stern region. The modification process was conducted by considering constraints on the design variables in the stern region and the main dimensions of the reference model. A grid independence study was performed to evaluate various grid structures to determine the optimal mesh configuration for the numerical analyses. The SST k-Omega turbulence model was used for the numerical analyses to simulate turbulence structure around the hull form. Achieving around a 13.4% reduction in the total resistance coefficient, the modified model also exhibited decreased wave amplitudes, smoother wave transitions, and a significant reduction or cancellation of shoulder and stern waves.

Use Of Digital Technologies In Prosthodontic Clinical Practice Among Prosthodontists In Tamilnadu And Pondicherry

Background: Digital dentistry includes treatments performed by means of digital or computer-controlled components rather than using mechanical or electrical equipment. The advancement of digital technology and the commencement of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) and 3D printing has brought large changes to the traditional manufacturing method, where manual work is carried out after oral impression taking. Aim: To conduct a questionnaire survey on use of digital technology in prosthodontic clinical practice among Prosthodontists in Tamilnadu and Pondicherry. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire based online survey was undertaken amongst 183 Prosthodontists in Tamilnadu and Pondicherry (Group 1 – Both private practitioners and teaching faculty, Group 2 – Private practitioners, Group 3 – Teaching faculty). The questionnaire consisted of 21 questions which evaluated their awareness, knowledge and practices towards digital dentistry. Statistical analysis was done using Chi-square test in each group, using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0. The p-value 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Majority of the study participants were private practitioners in the age group of 25 – 45 years(93%).Among the three groups private practitioners had good knowledge, practice and awareness about the application of digital technologies. Conclusion: Most of the participants were aware about digital technology in dentistry. The private practitioners showed better understanding about the digital technology. However, to make them familiar with CAD/CAM, dental education programs, workshops and hands on program should be conducted which will enable an emerging dentists who will be well versed with digital dentistry.

Molecule discovery and optimization via evolutionary swarm intelligence

Since the advent of computational analysis and visualization of chemical compounds, Computer-Aided Drug Design has made significant contributions to drug discovery. Recently, de novo drug design and molecular optimization have garnered considerable attention. Traditional optimization methods often struggle with the discrete nature of molecular space, but evolutionary computations have demonstrated their versatility across various optimization problems, regardless of the nature of the objective functions. This paper introduces a novel evolutionary algorithm, the Swarm Intelligence-Based Method for Single-Objective Molecular Optimization. Several experiments were conducted to showcase the efficiency of the proposed method, which identifies near-optimal solutions in a remarkably short time. The results were then compared with those of other state-of-the-art methods in the field.

Combined machine learning models, docking analysis, ADMET studies and molecular dynamics simulations for the design of novel FAK inhibitors against glioblastoma

Gliomas, particularly glioblastoma (GBM), are highly aggressive brain tumors with poor prognosis and high recurrence rates. This underscores the urgent need for novel therapeutic approaches. One promising target is Focal adhesion kinase (FAK), a key regulator of tumor progression currently in clinical trials for glioma treatment. Drug development, however, is both challenging and costly, necessitating efficient strategies. Computer-Aided Drug Design (CADD), especially when combined with machine learning (ML), streamlines the processes of virtual screening and optimization, significantly enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of drug discovery. Our study integrates ML, docking analysis, ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, elimination, and toxicity) studies to identify novel FAK inhibitors specific to GBM. Predictive models showed strong performance, with an R2 of 0.892, MAE of 0.331, and RMSE of 0.467 using protein-level IC50 data in combined CDK, CDK extended fingerprints, and substructure fingerprint counts derived from 1280 FAK inhibitors. Another model, based on IC50 data from 2608 compounds tested on U87-MG cells, achieved an R2 of 0.789, MAE of 0.395, and RMSE of 0.536. Using these models, we efficiently identified 275 potentially active compounds out of 5107 candidates. Subsequent ADMET analysis narrowed this down to 16 potential FAK inhibitors that meet the established drug-likeness criteria. Moreover, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations validated the stable binding interactions between the selected compounds and the FAK protein. This study highlights the effectiveness of combining ML, docking analysis, and ADMET studies to rapidly identify potential FAK inhibitors from large databases, providing valuable insights for the systematic design of FAK inhibitors.

Biomimetic Tissue Engineering Strategies for Craniofacial Applications.

Biomimetics is the science of imitating nature's designs and processes to create innovative solutions for various fields, including dentistry and craniofacial reconstruction. In these areas, biomimetics involves drawing inspiration from living organisms/systems to develop new materials, techniques, and devices that closely resemble natural tissue structures and enhance functionality. This field has successfully demonstrated its potential to revolutionize craniofacial procedures, significantly improving patient outcomes. In dentistry, biomimetics offers exciting possibilities for the advancement of new dental materials, restorative techniques, and regenerative potential. By analyzing the structure/composition of natural teeth and the surrounding tissues, researchers have developed restorative materials that mimic the properties of teeth, as well as regenerative techniques that might assist in repairing enamel, dentin, pulp, cementum, periodontal ligament, and bone. In craniofacial reconstruction, biomimetics plays a vital role in developing innovative solutions for facial trauma, congenital defects, and various conditions affecting the maxillofacial region. By studying the intricate composition and mechanical properties of the skull and facial bones, clinicians and engineers have been able to replicate natural structures leveraging computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) and 3D printing. This has allowed for the creation of patient-specific scaffolds, implants, and prostheses that accurately fit a patient's anatomy. This review highlights the current evidence on the application of biomimetics in the fields of dentistry and craniofacial reconstruction.

Advancing packaging technology: computational fluid dynamics modeling for capillary underfill encapsulant in multi-chip heterogenous packages

Purpose The purpose of this study is to investigate the dynamics of capillary underfill flow (CUF) in flip-chip packaging, particularly in a multi-chip configuration. The study aims to understand how various parameters, such as chip-to-chip spacing (S12), chip thickness (tc) and others, affect the underfill flow process. By using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations and experimental studies, the goal is to provide insights into understanding the dynamics of CUF in heterogeneous electronic packaging. Design/methodology/approach The paper introduces a CFD analysis and experimental study on CUF in a multi-chip configuration, aiming to understand underfill flow dynamics. A 3D geometry models of multi-chip arrangement are created using computer-aided design (CAD) software. After that, the CAD models are meshed and simulated in Ansys Fluent using incompressible and non-Newtonian fluid properties. The study maintains S12 of 2.86 and tc of 22.29 between experimental and simulation data for results validation. Next, a various of S12 values (1.14, 2.86, 5.71, 8.57, 14.29 and 20) which focus on tc of 22.29 have been investigated. Further studies have been conduct using S12 of 5.71 and tc of 8.00, 14.29 and 22.29. Findings Results show a strong correlation between simulation and experiment which validate the correctness and robustness of simulation. Further parameter’s studies using simulation for various of S12 indicated that higher S12 values lead to faster flow. This effect is due to large underfill weight from reservoir able to flow into S12 region which contributed to higher mass momentum movement. Furthermore, the effect of various of tc shows that the thicker the chip the faster the underfill to flow in S12 region. Research limitations/implications The intentional exclusion of solder bump pattern arrangements from the experiment and simulation may limit the study's ability to fully understand the impact of solder bump patterns on underfill flow. Therefore, more parameters can be investigated such as solder bump pattern, underfill weight and dispense pattern in the future using CFD. Practical implications The manuscript provides a comprehensive examination of the contributions of CFD to the advancement of knowledge regarding CUF phenomena in heterogeneous electronic packaging assemblies. Moreover, it delineates the utilization of CFD methodologies to assess the influence of chip-to-chip spacing (S12) and the thickness of the chip (tc) on the underfill flow characteristics. Originality/value This paper fulfills an identified need of computational fluid dynamics method to study capillary underfill flow dynamics in heterogenous electronic packaging.

Modular soft pneumatic actuator mimics elephant trunk locomotion

Robots support and facilitate tasks in all life fields. Soft robots specifically have the advantages of inherent compliance, safe interaction and flexible deformability. Soft pneumatic network (Pneu-Net) is a soft pneumatic actuator (SPA) composed of network of chambers that is actuated by pneumatic power. Soft Pneu-Net fits the human interface applications perfectly. In this paper, a bio-inspired modular based design for Pneu-Net actuator is developed. The actuator mimics the elephant trunk curling to be employed for rehabilitation of human hand fingers. The actuator is an integrated four Pneu-Net modules actuator which is attached to hand’s finger. The main introduced advantages in the new developed actuator are: providing four degrees of freedom (DoF) essential for finger’s motion by single compound actuator and developing a methodology for a modular soft Pneu-Net actuator that is efficiently reproducible. The actuator’s design is developed using computer aided design (CAD) software SOLIDWORKS. The design is simulated using finite element modeling (FEM) software ABAQUS. Fabrication process uses 3D printed molds. Soft material is molded in the 3D printed molds, forming actuator’s modules. Actuator’s modules are integrated by adhesion using the soft material. A proposed non-standard hyper-elastic material biaxial tension test is introduced as a quick material properties identification method that can produce a test table used for material identification in the FEM. Enhanced version for the actuator uses reinforcement fibers. Results show advances for the reinforced actuator, as it limits the unwanted actuator’s strain and deformation. The reinforced actuator shows improved energy efficiency reaches to 46%.

Structure-based computer-aided drug design to identify potential lead molecules for Asparaginyl Endopeptidase inhibitors.

The enzyme Asparaginyl Endopeptidase (AEP) is associated with proteinopathy-related pathologies such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Frontal Temporal Dementia (FTD). The onset of pathologies by AEP is due to cleaved fragments forming protein aggregates resulting in neurodegeneration. Unfortunately, there are no clinically approved small molecule inhibitors for AEP, and therefore, it serves as an unmet medical need for the design and development of potential novel small molecules. In developing potential inhibitors for proteolytic activity, a structured approach utilizing structure-based computer-aided drug design (SB-CADD) parameters was employed. This involved virtual high throughput screening (vHTS) across various CNS-focused databases enriched with diverse functionality. We identified the top sixty ligands based on the glide XP-docking score out of 10 million ligands. The free binding energy was then calculated using MM-GBSA for all top selected molecules which resulted in discovering that AEPI-1 to AEPI-6 (Asparaginyl Endopeptidase inhibitors) displayed high affinity towards the catalytic triad. Further investigation determined that all top six hits form stable complexes during 50 ns molecular dynamic simulations. We also observed that AEPI-2 demonstrated the highest stability within the binding pockets. Post-MD analyses such as DCCM, PCA, PDF, and ADMET properties were also evaluated. By bridging all the observations, we observed these six molecules occupy the active site of the β-helix (β1, β3, and β4) of the S1 pocket and additional binding sites in α1 and β5, suggesting its suitability as a potential candidate for drug discovery against Asparaginyl Endopeptidase.

A 3-year clinical evaluation of endocrown restorations with two different materials using the computer-aided design/ computer-aided manufacture system

ObjectiveTo compare the clinical efficacy of resin nanoceramic and zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate ceramic endocrowns in the treatment of endodontically treated teeth by assessing the clinical performance of restorations fabricated using a chairside computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) system. Materials and methodsNinety endocrown restorations were fabricated on endodontically treated teeth using a CAD/CAM system. Fifty-two restorations were fabricated using Lava Ultimate blocks (LU, 3 M Espe, Seefeld, Germany) and 38 restorations were fabricated using Celtra Duo blocks (CD, Dentsply Sirona, York, PA, USA). The performance of the endocrown restorations was evaluated over a 3-year period using the modified United States Public Health Service (USPHS) criteria by two calibrated evaluators. The data were analyzed using Chi-square (x2) and Fisher exact tests (p < 0.05). ResultsThe restoration survival rates in the two groups were 82.7 % (LU) and 86.8 % (CD) (p = 0.6). Twelve restorations failed (8 LU, 4 CD) due to debonding (n = 4, 2 LU, 2 CD), ceramic fracture (n = 2, 1 LU, 1 CD), tooth fracture (n = 5, 4 LU, 1 CD), and secondary caries (n = 1, 1 LU) during the follow-up period. There was no statistically significant difference between the two materials according to the modified USPHS criteria (p > 0.05). ConclusionResin nanoceramic and zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate ceramic endocrown restorations fabricated using a chairside CAD/CAM system demonstrated acceptable clinical performance in the treatment of endodontically treated teeth. Clinical SignificanceResin nanoceramic and zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate ceramics are potential alternative materials for the chairside fabrication of endodontically treated teeth.

Using disruptive innovation to design endoscopic ligators for resource-challenged health settings.

Commercial single-use endoscopic multiband ligators, used for esophageal variceal band ligation (EVL), are prohibitively expensive. To enable greater access to EVL, we used disruptive innovation to develop a novel endoscopic multiband ligator. We designed and tested a prototype handle 'ENDOhandle' using computer-aided design modeling and exported a cap, trigger cord and latex to form a functional banding unit. The cost of the banding unit was US$4.80 compared with several hundred US dollars for commercially available devices in the USA. Disruptive innovation technology developed an inexpensive ligator for resource-challenged health settings.

Modification of the Surface Topography of Additive Materials under Ar+ Ion Irradiation

Additive manufacturing (AM) is a modern developing group of technologies based not on the removal of material, but on the layer-by-layer growth and synthesis of an object according to a CAD (Computer-Aided Design) model. The main disadvantages of objects manufactured using AM technologies are a high degree of porosity and surface roughness. This work examines the possibility of modifying the surface of additive materials Ti6Al4V and AlSi10Mg using irradiation with Ar+ ions with energies in the range from 2 to 9 keV. Using SEM, the surface topography was obtained before and after irradiation and mechanical polishing. A reduction in surface porosity and roughness was demonstrated, as well as the influence of beam energy on the final surface topography.

Design and 3D simulation of weft-knitted jacquard plush fabrics

Abstract Weft-knitted jacquard plush fabrics are widely used and have a wide variety of varieties, but the design and production process is complicated, time-consuming, and labor-intensive. To reduce the time and cost of fabric sampling and production, a method for designing and simulating these fabrics is proposed based on an analysis of their structural characteristics. Following the design principles of weft-knitted jacquard plush fabrics, mathematical models for pattern design and structural design were established sequentially, leading to the generation of a mathematical model for the knitting diagram. Arrays for raw material editing and threading editing were created to set various parameters. Second, loop models were established based on plush loop shapes, including a forming loop model, a U-shaped loop model, a Henkel plush loop model, a “8”-shaped plush loop model, and a O-shaped plush loop model. Finally, the effects of lighting and number of segments were investigated in THREE.Tube Geometry on the simulation’s effectiveness and speed. By comparing actual fabric images with simulation images, the feasibility of the design and simulation method was verified. This resulted in a computer-aided design process for weft-knitted jacquard plush fabrics, providing an effective method for their design and simulation. The proposed method holds significant theoretical and practical values.