Method and device for determining the change in an object

US7883545B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Brainlab AG · DE

Inventor

• Gregor Tuma · Munich, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Sep 19, 2007
• Grant date: Feb 8, 2011
• Expiry date: Jan 11, 2029

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61B2090/061
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A method is provided for determining a dimensional change in a first object, wherein in an initial state said first object is connected to a second object via a joint, and wherein a first reference system is rigidly connected to the second object. The method includes using a non-invasive coupling device to couple a second reference system to the first object; ascertaining and/or storing a first location corresponding to a location of the second reference system relative to the first reference system, and a second location corresponding to a location between at least one reference point on the first object relative to the first reference system; separating the first object from the second object at the joint; altering the first object; re-assembling the altered first object and the second object to form the joint, wherein the first location is used to align the altered first object to the second object; after alignment, ascertaining or storing a third location corresponding to a location of the at least one reference point relative to the first reference system; and determining the dimensional change in the first object due to the alteration based on a change in location between the…