Patent application
for using Fractal Geometry in Rapid Prototyping and Tissue Engineering
Fractal geometry
Fractal geometry (also called 'organic mathematics’) offers
more possibilities to describe natural forms and structures (of
which a tree with all its branches is a perfect example) than traditional
Euclidean mathematics. By iterating complex functions (polynomials,
transcendental functions and their inversions) natural forms can
be constructed. Superformulas are available to reduce rather complex
fractal images to simple standards, as is demonstrated by the inverse
of a complex sinus (being a rod) that results in a tube. A fractal
is scale-invariant and has hardly any mathematical restriction.
Therefore the factual applications of fractal geometry are only
restricted by the state of micro- and nanotechnology.
Patent application *
Jules Ruis, managing director of Fractal Consultancy, has a patent
pending since end 2006 on a procedure to make use of fractal geometry
for the design and production of artificial human and/or animal organs, more
specifically human blood vessels. The designed structures can be
presented in a two dimensional as well as a three dimensional way.
The patent pending also emphasizes the application of fractal geometry
for the direction of print- and injectionheads in equipment used
for the applying of materials (inkjet printing and methods of direct
writing), and equipment that directs laserbeams and electronic beams
(electron microscopes).
* Complete title
“Procedure for the manufacturing of artificial human/animal
organs as well as for the manufacturing of scaffolds to be used
in these manufactures by making use of fractal geometry”.
Two examples
1. A production method for rapid prototyping machines, to make scaffolds
of biologically degradable polymers for the production of blood
vessels. This method distinguishes itself by direct generation of
.bmp files so that slicing of huge CAD/CAM files is no longer required.
By using fractal geometry changes in the parameters (corrections
and redirections) can be easily realised as well in the design as
in the actual product.
2. The invented method can also be used for the design and manufacture
of a new generation fab@home machines, relatively simple rp-machines
for educational uses and applications in the art sector. The cost
of such a machine can be estimated at about € 2.000 and can
replace more costly (€ 20.000 to
€ 50.000 apiece) professional rapid prototype equipment.
Partnership
Fractal Consultancy is looking for companies that are interested
in taking (exclusive or non-exclusive) license on the invented fractal
technology. The preferred construction is the composition of a consortium
for exploiting the patent pending. Fractal Consultancy wants to
be a part of this consortium by bringing in its patent.
More information
Jules Ruis, Fractal Consultancy, Son-Eindhoven, The Netherlands,
tel. +31 499 47 10 55; internet: www.fractal.org; e-mail: Jules.Ruis@fractal.org
