  This paper presents a generalized integrated framework of semi-automatic
surgical template design. Several algorithms were implemented including the
mesh segmentation, offset surface generation, collision detection, ruled
surface generation, etc., and a special software named TemDesigner was
developed. With a simple user interface, a customized template can be semi-
automatically designed according to the preoperative plan. Firstly, mesh
segmentation with signed scalar of vertex is utilized to partition the inner
surface from the input surface mesh based on the indicated point loop. Then,
the offset surface of the inner surface is obtained through contouring the
distance field of the inner surface, and segmented to generate the outer
surface. Ruled surface is employed to connect inner and outer surfaces.
Finally, drilling tubes are generated according to the preoperative plan
through collision detection and merging. It has been applied to the template
design for various kinds of surgeries, including oral implantology, cervical
pedicle screw insertion, iliosacral screw insertion and osteotomy,
demonstrating the efficiency, functionality and generality of our method.
