Title: Medical Industry Is Growing Fast With Rapid Prototyping
1Medical Industry Is Growing Fast With Rapid
Prototyping
2The Medical Industry is by far the biggest
adapter of Additive Manufacturing technology,
with the Medical Industry accounting for some 15
of all Rapid Prototyping in 2009. From novel to
potentially life saving applications, the Medical
Industry will continue as a strong growth sector
for Rapid Prototyping as researchers work to
uncover new applications and refine existing
technologies.
3Traditionally a tool of the design verification
stage with early material limitations resulting
in brittle, photo-sensitive medical devices protot
ype models. These material limitations meant
early prototype models were predominantly used
for visual design aids and marketing activities,
with limited functionality. As the range of
materials available for Additive Manufacturing
has increased so too has the range of
applications for this technology.
4If you have earlier taken the service for
prototyping, then you might be familiar with the
designing prototype units for new products or
revisions. If your organization makes medical
devices, the early models help you to work out
critical details from microelectronic functioning
to material fabrication.
5Orthopedic firms too have seen the potential of
Rapid Prototyping, with orthopedic
medical devices prototype engineers such as
Orchid design integrating 3D printing into the
design process to verify design and to prevent
costly design errors. Newcastle based Peacocks
Medical have taken this one step further, by
integrating Selective Laser Sintering into their
production process. Using SLS it is possible for
Peacocks Medical to create perfect fit
prosthetics for their clients.
6While orthopedic and prosthetic applications of
this technology have proven positive, the true
potential of Rapid Prototyping lies within the
field of bio-printers. Researchers are working on
3D printing machines, capable of printing human
skin, blood and organs. If successful to date
this research has shown positive results, however
it is not likely that we will see 3D printers in
local hospitals just yet. For burns victims and
transplant patients, bio printers hold the
potential for life saving treatments.
7A London-based, Ultrasound Clinic became one of
the first UK companies to adapt a their clients
the opportunity to buy a 3D printed model of
their unborn baby. Doctors at the clinic are also
investigating the potential for using 3D
ultrasound imaging combined with 3D printing as a
tool for the early diagnosis of developmental
problems and illness with the aim of improving
survival rates for sick babies.
8Rapid Prototyping now offers approved materials
for medical devices prototype which has further
strengthened the role of Rapid Prototyping within
the Medical industry. Stereo lithography material
Watershed is suitable for use in preclinical
trials while Electron Beam Melting and Direct
Metal Laser Sintering have proven popular as a
manufacturing process for customised orthopedic
implants. Next few years are going to see drastic
changes in the Medical Industry and all because
of Rapid Prototyping technologies.
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