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Article
Publication date: 1 August 2003

L.C. Hieu, E. Bohez, J. Vander Sloten, H.N. Phien, E. Vatcharaporn, P.H. Binh, P.V. An and P. Oris

Design methods for medical rapid prototyping (RP) of personalized cranioplasty implants are presented in this paper. These methods are applicable to model cranioplasty implants…

2359

Abstract

Design methods for medical rapid prototyping (RP) of personalized cranioplasty implants are presented in this paper. These methods are applicable to model cranioplasty implants for all types of the skull defects including beyond‐midline and multiple defects. The methods are based on two types of anatomical data, solid bone models (STereoLithography files – STL) and bone slice contours (Initial Graphics Exchange Specification – IGES and StrataSys Layer files – SSL). The bone solids and contours are constructed based on computed tomography scanning data, and these data are generated in medical image processing and STL slicing packages.

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Rapid Prototyping Journal, vol. 9 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2546

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Article
Publication date: 1 December 2005

L.C. Hieu, N. Zlatov, J. Vander Sloten, E. Bohez, L. Khanh, P.H. Binh, P. Oris and Y. Toshev

Aims to investigate medical rapid prototyping (medical RP) technology applications and methods based on reverse engineering (RE) and medical imaging data.

5529

Abstract

Purpose

Aims to investigate medical rapid prototyping (medical RP) technology applications and methods based on reverse engineering (RE) and medical imaging data.

Design/methodology/approach

Medical image processing and RE are applied to construct three‐dimensional models of anatomical structures, from which custom‐made (personalized) medical applications are developed.

Findings

The investigated methods were successfully used for design and manufacturing of biomodels, surgical aid tools, implants, medical devices and surgical training models. More than 40 medical RP applications were implemented in Europe and Asia since 1999.

Research limitations/implications

Medical RP is a multi‐discipline area. It involves in many human resources and requires high skills and know‐how in both engineering and medicine. In addition, medical RP applications are expensive, especially for low‐income countries. These practically limit its benefits and applications in hospitals.

Practical implications

In order to transfer medical RP into hospitals successfully, a good link and close collaboration between medical and engineering sites should be established. Moreover, new medical applications should be developed in the way that does not change the traditional approaches that medical doctors (MD) were trained, but provides solutions to improve the diagnosis and treatment quality.

Originality/value

The presented state‐of‐the‐art medical RP is applied for diagnosis and treatment in the following medical areas: cranio‐maxillofacial and dental surgery, neurosurgery, orthopedics, orthosis and tissue engineering. The paper is useful for MD (radiologists and surgeons), biomedical and RP/CAD/CAM engineers.

Details

Assembly Automation, vol. 25 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0144-5154

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Article
Publication date: 16 January 2017

AmirMahyar Khorasani, Ian Gibson, Moshe Goldberg and Guy Littlefair

The purpose of this paper is to improve the manufacturing of a prosthetic acetabular shell by analyzing the main factors leading to failure during the selective laser melting…

740

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to improve the manufacturing of a prosthetic acetabular shell by analyzing the main factors leading to failure during the selective laser melting (SLM) additive manufacturing (AM) process.

Design/methodology/approach

Different computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing processes have been applied to fabricate acetabular parts. Then, various investigations into surface quality, mechanical properties and microstructure have been carried out to scrutinize the possible limitations in fabrication.

Findings

Geometrical measurements showed 1.59 and 0.27 per cent differences between the designed and manufactured prototypes for inside and outside diameter, respectively. However, resulting studies showed that unstable surfaces, cracks, an interruption in powder delivery and low surface quality were the main problems that occurred during this process. These results indicate that SLM is an accurate and promising method for production of intricate shapes, provided that the appropriate settings of production conditions are considered to minimize possible limitations.

Originality/value

The contributions of this paper are discussions covering different issues in the AM fabrication of acetabular shells to improve the mechanical properties, quality and durability of the produced parts.

Details

Rapid Prototyping Journal, vol. 23 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2546

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Article
Publication date: 27 September 2021

Michele Ciotti, Giampaolo Campana and Mattia Mele

This paper aims to present a survey concerning the accuracy of thermoplastic polymeric parts fabricated by additive manufacturing (AM). Based on the scientific literature, the aim…

406

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to present a survey concerning the accuracy of thermoplastic polymeric parts fabricated by additive manufacturing (AM). Based on the scientific literature, the aim is to provide an updated map of trends and gaps in this relevant research field. Several technologies and investigation methods are examined, thus giving an overview and analysis of the growing body of research.

Design/methodology/approach

Permutations of keywords, which concern materials, technologies and the accuracy of thermoplastic polymeric parts fabricated by AM, are used for a systematic search in peer-review databases. The selected articles are screened and ranked to identify those that are more relevant. A bibliometric analysis is performed based on investigated materials and applied technologies of published papers. Finally, each paper is categorised and discussed by considering the implemented research methods.

Findings

The interest in the accuracy of additively manufactured thermoplastics is increasing. The principal sources of inaccuracies are those shrinkages occurring during part solidification. The analysis of the research methods shows a predominance of empirical approaches. Due to the experimental context, those achievements have consequently limited applicability. Analytical and numerical models, which generally require huge computational costs when applied to complex products, are also numerous and are investigated in detail. Several articles deal with artificial intelligence tools and are gaining more and more attention.

Originality/value

The cross-technology survey on the accuracy issue highlights the common critical aspects of thermoplastics transformed by AM. An updated map of the recent research literature is achieved. The analysis shows the advantages and limitations of different research methods in this field, providing an overview of research trends and gaps.

Details

Rapid Prototyping Journal, vol. 28 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2546

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Article
Publication date: 21 March 2016

Kamaljit Singh Boparai, Rupinder Singh and Harwinder Singh

The purpose of this study is to highlight the direct fabrication of rapid tooling (RT) with desired mechanical, tribological and thermal properties using fused deposition…

3819

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to highlight the direct fabrication of rapid tooling (RT) with desired mechanical, tribological and thermal properties using fused deposition modelling (FDM) process. Further, the review paper demonstrated development procedure of alternative feedstock filament of low-cost composite material for FDM to extend the range of RT applications.

Design/methodology/approach

The alternative materials for FDM and their processing requirements for fabrication in filament form as reported by various researchers have been summarized. The literature demonstrates the role of various post-processing techniques on surface finish of FDM prints. Further, low-cost materials for feedstock filament have been investigated experimentally to check their adaptability/suitability for commercial FDM setup. The approach was to realize the requirements of FDM (melt flow rate, flexibility, stiffness, glass transition temperature and mechanical strength), necessary for the successful run of an alternative filament. The effect of constituents (additives, plasticizers, surfactants and fillers) in polymeric matrix on mechanical, tribological and thermal properties has been investigated.

Findings

It is possible to develop composite material feedstock as filament for commercial FDM setup without changing its hardware and software. Surface finish of the parts can further be improved by applying various post-processing techniques. Most of the composite parts have high mechanical strength, hardness, thermal stability, wear resistant and better bond formation than standard material parts.

Research limitations/implications

Future research may be focused on improving the surface quality of parts fabricated with composite feedstock, solving issues related to the uniform distribution of filled materials during the fabrication of feedstock filament which in turns further increases mechanical strength, high dimensional stability of composite filament and transferring the technology from laboratory scale to various industrial applications.

Practical implications

Potential applications of direct fabrication with RT includes rapid manufacturing (RM) of metal-filled parts and ceramic-filled parts (which have complex shape and cannot be rapidly made by any other manufacturing techniques) in the field of biomedical and dentistry.

Originality/value

This new manufacturing methodology is based on the proper selection and processing of various materials and additives to form high-performance, low-cost composite material feedstock filament (which fulfil the necessary requirements of FDM process). Finally, newly developed feedstock filament material has both quantitative and qualitative advantage in RT and RM applications as compared to standard material filament.

Details

Rapid Prototyping Journal, vol. 22 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2546

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Article
Publication date: 28 September 2012

Shwe P. Soe, Daniel R. Eyers, Toby Jones and Nigel Nayling

The purpose of this paper is to examine the suitability of additive manufacturing technologies in the reconstruction of archaeological discoveries as illustrative models. The…

766

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the suitability of additive manufacturing technologies in the reconstruction of archaeological discoveries as illustrative models. The processes of reverse engineering and part fabrication are discussed in detail, with particular emphasis placed on the difficulties of managing scaling and material characteristics for the manufacturing process.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a case‐based approach, this paper examines the reconstruction of a fifteenth‐century ship recovered from the River Usk in South Wales, UK. Using interviews and process data, the paper identifies challenges for both archaeologists and manufacturers in the application of additive manufacturing technologies for archaeological reconstruction applications.

Findings

This paper illustrates both the suitability of additive manufacturing in archaeological restoration, but also the challenges which result from this approach. It demonstrates the practical considerations of scaling process and materials, whilst also highlighting the techniques to improve accuracy and mechanical properties of the model.

Originality/value

Whilst the technologies of additive manufacturing have previously been applied to model making, little scholarly research has considered the practical techniques of design elicitation and manufacturing for archaeological applications. Using an in‐depth case study, this paper highlights the principal considerations for these applications, and provides guidance in the mitigation of manufacturing issues.

Details

Rapid Prototyping Journal, vol. 18 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2546

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Article
Publication date: 1 April 2005

S. Singare, L. Dichen, L. Bingheng, G. Zhenyu and L. Yaxiong

To develop a computer‐assisted prefabricated implant design and manufacturing system to improve the esthetic outcome in chin surgery.

2526

Abstract

Purpose

To develop a computer‐assisted prefabricated implant design and manufacturing system to improve the esthetic outcome in chin surgery.

Design/methodology/approach

Design methods for medical rapid prototyping (RP) of custom‐fabricated chin augmentation implant are presented in this paper. After a careful preoperative planning based on cephalometric tracing for esthetic assessment, helical computed tomography data were used to create a three‐dimensional model of the deficient mandible. Based on these data, the inner surface of the prosthesis was designed to fit the bone surface exactly. The outer geometry was generated from a dried human mandible to create anatomically correct shape prosthesis. The inner and outer surfaces were then connected, and a solid model resulted. A RP system was used for production of the physical models. The surgical planning was performed using the implants and skull models. The resulting SLA implant is used for the production of a mold, which is used to cast the titanium part. Three patients with a congenital small chin or a small and asymmetric mandible underwent reconstruction with individual prefabricated implant. Mean follow‐up period was 1.5 years.

Findings

This approach showed significant results in chin augmentation. Compared with traditional methods, the intra‐operative fit was excellent. The operating time was reduced. Postoperatively, the patients experienced the restoration of a natural chin contour, so the esthetic outcome was pleasing. Over the mean follow‐up period of 1.5 years, there were no complications and no implant had to be removed. Long‐term excellent esthetic outcomes by using this new technique have recently been reported.

Research limitations/implications

The methods described above suffer from certain limitations. The registration of the mandible template to create the augmentation image requires high skills of the designer. In addition, the use of RP model in preoperative preparation is expensive.

Practical implications

This method not only demonstrates the significant progress in the reconstruction of chin defects using CAD/CAM RP and RT, compared with the conventional methods of chin augmentation surgery, but also provides natural geometrical prosthesis contour design and accurate fabrication and precise fitting of the prosthesis. The advantages of using this technique are that the physical model of the implant is fitted on the skull model so that the surgeon can plan and rehearse the surgery in advance and a less invasive surgical procedure and less time‐consuming reconstructive and an adequate esthetic can result.

Originality/value

This clinical case demonstrated the potential value of CAD/CAM and RP‐based custom fitted and anatomically correct shape prosthesis fabrication and presurgical planning in craniofacial surgery.

Details

Rapid Prototyping Journal, vol. 11 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2546

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Article
Publication date: 1 August 2006

Sekou Singare, Liu Yaxiong, Li Dichen, Lu Bingheng, He Sanhu and Li Gang

This paper describes computer‐aided design (CAD) and rapid prototyping (RP) systems for the fabrication of maxillofacial implant.

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Abstract

Purpose

This paper describes computer‐aided design (CAD) and rapid prototyping (RP) systems for the fabrication of maxillofacial implant.

Design/methodology/approach

Design methods for medical RP of custom‐fabricated are presented in this paper. Helical computed tomography (CT) data were used to create a three‐dimensional model of the patient skull. Based on these data, the individual shape of the implant was designed in CAD environment and fabricate by RP process. One patient with a large mandible defect underwent reconstruction with individual prefabricated implant resulting from initial surgical failure with hand contoured reconstruction plate.

Findings

Results shows that the custom made implant fit well the defect. Overall, excellent mandible symmetry and stability were achieved with the custom made implants. The patient was able to eat. There was no saliva drooling after the reconstruction. The operating time was reduced.

Research limitations/implications

The methods described above suffer from the expensive cost of RP technique.

Practical implications

This method allows accurate fabrication of the implant. The advantages of using this technique are that the physical model of the implant is fitted on the skull model so that the surgeon can plan and rehearse the surgery in advance and a less invasive surgical procedure and less time‐consuming reconstructive and an adequate esthetic can result.

Originality/value

The method improves the reconstructive surgery and reduces the risk of a second intervention, and the psychological stress of the patient will be eliminated.

Details

Rapid Prototyping Journal, vol. 12 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2546

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Article
Publication date: 14 January 2014

Evila L. Melgoza, Guillem Vallicrosa, Lidia Serenó, Joaquim Ciurana and Ciro A. Rodríguez

This work aims to present the design of a new continuous tool-path strategy for open-source low-cost fused deposition modeling (FDM) machines, such as Fab@Home or RepRap; and the…

2864

Abstract

Purpose

This work aims to present the design of a new continuous tool-path strategy for open-source low-cost fused deposition modeling (FDM) machines, such as Fab@Home or RepRap; and the development of an innovative integrated tool to design and fabricate customized tracheal stents with any FDM machine and six patient parameters. Both contributions were validated and implemented by obtaining a customized medical-grade silicone tracheal stent.

Design/methodology/approach

For the design of the new deposition strategy, a Python programming language was used. The new tool-path strategy was proposed as a continuous path to avoid drops and gaps and to improve the accuracy of the final model. Meanwhile, patient parameters were obtained by medical doctors and introduced into the innovative integrated system. On the one hand, one mold generated automatically, and viewed with Matlab® software, was fabricated with a Fab@Home machine, optimized with the continuous tool-path strategy. On the other hand, the same generated mold was viewed in SolidWorks/Excel software and was fabricated using a commercial FDM machine. Finally, the mold was filled with medical grade silicone, and a silicone tracheal stent was obtained.

Findings

Path planning for extrusion technologies is still a major concern, especially for open-source FDM machines. The results obtained in this work show the benefits of applying the newly developed continuous tool-path strategy to optimize the performance and efficiency of these machines. In addition, the proposed innovative integrated system allows the fabrication of customized tracheal stents rapidly and affordably.

Practical implications

The possibility of obtaining customized tracheal stents is a worthy challenge. Medical doctors could play a more active role and interact during the design process, helping to obtain more suitable stents. The method proposed herein would provide the opportunity to obtain real values from the trachea of a patient in the operating room and quickly fabricate a customized stent that would fit the patient's trachea perfectly.

Originality/value

The results obtained in this work are relevant and have future applications in both the medical and the additive manufacturing fields. The optimized tool-path strategy can help to improve and enhance the use of low-cost FDM machines. Moreover, the innovative automatic design approach to fabricate tracheal stents may open new market opportunities in the medical device field.

Details

Rapid Prototyping Journal, vol. 20 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2546

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Article
Publication date: 1 August 2008

Esfandyar Kouhi, Syed Masood and Yos Morsi

Combination of advanced imaging, designing and manufacturing techniques has been rapidly developed in recent years for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes for medical devices. The…

1260

Abstract

Purpose

Combination of advanced imaging, designing and manufacturing techniques has been rapidly developed in recent years for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes for medical devices. The purpose of this paper is to present a methodology for design and fabrication procedure of medical models using computer‐aided design (CAD) and fused deposition modeling (FDM) technique for application in the mandibular reconstructive surgery.

Design/methodology/approach

Case studies of patients with mandibular defects are examined using CAD model construction including data acquisition from computerized tomography scan and data processing. Furthermore, the effect of advanced manufacturing parameters settings in FDM methodology is investigated.

Findings

The models were used in assisting the surgeons in their reconstruction planning. A significant improvement regarding the success and convenience in surgery planning been reported.

Originality/value

This paper explores the application and viability of FDM rapid prototyping technology for fabrication of complex mandibular models used for reconstructive surgery.

Details

Assembly Automation, vol. 28 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0144-5154

Keywords

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