Tomasz Kudasik and Slawomir Miechowicz
This paper aims to present a method of reproducing multi-object structures from materials of diverse physical properties with the use of models fabricated by means of rapid…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to present a method of reproducing multi-object structures from materials of diverse physical properties with the use of models fabricated by means of rapid prototyping (RP) techniques.
Design/methodology/approach
A process of modelling complex anatomical structures of soft tissues and bones using mandible models as examples was described. The study is based on data acquired through standard computed tomography. Physical models of examined objects were fabricated with RP technology from a 3D-CAD virtual model.
Findings
In the analysis of complex medical issues, beside numerical methods, one can simultaneously make use of experimental tests to verify obtained results. In the case of experimental tests, it is necessary to fabricate physical models with appropriate material properties. RP techniques used in the method ensure accurate reproduction of the external shape of the fabricated model, whereas consecutive stages allow us to construct moulds and create internal structures within a finished model by wax cast models.
Practical implications
The application of a physical RP model makes the identification of medical problem more efficient and the reconstruction of pathological alterations for experimental tests clearer. It prevents the simplification of assumptions to experimental analysis. The approach may reduce costs of fabricating models for experimental studies and offers the possibility of using materials of desired properties.
Originality/value
The approach developed by the authors and presented in this paper was submitted for patent protection as “A Method of Reconstructing Medical Models with Internal Structure and the Use of Materials of Diverse properties” – patent application no. P.398644.
Details
Keywords
Wiktoria Maria Wojnarowska, Jakub Najowicz, Tomasz Piecuch, Michał Sochacki, Dawid Pijanka, Jolanta Trybulec and Sławomir Miechowicz
Chicken orthoses that cover the ankle joint area are not commercially available. Therefore, the main purpose of this study is to fabricate a customised temporary Ankle–Foot…
Abstract
Purpose
Chicken orthoses that cover the ankle joint area are not commercially available. Therefore, the main purpose of this study is to fabricate a customised temporary Ankle–Foot Orthosis (AFO) for a chicken with a twisted ankle using computer-aided design (CAD) and three-dimensional (3D) printing. The secondary objective of the paper is to present the specific application of Additive Manufacturing (AM) in veterinary medicine.
Design/methodology/approach
The design process was based on multiple sketches, photos and measurements that were provided by the owner of the animal. The 3D model of the orthosis was made with Autodesk Fusion 360, while the prototype was fabricated using fused deposition modelling (FDM). Evaluation of the AFO was performed using the finite element method.
Findings
The work resulted in a functional 3D printed AFO for chicken. It was found that the orthosis made with AM provides satisfactory stiffen and a good fit. It was concluded that AM is suitable for custom bird AFO fabrication and, in some respects, is superior to traditional manufacturing methods. It was also concluded that the presented procedure can be applied in other veterinary cases and to other animal species and other parts of their body. AM provides veterinary with a powerful tool for the production of well-fitted and durable orthoses for animals.
Research limitations/implications
The study does not include the chicken's opinion on the comfort or fit of the manufactured AFO due to communication issues. Evaluation of the final prototype was done by the researchers and the animal owner.
Originality/value
No evidence was found in the literature on the use of AM for chicken orthosis, so this study is the first to describe such an application of AM. In addition, the study demonstrates the value of AM in veterinary medicine, especially in the production of devices such as orthoses.