Recently, researchers from the Dutch Saxion University of Applied Sciences have successfully printed fake legs in 3D with thermoplastic composites. According to Tiangong, this is one of the results of the 3D Comp research project, which was jointly established by the university and several local professional centers, including the Rehabilitation Centre 't Roessingh.
This is a huge breakthrough that will undoubtedly reduce the cost of manufacturing fake legs. About 2,500 people have a partial amputation of their lower extremities each year, and they will immediately request a customized repair solution to start rehabilitation after amputation. Currently, these prosthetic legs are usually made by hand and the materials used are thermoset composites. The matching process is time consuming and laborious. Since the prosthetic leg carries the body weight of the amputee each day, they also need to be equipped with a hand-made leg connector, which further increases the weight and cost of the prosthetic leg.
The appearance of 3D printed prosthetic legs not only reduces manufacturing costs, but also speeds up manufacturing. 3D scanning also makes the prosthetic legs more "fit" and comfortable. “The first step in making a prosthetic leg is to measure the stump. A 3D scanner and a sensor sock are used in this process. This sock is used to determine the location of key parts such as tendons and bones,†the researchers explained. .
But the real innovation lies in 3D printing. Thermoplastic composites (commonly used in the aerospace and automotive industries) are rarely used in 3D printing, but the Saxon team found the material to be good enough to replace traditional thermoset plastic materials. They are light, resistant to external influences, and strong enough to support the wearer's weight. Most importantly, through 3D printing, they automate the manufacturing process, which removes a lot of indirect costs.
Since there are so many advantages, why are these thermoplastic composites not used more often? Fundamentally, because they are too expensive for the medical industry, they are not the preferred material for manufacturing prostheses for cost reasons. Therefore, plastic processing companies have long neglected the possibility of using these thermoplastic composites for medical products. “Currently, most companies still don’t know much about this material, the necessary processes and associated costs, but interest in this material is growing. Fiber reinforcement offers a breakthrough in other industries and medical applications. Opportunities,†the researchers said. “Companies often recognize the benefits of high-quality thermoplastic composites, such as high stiffness and strength, design freedom, and functional integration possibilities. ""
If the manufacturing costs of these thermoplastic composites can be reduced, they will be a good material for making 3D printed prosthetic legs. Saxon's custom 3D printing technology, which is filled with long glass or carbon fiber materials, also greatly speeds up the process of 3D printing prosthetic legs.
This is just one of the research results of the 3D Comp project, which also shows that hardenable materials can be applied topically to a wide range of 3D printed parts. “This is an important step in reducing the cost of lightweight composite technology. The hardening of the product leads to a smaller demand for materials, which can even shorten the time period and reduce energy consumption,†they conclude.
In addition, the researchers intend to enhance the nozzle assembly, a 3D print carriage, and apply these thermoplastics to the bicycle frame. More applications may be in the second study, and they are currently preparing a second research project. Once again, material innovation can strongly promote the 3D printing revolution.
(Compiled from 3Ders.org)
(Editor)
The size of the sleeper is small which takes less space and easy to move. You can have a sleeper at your office which is more comfortable for lunch break. And you can use it as a sofa at office time. The sleepler is also easy to intall. There are different types of sleeper, you can choose the sleeper suitable for you.
Sofa Sleeper,Furniture Sofa Sleeper,Indoor Sleeper Sofa,Living Room Sofa Sleeper
Kaifeng Lanwei Smart Home Co., Ltd , https://www.leather-recliner.com