3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a process of creating three-dimensional objects by laying down successive layers of material. The object is created by a computer-controlled machine that uses a variety of materials, such as plastic, metal, or ceramics, to build the object layer by layer. This technology has a wide range of applications, including product development, prototyping, and manufacturing.
3D printing technology can be used in the field of orthotics, which involves the design, manufacture, and application of devices that help to support or correct the function of the musculoskeletal system.
Similarly, 3D printing technology can also be used in the field of prosthetics, which involves the design, manufacture, and application of devices that help to replace or enhance the function of missing or impaired limbs.
There are several ways that 3D printing can be used in the field of orthotics and prosthetics:
- Custom Orthotic Devices: 3D scanning technology can be used to create a digital model of a patient’s foot or limb. This model can then be used to create a customized orthotic device that is tailored to the patient’s specific needs.
- Rapid Prototyping: 3D printing technology can be used to quickly create prototypes of orthotic devices, allowing for faster iteration and testing of designs.
- Surgical Guides and Templates: 3D printing can be used to create surgical guides and templates that help surgeons to accurately position orthotic devices during surgery.
- Lightweight and Durable Devices: 3D printing can be used to create orthotic devices that are lightweight and durable. This can be especially beneficial for patients who need to wear the device for extended periods of time.
- Cost-effective: 3D printing allows for the production of orthotics at a lower cost than traditional manufacturing methods.
- Personalization: 3D printing allows to create customized prosthetics that are designed to match the patient’s skin tone and preferences, improving their daily experience and acceptance.
COMMON METHODS OF 3D PRINTING
There are several ways to do 3D printing, depending on the technology and equipment being used.
The process of 3D printing starts with creating a digital model of the object using Computer Aided Design (CAD) software. The digital model is then converted into a format that the 3D printer can understand, such as a STL file. The 3D printer then reads the file and begins building the object layer by layer, according to the instructions provided in the file.
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to which 3D printing method is best for orthotics, as the choice will depend on the specific requirements and characteristics of the orthotic device. However, some methods are more commonly used than others in the field of orthotics.
- Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM): FDM is a widely used 3D printing method that can create functional orthotic devices using a wide range of materials, including plastics like ABS and TPU. It is known for its low cost and easy workability, which makes it a popular choice for creating prototypes and small-scale production runs. Read more in details
- Stereolithography (SLA): SLA is another widely used 3D printing method that can create detailed, accurate orthotic devices. This method can produce high-resolution, complex parts with good surface finish and fine details. It is often used to create master models for casting and other manufacturing processes. Read More In details
- Selective Laser Sintering (SLS): SLS is a powerful 3D printing method that can create durable orthotic devices using a variety of materials, including plastics and metals. This method is known for its ability to create parts with good mechanical properties and high strength-to-weight ratio.
Read more in details - Multi Jet Fusion (MJF): This method uses a print head to deposit droplets of material and a fusing agent, which are fused together to create a solid object. This method is known for its ability to produce high-quality parts with good dimensional accuracy, repeatability and surface finish, making it an attractive option for creating orthotic devices. Read More in details
- Carbon Fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP): This method is suitable for creating orthotics that require high strength-to-weight ratio and durability, like leg braces or spinal supports, where the weight and strength of the device is crucial.
3D PRINTING MATERIALS
There are a wide variety of materials that can be used for 3D printing in the field of orthotics and prosthetics , including plastics, metals, and ceramics. The choice of material will depend on the specific application and requirements of the orthotic device.
- Plastics: One of the most common materials used in 3D printing for orthotics is plastic. This is because plastic is relatively inexpensive, lightweight, and easy to work with. Some common types of plastic used in 3D printing for orthotics include ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), PLA (Polylactic acid), Nylon, and TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane).
- Metals: Metals such as titanium and stainless steel can also be used for 3D printing O&P.These materials are more durable and provide more support compared to plastics. Additionally, metal can be sterilized for medical use and can withstand high loads and provide stability.
- Ceramics: Ceramics can also be used for 3D printing . These materials are strong and lightweight, and they have good biocompatibility, which means they are not rejected by the body. They are also resistant to high temperatures, chemicals and wear.
- Composite materials: There are also materials like carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) that can be used in 3D printing, they combine the properties of different materials, such as the strength and rigidity of carbon fiber and the flexibility of plastic.
3D PRINTING MACHINES
There are a wide variety of 3D printing machines available for use in the field of orthotics. The specific machine that is used will depend on the requirements and characteristics of the orthotic device, as well as the 3D printing method being used. Some popular 3D printing machines that are used in the field of orthotics include:
- FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) machines such as Ultimaker, MakerBot, and Prusa.
- SLA (Stereolithography) machines such as Formlabs, Carbon and Asiga.
- SLS (Selective Laser Sintering) machines such as EOS, Sisma, and ProX.
- MJF (Multi Jet Fusion) machines such as HP Multi Jet Fusion and Stratasys J750.
- Binder Jetting machines such as ExOne and Voxeljet
In addition to these widely known machines, there are also many other machines available from smaller companies and even DIY machines that can be built at home. Some of these machines are designed specifically for orthotics and prosthetics, while others can be adapted to suit the needs of the field.
It’s worth mentioning that the cost of 3D printing machines can vary greatly depending on the type and features of the machine, and also the size of the printer. Entry-level machines can cost a few thousand dollars, while high-end machines can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.
3D PRINTING SOFTWARES
There are several software options available for 3D printing in the field of orthotics, the best one will depend on the specific needs and requirements of the project. Here are some popular software options:
- CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and Rhino. These software are used for creating 3D models of the orthotic device, which can then be exported to a format that the 3D printer can understand.
- Slicing software such as Cura and PrusaSlicer: These software are used to convert the 3D model into a series of 2D layers that the 3D printer can understand and use to build the final object.
- Scanning software such as Artec Studio, 3D Scanner App, and Rapidform: These software are used to create a digital model of a patient’s residual limb or foot, which can then be used to create a customized orthotic device.
- CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) software such as MeshCAM, HSMWorks, and PowerMill: These software are used for generating toolpaths for CNC machines and other subtractive manufacturing methods.
- Biomechanics software such as AnyBody Modeling System, OpenSim, and Musculoskeletal Modeling Software: These software are used to simulate and analyze the mechanical behavior of the orthotic device and how it interacts with the body.
COMMON RESPONSES FROM PATIENTS WHO USED 3D PRINTED ORTHOTICS AND PROSTHETICS
The response of patients who receive 3D printed orthotics or prosthetics can vary depending on the specific device and the patient’s individual needs and preferences.
In general, patients who receive 3D printed orthotics or prosthetics report several benefits, such as:
- Customization: 3D printing allows for the creation of customized devices that are tailored to the patient’s specific needs and requirements, which can lead to a better fit and improved function.
- Faster turnaround time: 3D printing can significantly reduce the time it takes to create a device, allowing patients to receive their devices sooner.
- Improved comfort: 3D printed orthotics and prosthetics can be designed to be lightweight and comfortable, which can improve the patient’s overall experience.
- Better aesthetics: 3D printing allows for the creation of prosthetics that are designed to match the patient’s skin tone and preferences, which can improve the patient’s acceptance and satisfaction.
- Cost-effective: 3D printing can be more cost-effective than traditional manufacturing methods, which can make devices more accessible to patients.
- Easy adjustments: 3D printing allows for easy adjustments and modifications to be made to the device if needed.
However, as with any medical device, it is important to note that there can be some limitations and challenges when it comes to 3D printed orthotics and prosthetics. For example, some materials used in 3D printing may not be as durable as traditional materials, and the devices may not be suitable for certain types of patients, such as those with high levels of activity.
