Advanced auricular prosthesis development by 3D modelling and multi-material printing
Abstract
We investigate the use of medical imaging, digital design and 3D printing technologies as a viable means of reproducing a person’s anatomy, with the intension of producing a working, patient specific prosthesis. This approach offers several advantages over traditional techniques, as data capture is non-intrusive, models can be made using quantitative methodologies, design iterations can be digitally stored for future reproduction, and additive manufacturing ensures no loss of quality when converting the digital model into a physical part. We also present a combined model segmentation with multi-material printing approach to increase the colour complexity of the final model. When combined with multi-material printing using elastic materials, our approach provides a comprehensive strategy to accurately realising mimic of both skin pigmentation and the tactile feel of human tissues. Ultimately, we believe our approach provides an innovative strategy for prosthesis production which could have considerable potential for implementation in a clinical setting.
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