This Sliced edition of the 3D printing news features digestible snippets involving: Whippets, YouGov, George Mason University, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, the University of Notre Dame, Animal Avengers, Dassault Systèmes, Linear AMS, and Cory Doctorow.
YouGov survey illustrates view of 3D printing technology
Research firm, YouGov has released the results of a survey on the attitudes of technology. While a marginal majority (52%) believed 3D printing will be able to create any object in ten years time, a very small group (6%) believed this would be the most beneficial to society. In relation to the three other technological advances, the majority opted for cures to cancer and Alzheimer’s as their top two most beneficial advancement for humanity.
Violinist receives 3D printed prosthetic
Students at George Mason University in Virginia have created a 3D printed prosthesis optimized for a young violinist. Prior to this, the budding musician found playing the violin particularly difficult as her prosthetic was heavy and cumbersome. The violinist, Isabella was born without a left hand and seemed very pleased with the 3D printed results as she remarked “Oh my gosh, that’s so much better.”
Johns Hopkins School of Medicine creates lifelike simulation model
Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in Baltimore, Maryland has created a lifelike simulation model for neurosurgeons using 3D printing. The model was part of a research project which has been published in the Journal of Neurosurgery.
The researchers teamed up with special effects professionals to create the simulation tool and ensure it was as realistic as possible. The lifelike head was modelled on a real 14 year-old patient who suffered from hydrocephalus, a condition involving accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the brain.
Alan R. Cohen, a professor of neurosurgery at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and senior author of the paper said,
For surgeons, the ability to practice a procedure is essential for accurate and safe performance of the procedure. Surgical simulation is akin to a golfer taking a practice swing,
Japanese researchers have also looked towards 3D printing to develop lifelike simulation models with their Mikoto robot that can even voice pain.
Researchers encourage ENT compliance with 3D models
Researchers from the University of Notre Dame have used 3D printing to display clinical ENT patient data. Citing the fact that few patients commit to undergoing surgery for ailments such as deviated septum or occluded sinus passage, the research intended to encourage patients with the use of 3D printed models.
The team printed models using a Stratasys Objet500 Connex and recorded that of those surveyed, using 3D printing models improved diagnosis explanation and treatment plan. The research has been published in the Journal of Functional Biomaterials.
Whippet gets 3D printed prosthetic paw
A two-year old Whippet that lost its back paw as a puppy has been given the ability to walk thanks to a 3D printed prosthetic paw. The dog from Brazil was scanned with a CT scanner and fitted a 3D printed paw. Members of the veterinary group, Animal Avengers were enlisted to aid the dog and surgeon Roberto Fecchio created the device.
According to Fecchio, intervening was vital as Zeus’ “attempts to adapt to his disability would have eventually taken a toll on his body by adversely overloading his spine and seriously affecting his other limbs.”
Dassault Systèmes post 2017 first quarter results
French software company, Dassault Systèmes has released financial results for the first quarter of this year. The company, reported revenue of €759.8 million and a profit of €86.4 million.
3D Printing Industry caught up with the executives at Dassault Systèmes in Milan recently.
US metal additive manufacturing bureau to cut 40 jobs
Manufacturing bureau Linear AMS has announced plans to cut 40% of its workforce at additive manufacturing plant in Livonia, Michigan. The additive manufacturing unit of the bureau is also expected to relocate out of Michigan.
3D printing book deal
Canadian-British author and journalist, Cory Doctorow has released a new science fiction novel Walkaway. Doctorow is a well-known figure in the 3D printing world and his new book centres upon open source technology. Doctorow’s wife Alice Taylor is a prominent figure in the 3D Printing Industry and is currently working with Disney who are looking at 3D printing soft robotics.
If you haven’t yet, make sure to place your votes in the 3D Printing Industry Awards.
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Featured image shows a Whippet enjoying a run.
