Prosthetic eyes are currently made from glass and acrylic and can take a long time to make and are also expensive, with each one costing around £3,000.
Now a company in the UK, Fripp Design, is working with the Manchester Metropolitan University on 3D printed prosthetic eyes, which could make the cost of these prosthetic eyes considerably cheaper and also quicker to produce.
These new 3D printed prosthetic eyes are printed in full color using a Spectrum Z-Corp 510. They are encased in resin and then each one is customized to match the patient’s existing eye as closely as possible. The customization process includes matching the hue and incorporating a network of veins, which gives the prosthetic eye a realistic appearance.
Advantages of 3D Printed Prosthetic Eyes
One of the most significant advantages of this new technology is the reduction in cost. Current prosthetic eyes are around £3,000 to produce, whereas these new 3D printed versions can be produced for around £100 each. This drastic reduction in cost could make prosthetic eyes more accessible to a larger number of people who need them.
Another advantage is the speed of production. Traditional prosthetic eyes can take weeks or even months to manufacture, but 3D printing technology can significantly reduce this time. This means that patients can receive their prosthetic eyes much sooner, improving their quality of life.
Future Implications and Developments
The 3D printed prosthetic eyes are expected to go into production within the next year, once the development work has been finished by the company and the university. This development could pave the way for further advancements in the field of prosthetics. For example, the same technology could potentially be used to create other types of prosthetic body parts, such as ears or noses, which also require a high level of customization and realism.
Moreover, the use of 3D printing in the medical field is not limited to prosthetics. Researchers are exploring the potential of 3D printing to create customized implants, surgical tools, and even bioprinted tissues and organs. The ability to produce highly customized medical devices quickly and at a lower cost could revolutionize healthcare, making it more personalized and accessible.
In addition to the medical benefits, the use of 3D printing technology in prosthetics also has economic implications. The reduced cost of production could lead to lower prices for consumers, making prosthetic eyes more affordable for those who need them. This could also reduce the financial burden on healthcare systems and insurance companies.
Furthermore, the collaboration between Fripp Design and Manchester Metropolitan University highlights the importance of partnerships between industry and academia in driving innovation. By working together, they can combine their expertise and resources to develop new technologies that have the potential to improve people’s lives.
The development of 3D printed prosthetic eyes by Fripp Design and Manchester Metropolitan University represents a significant advancement in the field of prosthetics. The reduction in cost and production time, combined with the high level of customization and realism, makes this technology a promising solution for patients who need prosthetic eyes. As the technology continues to develop, it could have far-reaching implications for the medical field and beyond.
Source T3
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