The medic
al field is seeing rapid advancement in the use of 3D printing and, especially, the development of medical-specific 3D printers. 3D Systems is one of the leaders in this area, and its MultiJet Printing (MJP) technology allows for precise layer-by-layer construction with what 3DS describes as “the highest Z-direction resolution with layer thicknesses as low as 16 microns.” Objects created using MJP techniques are intended to be produced in high resolution and require minimal post-processing with easy-to-remove supports.
Now in the pursuit of furthering the use of MJP technology, 3DS has announced the availability of a new all-in-
one 3D printer for professional medical use. The new ProJet 3510 DPPro CAD/CAM printer is designed for use in medical and dental labs in such applications as medical models, dental frameworks, working models, and more — all using specifically engineered materials for these wax-up and dental models, including VisiJet Stoneplast.
“The ProJet 3510 DPPro quickly prints accurate wax-ups for the production of prosthetic devices, manufactures precision working models in a stone-like material, and produces drill guides in durable plastic material,” the 3DS product description notes of the new printer’s capabilities.
Dental models printed with 3DS’ VisiJet Stoneplast
The customization qualities of the ProJet 3510 DPPro allows for speedy production of medical models for use in mold casting and pressing, as well as explaining complex procedures to patients and testing concepts for treatment. Implant drill guides can also be created in biocompatible plastic materials, ready for use. Furthermore, the machine features a large build volume, which can shorten production times as it reduces the number of print jobs required.
While the ProJet 3510 DPPro is available now, its official debut will be this coming weekend in Chicago, where it will be unveiled at LMT LAB DAY. Along with other highlights from 3DS, such as their Virtual Surgical Planning (VSP) technology and ProJet 1200 micro-SLA desktop 3D printer, the new 3D printer will be on display. At 3DS’ booth (837) at the event, held February 27th and 28th at the Hyatt Regency Chicago, visitors can see the ProJet 3510 DPPro, which in addition to its advanced technology takes up a smaller footprint than currently available medical 3D printers.
“Our primary purpose is to democratize access to more affordable and powerful tools for the benefit of our customers. With its high resolution, high capacity and expanded material compatibility, the DPPro can support the widest range of medical applications, at a very low cost of ownership,” said Buddy Byrum, 3DS’ Vice President of Product Management. “LMT LAB DAY is the perfect venue to demonstrate this new, multipurpose machine to those who will benefit most from it.”
The DPPro 3D printer can reportedly create its medical-grade products at double the throughput of previous medical/dental 3D printers. Patients’ data can be turned into customized, fully realized 3D prints in mere hours.
What uses do you foresee for the new printer? Let us know your reaction to this announcement in the ProJet 3510 DPPro All-in-One Medical 3D Printer forum thread over at 3DPB.com. Below are more photos of dental models created using 3DS’ VisiJet materials.
