3D Printers – 3DCoE

U of M launches 3D printed orthotics program

Posted on September 7, 2017 by Katylin Jane

Researchers at the University of Michigan (UM) are implementing a new orthotics and prosthetics outfitting system: 3D printed assistive devices that will be customized to individual patients’ needs and reach them faster than ever before. Engineers and clinicians at the UM College of Engineering and Orthotics and Prosthetics Center say their new cyber manufacturing system is a vast improvement over traditional production methods. Currently, assistive device users must wait days or even weeks for essential…

3D printing printing for cranial reconstruction

Posted on September 7, 2017 by Katylin Jane

Back in 2013, Oxford Performance Materials’ biomedical division got FDA clearance for the first 3D polymeric implant for cranial reconstruction. A year later it won clearance for its 3D printed facial device. What makes them unique is that they are patient-specific. In fact, OPM Biomedical is the first and only company to receive FDA 510(k) clearance for 3D printed patient-specific polymeric implants and has a total of four 510 (k) clearances. In doing so, the…

The hottest trend in 3D printing: shoes on demand

Posted on February 6, 2016 by Amy Banks

The future of running shoes is changing. Photo: iStock 3D printing has long been seen as a tool for making small tools for personal use but some large retailers and smaller-scale businesses have started to delve into using 3D printing for mass-market distribution of customised products. For their first products, they’ve started on the ground level – literally. Some companies are talking about the possibility of having insoles, or even entire shoes, printed from stores or…

Michigan students get 3D printers from the 3D Center of Excellence

Posted on February 6, 2016February 6, 2016 by robertkakos

3D printing is a cutting-edge technology that can provide unparalleled learning opportunities for young students, and now this technology will be available to Northern Michigan kids who attend Traverse City schools. The 3D Printer Project at Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS) will give students access to three MakerBot Replicator 2x Experimental 3D printers. The effort to get 3D printers in Traverse City schools is a collaborative endeavor between TCAPS, RJG, Inc, and Newton’s Road, a Northern Michigan nonprofit…