Additive Manufacturing - based Healthcare 3D Model for Education: Literature Review and A Feasibility Study

Abstract

Additive Manufacturing (AM) is a synonym for 3D printing (3DP) technology, in which 3D objects are constructed by successively depositing material in layers. Recently, AM has become widespread for industrial use thanks to the benefits in designing parts, reducing lead time, improving inventory, and supply chain efficiency. However, an application in an educational sector is still relatively limited. In this study, we initially conduct a review for recent five-year literature to understand the current trend of AM in an educational sector. The result clearly shows that an engineering discipline dominates other subjects of interest. Next, we discuss our feasibility study to fabricate 3D medical model aiming to enhance an understanding and learning of medical students, divided into six-step process. Based on the component of vascular anatomy of head, the medical images files called DICOM are obtained and then transformed to the 3D digital file suitable for 3DP application. Then, the simulation software is used to properly adjust the digital file to enhance the readability of anatomy and the success of model printing. Finally, the model is printed using resin-type material from AM printer called ULTRA 3SP technology.