2.8 million for a high-performance 3D printing infrastructure for medical devices
The University Hospital of Münster is strategically expanding its 3D printing center in the coming years. The Faculty of Medicine at the University of Münster and the University Hospital of Münster have received a grant of €2.8 million . The goal is to establish a complete 3D printing infrastructure within the next three years, further integrating research, quality assurance, and clinical application.
The project focuses on the further development of 3D printing for medical applications. In the future, products such as skull implants, anatomical models, and surgical instruments be able to be produced more frequently on-site. This will involve not only new technical equipment but also quality control procedures, for example, to assess product stability and behavior within the body.
A particular focus is on digital process control: A virtual twin will digitally map the entire 3D printing process within its production environment to improve planning, monitoring, and optimization. The system is supported by artificial intelligence, which is intended to simplify and streamline processes at the center. At the same time, adherence to high quality and safety standards plays a crucial role, ensuring that the products can later be used in operating rooms.
For the project's implementation, the University Hospital Münster (UKM) is collaborating with the Materials Engineering Laboratory at Münster University of Applied Sciences and the software company Innocoding . While Münster University of Applied Sciences is developing materials testing and methods for the printed medical devices, Innocoding is contributing its expertise in digital process control. In addition to the €2.8 million allocated to the university hospital, a further €700,000 available for the project partners.
The project aims not only to advance research and development but also to improve patient care. Specialized plastic skull implants to be manufactured using 3D printing by the end of this year. Future plans include multi-material printing and realistic training models for medical professionals. By 2029, Münster is slated to become one of the largest 3D printing centers in the German-speaking world.
Source: medizin.nrw
