Non-planar slicing for patient-specific devices
Prepare toolpaths for anatomical shapes, including orthoses and prosthetic sockets.
What is patient-specific 3D printing?
Patient-specific 3D printing produces a part from geometry matched to an individual’s anatomy. A digital model can be adapted from imaging or other measurements, then prepared for the selected printing process. This application includes anatomical models and individually shaped devices.
- Adapt geometry to individual anatomy rather than a fixed set of sizes.
- Produce complex internal features within a digital design.
- Revise a design without making a new dedicated mould or tool.
Prepare paths around anatomical geometry
Flexam applies region-based and non-planar slicing to freeform shapes. For an orthosis or socket workflow, the preparation strategy is configured around the material, machine and intended use.
Conformal paths
Follow suitable curved surfaces to reduce stair-stepping.
Mesh preparation
Prepare scan-derived part meshes for slicing, including checks or cleanup where needed.
Regional settings
Assign wall thickness and infill settings to different device regions.
Reduce supports
Explore orientations and paths that reduce the support structures required by the geometry.
Material and machine
Configure deposition settings for the selected process, including flexible materials where suitable.
Review before printing
Inspect paths and transitions before process validation and part testing.
From anatomical model to a reviewed path
- Inputs
- A prepared part model, wall requirements and target material.
- Planning
- Region strategies, surface requirements and the available machine motions.
- Validation
- Material, manufacturing process and finished device must be assessed for their intended use.
- Flexam role
- Slicing and toolpath preparation software; Engineering Services for adapting the workflow.
Working with anatomical geometry?
Tell us about the device geometry and the manufacturing workflow you want to improve.