FINDUS: An Open-Source 3D Printable Liquid-Handling Workstation for Laboratory Automation in Life Sciences

2019 ◽  
Vol 25 (2) ◽  
pp. 190-199 ◽  
Author(s):  
Fabian Barthels ◽  
Ulrich Barthels ◽  
Marvin Schwickert ◽  
Tanja Schirmeister
Keyword(s):  
3D Printing ◽  
Open Source ◽  
Source Code ◽  
Life Sciences ◽  
3D Models ◽  
Laboratory Automation ◽  
Liquid Handling ◽  
Utility System ◽  
Assembly Instructions ◽  
3D Printed

3D-printed laboratory devices can enable ambitious research purposes even at a low-budget level. To follow this trend, here we describe the construction, calibration, and usage of the FINDUS (Fully Integrable Noncommercial Dispensing Utility System). We report the successful 3D printing and assembly of a liquid-handling workstation for less than $400. Using this setup, we achieve reliable and flexible liquid-dispensing automation with relative pipetting errors of less than 0.3%. We show our system is well suited for several showcase applications from both the biology and chemistry fields. In support of the open-source spirit, we make all 3D models, assembly instructions, and source code available for free download, rebuild, and modification.

scholarly journals Accessing 3D Printed Vascular Phantoms for Procedural Simulation

2021 ◽  
Vol 7 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jasamine Coles-Black ◽  
Damien Bolton ◽  
Jason Chuen
Keyword(s):  
3D Printing ◽  
Endovascular Procedures ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
3D Models ◽  
Routine Care ◽  
Aortic Aneurysms ◽  
Patient Specific ◽  
Ct Angiogram ◽  
Abdominal Aortic ◽  
3D Printed

Introduction: 3D printed patient-specific vascular phantoms provide superior anatomical insights for simulating complex endovascular procedures. Currently, lack of exposure to the technology poses a barrier for adoption. We offer an accessible, low-cost guide to producing vascular anatomical models using routine CT angiography, open source software packages and a variety of 3D printing technologies.Methods: Although applicable to all vascular territories, we illustrate our methodology using Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAAs) due to the strong interest in this area. CT aortograms acquired as part of routine care were converted to representative patient-specific 3D models, and then printed using a variety of 3D printing technologies to assess their material suitability as aortic phantoms. Depending on the technology, phantoms cost $20–$1,000 and were produced in 12–48 h. This technique was used to generate hollow 3D printed thoracoabdominal aortas visible under fluoroscopy.Results: 3D printed AAA phantoms were a valuable addition to standard CT angiogram reconstructions in the simulation of complex cases, such as short or very angulated necks, or for positioning fenestrations in juxtarenal aneurysms. Hollow flexible models were particularly useful for device selection and in planning of fenestrated EVAR. In addition, these models have demonstrated utility other settings, such as patient education and engagement, and trainee and anatomical education. Further study is required to establish a material with optimal cost, haptic and fluoroscopic fidelity.Conclusion: We share our experiences and methodology for developing inexpensive 3D printed vascular phantoms which despite material limitations, successfully mimic the procedural challenges encountered during live endovascular surgery. As the technology continues to improve, 3D printed vascular phantoms have the potential to disrupt how endovascular procedures are planned and taught.

Design and Development of 3D Printed Teaching Aids for Architecture Education

2019 ◽  
pp. 457-475
Author(s):  
Min Jeong Song ◽  
Euna Ha ◽  
Sang-Kwon Goo ◽  
JaeKyung Cho
Keyword(s):  
3D Printing ◽  
3D Modeling ◽  
3D Models ◽  
Design And Development ◽  
Architecture Education ◽  
Teaching Aids ◽  
Current State ◽  
Practice Based Research ◽  
Research Findings ◽  
3D Printed

This article describes how the implementation of 3D printing in classrooms has brought many opportunities to educators as it provides affordability and accessibility in creating and customizing teaching aids. The study reports on the process of fabricating teaching aids for architecture education using 3D printing technologies. The practice-based research intended to illustrate the making process from initial planning, 3D modeling to 3D printing with practical examples, and addresses the potential induced by the technologies. Based on the investigation into the current state of 3D printing technologies in education, limitations were identified before the making process. The researchers created 3D models in both digital and tangible forms and the process was documented in textual and pictorial formats. It is expected that the research findings will serve as a guideline for other educators to create 3D printed teaching aids, particularly architectural forms.

scholarly journals Open-source, 3D-printed Peristaltic Pumps for Small Volume Point-of-Care Liquid Handling

2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Michael R. Behrens ◽  
Haley C. Fuller ◽  
Emily R. Swist ◽  
Jingwen Wu ◽  
Md. Mydul Islam ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Open Source ◽  
Small Volume ◽  
Point Of Care ◽  
Liquid Handling ◽  
Peristaltic Pumps ◽  
3D Printed

scholarly journals A workflow to generate physical 3D models of cerebral aneurysms applying open source freeware for CAD modeling and 3D printing

2019 ◽  
Vol 17 ◽  
pp. 1-6 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alba Scerrati ◽  
Federica Trovalusci ◽  
Alessio Albanese ◽  
Gennaro Salvatore Ponticelli ◽  
Vincenzo Tagliaferri ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
3D Printing ◽  
Open Source ◽  
Cerebral Aneurysms ◽  
3D Models ◽  
Cad Modeling

scholarly journals Design of Microplate-Compatible Illumination Panels for a Semiautomated Benchtop Pipetting System

2019 ◽  
Vol 24 (4) ◽  
pp. 399-407 ◽  
Author(s):  
Pierre Baillargeon ◽  
Kervin Coss-Flores ◽  
Fakhar Singhera ◽  
Justin Shumate ◽  
Hannah Williams ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
User Interface ◽  
Open Source ◽  
Real Time ◽  
Graphical User Interface ◽  
Laboratory Automation ◽  
Liquid Handling ◽  
Essential Tool ◽  
Implementation Techniques ◽  
Software And Hardware ◽  
Transfer Volumes

Microplates are an essential tool used in laboratories for storing research materials and performing assays. Many types of laboratory automation exist that greatly reduce the effort needed to utilize microplates; however, there are cases where the use of such automation is not feasible or practical. In these instances, researchers must work in an environment where liquid handling operations are performed manually with handheld pipetting devices. This type of work is tedious and error-prone as it relies on researchers to manually track a significant amount of metadata, including transfer volumes, plate barcodes, well contents, and well locations. To address this challenge, we have developed an open-source, semiautomated benchtop system that facilitates manual pipetting using visual indicators. This device streamlines the process of identifying the location of wells so that the researcher can perform manual transfers in a more efficient, reliable, and accurate manner. This system utilizes a graphical user interface that allows the user to load worklists and then issues commands to illuminate wells of interest, providing a visual indicator for users to follow in real time. The software and hardware tools utilized for development, along with the implementation techniques used to produce this system, are described within.

scholarly journals A review and guide to creating patient specific 3D printed anatomical models from MRI for benign gynecologic surgery

2021 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Teresa E. Flaxman ◽  
Carly M. Cooke ◽  
Olivier X. Miguel ◽  
Adnan M. Sheikh ◽  
Sukhbir S. Singh
Keyword(s):  
3D Printing ◽  
Clinical Benefit ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Uterine Fibroids ◽  
3D Models ◽  
Gynecologic Surgery ◽  
Patient Specific ◽  
Mr Images ◽  
Adjacent Structures ◽  
3D Printed

Abstract Background Patient specific three-dimensional (3D) models can be derived from two-dimensional medical images, such as magnetic resonance (MR) images. 3D models have been shown to improve anatomical comprehension by providing more accurate assessments of anatomical volumes and better perspectives of structural orientations relative to adjacent structures. The clinical benefit of using patient specific 3D printed models have been highlighted in the fields of orthopaedics, cardiothoracics, and neurosurgery for the purpose of pre-surgical planning. However, reports on the clinical use of 3D printed models in the field of gynecology are limited. Main text This article aims to provide a brief overview of the principles of 3D printing and the steps required to derive patient-specific, anatomically accurate 3D printed models of gynecologic anatomy from MR images. Examples of 3D printed models for uterine fibroids and endometriosis are presented as well as a discussion on the barriers to clinical uptake and the future directions for 3D printing in the field of gynecological surgery. Conclusion Successful gynecologic surgery requires a thorough understanding of the patient’s anatomy and burden of disease. Future use of patient specific 3D printed models is encouraged so the clinical benefit can be better understood and evidence to support their use in standard of care can be provided.

scholarly journals The use of three-dimensional anatomical patient-specific printed models in surgical clipping of intracranial aneurysm: A pilot study

2020 ◽  
Vol 11 ◽  
pp. 381
Author(s):  
Moneer K. Faraj ◽  
Samer S. Hoz ◽  
Amjad J. Mohammad
Keyword(s):  
3D Printing ◽  
Teaching Hospital ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
3D Models ◽  
Patient Specific ◽  
Anterior Communicating Artery ◽  
Parent Vessel ◽  
Microsurgical Clipping ◽  
Valuable Adjunct ◽  
3D Printed

Background: In the present study, we aim to develop simulation models based on computed tomography angiography images of intracranial aneurysms (IAs) and their parent vessels using three-dimensional (3D) printing technology. The study focuses on the value of these 3D models in presurgical planning and intraoperative navigation and ultimately their impact on patient outcomes. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of its kind from a war-torn country, like Iraq. Methods: This is a prospective study of a series of 11, consecutively enrolled, patients suffering from IAs for the period between February and September 2019. The study represents a collaboration between the two major neurosurgical centers in Baghdad/Iraq; Neurosciences Teaching Hospital and Neurosurgery Teaching Hospital. We analyzed the data of eleven patients with IAs treated by microsurgical clipping. These data include patient demographics, clinical, surgical, and outcomes along with the data of the 3D-printed replica used in these surgeries. All cases were operated on by one surgeon. Results: Our study included 11 patients, with a total of 11 aneurysms clipped. The mean age was 44 ± 8, with a median of 42.5 and a range of 35–61 years. About 60% of our patients were female with a female-to-male ratio of 1:5. About 60% of the aneurysms were located at the anterior communicating artery (Acom) while the remaining 40% were equally distributed between the posterior communicating and internal carotid arteries bifurcation. The standard pterional approach was followed in 50% of cases, whereas the other 50% of patients were treated through the lateral supraorbital approach. About 90% (n = 9) of the patients had a Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) of 5 and 10% had a GOS of 4. The 3D-printed models successfully replicated the aneurysm size, location, and relation to the parent vessel with 100% accuracy and were used for intraoperative guidance. The average production time was 24–48 h and the production cost was 10–20 US dollars. Conclusion: 3D printing is a promising technology that is rapidly penetrating the field of neurosurgery. In particular, the use of 3D-printed patient-matched, anatomically accurate replicas of the cerebral vascular tree is valuable adjunct to the microsurgical clipping of IAs, and our study conclusions support this concept. However, both the feasibility and clinical utility of 3D printing remain the subject of much, ongoing investigations.

scholarly journals Open-Source Script for Design and 3D Printing of Porous Structures for Soil Science

Technologies ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (3) ◽  
pp. 67
Author(s):  
Romain Bedell ◽  
Alaa Hassan ◽  
Anne-Julie Tinet ◽  
Javier Arrieta-Escobar ◽  
Delphine Derrien ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
3D Printing ◽  
Open Source ◽  
Soil Structure ◽  
Research Network ◽  
Soil Science ◽  
Soil Parameters ◽  
Geometrical Shape ◽  
Soil Structures ◽  
3D Printed ◽  
Porous Soil

Three-dimensional (3D) printing in soil science is relatively rare but offers promising directions for research. Having 3D-printed soil samples will help academics and researchers conduct experiments in a reproducible and participatory research network and gain a better understanding of the studied soil parameters. One of the most important challenges in utilizing 3D printing techniques for soil modeling is the manufacturing of a soil structure. Until now, the most widespread method for printing porous soil structures is based on scanning a real sample via X-ray tomography. The aim of this paper is to design a porous soil structure based on mathematical models rather than on samples themselves. This can allow soil scientists to design and parameterize their samples according to their desired experiments. An open-source toolchain is developed using a Lua script, in the IceSL slicer, with graphical user interface to enable researchers to create and configure their digital soil models, called monoliths, without using meshing algorithms or STL files which reduce the resolution of the model. Examples of monoliths are 3D-printed in polylactic acid using fused filament fabrication technology with a layer thickness of 0.20, 0.12, and 0.08 mm. The images generated from the digital model slicing are analyzed using open-source ImageJ software to obtain information about internal geometrical shape, porosity, tortuosity, grain size distribution, and hydraulic conductivities. The results show that the developed script enables designing reproducible numerical models that imitate soil structures with defined pore and grain sizes in a range between coarse sand (from 1 mm diameter) to fine gravel (up to 12 mm diameter).

scholarly journals Novel open-source 3D-printed eye mount (TEMPO) for the ophthalmology wet lab

2021 ◽  
Vol 6 (1) ◽  
pp. e000685
Author(s):  
Michael Mak ◽  
Yejun Hong ◽  
William Murray Trask ◽  
Randy Thompson ◽  
Helen Chung ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
3D Printing ◽  
Open Source ◽  
Surgical Training ◽  
Computer Aided Design ◽  
Anatomical Variation ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Computer Assisted ◽  
3D Printed ◽  
Wet Lab ◽  
Facial Contours

ObjectiveProcuring an affordable eye mount that can stabilise a cadaveric eye and simulate a patient’s normal facial contours represents an ongoing challenge in the ophthalmology simulation wet lab, with notable limitations to all currently available commercial options. This project uses computer-assisted design and three-dimensional (3D)-printing techniques to tackle these challenges for ophthalmologic surgical training.Methods and AnalysisProof-of-concept study. Using Autodesk Fusion 360, we designed and 3D-printed a modular device that consists of 11 pieces forming a head structure. Standard OR tubing and syringes were adapted to create an adjustable-suction system to affix cadaveric eyes. Further modular inserts were customised to house non-cadaveric simulation eyes.ResultsThree-dimensional eye mount for procedures in ophthalmology (TEMPO) reliably fixed a cadaveric eye in stable position throughout surgical manipulation. Trainees were able to drape and practice appropriate hand positioning while corneal suturing. Overall, this model was affordable, at a cost of approximately $C200 to print. The modular nature renders individual pieces convenient for replacement and customisable to simulate regional anatomical variation and accommodate non-cadaveric eyes.ConclusionsTEMPO represents an affordable, high-fidelity alternative to existing commercially available eye mounts. It reliably fixates cadaveric and simulation eyes and provides an enhanced surgical training experience by way of its realistic facial contours. It is released as an open-source computer-aided design file, customisable to interested trainees with appropriate software and 3D-printing capacity.

scholarly journals Post-Processing of 3D-Printed Polymers

Technologies ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (3) ◽  
pp. 61
Author(s):  
John Ryan C. Dizon ◽  
Ciara Catherine L. Gache ◽  
Honelly Mae S. Cascolan ◽  
Lina T. Cancino ◽  
Rigoberto C. Advincula
Keyword(s):  
Additive Manufacturing ◽  
3D Printing ◽  
3D Models ◽  
Industrial Applications ◽  
Post Processing ◽  
Processing Methods ◽  
Stl File ◽  
Advantages And Disadvantages ◽  
Manufacturing Operations ◽  
3D Printed

Additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing, is an advancement over traditional formative manufacturing methods. It can increase efficiency in manufacturing operations highlighting advantages such as rapid prototyping, reduction of waste, reduction of manufacturing time and cost, and increased flexibility in a production setting. The additive manufacturing (AM) process consists of five steps: (1) preparation of 3D models for printing (designing the part/object), (2) conversion to STL file, (3) slicing and setting of 3D printing parameters, (4) actual printing, and (5) finishing/post-processing methods. Very often, the 3D printed part is sufficient by itself without further post-printing processing. However, many applications still require some forms of post-processing, especially those for industrial applications. This review focuses on the importance of different finishing/post-processing methods for 3D-printed polymers. Different 3D printing technologies and materials are considered in presenting the authors’ perspective. The advantages and disadvantages of using these methods are also discussed together with the cost and time in doing the post-processing activities. Lastly, this review also includes discussions on the enhancement of properties such as electrical, mechanical, and chemical, and other characteristics such as geometrical precision, durability, surface properties, and aesthetic value with post-printing processing. Future perspectives is also provided towards the end of this review.

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