One of our core research programs, called Printhotics, is focused on 3D printing ankle-foot orthoses (AFO) for children. The Printhotics research program aims to advance every step of the AFO production pathway and involves collaborators and students from a wide range of University of Sydney faculties.
The Fortus 450mc is a high end filament printer that can be used to produce end-use parts. We use this printer to prototype implants, produce anatomical models and fabricate AFOs. We also have more hobby level 3D printers, including a Guider 2 and Form2.
3D surface scanning can be used to produce a 3D model of the exterior of an object. The Artec Eva is a structured light 3D scanner that is capable of capturing medium sized objects with textures. We also have other 3D scanners, such as the David scanner and Structure scanner.
One of our core research programs focuses on innovating and developing implants specifically for children’s orthopaedic conditions. Driven by the clinical needs of children, our goal is to commercialise paediatric devices so that orthopaedic surgeons have the appropriate implants to treat children’s musculoskeletal conditions.