Abstract
AbstractIn forensic medicine the use of so-called 3D printing is a niche application, whereas developments elsewhere in this field are rapidly advancing worldwide. The most common and widespread technology is fusion deposit modelling with polylactic acids (PLA). Although the equipment and materials may be relatively inexpensive and 3D printing relatively fast, the resulting end products tend to also have negative properties, such as poor durability and mechanical anisotropy, which may be an issue depending on the application. In forensic medicine, applications in the field of weapons technology and biomechanical models are realistic and 3D printing is already being used for demonstrations at court hearings and in teaching and also as a technique for building spare parts or accessories. Having a low-cost option for rapid prototyping on-site is particularly useful for the development phase. For finished 3D designs more expensive manufacturing options with a choice of materials with significantly broader mechanical or thermal properties are available. As the technology is undergoing major changes, one should carefully consider whether to enter the field oneself, buy own hardware, use a 3D printing service or seek cooperation possibly with a nearby partner.
Highlights
Since the late 1990s 3D printing has become increasingly popular in the field of medicine [28]
Mechanical anisotropy means that the object tends to break easier along its build layers than perpendicularly to them and it is most marked in fused deposition modeling (FDM) processes
We explored the use of 3D printing in the context of 3D visualization of injuries for didactic purposes
Summary
Since the late 1990s 3D printing has become increasingly popular in the field of medicine [28]. A particular strength of this type of object creation lies in that a relatively fast and affordable method (such as PLA or ABS printing) can be used to “instantly” print any digital 3D model. Having such options on-site invites prototype testing, the creation of new objects or replacement parts, or 3D objects for a simple demonstration. Whether the inherent mechanical anisotropy is a practical problem, whether it can be addressed by different digital 3D model orientation relative to the print bed and layering coordinates, may have to be decided on an individual basis or addressed by using building rules [1]. In forensic medicine, material behavior with respect to fluids, microbes or repetitive strain may be relevant
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
