3D Printing

Presentation & Demonstration at R&D Days Conference, Slaoui Center for Vaccines Research (October 2018)

Abstract: Advancements in fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing have opened a new pathway that encourages innovation in scientific labs. Using additive manufacturing to improve equipment functionality allows for greater flexibility in the creation of unique shapes with complex geometries and permits end users to bring design concepts rapidly to fruition. This minimizes the need to work with external vendors, decreases the lead time and cost of finished goods, and increases the potential for item personalization. As a result, scientists who work directly with the equipment have more control and visibility over the required customization. FDM 3D printing is versatile and practical, which is illustrated by the following discussions on 3D printed equipment components, adapters, and lab tools. Additionally, the biocompatibility of the materials used demonstrates the potential for 3D printers to be a standard instrument used in research and development labs.

Ultimaker S5 (Work/Lab)

Modified Anet A6 Kit (Home)

Testing & Evaluating the Ultimaker S5

All-in-one Test (Overhang, horizontal expansion, etc.) sourced from Thingiverse.com

Initial testing of Ultimaker TPU95A using default settings

Ultimaker (white) vs Anet (purple) Benchy Test

Water Soluble Support Filament

Ultimaker Water Soluble filament:

Challenge: Complete dissolution in water <1 day
Solution: Heat & Sonication

Note: Models are based on atomic coordinates exported from PyMOL into Python Molecular Viewer and then loaded into Cura prior to printing.

The display parameters were adjusted in PMV for the cartoon model of RSV PostF (side) and surface model of another construct (name withheld for confidentiality purposes) (above).