3D Printing Assistive Devices.

A revolution brought about by invention of 3D printing technology is emerging on the horizon. The 3D printer has potential to become a primary tool for building almost everything we need in the future. This paper presents the creating of custom made medical accessories and assistive devices that can help people that have a certain types of traumatic physical injury, fine motoric or hearing disabilities. Having in mind that fractures and other physical or motoric injuries are likely to occur in 2 % of the population every year, our efforts are in creating 3D printed immobilizers and assistive devices. These are more comfortable than standard casts and devices, far more accessible and affordable than off the shelf products. With the use of 3D scanners, accurate and detailed virtual model of both the traumatized or disabled region is easily created. Henceforth, the accompanying 3D model is custom-fit and can be easily printed. The 3D printed devices are often custom printed in structure that ensures easy appliance and removal, multiple use and skin respiration. Other benefits include a robust material that is water resistant and lighter, thinner and better looking than standard devices. The immobilizers and devices that were made in cooperation with the Traumatology clinic, Non-profit organizations focused on working with handicapped are presented in detail. Other types of medical accessories including hearing aid and printing assistive devices are covered in this paper.