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Are 3D Printed Prosthetic Devices More Affordable than the Traditional Prosthetic Devices?

Updated: Jul 29, 2022





3D printing is the process of making 3D solid objects from digital computer files. Manufacturers use 3D printers to manufacture parts including tools, jigs, fixtures, fit tests, and of course end-use parts. Moving to 3D printing is not just about replacing traditional methods and outdated hardware. Manufacturing requires a great deal of coordination across large ecosystems, and 3D printing companies are learning to navigate this space to increase adoption. For more details click here.


3D printing is also changing the face of the medical industry. For example, it empowers developers, working with doctors and clinicians, to create customizable prosthetics devices for people who have lost limbs.


As 3D printing continues to transform products, doctors hope that it will help the 30 million people around the world who need prosthetics and braces.


In the last decade, 3D printing has become an essential part of the medical field. Especially in prosthetic device development, 3D printing makes it possible to create customized products at an affordable cost. For more details click here.


Disruptive technology is an innovation that significantly changes the way consumers, industries and businesses operate. This type of technology transforms existing systems improving high-end capabilities such as exponential growth and agility. 3D printing is an example of a disruptive technology that is changing the manufacturing industry.


In the future, through 3D printing, it will be possible to integrate prosthetics seamlessly into patients’ daily lives. New 3D scanning and body modeling processes enable doctors to scan the limbs of patients, and fit aesthetically appealing prosthetics on them, leading to a more natural appearance.


What is 3D Printing?


3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, creates products in various industries using digital technology. It is “additive” as it forms layer upon layer on the printer bed to create the output. In 3D printing, large amounts of material or molds to manufacture products are not required. This is usually faster than traditional manufacturing procedures, with lower set-up costs delivering more complex geometry. For more details click here.


All 3D printing processes start with a computer-aided design (CAD) model creating software to make the design ready. 3D printers use CAD software to apply layers of content to create final parts of high resolution. And finally, 3D printing uses layering materials such as plastic to create objects of different shapes, sizes, and colors.


This technology was first used for prototyping. However, with the advancement of technology, applications of 3D printing have rapidly evolved. For more details click here.



Traditional vs. 3D Printing


Prosthetic equipment made with traditional manufacturing is mostly made of plastics such as polypropylene, polyethylene, and acrylic resin. 3D printed prosthetic devices, on the other hand, are made from ABS plastic or nylon bridges. For more details click here.



In the traditional manufacturing process, large-scale production is required to cover the overhead cost of making tools. But in 3D printing, the cost to make a single item remains the same no matter what the quantity.




Creating complex mechanical structures through traditional manufacturing requires expensive precision and skill, especially for assembling intricate parts. This is not the case with 3D printing, which can create a whole complex piece in a single process.

Comfort is another important factor that needs to be considered here. 3D printing helps in providing the optimal solution for a patient using CAD services and anatomical data of the wearer. Designers create a socket designed so that the prosthetic will fit perfectly. Prosthetics are also more comfortable while using multi-material printing methods. This helps in creating more natural sockets that merge better with the human body. For more details click here.







Benefits of 3D Printing in Prosthetic Devices


The major advantage is that 3D printing is faster and can be used for complex designs compared to traditional products


Printing on demand takes advantage of 3D printing because, unlike traditional production processes, it eliminates the need for large inventories, saving space and cost.


How to avail of 3D Printing Prosthetic Devices at an Affordable Cost


Prosthetic devices are becoming more sophisticated and user-friendly, enabling people with disabilities to perform everyday tasks such as eating, dressing, and walking. Unfortunately, high-quality prosthetics are unaffordable in developing countries and for those caught in the circle of wars and disease.


A few years ago, buying a modern prosthetic device in India required spending lakhs (hundreds of thousands) of rupees. Today, through disruptive innovation, Vispala is offering 3D printed artificial limbs at an affordable cost, even allowing wearers to lift heavy objects, and carry out precision activities like writing.




Where to get ergonomic 3D printed Prosthetic Devices


Vispala is on a mission to improve the quality of life through technology and is fully committed to delivering the best value, quality and durability in inexpensive prosthetics, thereby helping people with disabilities improve their lifestyle and live a life beyond prejudice.


Please contact us if you are looking for prosthetic devices for yourself or someone who needs it.






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