NuVasive uses a process known as generative design to produce titanium spinal implants, Wired UK details.
Here are six things to know.
1. NuVasive sets constraints such as implant weight and porosity into its Netfabb program. The algorithm then produces optimized porous implant designs.
2. The software algorithm outputs the optimized lattice solution, which is then 3-D printed.
3. Designers are able to tell the program what load they are putting on the implant so that the lattice is able to grow and shrink in thickness based on those loads, according to NuVasive development engineer Jesse Unger.
4. The implant is non-patient specific and is provided in variety of pre-specified sizes and models. According to NuVasive's director of product development Jeremy Malik, the Modulus Titanium implant design utilizes advanced software to optimize strength while shedding excess material for improved imaging. Modulus Titanium implants are fully porous with a stiffness mimicking that of bone.
5. Generative design is not limited to the spine industry: tire manufacturer Michelin is developing concept treads that can be 3-D printed for any road condition, and architecture firm Herzog de Meuron uses generative design to optimize acoustic spaces for performances at the Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg, Germany.
6. Generative design also has the potential to transform the orthotics industry.
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