Cure

Custom 3D printed medical devices require post-processing which can include washing and/or light curing. Light curing is an essential step for polymer/resin based 3D printed medical devices as this ensures the device is fully polymerised and safe for use by the patient. During the light curing process oxygen acts as an inhibitor and must be removed. Removal of oxygen is currently managed by flooding the chamber with an inert gas such as nitrogen but this can be very expensive, cumbersome and difficult to control. Curing protocols are also programmed manually which can lead to longer processing times and user error.

The Cure is a fully integrated light curing unit that uses vacuum rather than gas to remove oxygen from the curing chamber. The correct curing protocol is presented to the user automatically based on the material type being used by the printer. Optimised curing cycles are then started based on available LED power. By automating and monitoring this process, the risk of incorrect curing is removed from the workflow ensuring the medical device is safe for the patient.

The Cure provides an automated and predictable solution for the user and by eliminating the need for a constant gas supply provides consistency, safety, cost savings and reduced environmental impact.

Optimal curing – cure times based on 3D print material, available LED power and volume of objects being cured. Touchless entry – open and close the Cure using a hand wave gesture. Future compatibility - Endless curing profiles can be added to the Cure library including future 3D printing polymers. Automation – integrated within Asiga’s workflow for greater convenience, reduced user error and automation handles for robotic integration.