The authors thank Sungwon Lim for intellectual contributions to device and mold design as well as Jambu Jambulingam and Rebecca Grossman-Kahn for creating intravaginal silicone probes using this process. This work is supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Vodafone Americas Foundation, and the FDA (2P50FD003793).

<ol>
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(1-2), 226-221 (2001).</li><li>Etemadi, M., Chung, P., Heller, J., Liu, J., Rand, L., Roy, S. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Towards+BirthAlert+-+A+Clinical+Device+Intended+for+Early+Preterm+Birth+Detection.">Towards BirthAlert - A Clinical Device Intended for Early Preterm Birth Detection.</a> IEEE Trans Biomed Eng. 10, (2013).</li><li>Etemadi, M., Chung, P., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Novel+device+to+trend+impedance+and+fluorescence+of+the+cervix+for+preterm+birth+detection.">Novel device to trend impedance and fluorescence of the cervix for preterm birth detection.</a> Conf Proc IEEE Eng Med Biol Soc. 2013, 176&#8211;9, doi:10.1109/EMBC.2013.6609466. , (2013).</li><li>Owen, S. R., Harper, J. 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F. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Chemical+Resistance+of+Geosynthetic+Materials.">Chemical Resistance of Geosynthetic Materials.</a> Geotextiles and Geomembranes. 11, 61-98 (1992).</li><li>Akay, M., Ozden, S. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=The+influence+of+residual+stresses+on+the+mechanical+and+thermal+properties+of+injection+moulded+ABS+copolymer.">The influence of residual stresses on the mechanical and thermal properties of injection moulded ABS copolymer.</a> Journal of Materials Science. 30 (13), (1995).</li></ol>

Nenhum dos autores tem quaisquer interesses financeiros concorrentes no que diz respeito ao trabalho detalhado neste artigo.

De todos os passos descritos, design cuidadoso molde é o mais crítico para o sucesso. O mestre do molde deve ser criado como um corpo sólido com geometrias externas igual ao dispositivo final. Essas geometrias deve ser ajustado para ter em conta qualquer material de encolhimento devido ao elastômero escolhido, bem como resolução e tolerâncias impressora 3D. Colocação de linhas de partição do molde e furos de passagem para varão roscado e parafusos são dependentes um do outro. Adicionando linhas de partiçã...

Moldagem por injeção de líquido (LIM) (também conhecido como moldagem por injeção de reação) é freqüentemente usado para a fabricação de dispositivos elastoméricas de elastômeros termofixos, mas os altos custos de ferramental e equipamentos requerem uma grande quantidade de investimento antecipado de capital de 1. Além disso, LIM pode ser tecnicamente desafiadora e cara de implementar em casos com geometria e requisitos para overmolding complexa. Como resultado, é normalmente impraticável usar LIM tradicional em volumes ultra-baixas ou com desenhos de dispositivos em fase inicial, que muitas vezes incorrem revisões iterativos. O procedimento típico para materiais elastoméricos de moldagem por injeção envolve a injeção de monômeros líquidos com pressões em torno de 150 psi em um molde utilizando especializada máquinas de moldagem 2. As temperaturas e as pressões são controlados para garantir o fluxo laminar e evitar que o ar ficar aprisionado no molde 3. As matérias-primas são geralmente sistemas de cura em duas partes, como a cura de platina silicone, tchapéu são mantidos em câmaras separadas e controladas de temperatura, antes da injecção. Ambos os componentes da matéria-prima é bombeado para uma câmara de mistura de alta pressão, que, posteriormente, se alimenta para dentro da cavidade do molde. A cura é conseguida pela presença de um catalisador bem como a temperaturas em torno de 150-200 ° C 4. Os moldes são normalmente usinados em aço ou alumínio para tolerâncias precisas para criar uma boa vedação em torno de despedida bordas 3,5. Infelizmente, este processo é geralmente mais adequado para dadas elevados custos de fabricação do molde maior escala de ferramentas, bem como a necessidade de sistemas de injecção e de controlo de feedback especializados. Para a prototipagem rápida de poliuretano (PU) partes, é possível a utilização de estereolitografia (SLA) para criar um mestre de molde e produzir um molde de borracha de silicone 6,7. No entanto, esta técnica não é adequada para a sobremoldagem, uma vez que é difícil conseguir um alinhamento preciso dos componentes supermoldados, como o silicone é, porprojetar, não uma estrutura rígida. Além disso, a produção de dispositivos com geometrias complexas, como invaginações ou seções fora sem preenchimento, é difícil ou impossível. A exigência de linhas de partição de moldes complexos ou precisos e elementos finos rígidas são mais frequentemente do que não, incompatível com o processo de moldagem de borracha líquida. Os processos de prototipagem mencionada produção em escala ou em estágio final são muitas vezes impraticáveis ​​para a fase inicial de desenvolvimento do dispositivo médico em que alguns dispositivos precisam ser produzidos para a prova de conceito e de viabilidade em estudos em seres humanos, como é frequentemente o caso em laboratório acadêmico e start-up ambientes da empresa. A falta de alternativas, muitas vezes significa que, mesmo em estágio inicial de desenvolvimento seria incorrer em custos elevados, exigindo muitos desenvolvedores de dispositivos para limitar a funcionalidade do dispositivo ou colocar o desenvolvimento em espera enquanto os fundos adicionais são levantadas. Isto contribui para uma diminuição dramática do processo de desenvolvimento dado que uma grande fracção de dispositivos médicos re<html> quire implementação de características complexas. Também é difícil para financiar o desenvolvimento caro de tais dispositivos, pois os dados de prova de conceito é muitas vezes ainda não estabelecida. Encontramos esse obstáculo em um projeto recente dentro deste laboratório, que envolveu o desenvolvimento de uma sonda intravaginal de silicone com sensores elétricos e ópticos supermoldados que exigiam uma dica copo-como se conformar com geometrias cervicais especificadas. O processo descrito neste artigo documenta a nossa tentativa de contornar este ciclo vicioso e rapidamente chegar a uma prova de conceito para os dispositivos médicos LIM. A técnica mostrada na Figura 1 desconstrói o processo LIM em 5 atividades principais: (1) concepção de moldes e de produção, (2) de montagem de molde (3) mistura de elastômero, (4) de injeção de elastômero, e (5) de elastômero de cura e desmoldantes. &quot;width =&quot; 600 pg &quot;/&gt; .. Figura 1 Protocolo Geral Visão geral do protocolo, que envolve: (1a) a criação de um molde utilizando ferramentas de desenho assistido por computador, (1b) 3D imprimir as peças do molde, (2) a montagem das peças do molde, utilizando barras roscadas e parafusos, ( 3) a mistura de elastómero líquido e carregá-la na seringa, (4) a injecção do elastómero de líquido no interior do molde utilizando um exsicador modificado, (5a) a cura do elastómero num forno de temperatura controlada, e (5b) do dispositivo de desmoldagem de elastómero curado a partir de as peças do molde. Projeto de molde envolve o desenvolvimento de um mestre de molde em desenho assistido por computador (CAD) software, subtração do mestre de molde a partir de um bloco sólido e definição das linhas de partição do molde. Peças do molde são criados e, em seguida, montado por meio de parafusos, varetas, e porcas com componentes supermoldados posicionado na cavidade do molde. Elastômero mixing envolve a combinação de partes A e B da matéria-prima e de desgaseificação para remover possíveis espaços vazios no material. Em seguida, envolve a injecção de elastómero de enchimento controlado por pressão da cavidade do molde, seguida por cura elastómero num forno de temperatura controlada para assegurar a reticulação química das cadeias de polímero. Quebrando o processo de moldagem por injeção para essas etapas nos permite renunciar equipamentos LIM tradicional em favor de alternativas de baixo custo. Por exemplo, em vez de usinagem de um molde de metal ou lançando um molde de borracha de silicone a partir de um mestre de molde, os moldes criados a partir do protocolo descrito neste manuscrito foram criados a partir de acrilonitrila-butadieno-estireno (ABS) plástico usando uma modelagem por fusão e deposição (FDM) 3D 8,9 impressora. Comparado com a construção de moldes de metal ou moldes de SLA, FDM é geralmente um processo mais barato e mais rápido. Moldes bastante complexas podem ser rapidamente impresso sobre uma impressora 3D em casa, ou mais barato produzido por um dos muitos contrato printin 3Dserviços disponíveis g. Por exemplo, um complexo de oito peças 3D impressa molde foi utilizado para converter a sonda intravaginal demonstrado na secção de resultados representativos e mostrado nas Figuras 14 e 15. Todas as peças para esse molde pode ser impresso em aproximadamente 1,5 dias em uma impressora 3D em casa. Tempos de resposta para moldes mais simples pode ser de algumas horas. O comprimento total de tempo necessário para o protótipo de um dispositivo utilizando impressoras FDM 3D para criar moldes é semelhante ao tempo necessário para moldar um molde de borracha de silicone e criar um protótipo de poliuretano. No entanto, usando impressoras FDM 3D para criar moldes permite várias coisas que não pode ser facilmente conseguida utilizando um molde de silicone: (1) diversos elastómeros termoendurecíveis podem ser utilizados, desde que o molde de impresso-3D pode tolerar as temperaturas de cura necessários, (2) geometrias complexas pode ser criado com a utilização de muitas peças do molde diferentes e linhas de separação, e (3) o uso de peças de moldes rígidos permite preciso e reprodutibilidadeble alinhamento dos componentes supermoldados dentro da cavidade do molde. Em vez de utilizar uma máquina tradicional LIM, que combina a mistura, a injecção, e de cura, é possível a utilização de um misturador de laboratório para assegurar uma mistura homogénea, num exsicador modificada para a injecção, e um forno de temperatura controlada padrão para a cura. O sistema de injecção foi criado usando componentes fora-the-shelf e envolve a adição de uma linha de fornecimento de pressão positiva para o exsicador que se conecta a uma seringa cheia de elastómero misturado. Pressurização Câmara em bancadas dessecadores normalmente é controlada por uma válvula de três vias entre as câmaras, uma linha de alimentação de vácuo e atmosfera. O exsicador modificado acrescenta uma linha de fornecimento de pressão positiva de alimentação para a parte de trás de um êmbolo de seringa. Isso permite a criação de um diferencial de pressão de 40-50 psi, que é suficiente para a injecção de material líquido no interior da cavidade do molde. Esta técnica permitiu-nos produce silicone sondas intravaginais com sensores elétricos e ópticos supermoldados de recolher prova-de-conceito de dados para um ensaio clínico de Fase I. Silicone foi seleccionado por causa da necessidade de inércia biológica, bem como a capacidade de esterilizar com uma variedade de métodos de 10,11. Além disso, o dispositivo é necessária uma geometria semelhante a taça complexo e não convencional na ponta da sonda em que os sensores estão localizados para fazer a interface com o colo do útero. Sem a utilização da técnica descrita, que teria sido um processo muito mais dispendioso e demorado para produzir esses dispositivos. Esta adaptação do processo LIM reduz custos e requisitos de equipamento, quando comparado com o processo tradicional LIM, tornando-o prático para adoptar uma abordagem rápida e iterativa para projetar dispositivos elastoméricos.

<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="1434">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>ABS Model Material</td>
			<td>Stratasys</td>
			<td>P430</td>
			<td>Model Material for uPrint Plus SE (Step: Mold Design &#38; Production)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Soluble Support Material</td>
			<td>Stratasys</td>
			<td>SR-30</td>
			<td>Support Material for uPrint Plus SE (Step: Mold Design &#38; Production)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Underwater Silicone Sealant, 2.8 Oz Tube, Clear</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>7327A21</td>
			<td>Silicone RTV for sealing gaps at mold parting lines (Step: Mold Assembly)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Tubing, 1/8&#34; ID, 1/4&#34; OD, 1/16&#34; Wall Thickness, Ultra-chemical-resistant Tygon PVC, Clear</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>5046K11</td>
			<td>Forms runner/sprue adapter between mold and syringe with elastomer (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Coupling, Adapter, Straight, Male Quick-turn (Luer lock) X 1/8&#34; Tube Barb, Nylon</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>51525K123</td>
			<td>Connect runner/sprue between mold and syringe with elastomer (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Coupling, Adapter, Staight, Female Quick-turn (Luer lock) X 1/8&#34; Tube Barb, Nylon</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>51525K213</td>
			<td>Connect runner/sprue between mold and syringe with elastomer (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Cap, Female Quick-turn (Luer lock), Nylon</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>51525K315</td>
			<td>Cap to prevent silicone from leaking out of mold after injection (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR) 30 - 10:1, Implant Grade</td>
			<td>Applied Silicone Corporation</td>
			<td>PN40029</td>
			<td>Substitute with the elastomer of your choice.&#160; This is the one used for the intravaginal probe (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Syringes (BD), 1mL Slip-Tip, non-sterile clean, bulk</td>
			<td>Cole-Parmer</td>
			<td>WU-07945-00</td>
			<td>Syringes for transfering elastomer material (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Syringes (BD), 1mL Slip-Tip, non-sterile clean, bulk</td>
			<td>Cole-Parmer</td>
			<td>WU-07945-04</td>
			<td>Syringes for transfering elastomer material (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Syringe, 20mL, Open Bore, Solid Ring Plunger and Grip</td>
			<td>Qosina Corporation</td>
			<td>C1200</td>
			<td>Syringes for transfering elastomer material.&#160; Open bore is used for very viscous elastomers. (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Needle (BD), Non-sterile Clean with Shields, 18 gauge X 1.5&#34; Lg., Stainless Steel, BD Bulk&#160;</td>
			<td>Cole-Parmer</td>
			<td>WU-07945-76</td>
			<td>Used for removing air column between syringe plunger and elastomer (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Plastic Cups, 12 Oz., Clear</td>
			<td>Safeway</td>
			<td>N/A</td>
			<td>Used for mixing silicone in THINKY Mixer (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Polyethylene Bag, Open-Top, Flat, 5&#34; Width X 6&#34; Height, 2-MIL Thk.</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>1928T68</td>
			<td>Used for mixing silicone in THINKY Mixer (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Rubber Band, Latex Free, Orange, Size 64, 3-1/2&#34; L X 1/4&#34; W</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>12205T96</td>
			<td>Used for mixing silicone in THINKY Mixer (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Parafilm Wrap, 4&#34;W</td>
			<td>Cole-Parmer</td>
			<td>EW-06720-40</td>
			<td>Used for mixing silicone in THINKY Mixer (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Syringe Barrels with Stoppers, Luer Lock, Air Operated,&#160; 50mL</td>
			<td>EWD Solutions</td>
			<td>JEN-JG50A-15</td>
			<td>Smaller syringes can be used if less elastomer is required, but make sure it is compatible with Air Operated Syringe Adapter in injection chamber (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Sealant Tape, Pipe Thread, 50&#39;Lg X 1/4&#34; W, .0028&#34; Thk, 0.5 G/CC Specific Gravity&#160;</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>4591K11</td>
			<td>Teflon Tape for air-tight seals around at threads (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Scalpel Blades, Disposable, No. 22</td>
			<td>VWR</td>
			<td>21909-646</td>
			<td>Used for cutting tubing and demolding (Step: Curing &#38; Demolding)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Kimwipes</td>
			<td>VWR</td>
			<td>21903-005</td>
			<td>&#160;(Step: Curing &#38; Demolding)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2-Propanol, J. T. Baker</td>
			<td>VWR</td>
			<td>JT9334-3</td>
			<td>&#160;(Step: Curing &#38; Demolding)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>uPrint Plus SE 3D Printer</td>
			<td>Stratasys</td>
			<td>uPrint Plus SE</td>
			<td>Other 3D printers can be used (Step: Mold Design &#38; Production)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Screw, Cap, Hex Head,&#160; 1/4&#34;-28 , 2-1/2&#34; Lg, 18-8 Stainless Steel</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>92198A115</td>
			<td>Screws used with nuts to compress mold (Step: Mold Assembly)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Nut, Hex, 1/4&#34;-28, 7/16&#34; Wd, 7/32&#34; Height, 18-8 Stainless Steel&#160;</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>91845A105</td>
			<td>Screws used with nuts to compress mold (Step: Mold Assembly)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Stud, Fully Threaded, 1/4&#34;-28, 1&#34; Lg, 18-8 Stainless Steel&#160;</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>95412A567</td>
			<td>Threaded-rods can be cut to desired length and are used with nutes to compress mold (Step: Mold Assembly)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Planetary Centrifugal Mixer</td>
			<td>THINKY USA Inc.</td>
			<td>ARE-310</td>
			<td>Mixers are strongly recommended for fine mixing and to reduce degassing time, but hand mixing is fine (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Laboratory Weigh Scale</td>
			<td>Mettler-Toledo International Inc.</td>
			<td>EL602</td>
			<td>&#160;(Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Desiccant Vacuum Canister, Reusable,&#160; 10-3/4&#34; OD</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>2204K7</td>
			<td>This desiccator is used for degassing the elastomer (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Custom 3D-Printed Mixer-to-Cup Adapter</td>
			<td>N/A</td>
			<td>N/A</td>
			<td>Modeled in Solidworks CAD and 3D printed (Step: Elastomer Mixing)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Tubing, Smooth Bore, 1/4&#34; ID, 1/2&#34; OD, 1/8&#34; Wall Thickness, High Purity Tygon PVC, Clear</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>5624K51</td>
			<td>Tubing outside of Desiccator (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Tubing, Smooth Bore, 3/8&#34; ID, 5/8&#34; OD, 1/8&#34; Wall Thickness, High Purity Tygon PVC, Clear</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>5624K52</td>
			<td>Tubing to adapt to Air/Vacuum Supply (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Coupling, Reducer, Straight, Vacuum Barb 3/8&#34; Tube ID X Vacuum Barb 1/4&#34; Tube ID, Brass</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>44555K188</td>
			<td>Adapt Tubing outside Desiccator to Tubing leading to Air/Vacuum Supply (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Clamp, Hose &#38; Tube, Worm-Drive, for 7/32&#34; to 5/8&#34; OD tube, 5/16&#34; Wd., 316 SS</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>5011T141</td>
			<td>Used on tubing to create Air/Vacuum-tight seal at junctions (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Clamp, Hose, Smooth-Band Worm-Drive, for 1/2&#34; to 3/4&#34; OD tube, 3/8&#34; Wd., 304 SS</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>5574K13</td>
			<td>Used on tubing to create Air/Vacuum-tight seal at junctions (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Coupling, Tee, Vacuum Barb 1/4&#34; Tube ID, Brass</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>44555K138</td>
			<td>Tee Junction between Vacuum, Three-way T-valve on Desiccator, and Three-way L-valve (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Coupling, Tee, 1/4 NPT Female X Female X Male, Brass</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>50785K222</td>
			<td>Tee Junction between Pressure Gauge, Chamber, and Three-way L-valve (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Valve, Ball, Straight, T-Handle, 1/4 NPT Female X Male, Brass</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>4082T42</td>
			<td>Three-way L-valve (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Coupling, Adapter, Straight, Vacuum Barb 1/4&#34; ID Tube X 1/4 NPT Male, Brass</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>44555K132</td>
			<td>Adapter for Three-way L-valve-to-Tubing (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Saw, Hole, Bimetal. 1-3/8&#34; OD, 1-1/2&#34; Cutting Depth</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>4066A25</td>
			<td>Used to cut holes in Desiccator for throughwall fittings (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Arbor, 9/16&#34; to 1-3/16&#34; Saw, 1/4&#34; Hex</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>4066A76</td>
			<td>Used to cut holes in Desiccator for throughwall fittings (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Arbor Adapter for 1-1/4&#34; Thru 6&#34; Dia Hole Saws</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>4066A77</td>
			<td>Used to cut holes in Desiccator for throughwall fittings (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Coupling, Straight, Through-Wall, 1/2 NPT Female, Polypropylene</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>36895K141</td>
			<td>Throughwall fittings leading to Pressure/Vacuum Gauges (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Coupling, Adapter, Straight, Reducing,&#160; Bushing, Hex, 1/2 NPT Male X 1/4 NPT Female, Brass</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>4429K422</td>
			<td>Reducing tube diameter inside the Desiccator to adapt to Air-operated Syringe System (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Coupling, Adapter, Straight, Reducing, Bushing, Hex, 1/4 NPT Male X 1/8 NPT Female, Brass</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>4757T91</td>
			<td>Reducing tube diameter inside the Desiccator to adapt to Air-operated Syringe System (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Coupling, Adapter, Straight, Vacuum Barb 1/4&#34; ID Tube X 1/8 NPT Female, Brass</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>44555K124</td>
			<td>Reducing tube diameter inside the Desiccator to adapt to Air-operated Syringe System (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Syringe Adapters, Air Operated, 30/50mL</td>
			<td>EWD Solutions</td>
			<td>JEN-JG30A-X6</td>
			<td>Air operated syringe adapter on the inside of the Desiccator; must be compatible with syringes used to hold elastomer (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Gauge, Dual-Scale Vacuum, 2-1/2&#34; Dial, 1/4 NPT Male, Bottom Connector, 30&#34; Hg-0, Steel Case</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>4002K11</td>
			<td>Vacuum Gauge (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Gauge, Dual-Scale Vacuum and Compound, 3-1/2&#34; Dial, 1/4 NPT Male, Center Back, 30&#34; Hg-0, 100 PSI, Steel Case</td>
			<td>McMaster-Carr Supply Company</td>
			<td>4004K616</td>
			<td>Pressure Gauge leading to Air-operated Syringe System (Step: Elastomer Injection)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Oven, Vacuum, Isotemp, Economy&#160;</td>
			<td>Fisher Scientific</td>
			<td>280A</td>
			<td>Standard non-vacuum oven can be used (Step: Curing &#38; Demolding)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Solidworks CAD</td>
			<td>Dassault Syst&#232;mes</td>
			<td>Solidworks Research Subscription</td>
			<td>Other CAD Software can be used for mold master and mold design (Step: Mold Design &#38; Production)</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

rapid and low-cost prototyping of medical devices using 3d printed molds for liquid injection molding

Elastômeros biologicamente inertes, tais como silicone são materiais favoráveis ​​para a fabricação de dispositivos médicos, mas formar e curar esses elastômeros usando processos de moldagem por injeção de líquido tradicionais pode ser um processo caro devido aos custos de ferramentas e equipamentos. Como resultado, tem sido, tradicionalmente, impraticável usar injeção líquida de baixo custo, aplicações de prototipagem rápida. Nós desenvolvemos um método para a produção rápida e de baixo custo de dispositivos de injeção de líquidos elastômero moldado que utiliza impressoras deposição modelagem 3D fundidas para projeto de moldes e um secador modificado como um sistema de injeção. Baixos custos e tempo de resposta rápido nesta técnica diminuir a barreira de forma iterativa concepção e prototipagem dispositivos elastômero complexos. Além disso, os modelos de CAD desenvolvido neste processo pode ser posteriormente adaptado para a concepção de ferramentas do molde de metal, permitindo uma fácil transição para um processo de moldagem por injecção tradicional. Nós temos usado esta técnica para fabricar intravagsondas Inal envolvendo geometrias complexas, bem como overmolding sobre peças de metal, utilizando ferramentas comuns dentro de um laboratório de pesquisa acadêmica. No entanto, esta técnica pode ser facilmente adaptado para criar dispositivos de injeção de líquidos moldadas para muitas outras aplicações.

O molde e a sonda intravaginal nas Figuras 14 e 15 mostra os resultados representativos do processo apresentado neste artigo. <img alt="Figura 14" fo:content-width="5in" src="/files/ftp_upload/51745/51745fig14highres.jpg" width="500" /> Figura 14 Mold. Totalmente montado. Totalmente montado de molde para o dispositivo de sonda intravaginal. <p class="jove_content" fo:keep-together.within-page="a...

Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Rapid and Low-cost Prototyping of Medical Devices Using 3D Printed Molds for Liquid Injection Molding at JoVE.com

Rapid and Low-cost Prototyping of Medical Devices Using 3D Printed Molds for Liquid Injection Molding

Nós desenvolvemos um método de baixo custo e prototipagem rápida de dispositivos de injeção de borracha elastômero líquido moldados usando impressoras 3D de modelagem por fusão e deposição de projeto de moldes e um secador modificado como um sistema de injeção de líquido.

Prototipagem rápida e de baixo custo de Dispositivos Médicos Usando 3D impresso moldes para moldagem por injeção líquida

Biologically inert elastomers such as silicone are favorable materials for medical device fabrication, but forming and curing these elastomers using ...

rapid-low-cost-prototyping-medical-devices-using-3d-printed-molds-for

Research

JoVE Journal

Bioengineering

19.7K visualizações.  University of California, San Francisco.  Nós desenvolvemos um método de baixo custo e prototipagem rápida de dispositivos de injeção de borracha elastômero líquido moldados usando impressoras 3D de modelagem por fusão e deposição de projeto de moldes e um secador modificado como um sistema de injeção de líquido. 

Vídeo: Rapid and Low-cost Prototyping of Medical Devices Using 3D Printed Molds for Liquid Injection Molding

Low-Cost Cryo-Light Microscopy Stage Fabrication for Correlated Light/Electron Microscopy

The coupling of cryo-light microscopy (cryo-LM) and cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) poses a number of advantages for understanding cellular 
dynamics and ultrastructure. First, cells can be imaged in a near native environment for both techniques. Second, due to the vitrification process, samples are
 preserved by rapid physical immobilization rather than slow chemical fixation. Third, imaging the same sample with both cryo-LM and cryo-EM provides correlation of
 data from a single cell, rather than a comparison of "representative samples". While these benefits are well known from prior studies, the widespread use of correlative 
 cryo-LM and cryo-EM remains limited due to the expense and complexity of buying or building a suitable cryogenic light microscopy stage. Here we demonstrate the 
 assembly, and use of an inexpensive cryogenic stage that can be fabricated in any lab for less than $40 with parts found at local hardware and grocery stores. This 
 cryo-LM stage is designed for use with reflected light microscopes that are fitted with long working distance air objectives. For correlative cryo-LM and cryo-EM 
 studies, we adapt the use of carbon coated standard 3-mm cryo-EM grids as specimen supports. After adsorbing the sample to the grid, previously established protocols 
 for vitrifying the sample and transferring/handling the grid are followed to permit multi-technique imaging. As a result, this setup allows any laboratory with a 
 reflected light microscope to have access to direct correlative imaging of frozen hydrated samples.

We demonstrate the fabrication of a low-cost cryogenic stage designed to fit most reflected light microscopes. This lab-built cryogenic stage enables efficient and reliable correlative imaging between cryo-light and cryo-electron microscopy.

Low-Cost Cryo-Light Fabricação Stage Microscopia de Luz Correlacionados / Microscopia Eletrônica

The coupling of cryo-light microscopy (cryo-LM) and cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) poses a number of advantages for understanding cellular 
dynamics ...

Bioengenharia

High Throughput Microfluidic Rapid and Low Cost Prototyping Packaging Methods

In this work, 3 different packaging and assembly techniques are presented. They can be classified into two categories: one-time use and reusable packaging techniques.
The one-time use packaging technique employs UV-based and temperature curing epoxies to connect microtubes to access holes, wire-bonding for integrated circuit connections, and silver epoxy for electrical connections. This method is based on a robust assembly technique that can support relatively high pressure close to 1 psi and does not need any support to strengthen the microfluidic architecture.
Reusable packaging techniques consist of PDMS-based microtube interconnectors and anisotropic adhesive films for electrical connections. These devices are more sensitive and fragile. Consequently, Plexiglas support is added to the microfluidic structure to improve the electrical contact when anisotropic adhesive films are used, and also to strengthen the microfluidic architecture. In addition, a micromanipulator is needed to maintain tubes while using a thin PDMS layer to connect them to the access holes. Different PDMS layer thicknesses, ranging from 0.45-3 mm, are tested to compare the best adherence versus injection rates. Applied injection rates are varied from 50-300 &#956;l/hr for 0.45-3 mm PDMS layers, respectively. These techniques are mainly applicable for low-pressure applications. However, they can be extended for high-pressure ones through plasma-oxygen process to permanently seal the PDMS to glass substrates. The main advantage of this technique, besides the fact that it is reusable, consists of keeping the device observable when the microchannel length is very short (in the range of 3 mm or lower).

In this article we describe different techniques for microfluidic rapid prototyping platforms. The proposed techniques are based on ultraviolet (UV) sensitive and temperature curing epoxies, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) based tubing, wire-bonding, and anisotropic adhesive films. The assembling procedures presented are developed for both one-time use devices as well as reusable microfluidic systems.

In this work, 3 different packaging and assembly techniques are presented. They can be classified into two categories: one-time use and reusable packaging ...

Using Adhesive Patterning to Construct 3D Paper Microfluidic Devices

We demonstrate the use of patterned aerosol adhesives to construct both planar and nonplanar 3D paper microfluidic devices. By spraying an aerosol adhesive through a metal stencil, the overall amount of adhesive used in assembling paper microfluidic devices can be significantly reduced. We show on a simple 4-layer planar paper microfluidic device that the optimal adhesive application technique and device construction style depends heavily on desired performance characteristics. By moderately increasing the overall area of a device, it is possible to dramatically decrease the wicking time and increase device success rates while also reducing the amount of adhesive required to keep the device together. Such adhesive application also causes the adhesive to form semi-permanent bonds instead of permanent bonds between paper layers, enabling single-use devices to be non-destructively disassembled after use. Nonplanar 3D origami devices also benefit from the semi-permanent bonds during folding, as it reduces the likelihood that unrelated faces may accidently stick together. Like planar devices, nonplanar structures see reduced wicking times with patterned adhesive application vs uniformly applied adhesive.

We demonstrate the use of patterned aerosol adhesives to construct 3D paper microfluidic devices. This method of adhesive application forms semi-permanent bonds between layers, enabling single-use devices to be non-destructively disassembled after use and to ease folding complex nonplanar structures.

Usando Adhesive Padronização Construir 3D de papel microfluídicos

We demonstrate the use of patterned aerosol adhesives to construct both planar and nonplanar 3D paper microfluidic devices. By spraying an aerosol ...

High-throughput Identification of Bacteria Repellent Polymers for Medical Devices

Medical devices are often associated with hospital-acquired infections, which place enormous strain on patients and the healthcare system as well as contributing to antimicrobial resistance. One possible avenue for the reduction of device-associated infections is the identification of bacteria-repellent polymer coatings for these devices, which would prevent bacterial binding at the initial attachment step. A method for the identification of such repellent polymers, based on the parallel screening of hundreds of polymers using a microarray, is described here. This high-throughput method resulted in the identification of a range of promising polymers that resisted binding of various clinically relevant bacterial species individually and also as multi-species communities. One polymer, PA13 (poly(methylmethacrylate-co-dimethylacrylamide)), demonstrated significant reduction in attachment of a number of hospital isolates when coated onto two commercially available central venous catheters. The method described could be applied to identify polymers for a wide range of applications in which modification of bacterial attachment is important.

A high-throughput microarray method for the identification of polymers which reduce bacterial surface binding on medical devices is described.

High-throughput identificação de bactérias Polymers Repelente para dispositivos médicos

Medical devices are often associated with hospital-acquired infections, which place enormous strain on patients and the healthcare system as well as ...

Automated Robotic Liquid Handling Assembly of Modular DNA Devices

Recent advances in modular DNA assembly techniques have enabled synthetic biologists to test significantly more of the available &#34;design space&#34; represented by &#34;devices&#34; created as combinations of individual genetic components. However, manual assembly of such large numbers of devices is time-intensive, error-prone, and costly. The increasing sophistication and scale of synthetic biology research necessitates an efficient, reproducible way to accommodate large-scale, complex, and high throughput device construction.
Here, a DNA assembly protocol using the Type-IIS restriction endonuclease based Modular Cloning (MoClo) technique is automated on two liquid-handling robotic platforms. Automated liquid-handling robots require careful, often times tedious optimization of pipetting parameters for liquids of different viscosities (e.g. enzymes, DNA, water, buffers), as well as explicit programming to ensure correct aspiration and dispensing of DNA parts and reagents. This makes manual script writing for complex assemblies just as problematic as manual DNA assembly, and necessitates a software tool that can automate script generation. To this end, we have developed a web-based software tool, http://mocloassembly.com, for generating combinatorial DNA device libraries from basic DNA parts uploaded as Genbank files. We provide access to the tool, and an export file from our liquid handler software which includes optimized liquid classes, labware parameters, and deck layout. All DNA parts used are available through Addgene, and their digital maps can be accessed via the Boston University BDC ICE Registry. Together, these elements provide a foundation for other organizations to automate modular cloning experiments and similar protocols.
The automated DNA assembly workflow presented here enables the repeatable, automated, high-throughput production of DNA devices, and reduces the risk of human error arising from repetitive manual pipetting. Sequencing data show the automated DNA assembly reactions generated from this workflow are ~95% correct and require as little as 4% as much hands-on time, compared to manual reaction preparation.

Here, an automated workflow to perform modular DNA &#34;device&#34; assembly using a modular cloning DNA assembly method on liquid-handling robots is presented. The protocol uses an intuitive software tool for generating liquid handler picklists for combinatorial DNA device library generation, which we demonstrate using two liquid handling platforms.

Robótico líquido manipulação montagem de dispositivos modulares DNA automática

Recent advances in modular DNA assembly techniques have enabled synthetic biologists to test significantly more of the available &#34;design space&#34; ...

Synthesis of Biocompatible Liquid Crystal Elastomer Foams as Cell Scaffolds for 3D Spatial Cell Cultures

Here, we present a step-by-step preparation of a 3D, biodegradable, foam-like cell scaffold. These scaffolds were prepared by cross-linking star block co-polymers featuring cholesterol units as side-chain pendant groups, resulting in smectic-A (SmA) liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs). Foam-like scaffolds, prepared using metal templates, feature interconnected microchannels, making them suitable as 3D cell culture scaffolds. The combined properties of the regular structure of the metal foam and of the elastomer result in a 3D cell scaffold that promotes not only higher cell proliferation compared to conventional porous templated films, but also better management of mass transport (i.e., nutrients, gases, waste, etc.). The nature of the metal template allows for the easy manipulation of foam shapes (i.e., rolls or films) and for the preparation of scaffolds of different pore sizes for different cell studies while preserving the interconnected porous nature of the template. The etching process does not affect the chemistry of the elastomers, preserving their biocompatible and biodegradable nature. We show that these smectic LCEs, when grown for extensive time periods, enable the study of clinically relevant and complex tissue constructs while promoting the growth and proliferation of cells.

This study presents a methodology to prepare 3D, biodegradable, foam-like cell scaffolds based on biocompatible side-chain liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs). Confocal microscopy experiments show that foam-like LCEs allow for cell attachment, proliferation, and the spontaneous alignment of C2C12s myoblasts.

Síntese de biocompatíveis cristal líquido de elastómero Espumas como andaimes celulares para cultura de células 3D espaciais

Here, we present a step-by-step preparation of a 3D, biodegradable, foam-like cell scaffold. These scaffolds were prepared by cross-linking star block ...

Fabrication of Custom Agarose Wells for Cell Seeding and Tissue Ring Self-assembly Using 3D-Printed Molds

Engineered tissues are being used clinically for tissue repair and replacement, and are being developed as tools for drug screening and human disease modeling. Self-assembled tissues offer advantages over scaffold-based tissue engineering, such as enhanced matrix deposition, strength, and function. However, there are few available methods for fabricating 3D tissues without seeding cells on or within a supporting scaffold. Previously, we developed a system for fabricating self-assembled tissue rings by seeding cells into non-adhesive agarose wells. A polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) negative was first cast in a machined polycarbonate mold, and then agarose was gelled in the PDMS negative to create ring-shaped cell seeding wells. However, the versatility of this approach was limited by the resolution of the tools available for machining the polycarbonate mold. Here, we demonstrate that 3D-printed plastic can be used as an alternative to machined polycarbonate for fabricating PDMS negatives. The 3D-printed mold and revised mold design is simpler to use, inexpensive to produce, and requires significantly less agarose and PDMS per cell seeding well. We have demonstrated that the resulting agarose wells can be used to create self-assembled tissue rings with customized diameters from a variety of different cell types. Rings can then be used for mechanical, functional, and histological analysis, or for fabricating larger and more complex tubular tissues.

This protocol describes a platform for fabricating self-assembled tissue rings in variable sizes using a customized 3D-printed plastic mold. PDMS negatives are cured in the 3D-printed mold; then agarose is cast in the cured PDMS negatives. Cells are seeded into the resulting agarose wells where they aggregate into tissue rings.

Fabricação de poços de Agarose personalizado para a propagação de células e tecido anel Self-assembly usando moldes 3D-impresso

Engineered tissues are being used clinically for tissue repair and replacement, and are being developed as tools for drug screening and human disease ...

Design of an Open-Source, Low-Cost Bioink and Food Melt Extrusion 3D Printer

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is an increasingly popular manufacturing technique that allows highly complex objects to be fabricated with no retooling costs. This increasing popularity is partly driven by falling barriers to entry such as system set-up costs and ease of operation. The following protocol presents the design and construction of an Additive Manufacturing Melt Extrusion (ADDME) 3D printer for the fabrication of custom parts and components. ADDME has been designed with a combination of 3D-printed, laser-cut, and online-sourced components. The protocol is arranged into easy-to-follow sections, with detailed diagrams and parts lists under the headings of framing, y-axis and bed, x-axis, extrusion, electronics, and software. The performance of ADDME is evaluated through extrusion testing and 3D printing of complex objects using viscous cream, chocolate, and Pluronic F-127 (a model for bioinks). The results indicate that ADDME is a capable platform for the fabrication of materials and constructs for use in a wide range of industries. The combination of detailed diagrams and video content facilitates access to low-cost, easy-to-operate equipment for individuals interested in 3D printing of complex objects from a wide range of materials.

The aim of this work is to design and construct a reservoir-based melt extrusion three-dimensional printer made from open-source and low-cost components for applications in the biomedical and food printing industries.

Design de uma impressora 3D de origem aberta, bioink de baixo custo e derretimento de alimentos

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is an increasingly popular manufacturing technique that allows highly complex objects to be fabricated with no retooling ...

Rapid Fabrication of Custom Microfluidic Devices for Research and Educational Applications

Microfluidic devices allow for the manipulation of fluids, particles, cells, micro-sized organs or organisms in channels ranging from the nano to submillimeter scales. A rapid increase in the use of this technology in the biological sciences has prompted a need for methods that are accessible to a wide range of research groups. Current fabrication standards, such as PDMS bonding, require expensive and time consuming lithographic and bonding techniques. A viable alternative is the use of equipment and materials that are easily affordable, require minimal expertise and allow for the rapid iteration of designs. In this work we describe a protocol for designing and producing PET-laminates (PETLs), microfluidic devices that are inexpensive, easy to fabricate, and consume significantly less time to generate than other approaches to microfluidics technology. They consist of thermally bonded film sheets, in which channels and other features are defined using a craft cutter. PETLs solve field-specific technical challenges while dramatically reducing obstacles to adoption. This approach facilitates the accessibility of microfluidics devices in both research and educational settings, providing a reliable platform for new methods of inquiry.

Here we present a protocol to design and fabricate custom microfluidic devices with minimal financial and time investment. The aim is to facilitate the adoption of microfluidic technologies in biomedical research laboratories and educational settings.

Fabricação rápida de dispositivos microfluídicos personalizados para pesquisa e aplicações educacionais

Microfluidic devices allow for the manipulation of fluids, particles, cells, micro-sized organs or organisms in channels ranging from the nano to ...

Low-Cost, Volume-Controlled Dipstick Urinalysis for Home-Testing

Dipstick urinalysis provides quick and affordable estimations of multiple physiological conditions but requires good technique and training to use accurately. Manual performance of dipstick urinalysis relies on good human color vision, proper lighting control, and error-prone, time-sensitive comparisons to chart colors. By automating the key steps in the dipstick urinalysis test, potential sources of error can be eliminated, allowing self-testing at home. We describe the steps necessary to create a customizable device to perform automated urinalysis testing in any environment. The device is cheap to manufacture and simple to assemble. We describe the key steps involved in customizing it for the dipstick of choice and for customizing a mobile phone app to analyze the results. We demonstrate its use to perform urinalysis and discuss the critical measurements and fabrication steps necessary to ensure robust operation. We then compare the proposed method to the dip-and-wipe method, the gold standard technique for dipstick urinalysis.

Dipstick urinalysis is a quick and affordable method of assessing one&#8217;s personal state of health. We present a method to perform accurate, low-cost dipstick urinalysis that removes the primary sources of error associated with traditional dip-and-wipe protocols and is simple enough to be performed by lay users at home.