Interactive 3D anatomical model supported by printed prototype for a medical device manufacturer

Innowise has created a highly detailed anatomical model for a leading medical device manufacturer to streamline the development of otorhinolaryngological devices.

Customer

Industry

Healthcare, Pharmaceutical, R&D

Region

Worldwide

Client since

2024

Our client is an R&D department of a leading pharmaceutical company. They not only focus on the discovery and manufacturing of innovative treatments in multiple areas but also on the design and development of cutting-edge medical devices.

Detailed information about the client cannot be disclosed under the provisions of the NDA.

Challenge

Lack of precisely detailed 3D anatomical model to support medical device development

The client recognized the importance of new approaches to their activities to address all the complexities of the human body. They were particularly interested in leveraging the potential of 3D imaging and printing for creating otorhinolaryngology devices, where precise shaping is critical to match individual anatomic variations and prevent potential patient discomfort, poor device performance, and even potential injury.

However, they lacked a sufficiently detailed 3D anatomical model of the human head to support their R&D processes. The model they needed also had to be so precise that it could be seamlessly transformed into a physical prototype using the in-house high-resolution 3D printers. Additionally, they required this model to integrate with their existing 3D device prototypes, allowing them to refine the design and achieve optimal form and function. This was where our expertise in developing high-precision 3D anatomical models became invaluable.

Solution

Anatomically accurate 3D model accompanied by a physical prototype

To address our client’s needs, we created a highly detailed and anatomically accurate 3D model of the human head, focusing on the ENT organs. For this purpose, our 3D artists worked in close cooperation with medical experts which resulted in visually and structurally precise representations. The 3D model can be easily modified and adapted to the specifics of different devices under development so that the client’s R&D department can tackle even the most complex anatomical challenges.

Solution highlights

High-fidelity 3D model

Under the supervision of the experienced healthcare professional, complex medical data were transformed into an actionable 3D 1:1 scale representation with high-grade anatomical accuracy.

CAD project creation

With the specific requirements of our client and their reliance on SolidWorks in mind, we transformed the Blender model into an engineer-ready format. This involved converting STL files into SolidWorks’ SLDPRT components and SLDASM project to ensure integration with the client’s design environment.

Applicability for high-precision prototyping

We printed a 3D prototype to verify the accuracy and functionality of the models before moving them into real-world scenarios. Before printing, the SolidWorks model was re-textured and its components grouped according to the anatomical structures to ensure accurate visual representation of the model. The precision of the printing process exceeded 50 microns.

Technologies

3D graphics

Blender

CAD design

SolidWorks

Process

To ensure efficient collaboration and iterative progress, we used the Scrum methodology throughout the project lifecycle. This agile approach facilitated clear communication, adaptive planning, and continuous feedback cycles, allowing us to deliver a high-quality 3D model that precisely addressed the client’s evolving needs.

Here’s a breakdown of the key phases:

Medical consultation: We gathered detailed anatomical criteria and specifications from our experts in otolaryngology.
Medical imaging: We obtained high-resolution medical images (CT/MRI) as a foundation for the 3D model.
Mesh processing / Digital post-processing: We created a 3D mesh from the medical image data and refined the 3D mesh through a series of digital sculpting and editing techniques.
CAD design: We converted the project into SolidWorks-compatible format for the integration with the client’s design environment.
3D printing: We produced high-precision prototypes to validate the model accuracy and fit for the client’s R&D processes.
Implementation into R&D processes: Our 3D model and printed prototype were successfully integrated into the client R&D processes.

Team

Otolaryngologist (consultant)

3D Artist

Chief Technology Officer

Account Manager

Results

Enhanced medical device development process

The integration of our precisely developed 3D head model into our client’s R&D workflow has contributed to their medical device development process. With access to a highly detailed and accurate representation of the human’s ENT organs, their designers and engineers can now create otorhinolaryngological devices that achieve an exceptional level of patient-specificity. Delivering the models in both SolidWorks and STL formats eliminates compatibility issues, allowing the client to incorporate the models into their design and prototyping processes.

Our cooperation has not only provided our client with a tool for their current projects but has also laid the foundation for future innovations.

Project duration

February 2024 - Ongoing

Enhanced design and development and patient-specificity

Accelerated creation of 3D-printed prototypes

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