3D printing in color and a variety of materials
The new multi-material printer makes it possible to produce high-resolution, multi-color prints using a wide range of materials. In addition to transparent and solid materials, flexible materials are also available that can realistically replicate skin, soft tissue, or bone. This allows models to be created that closely resemble reality, not only visually but also haptically.

Digital anatomy: From image data to realistic models
A key strength of the MediJet system lies in the implementation of so-called digital anatomy. This involves converting medical image data (e.g., CT or MRI DICOM files) into lifelike 3D models. This allows individual anatomical structures such as organs, tumors, or vascular systems to be clearly displayed for research, teaching, and medical planning.

Applications in research, teaching, and clinical practice
The printer is already being used at the LFM in current research projects, for example, to develop new methods for phantom production, surgical planning, and anatomical demonstration and learning models. At the same time, the system opens up the possibility of realizing innovative projects in collaboration with clinics and industry partners, e.g., in patient-specific model production.

Prospects and collaborations
With the Stratasys J5 MediJet, the chair is expanding its expertise in additive manufacturing and further developing the interfaces between engineering, medicine, and biomedical technology. We are open to collaborations with clinics, research institutions, and industry partners who are interested in using patient-specific models, innovative teaching materials, or application-oriented research projects.

Technology & printing properties

•    PolyJet technology: Layer-by-layer application of liquid photopolymers followed by UV curing
•    High resolution: Layer thicknesses up to 18.75 µm → very fine details and smooth surfaces
•    Build volume: approx. 140 × 200 × 190 mm

Multi-material capability

•    Simultaneous printing with up to five different materials in one component
•    Digital material mixtures: Combination of properties such as hard/soft, transparent/opaque, flexible/rigid
•    Color variety: Printing in over 500,000 color combinations (full-color printing, Pantone-validated)

Material portfolio

•    Rigid Opaque: rigid plastics in various colors
•    Transparent: clear materials for optical studies and structures
•    Elastomers: flexible materials for soft tissue, skin, or silicone replacement
•    Digital Anatomy Materials: simulation of bones, cartilage, vessels, and soft tissue for realistic anatomical models

Areas of application

•    Medical education: realistic learning and demonstration models
•    Clinical application: patient-specific surgical planning, surgical preparation
•    Research & development: phantoms for imaging and therapy simulation
•    Product development: prototypes and functional models

The J5 MediJet device from Stratasys is financially supported by the European Union as part of the EFRE program.

Contact Person:Benjamin Eichler, Dr.-Ing. Erik Westphal