Overview study on challenges of additive manufacturing for a healthcare application

Abstract

Additive manufacturing is a rapidly evolving manufacturing technology bringing numerous and wide opportunities for the design team involved in the process by creating intricate and customized products with saving labor, time, and other expenses. Innovative AM methods and numerous practical applications in aerospace, automotive, medical, energy, and other industries have been developed and commercialized through extensive research over the last two decades. One embraced industry among others that benefited from the advances of AM is the healthcare industry. This paper focuses on addressing the challenges and opportunities in Additive manufacturing for healthcare. Although there are advanced possibilities in AM, there are also numerous issues needed to be overcome. The paper is based upon the current state-of-the-art review and study visits. The purpose of this work has been to identify the opportunities and limitations associated with additive manufacturing in healthcare applications and to highlight the identified research needs.