EnvisionTEC launched a 3D-Bioplotter Starter Series and an upgraded 3D-Bioplotter Developer Series for researchers and scientists.

The 3D-Bioplotter technology has been used since 2000 by scientists from the materials science, imaging and toxicology disciplines. In the clinical setting, patient CT or MRI scans are used to create STL files to print solid 3D models which can then be used as templates for implants. Updates to the 3D-Bioplotter software include:

–New inner structure patterns

–Material life time control

–Improved surface finish of fabricated parts

–Generation of volume support structures for complex shapes

–A new user management flow to share projects, materials and patterns

“With the release of this software, the 3D-Bioplotter is no longer limited to printing straight, parallel strands; instead zig-zag, wave hexagon and space-filling pattern can be assigned to individual 3D shapes to create more complex and organic inner structures,” said Carlos Carvalho, Process and Material Development Specialist for EnvisionTEC.

EnvisionTEC added the Starter Series to the 3D-Bioplotter line-up to appeal to smaller labs wanting to ramp up their bioprinting research efforts. The main differences of the machine consist of two fixed, non-modular high temperature heads with adapters for low temperature cartridges, a non-temperature controlled platform, a built-in PC and the inaccessible platform height control sensor.

Said Carvalho, “With a maximum of 2 materials, or cell types, per object, our Starter Series is designed for customers with few requirements in parallel material processing and automation.”

EnvisionTEC’s 3D-Bioplotter 3D printing materials range from polymer melts, through viscous pastes to liquids, and are inserted into syringes to be used in individual printing heads with individual needle tips. Air pressure is applied to the syringe, which then deposits a strand of material for the length of movement and time the pressure is applied. Parallel strands are plotted in each layer. In each layer, the direction of the strands is turned over the center of the object, creating a fine mesh with good mechanical properties and mathematically well-defined porosity. By permitting the use of pastes, hydrogels, melts, and any other liquid, which may be quickly solidified, this technology enables a wide range of 3D printing applications.

The Developer Series has been upgraded to mid-level, now including a sterile filter, a third parking position, a total of two printing heads, as well as capability for temperature control of the printing platform.