Research on deploying technical functional analysis for additive manufacturing of a surgical device for intravitreal interventions

Abstract

This paper presents a methodology on designing for additive manufacturing applications using technical functional analysis tools. The methodology is applied to the re-design of a device for intravitreal interventions. The present research leads to significant improvements in product functionality and reduction of manufacturing costs. The unique and innovative design of the product had encouraging reviews after laboratory and in vivo testing. Fatigue simulations were deployed for both prototyping materials and biocompatible materials, in the hopes of series production. Results of the current study are being used by a commercial company in the United Kingdom to support the launch of a new competitive product.