How Mimaki 3D Printing Technology is Moulding Education and Academic Research

Educational institutions are among the fastest-growing adopters of 3D printing, with an impressive 5.4% to 11.6% jump in the market share between 2011 and 2021^[1], overtaking other traditional applications, such as cosmetic models and jigs and fixtures. Across the medical, art, design and architectural field, students and researchers increasingly use this technology to create models and prototypes to assist with their academic endeavours. In particular, material jetting 3D printing technology is making a name for itself within the sector, known for its ability to produce highly detailed prototypes, models and figures.

Material Jetting: More Colours, More Detail

While material jetting makes up a small share of 3D printer sales when compared to technologies like material extrusion (FDM) and powder bed fusion (MJF or other laser-based processes), it isn’t a technology to be overlooked. Producing incredible accuracy and detail in the final product, material jetting has become a go-to solution for prototyping, art, architectural and educational models.

Mimaki’s 3D printers, the 3DUJ-2207 and the 3DUJ-553, both utilise the material jetting method. A piezoelectric printhead travels over the build platform, depositing hundreds of tiny droplets of photopolymer to the desired locations. The material is then cured by a UV LED light, which allows less material warping and more control for complex designs over traditional UV bulbs. The process repeats until the whole part is complete, which is then submerged in water to remove any support material.

As the only 3D printers with the ability to accurately print in 10 million colours, including transparent, up to 1,200 dpi, the 3DUJ series can create highly detailed prints. All these abilities alongside its office-friendly size and low noise level have made these machines perfect high-performing models in the 3D printing market.

The Educated Choice

Mimaki’s 3D printers’ accuracy and colours are already being used to full effect in universities around the world. The collaboration between Monash University and Erler Zimmer led to the development of anatomically accurate 3D printed medical models to address the limitations of cadavers in education. Initially facing challenges with the fragility and colour reproduction of medical models, the 3D printing industry saw a significant breakthrough with the Mimaki 3DUJ-553. This printer revolutionised the process by accurately creating realistic models with transparent parts to see internal structures.

Reliance on cadavers in universities significantly restricts hands-on, interactive teaching opportunities, particularly when it comes to rare pathologies. The ability for universities to produce the desired 3D models as needed, opening up significant learning opportunities for students and medical professionals alike.

The printer’s capabilities have also attracted the attention of a team of doctors and researchers from the University of Florence. The technology was also used for a range of anatomical models, that facilitated cost-effective solutions and enhanced surgical training and simulation, reaching a previously unattainable degree of colour fidelity. Meanwhile Canadian company, Biologic Models, has carved out a niche in creating precise and vibrant 3D models of proteins for research facilities and collectors, using the 3DUJ-553 in conjunction with clinical research and x-ray crystallography protein data.

Taking 3D printing beyond the medical sector, the University of Auckland’s Creative Design and Additive Manufacturing Lab (CDAML) uses the Mimaki 3DUJ-553 for vibrant, accurate colour printing in projects ranging from cultural preservation to surgical aids. Initially exploring powder-based printers, the lab shifted to the 3DUJ-553 due to its superior colour reproduction and durability. This printer has helped to transform how students engage with history, engineering, art, and medicine.

The Perfect Tool for the Model Student

In the educational field, 3D printing can equip the professionals of today and tomorrow with the tools they need to better enhance their skills. Mimaki’s 3D printers are helping students craft realistic anatomical models, bring historical artifacts back to their former glory, and architecturally design the cities of the world.

[1] Wohlers Report, ‘3D Printing Applications 2011 Wohlers Report’ and ‘3D Printing Applications 2021 Wohlers Report’