Optimal Design and Processing Technology of 3D Printed Tibial Implants

Abstract

It is necessary to study the design method and molding techniques of selective laser melting (SLM) tibial implants to improve the success rate of knee implant surgery and the quality of life of patients. In this study, the three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction of tibial implants was completed using the reverse combined with forward methods, optimization design was carried out on the constructed tibial implant model by adopting the parametric finite element method (FEM), and the SLM device was employed for the direct manufacture of tibial implants and to study its molding techniques. The results indicated that the tibial implant model completed using reverse and forward methods combined with FEM displayed favorable modeling effects, with more homogeneous stress distribution. After optimizing the molding techniques of SLM molding tibial implants, excellent molding effects could be achieved, with high tibial implant surface finish but no buckling deformation or obvious adhering slag. Studying the above modeling and molding methods can provide important foundation for the individualized design and direct manufacture of tibial implant.