Handheld 3D Scanning and Image Processing for Printing Body Parts - A Workflow Concept and Current Results

The combination of current technical possibilities of handheld 3D scanning devices, 3D data analysis and interaction, and novel 3D bioprinting technologies has opened the way to develop workflows and scenarios for the generation of personalized human prosthesis. Specifically, using the human ear as one example to develop a cost-effective chain of methods and tools, the above mentioned combined and interacting technologies can be used to understand and demonstrate the possibilities for rapid bio prototyping. Production workflows for personalized soft-material bio-prosthesis gain significance in reconstructive and plastic surgery. This paper introduces a workflow concept, presents a list of appropriate and accessible state-of-the-art handheld scanners, followed by an image processing solution based on the MeshLab application and printing first prototypes.