Data processing for multi-material 3D bioprinting

Abstract

Two distinct methods have been used for file preparation in bioprinting. Firstly, a common printing method in bioprinting is to form lattice structures from repetitive layering of horizontal and vertical hydrogel grids. In the second approach, 3D models are sliced into different layers and G-codes matching the contour of the model is uploaded into the bioprinter as per each z layer increment. This processing method follows similar steps as 3D printing. To fully utilize the capability of 3D bioprinting, it is essential to evolve from repetitive layering of materials into printing with complex geometries. Of which, one of the considerations in hydrogel-based bioprinting is to strategize printing methods to overcome the limited process window for bioprinting. In this article, different approaches for file preparation in bioprinting is first reviewed. Thereafter, a file segmentation technique is proposed for bioprinting freeform structures. Considerations in terms of material's and machine's capabilities is essential during the file segmentation process. The distinct advantage of bioprinting in using multi-materials deposition is used to form 3D bioprinted construct in a build/support configuration. Lastly, a case study on bioprinting a free-standing coil is displayed to highlight the advantages of the proposed file segmentation technique.