Driving New Avenues of Research with CAD and 3D Printing in collaboration with the Department of Veterinary Science

Within the veterinary sciences, advances are constantly being made. However, there are certain limitations when conducting research, especially on teeth of animals which are not common household pets, such as lions. In this regard, the Makerspace was consulted for potential mechanisms and technologies which could help alleviate these limitations.

One major limitation for lion research is that as the age of lions changes, so does the structure of the nerves and canals in their teeth. This means that procedures need to account for these variances, including approaches and techniques. However, the material is not always readily available or distributable. After investigation and consultation, 3D modelled lion teeth were developed with Computer Aided Design (CAD) and 3D printed to enhance this type of research. By creating modelled teeth in electronic format for easy distribution, researchers with access to a 3D printer can further their research in methods and best practices within this exciting field.

To create these models, sessions were held to review the design process and requirements of the completed versions with academics specialising in this field. Since then, one completed prototype has been completed and there will continue to be further development to address the variances and requirements based on the professional requirements and guidance. This project was initiated late in 2018 with CAD, and does require resources in terms of skills and time. However, good progress has been made, and we will strive to ensure that best practices are developed.

The CAD software used to design the first version of lion teeth was Solidworks, as this provided the accuracy required to generate the models, which included the narrower nerve of the older lions’ teeth. This was then 3D printed using Poly-Lactic Acid (PLA) plastic on the NodaBeast 3D printer for accuracy. As we move forward and collaborate further, we hope to accurately deliver the variances identified and support this research to optimize the procedures conducted on these magnificent African animals.