Sharath Chandra S
Director – Engineering & Life Sciences at Altem Technologies Pvt Ltd
Altem Technologies’ exploration into new domains has enabled the incorporation and dissemination of 3D Rapid Prototyping technologies across a diverse range of fields and regions. Among these non-traditional domains are fundamental sciences such as Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics, among others. Within contemporary educational settings, there is a growing interest in leveraging 3D Printer models as teaching aids derived from the same 3D CAD models utilized by researchers and students. These tangible models offer an enhanced means of tactile engagement and visualization.
Until encountering Altem’s expertise, research organizations in India had primarily utilized leading 3D CAD software platforms like CATIA to model molecular structures and educate students using software-based representations. However, one research institution recognized the considerable advantages of transforming their molecular model into a physical, tangible form.
As part of our ongoing commitment to expanding the use of 3D printing applications into new domains and addressing emerging challenges, the introduction of a 3D Printing project by Altem Technologies in collaboration with a prominent research organization in India, specializing in cutting-edge modern biology, has yielded transformative outcomes. This initiative harnessed the power of FDM 3D printing technology to bridge the gap between theoretical molecular models and tangible, real-world representations.
Initially conceived within a 3D CAD software, the molecular model underwent a remarkable transformation through the Stratasys 3D Printers at 3D Innovation Centre of Altem Technologies in Bangalore which houses several 3D Printing machines of various technologies like Fused Deposition modelling, DLP and polyjet technology. This pivotal step brought the abstract world of molecular structures into the physical realm, making it accessible and comprehensible in an entirely new way. The impact of these 3D Printer models molecular structures has been profound, particularly in the realm of education and visual comprehension of complex molecular structures. Faculty members and researchers across the nation have unanimously recognized the inherent benefits of having physical models at their disposal. These models facilitate tactile and experiential learning, offering a hands-on approach to grasping intricate molecular concepts.
This innovative utilization of 3D printing technology has not only elevated the quality of education but has also revolutionized the research landscape. It has enabled researchers to interact with molecular structures in a manner that was previously unimaginable. As a result, this collaborative effort between Altem Technologies and the research organization has not only bridged the gap between theory and practice but has also enhanced the effectiveness of research and study in modern biology’s frontier areas.
This project was published on June, 2015
