3D-printed Microsystems for Opto-medical Imaging

Abstract

3D printing has become a mainstream manufacturing technology for a wide number of applications. With its rapid manufacturing capability, material palette, minimum feature size dimension that is improving day-by-day, low cost, and ability to form surfaces at any given angle 3D printing has become an inevitable technology for fabricating micro-electro-mechanical-systems. Here, I'll summarize the recent advances in the field of 3D printed microsystems for miniaturized opto-medical imaging probes, conducted by our research group and collaborators. Specifically, progress on 3D-printed laser scanning electro-magnetic actuators, miniaturized confocal imagers with nearly fully 3D-printed parts, a tunable lens, and a hydraulic axial actuator will be summarized. Moreover, initial cyclic testing of these devices highlights the potential of these devices for reliable use within disposable minimally invasive tools in the clinic.