Discover how TPM3D's S600DL is revolutionizing efficient, customized manufacturing for Edser in the medical field.
The SLS 3D printing collaboration between Yingpu Three-Dimensional (TPM3D) and the Spanish orthotics company Edser has been featured in a special report by 3Dnatives, a leading global authority on 3D printing news. The report provides an in-depth analysis of the technological breakthroughs achieved by the TPM3D S600DL dual-laser system, including large-format printing, 100% powder recycling with PP Pro material, and 24-hour delivery for personalized insoles. It also details its successful application within the medical orthotics field.
In today's society, our lives are becoming increasingly interconnected, fast-paced, and personalized, tailored more closely to individual needs. This trend is evident not only in communication, work, and consumption but also profoundly impacts the healthcare industry. Modern medicine is continuously exploring ways to provide patients with more targeted, customized solutions to improve treatment experiences and quality of life. Among these, additive manufacturing (3D printing) is emerging as a key tool driving medical customization.
The Spanish company Edser has nearly 30 years of experience in clinical orthotics, medical insoles, and custom sole production, serving clients worldwide. Their product range includes orthotic devices for scoliosis, cerebral palsy, and clubfoot, as well as sports protectors, masks, daily-use insoles, high-heel shoe inserts, and diabetic foot insoles. To meet the market demand for rapid customization, Edser partnered with TPM3D, adopting SLS 3D printing to upgrade traditional production into a fully digital workflow, achieving high-precision, high-efficiency, and low-cost personalized manufacturing.
Digital Workflow: Integrated Production from Scanning to Printing
Edser's production process begins with foot scanning. To facilitate this, they independently developed the WIKYSCAN scanning app, which uses LiDAR technology to allow users to easily create 3D foot models with just an iPhone or iPad. Subsequently, podiatrists adjust the insole design based on the 3D data and the patient's medical needs.
The printing stage is handled by the TPM3D S600DL dual-laser SLS printer. Equipped with 2×140 W lasers and a build volume of 600×600×800 mm, the machine complies with EU safety standards and TÜV CE certification. Its proprietary dual-laser algorithm ensures print quality, with a maximum scanning speed of 2×25 m/s, significantly boosting production capacity.
In terms of materials, Edser opted for TPM3D’s PP Pro printing powder. This material offers excellent strength and chemical resistance, low water absorption, lightweight properties, and can be reshaped via heating, making it ideal for the comfort requirements of insoles. It also boasts significant environmental advantages: only 20% new powder is needed for each print job. Combined with efficient powder spreading and nesting strategies, material utilization approaches 100%, greatly reducing costs and waste.
Post-processing is carried out by TPM3D’s PPS full-performance powder handling station, which includes depowdering, recycling, mixing, and real-time powder supply. This system reduces manual labor while maintaining a clean and efficient production environment. Subsequent steam polishing and sandblasting yield the final product, ready for direct delivery to patients.
Remarkable Outcomes: Faster Speed, Lower Costs, Better Experience
With TPM3D’s SLS 3D printing solution, Edser has not only achieved rapid product iteration but also significantly enhanced production efficiency and performance. The large build volume of the S600DL allows for simultaneous production of multiple components, while dual-laser scanning reduces single-layer printing time by nearly 50%.
Since SLS technology requires no support structures, it easily produces complex geometries. For example, the lattice structures within the insoles allow for differentiated hardness in various zones while ensuring the product remains lightweight and breathable, combining comfort with therapeutic effect.
More importantly, production costs have been effectively reduced. The high-performance PP Pro material, coupled with the efficient powder handling system, has provided Edser with an excellent return on investment. Edser’s CEO, Sergio Sanchez-Osorio, stated, "Looking ahead, we anticipate that 90% of our products will be manufactured using additive manufacturing."
As medical 3D printing, particularly SLS technology, continues to evolve, TPM3D will keep optimizing its product matrix and actively driving industry progress. At the recently concluded Formnext Shenzhen exhibition, TPM3D showcased its dual-laser SLS printer and efficient powder handling station, attracting significant attention from audiences in China and around the world.
TPM3D remains committed to helping global partners achieve more efficient, environmentally friendly, and intelligent digital production through innovative technology, working together to provide higher-quality solutions for patients in the healthcare industry.
