Numerical simulations are used to investigate the mechanics of fluids or materials in various processes related to biology. By means of detailed analyses and visualizations of the data in-depth insights into the fundamental dynamics of the processes are provided. The modelling and simulation approach can therefore help to grasp a full understanding of a given applications and yield design specific optimization measures.
Fraunhofer introduces freeform fabrication for the production of bioinspired flexibel structures from the micrometer to the cemtimeter range applying various additive manufacturing techniques. Digital 3D printing offers huge possibilities for the generation of individualized protheses, implants and models for medical technologies, biomedical applications, tisseu models, and tissue regeneration.
Biomaterials in the biomedical field are materials that are non-toxic and that can interact with the biological system. The Fraunhofer BioRap® team develops biobased as well as synthetic biomaterials for additive freeform fabrication. Research and development activities cover synthesis of croslinkable monomers and polymers, modification of biomolecules, formulation of printable fluids and solutions, adjustment of viscosity and gelation of inks for various printing processes such as drop-on-demand ink jet, extrusion based dispensing, stereolithography, two-photon polymerization, testing of cytocompatibility for various cell types, and tissue specific bioink compositions.
Natural blood vessels exhibit a specific deformation response to an internal pressure. Due to the complex design of the vessel wall, the compliance of a natural vessel decreases with increasing dilation. The ultimate goal of designing an artificial blood vessel is to mimic the mechanical behaviour of a natural blood vessel.
