R_Bibb_Medical_Modelling_The_Application_of_Adv.pdf

Case studies 215
Stereolithography was used to produce the shell component in DSM
Somos 10110-epoxy resin (see Section 5.2 for more information on stereolithography).
ThermoJet ® wax printing was used to produce the prosthesis
pattern (see Section 5.7 for more information on the ThermoJet ® process).
The physical components are shown in Fig. 6.75.
6.12.7 Results
The parts designed and produced in the second case study did produce a
complete prosthesis. However, the fi t between the components required a
small amount of adjustment. Therefore, although the fi nished components
would not have been suitable for use in an actual prosthesis, it was possible
to evaluate them when fi tted to the dental stone model.
• Fit between the implant abutments and the bar – a passive fi t as described
by Henry (19) was not achieved and, although the bar did screw on to
the stone model securely, visible gaps remained. In addition, the surface
fi nish of the SLM bar was slightly pitted when compared to soldered
gold bars.
• Fit between the bar and clips and the substructure – clip retention was
initially good, but repeated application caused the clips to wear. This
suggested that the relatively soft epoxy resin is not suitable for use in a
clip that undergoes repeated applications.
• Fit between the substructure and prosthesis pattern – the fi t was tight
due to the rough fi nish left after removing supports from the ThermoJet ®
6.75 The manufactured components: SLM TM bar (left),
Stereolithography sub-structure (middle) and ThermoJet ® pattern
(right).