Kumovis launches the first 3D production printer with cleanroom integration

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Kumovis R1 Compact 3D Printer Design

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Kumovis Digital Workflow Impression Tray

Kumovis focuses on additive manufacturing of customized medical devices made from high-performance plastics such as PEEK. Now, the first 3D printer is going into series production.

– Industrial FDM manufacturing system for medical products made from high-performance plastics
– Improved layer adhesion of the medical device through homogeneous build chamber heating up to 250°C and integrated temperature management system
– High process reliability with comprehensive monitoring and documentation capabilities

To enable medical technicians to efficiently and industry-compliantly produce implants and other products additively, Kumovis developed the R1 3D printer. With its integrated temperature control and filtration system, users can turn the build chamber into a cleanroom and meet the strict criteria for the approval of patient-specific medical devices. The Kumovis R1 will be available from August 2019.

The patented temperature management system in the 3D printer allows the build chamber to be uniformly heated up to 250 degrees Celsius, which among other benefits improves the layer adhesion of the respective medical device. Kumovis also offers customers the option to make the build chamber a cleanroom using an optional filter. This helps prevent defects caused by foreign particles in the component. All systems for comprehensive monitoring are integrated, ensuring documentation and safety throughout the entire printing process.

Process optimization and safety have been a priority for the Munich-based startup since its founding. "We are pleased to provide the medical technology sector with the Kumovis R1, a resource-efficient manufacturing system that meets high standards and advances the processing of high-performance plastics in FDM technology to industrial maturity," said co-founder Stefan Leonhardt. Since 2017, he has been leading Kumovis GmbH together with Miriam Haerst. "Additionally, through partnerships with software experts like Hyperganic, we will enable faster access to custom implants and devices, creating added value for patients and doctors," he added.

Reinventing medical applications

To make implants more precisely fitting and thus promote patient healing, reliable reproducible mechanics and durability are essential. The Kumovis R1 employs local cooling for this purpose, implemented through proprietary hardware and software from Hyperganic Technologies AG. Lin Kayser, CEO of Hyperganic, commented on the cooperation with Kumovis: "Hyperganic works closely with printer manufacturers to enable profound innovations. I have been impressed from the beginning by the vision of the Kumovis founders to reinvent additive manufacturing for medical applications through new materials and advanced process technology. We are convinced and look forward to deepening our collaboration."

Among other features, Kumovis enables users to optimize their prints across the entire component using the software-based printing control Hyperganic Print. The surface is designed so that processes can be customized and automated according to user needs. Whether it's print preparation, object orientation, or technical support, medical considerations and procedures have been central throughout the development process. The Kumovis R1 will be available from August 1, 2019, through direct sales or subscription models. Three machines are already in use with pilot customers.