Finite element analysis (FEA) of a femur implant. A Rapid 2009 workshop will detail the process of manufacturing custom implants.

North America’s largest annual rapid manufacturing conference and exposition, The Rapid Conference & Exposition, set for May 11-14 at the Schaumburg Renaissance Hotel & Convention Center, Schaumburg, IL, will devote much of its program to medical applications. Launched in 1988, the event is sponsored by the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME).

“The goal in bringing our Rapid Implant Manufacturing Forum to the RAPID show is to increase awareness of the importance that custom implants will play in the future of RP and patient care,” says Colleen Wivell, general manager for the sponsoring firm Materialise USA, Ann Arbor, MI. “We have created an opportunity for attendees to learn about the process of custom implant design from the original patient scan through surgery.”

“This year, attendees are able to bring a part and have it scanned and converted into a CAD file that they take away with them,” says SME’s Gary Mikola. The 3D Imaging Discovery Center on the show floor will be an important stop for visitors. Other “must-see” features:

• Mon., May 11: Workshop will walk attendees through the process of manufacturing custom implants. Participants will hear presentations from industry experts that address each step including scanning, data conditioning, implant design, material selection, finite element analysis (FEA) of the design, quality control, and liability.

• Tues., May 12: Mike North, cohost of the Discovery Channel’s “Prototype This!” will open the show as keynote speaker. North is credited with memorable contraptions such as a mind-controlled car, traffic busting truck and a wearable airbag. He’ll share stories about the show and discuss the pivotal role of prototyping when it comes to inventions.

• Wed., May 13: The Rapid Implant Manufacturing Forum (RIMF) will bring together several influential players involved in implant design and manufacturing. This day-long session developed by Materialise will go beyond the traditional issues of implant manufacturing to cutting-edge innovation and applications.

Thurs., May 14: State of the industry report will be presented by rapid expert Terry Wohlers as he delivers the final day’s keynote address. He is founder of Wohlers Associates, Inc, and author of The Wohlers Report. For further details, see this month’s issue of Medical Design, page 8. For conference registration information, contact the link to Society of Manufacturing Engineers.