3D Printing on Skin by Sean Gill
Researchers at the University of of Minnesota have developed a low cost 3D printer that can print on human skin. This is imagined to be used for soldiers in battle. The idea is to print temporary sensors on their skin to detect chemical or biological agents around them. The printer is lightweight, and costs less than $400.
The researchers took into consideration how hard it is for someone to remain still while the printer is printing. The printer counteracts your movements by tracking your hand and using markers to adjust to your slight movements. Typical 3D printers also produce inks that are too hot to place right on the skin after printing. This new printer produces ink so the skin will not be burned when printed on. The ink is strong enough to withstand natural rubbing, and the ink can be taken off with tweezers or with water. The researchers believe that this technology could be a gateway to helping with skin diseases.
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