Modern contact lenses.
Posted on November 12, 2008
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Modern contact lenses.
The modern contact lens actually has its beginning round the turn of the 20th century.
Adolf Fick gets the credit for inventing the 1st practical pair in 1887. But, it was Carl Zeiss, the famed lensmaker, who developed a glass contact lens that fit over the cornea that formed the prototype for all later work. It was still to be many decades before Touhy invented the 1st plastic corneal lens, using Plexiglas as a material. Whilst work commenced in 1952, it wasn’t till 1971 the modern hydrophilic soft contact lenses came on the market. That word, ‘hydrophilic’ ( meaning ‘water loving’ ), is the key to fresh contact lenses.
Today’s lenses are made from a plastic polymer ( pHEMA ) that allows the contact lens to absorb water. Some lenses were formed in a molding process called spin-casting, where the plastic is spun into the required shape. Early techniques needed last shaping with a lathe, but today the method is so correct the lenses can be made wholly thru molding alone. The lathe process may still be employed in some areas of the Earth, though, particularly for hard contact lenses that still make up anywhere up to 25% of those sold. In this strategy a tiny circle called a blank is cut from a plastic rod and fastened onto a lathe with wax. That is carried out by polishing the result into actual curves on both sides of the lens. Today, a P. C. Controls the method, which is kept correct by being fed info from the individual patient using data gathered during the eye exam. The lens is then sterilised, regularly by being boiled in salt water for many hours, which also softens it. They are then packed in a glass vial containing a sterile saline ( salt water ) solution.
As the lens material is hydrophilic it soaks up a lot of the solution, making it up to 75% water in the final analysis. As the solution is analogous to human tears that moisturize the eye, the contact feels good and works well during use. Research continues into finding materials that are longer lasting, more comfortable and safer to use.
Some comparatively fresh advances, as an example, include the Stiff Gas Permeable lens ( RGP ) invented in 1979, but marketed much later. That makes them more snug and safer to use over the long run. Several can now be worn steadily for so long as a week to a month. On the leading edge are new implantable contact lenses that are essentially placed into the eye and never need changing or cleaning.
Diabetes - Genetic Risk Factors for Diabetes
Posted on November 3, 2008
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Diabetes - Genetic Risk Factors for Diabetes
The causes of diabetes are complex and only partly understood. Complicating the picture even further is the fact that there are multiple types, each with its own risk factors. Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are the most common, encompassing about 97% or more of cases in the U.S. Each results from a combination of environmental and genetic influences.
Of those, Type 2 is far and away the most common, about 90% of cases.
Obesity is thought to be a major contributor to Type 2 diabetes. Being overweight is a good prototype for a cause since it is itself a combination of genetic background and lifestyle choices. Though the diet opted for and the amount of exercise one chooses to undertake are lifestyle choices, it’s still true that some individuals gain or shed weight more easily than others.
But there are many other diabetes risk factors, as well.
A history of diabetes during pregnancy contributes to part of the total risk. Just shy of 40% of women who develop diabetes during pregnancy (a type known as gestational diabetes) will later develop Type 2 diabetes. That typically occurs within 5-10 years after giving birth. Those who give birth to larger babies have a greater risk.
Glucose intolerance is another genetically influenced factor. Since Type 2 diabetes results not from underproduction of insulin (as in Type 1) but from inadequate use of it, it shouldn’t be surprising that glucose intolerance is a contributing circumstance. That glucose intolerance should exist is puzzling enough, since it’s a major source of the body’s energy. But genetic anomalies produce some unusual situations.
Ethnicity plays a role in whether or not an individual will develop Type 2 diabetes, though the reasons are not fully understood. Even after adjusting for lifestyle, Aboriginals, Africans, Latin Americans and some Asian groups are at higher risk. The profile varies between 1.5-2 times the incidence among Caucasians, according to one broad Canadian study. Oddly, though, the risk of Type 1 diabetes is much higher among Caucasians than any other race.
Having high blood pressure raises the odds, too. That again is partly a lifestyle (chiefly, diet and exercise) choice but it has a strong genetic aspect as well. There’s a strong correlation between those with high blood pressure and those who will develop diabetes. Similarly, high cholesterol levels increase the risk. Over 40% of those with diabetes have higher than average levels of cholesterol in the blood.
But simple family medical circumstance is probably the largest genetic risk factor for diabetes.
An individual with a parent or sibling who has Type 1 diabetes has him or herself a risk 10-20 times higher than average. For a newborn baby with a parent who has Type 1 diabetes the odds are 1 in 25, or 4% if the mother gives birth before age 25. Over age 25, the risk is 1%, about the same as the general population. The odds rise again to about 10% if either parent contracted diabetes before age 11.
The genetic risk factors of contracting diabetes are still an active area of research. Fortunately, while in generations past there was nothing one could do to influence them, modern genetic treatments hold out promise of altering even these odds.
Hearing Aid Prototypes Made by Futuristic 3d Printers
Posted on November 2, 2008
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Hearing Aid Prototypes are now being produced with maximum productivity and flexibility, and at a minimum cost using Objet Eden 3D printers. This new technology is based on the unique PolyJet technology. The Eden’s unique ability to build layers that are just 16 microns thin and the easily- removed gel-like support structure ensures ultra-smooth, unmarked flawlessly shaped surfaces that deliver perfect fit and comfort. The solution includes a choice of three resins designed especially for the unique needs of hearing aids: Clear, Rose Clear and Skin Tone. Objet Studio network software enables full trays to be printed from any workstation in your facility, further reducing your labor costs and training time. The small foot print allows any office now to have this advance 3d printing device, enjoying full control of the design and prototyping process, start to finish. The unique resin replacement system makes it easy to switch between resins: just insert the new resin container and select it using the enhanced software wizard. The gel-like support material, used with all the mold resins, is easily removed using a water-jet, leaving clean, smooth surface hearing aids. The resins are available for use with the Objet’s Eden260 and Eden350 printers. Now can enjoy a lower cost per part in a production integrated system and boost your performance and productivity while planning and prototyping hearing aids. To your health, and clear hearing; do you hear that butterfly now fluttering near your ear, the sound of the grasshopper at your feet, the wind blowing by the window?
Casting
Volkswagen Altea Freetrack Prototype Revealed at Geneva Motor Show
Posted on November 2, 2008
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For this year Volkswagen’s SEAT has succeeded in surprising visitors in Geneva with its Altea Freetrack Prototype. Far from being just a concept of mere styling, the Freetrack Prototype has provided a preview of the styling and technological innovations that the Technical Centre in Martorell have been working on.
The Altea Freetrack Prototype has meaner and bolder look which supports its adventurous character. It also has sporty and dynamic lines which reflect the character of the Spanish brand. Everything about the interior of the Freetrack Prototype screams luxury which is attributed to both design and materials used. The Freetrack is a perfect ride for people who wants first-class journey. And in keeping with the tradition of building quality vehicles, the Altea Freetrack Prototype makes use of only top-of-the-line auto parts supplied by Volkswagen like the popular Volkswagen timing belt which is renowned for quality and durability.
Compared to the Altea XL, the Freetrack Prototype is 185 mm higher which provides it with perfect angles of approach, ramp breakover angle, and departure. All these remarkable features are combined with the Freetrack’s full four-wheel-drive system making it into a genuine off-roader.
The Freetrack Prototype is powered by a 240 hp 2.0 TFSI engine and six-speed manual gearbox which means that this vehicle not only have a sporty look but in fact an authentic sporty 4×4 in its own right. The interior of the Freetrack models a 2+2 layout with racing style bucket seats. There is also a practical and highly functional storage area located between the rear seats.
The Freetrack Prototype embodies the conclusion of SEAT’s Multi Driving Concept (MDC) which was initially launched four years ago with the Salsa concept car which was later consolidated with the Salsa Emocion— both had their origins in the new generation of the SEAT models. This concept promotes the traditional MPV (Multi Purpose Vehicle) which SEAT models are predominantly well known of aside from characteristics such as interior versatility and spaciousness that satisfies every demand of car buyers.
The Freetrack Prototype just like the Salsa concept car is a vehicle that is ideal for non-conformists who are always looking for that extra something in vehicles. And with the Multi Driving Concept integrated in the Freetrack Prototype car buyers are given more option in the 4×4 segment.
Prototype Services, Rotocast, 3d Cad, and 3d Printing
Posted on October 31, 2008
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Hobart, Washington USA (Articles Base) July 14, 2008
The Rotocast and Rapid Prototype Services is a new webpage that was just added to the new Prototyping Services Information Website that has just been released. This new 3D CAD Information Process webpage has all of the information you need to know on Rotocast and 3D Printing Methods and the main information you need to know on Rapid Prototyping Services. You can visit this Rapid Prototyping Services webpage at: http://www.prototypezone.com/rapid-prototype-companies-and-services/
Here is an excerpt from the new Rapid Prototyping Services and Rotocast Prototyping webpage:
“The various types of rapid prototyping services include technologies like stereolithography prototype, polyjet 3D printing, selective laser sintering, rapid tooling, 3D CAD modeling, RTV molding, RotoCAST, machined castings, urethane castings, injection molding, high temperature castings, rapid prototyping machines, investment casting, electroplating, functional prototype development, 3D modeling and development of patterns and models.
The rapid prototyping service provider will develop prototypes as per the required specifications of the manufactures. It supplies with prototype development along with prototype assemblies, materials and components. The various materials utilized in the process of rapid prototyping are plastics, metals and elastomers. The product development process is accelerated with supply of quick, robust and accurate prototypes by the rapid prototyping services.”
The new Rapid Prototyping Services page is free information to members and non-members and can be found at: http://www.prototypezone.com/. However, users of Prototype Zone who decide to be members can join for free and receive two free E-Books on Rapid Prototyping for a limited time offer. Prototype Zone will be adding new information all the time on Rapid Prototyping so check back often in the forum and blog for the latest information at: http://www.prototypezone.com/myblog/
About Prototype Zone: Prototype Zone is the leading information source and community website for all things about Prototyping and Rapid Prototyping. Visit the website to join for free and receive two free ebooks on Rapid Prototyping for a limited time offer.
Injection Molding
Rapid Prototyping Revolution
Posted on October 22, 2008
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The newest trend is called rapid prototyping. Advancements in machining speed and flexibility combined with sophisticated electronic computer interfaces allow for cost-effective, exact metal sample parts or molds for plastic injection parts.
Technical and application engineers at Makino, a global provider of advanced machining technology, say that such advanced machining technology permits companies to cut manufacturing steps. These eliminated steps are primarily created because steel can now be milled as quickly and cost-effectively as aluminum or other lighter materials.
Such progress allows mold builders and other manufacturers to actually develop applications which can be utilized immediately to make more products. This allows their customers to get new products to market faster.
Many other kinds of prototypes don’t carry the real properties that the customer is trying to simulate. Most rapid prototypes are made from the raw material intended for the final product, which makes it identical to what is actually going to be put in production.
Customers can get a hardened steel or prehardened steel part or mold in five or six weeks versus 10 or 12 weeks from previous processes. This is a timesavings they appreciate in an effort to get their product to market faster and less expensively.
Technological advancements like CAD and other sophisticated computer interfaces can positively combine with state-of-the-art machine tools that are accurate, rigid and stable in order to achieve maximum results. Customers can save up to two-thirds of the total time originally required by more traditional mold building processes.
Prototype Patterns
Laminated Object Manufacturing – Lom Information
Posted on October 22, 2008
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Hobart, Washington USA (Articles Base) July 14, 2008
The Laminated Object Manufacturing is a new webpage that was just added to the new LOM Prototyping Information Website that has just been released. This new Laminated Object Manufacturing Information Process webpage has all of the information you need to know on LOM Prototyping and LOM Methods and the main information you need to know on Laminated Object Manufacturing Information. You can visit this LOM webpage at: http://www.prototypezone.com/laminated-object-manufacturing/
Here is an excerpt from the new Laminated Object Manufacturing and LOM Prototyping webpage:
“How does Laminated Object Manufacturing Work? The LMO is used to manufacture 3 – D objects that are cut on the basis of the geometrical data that is available with the system. The laser that is used in the LMO is a carbon dioxide laser that is capable of creating cross sections of 3 – D objects successively, from layers of foil, usually paper. The back of the 3 – D object that is created has a polyethylene coating on it.
The computer with the help of which the LMO runs, has the ability to slice a solid 3 – D model into 2 – D cross sections that are thin. Every cross section would have a thickness that is equivalent to the thickness of each of the materials that is used for the process of prototyping.”
The new Laminated Object Manufacturing Rapid Prototype page is free information to members and non-members and can be found at: http://www.prototypezone.com/. However, users of Prototype Zone who decide to be members can join for free and receive two free E-Books on Rapid Prototyping for a limited time offer. Prototype Zone will be adding new information all the time on Rapid Prototyping so check back often in the forum and blog for the latest information at: http://www.prototypezone.com/prototype-forum/laminated-object/showcat
About Prototype Zone: Prototype Zone is the leading information source and community website for all things about Prototyping and Rapid Prototyping. Visit the website to join for free and receive two free ebooks on Rapid Prototyping for a limited time offer.
Selective Laser Sintering
Stereo Lithography Information and Sla Stereolithography Info
Posted on October 19, 2008
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Hobart, Washington USA (Articles Base) July 12, 2008
The Stereolithography is a new webpage that was just added to the new SLA Prototyping Information Website that has just been released. This new Stereo Lithography Information Process webpage has all of the information you need to know on Stereolithography Prototyping and SLA Methods and the main information you need to know on Stereolithography Information. You can visit this Stereo Lithography webpage at: http://www.prototypezone.com/stereolithography/
Here is an excerpt from the new Stereolithography and SLA Prototyping webpage:
“Stereolithography or SLA is one of the most commonly used rapid prototyping and rapid manufacturing technology for creating several parts with excellent surface finish and high accuracy. Stereolithography is a mechanism used to perform Stereolithography Apparatus. SLA creates plastic parts or even objects a layer by marking out a laser beam on the surface of the liquid photopolymer. This category of substances initially developed for packaging and printing industry, solidifies quickly wherever the laser beam hits. As one layer is being entirely marked out it lowers a small distance into the vat of the liquid photopolymer and a subsequent layer is marked out exactly on the top of the first layer.
The self cementing property of this particular substance causes the layers to merge with one another and finally form an absolute 3D object after lots of similar objects are created. Some of these objects have undercuts or overhangs that must be actually maintained during the procedure of fabrication by maintaining the structures.”
The new Stereolithography Rapid Prototype page is free information to members and non-members and can be found at: http://www.prototypezone.com/. However, users of Prototype Zone who decide to be members can join for free and receive two free E-Books on Rapid Prototyping for a limited time offer. Prototype Zone will be adding new information all the time on Rapid Prototyping so check back often in the forum and blog for the latest information at: http://www.prototypezone.com/prototype-forum/stereolithography/showcat
About Prototype Zone: Prototype Zone is the leading information source and community website for all things about Prototyping and Rapid Prototyping. Visit the website to join for free and receive two free ebooks on Rapid Prototyping for a limited time offer.
Selective Laser Sintering
Prototype Disadvantages and Rapid Prototyping Disadvantages
Posted on October 19, 2008
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Hobart, Washington USA (Articles Base) July 07, 2008
Prototyping Disadvantages is a new webpage that was just added to the new Prototyping Website that has just been released. This new webpage has all of the information you need to know of Prototyping Disadvantages and the main Rapid Prototyping Drawbacks. You can visit this Rapid Prototyping Disadvantages webpage at: http://www.prototypezone.com/prototype-forum/misc-rapid-prototyping/showcat
Here is an excerpt from the new Prototyping Disadvantages webpage:
“Disadvantages of Rapid Prototyping: Some people are of the opinion that rapid prototyping is not effective because, in actual, it fails in replication of the real product or system. It could so happen that some important developmental steps could be omitted to get a quick and cheap working model. This can be one of the greatest disadvantages of rapid prototyping. Another disadvantage of rapid prototyping is one in which many problems are overlooked resulting in endless rectifications and revisions. One more disadvantage of rapid prototyping is that it may not be suitable for large sized applications.
The user may have very high expectations about the prototype’s performance and the designer is unable to deliver these. The system could be left unfinished due to various reasons or the system may be implemented before it is completely ready. The producer may produce an inadequate system that is unable to meet the overall demands of the organization. Too much involvement of the user might hamper the optimization of the program. The producer may be too attached to the program of rapid prototyping, thus it may lead to legal involvement.
The cost reduction benefit of rapid prototyping also seems to be debatable, as sufficient details regarding the calculation basis and assumptions are not substantial.”
The new Rapid Prototyping Disadvantages page is free information to members and non-members and can be found at: http://www.prototypezone.com/. However, users of Prototype Zone who decide to be members can join for free and receive two free E-Books on Rapid Prototyping for a limited time offer. Prototype Zone will be adding new information all the time on Rapid Prototyping so check back often in the forum and blog for the latest information at: http://www.prototypezone.com/prototype/
About Prototype Zone: Prototype Zone is the leading information source and community website for all things about Prototyping and Rapid Prototyping. Visit the website to join for free and receive two free ebooks on Rapid Prototyping for a limited time offer.
Prototype Zone
Selective Laser Sintering (sls)
Posted on October 18, 2008
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WHAT IS SLS?
Rapid Prototyping refers to the creation of quick representations of final products from an initial idea and taking it through successive iterations until the final form is developed without tooling or molds. Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) is one of the most popular Rapid Prototyping mechanisms in which a laser beam selectively fuses or sinters powder materials, nylon, elastomer etc. Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) can provide your manufacturing business with a leading edge by producing rapid plastic or metal prototypes that closely match their molded counterparts.
SLA vs SLS
The primary advantage of Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) over Stereolithography is that it builds prototypes in nylon material. It is possible to make structurally functional parts such as living hinges, functioning springs, snap fit components with nylon material using Selective Laser Sintering. The process in itself is very simple and there is no molds or tooling involved. The nylon material used in SLS can be easily machined, drilled and tapped unlike those used in SLA, which are brittle as they are built with liquid photopolymers and cured with UV light. They continue to cure once complete and as a result become more brittle as time goes on.
Since being patented by Dr. Carl Deckard in 1989, the Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) technology has become one of the most popularly utilized processes for rapid prototyping and product development in manufacturing industries. Selective Laser Sintering has become a very reliable and trusted form of rapid prototyping due to its structural properties. Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) is particularly useful when the design is complex, customized, needs to be functional or requires short run production.
PROCESS
In the Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) process, 3D parts are created when an infrared laser beam sinters and fuses powdered materials. The final object is created by repeatedly fusing thin layers using the laser beam. This process also known as additive manufacturing producing parts that gradually increase in size until they reach the prescribed size. These prototypes are created directly from the STL file obtained from 3D CAD models.
The most beneficial characteristic of Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) is how durable and functional the materials are. These materials include versions of the original DuraForm and DuraForm glass-filled (GF), which are nylon-based materials that create highly durable and functional plastic prototypes. Other Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) materials available are Flex Plastic for elastomeric, rubber-like parts, and LaserForm, which makes metal prototypes.
ADVANTAGES
Research and development has been progressing to bring newer selective laser sintering (SLS) materials to the market. These materials are such that they require no post processing steps whatsoever after building and this offers a distinct advantage over stereolithography (SLA). This however does not mean that these materials cannot be processed. All of the selective laser sintering (SLS) materials can be finished in multiple ways. They can be painted, plated, drilled, tapped, or even machined. This allows for a higher grade of appearance to these parts thus giving users an unlimited potential to use them.