Kampala, Uganda: Makerere University’s Biomedical Engineering Unit has acquired a state-of-the-art FormLab 3D printer, courtesy of the Wellcome Leap Project. This advanced additive manufacturing device is a resin-based stereolithography (SLA) printer, renowned for its exceptional precision and ability to produce intricate objects with smooth surfaces.
Facilitated by Kato Hussein, on February 20th, 2025, the Biomedical Engineering Unit conducted a comprehensive hands-on session at the Design Cube Maker space, showcasing the FormLab 3D printer’s capabilities. Participants were treated to a guided tour of the printer’s components and functionalities, followed by demonstrations of various objects that can be fabricated using the device.
The session also included hands-on interaction with the 3D printing software, providing attendees with a thorough understanding of the design-to-production workflow. Furthermore, participants had the opportunity to witness the practical printing of designs, gaining real-time experience with the additive manufacturing process.
The FormLab 3D printer boasts an impressive array of features and capabilities, including high resolution and precision, compatibility with various resin types, and suitability for medical and biomedical applications. Its high-precision stereolithography technology enables the production of intricate and complex structures with smooth surfaces, making it an ideal tool for creating anatomical models, prosthetics, dental molds, and microfluidic devices.
With its rapid prototyping capabilities, the FormLab 3D printer facilitates quick iterations of designs, reducing development time for research and innovation. This device has far-reaching applications across biomedical engineering, healthcare, product design, education, and art.
In the biomedical and healthcare sectors, the FormLab 3D printer is utilized for creating anatomical models for medical training, custom prosthetics and orthotics, dental molds, surgical guides, microfluidic devices, and biocompatible implants. In engineering and product design, it enables rapid prototyping, customized tools and fixtures, and electronics enclosures.
The printer also supports STEM education and research, allowing students to explore digital fabrication, 3D modeling, and material testing. Additionally, it has applications in art and design, including jewelry making, sculpting, and miniatures.
The acquisition of the FormLab 3D printer significantly enhances the biomedical engineering capacity at Makerere University, enabling students and researchers to engage in advanced medical device prototyping and innovation. With its exceptional precision, material versatility, and ability to produce intricate designs, this device is poised to revolutionize biomedical innovation and research at Makerere University.