A Study on the Manufacturing of Fetus Sculpture via 3D Printer Using Ultrasound Automatic File Converting Technology

Background: Recently, 3D printing technology has been offering much service, as it has been a representative topic in the medical field. This will require a new business model and a technical support that will enable new business model. Methods: In this study, had developed a prototype software that automatically converts ultrasound volume data files(.raw file format before being saved as DICOM) generated from external ultrasound equipment into .STL file that can be 3D rendered. This study implemented/verified SW that automatically converts ultrasound data related to fetus extracted from prenatal ultrasonography to 3D printing file. Then, the fetus sculpture was printed with a 3D printer using the automatically converted files Findings: In the precedence cases, ultrasound waves scan the fetus, and after this data is verified by a designer, the data must be manually created into a file format (.STL file format) that is able to become printed by a 3D printer and given to the parents. Through this study, verify the efficiency and usability of automatic conversion software from ultrasound volume data file (.raw file format before being saved as DICOM) to .STL file that can be 3D printed. And also, the 3D sculpture printing service could be diversified, and enhancements and effectiveness could be searched for, as linkages of medical equipment could be scrutinized in a safe manner. Improvements/Applications: In addition, propose technological factors for upgrading this automatic 3D file conversion prototype software. This study also proposes an advanced business model for 3D printing.