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3D-MID technology makes it possible to make high-tech sensors that can be inserted inside the patient's body

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What would our world look like in one dimension (1D) or two-dimensional (2D)?

3D is our natural visual reality, and it is impossible to imagine our life without three-dimensionality.

In recent years, the three-dimensional dimension, has increasingly become a reality in the most modern and advanced technological solutions.

How are designers and developers of medical devices today taking advantage of this new design freedom offered by three-dimensionality?

By integrating mechanical functions into a three-dimensional pathway for electronic circuit traces, space can be optimized and utilized in the design of innovative hearing aids.

The Japanese company Yaskawa coined the term "mechatronics" in 1969, combining "mechanics" and "electronics."

Since then, constant technological developments, particularly drive systems and wireless connectivity, have greatly expandedits use.

Today, medical devices are one of the main areas of application for mechatronics.

One of the most significant innovations recently introduced in this area is three-dimensional mechatronic integrated devices, or 3D-MIDs (Mechatronic Integrated Devices).

This is a technology that allows high-density electronic components to be integrated in the smallest possible space.

When it comes to miniaturization, HARTING, distributed in Italy by Giamper, is the ideal partner and the leading provider of 3D-MID solutions.

The company is based in the most innovative district of theSwiss watch industry, Biel, which is also a fast-growing hub for medical device technologies.

This location was carefully chosen because people in this region have grown up in an environment permeated with micromechanics, generation after generation.

3D-MID technology, or 3D-Circuits, has the potential to transform the medical industry as we know it.

As medical devices, such as hearing aids and dentures, become smaller and smaller, the production of their most important elements, traditionally the printed circuit boards (PCBs) that house conductive traces and other electronic parts, requires much more delicacy and precision.

High-level miniaturization is facilitated by 3D circuits-a fantastic combination of mechanical and electronic integration.

This article explains everything you need to know about 3D-MID technology, its many benefits, and its applications in the medical device industry.

All about 3D-MID technology

HARTING's 3D-Circuits technology allows mechanical and electronic functions to be combined in a single component, so it can fit into even the smallest spaces.

The electronic circuit can be integrated into the device itself, making itmore compact and dense in function.

By using injection molded boards, the number of process steps, assembly time, and number of components can be dramatically reduced.

3D-MID technology has become incredibly useful in many areas, especially in the world of medical devices, where it promotes miniaturization.

How 3D-MID technology works

Device designers can go beyond the limits imposed by traditional manufacturing technologies with the help of 3D circuits.

The sky thus becomes the only limitation when electrical and mechanical functions can be unified in a single three-dimensional component.

These components are constructed using very malleable plastic solutions through injection molding.

This process makes it possible to create anything with precise dimensions, based on the requirements set by the customer's end use.

Injection molding is a perfect method for large-scale manufacturing of products with complex geometries and miniaturized dimensions, such as components for high-end medical devices.

A process called "Laser Direct Structuring(LDS)," developed by LPKF Laser & Electronics in 1996, can then make the tracks needed to connect electronic components, which will be made conductive by a subsequent chemical plating process.

Because HARTING unifies all these process steps under one roof, customers benefit from total "Made in Switzerland" quality.

With 3D-MID technology, designers have virtually no limits.

This innovation opens up a world of new possibilities and potentially huge savings for both producers and consumers.

By combining mechanical and electrical hardware, the design and creation of electronic devices with very complex functions become easier and much more cost-effective.

Because of its adaptability, mechatronics can be used in an ever-expanding variety of medical applications, from bed positioning systems to robotic surgical equipment.

3D-MID technology in the medical field

In recent years, 3D printing has accelerated many advances in the healthcare sector, with millions of people benefiting from components and devices created with ease.

Now 3D-MID technology is poised to change the face of medicine forever.

This technology enables another huge step forward, using mechatronics to create devices with an even wider range of integrated electronic functions that fit into even the smallest spaces.

Mechatronics allows for extreme scaling or miniaturization of medical devices, enabling examinations, surveys, and monitoring from inside the patient.

With this technology, medical devices can be designed to be much less invasive, significantly improving patient care.

With many years of experience, HARTING began its activities in this field in 2003, the team is familiar with the requirements of the medical market.

The success of numerous mass production projects confirms this.

The ability to take large medical machines and devices and place them in a more compact format enclosure is an important part of what 3D-Circuits technology makes available to the designer.

It offers really significant improvements to change the way medical devices are used today.

By integrating a ring switch in 3D-MID technology into a dental instrument, HARTING was able to significantly improve the ergonomics and weight of the instrument itself, while reducing the assembly effort

One of the most important advantages of this technology is that it makes these advances possible without sacrificing quality.

One might think that shrinking a medical device would make it less powerful or effective, but with 3D-MID technology this is not the case at all.

Indeed, as 3D circuitry grows in popularity, the technology will only get better, opening new avenues for making even smaller and more effective medical devices, from hearing aids to prosthetics and surgical and dental instruments.

It is a substitute for an endoscope. It is basically swallowed like a pill, which is much more convenient than an endoscope
The benefits and applications of 3D-MID technology

Miniaturization is one of the most critical but necessary trends in healthcare that affects how mechatronics technology is used.

The development of smaller and smaller instruments, devices, and equipment allow the use of less invasive treatment methods, which in turn provide faster recovery times and better patient care.

These miniaturized microactuators and sensorsalso facilitate the development of small mechatronic systems for the following applications (Source: Jabil):

  • Portable diagnostic instruments for use in outpatient clinics or pharmacies, including ultrasound and blood tests
  • Scientific tools for flow cytometry, DNA identification, pathogen detection, and DNA sequencing.
  • Diagnostic imaging systems using small and precise modules for lens control and laser tuning.
  • Implantable devices that can be dynamically adjusted in situ
  • Miniaturized mobile robots
  • Micropumps and auto-injectors for controlled drug release

There is also a tendency to place greater emphasis on the practicality and aesthetics of medical technology, as well as on the level of comfort experienced by the patient.

This is because more and more treatment is moving from hospitals to outpatient facilities, and discerning clients now expect a more positive experience as patients.

Medical equipment redesign activities aim to make it easier and more comfortable for patients to use and manage in the long run.

HARTING has developed a microphone stand in 3D-MID technology that precisely aligns hearing aid microphones while integrating electrical contact

Conventional hydraulics is alsogradually being abandoned and replaced by mechatronics as the preferred method of motion control.

Mechatronic systems are much easier to operate, generate less noise, weigh less, and are more compact.

Some of the benefits that medical organizations can gain from using mechatronics instead of conventional production methods include:

  • The miniaturization of medical devices
  • The development of low-cost disposable devices, which has become a pressing need.
  • Device portability
  • High levels of accuracy and precision
  • Better performance in all aspects
  • Design freedom
  • Weight reduction
  • Product simplification
Conclusions

Major developments in mechatronics lead to new technologies that will shapefuture health careso that medical devices are safer, more portable, and, most importantly, painless.

HARTING's 3D-Circuits technology is changing the way medical devices are made, particularly complex equipment with integrated electronics that must fit into ever smaller spaces.

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