Month: April 2024

Today marks a significant milestone as we commemorate the 5th anniversary of MGA Network’s Medical division. Five years ago, we embarked on a journey to explore the potential of 3D printing in healthcare, and it’s been an inspiring journey of growth and collaboration.

As we mark this milestone, we take a moment to reflect on our journey and the progress we’ve made together. We’re excited about the opportunities ahead as we continue to innovate and collaborate in shaping the future of healthcare through 3D printing technology. As we reflect on our achievements, we’re also proud to highlight some key facts and figures that underscore the impact of our work over the past five years:

• 6 Working Groups: Our collaborative efforts have been organized into six specialized working groups, each focused on driving innovation and excellence in specific areas of healthcare and 3D printing technology.
• 3 Focus Groups: In addition to our working groups, we’ve established three focus groups to address emerging challenges and opportunities within the industry, fostering dialogue and collaboration among members.
• 40+ Members: Our network has grown to include over 40 dedicated members, each bringing their unique expertise and perspective to our collective efforts.
• 70+ Meetings: Through regular meetings and discussions, we’ve convened over 70 times to share insights, exchange ideas, and advance our collective goals.
• 5000 3D printed Covid Face Shields: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we mobilized our resources and expertise to produce and distribute 5,000 3D printed face shields, helping to protect frontline healthcare workers and support communities in need.

These milestones reflect the hard work, dedication, and collaborative spirit of everyone involved in the MGA Network Medical division. As we look ahead to the future, we’re excited to build on these achievements and continue driving positive change in the healthcare industry.

In addition to our own reflections, we’re thrilled to share some heartfelt congratulations from voices across the MGA Network.

“It all started with a phone call. A long conversation between Stefanie Brickwede and me took place in spring 2018 and the vision to expand into medical topics quickly materialized. Enthusiastic support followed and on the 30th April 2019 MGA Medical finally started with the Approval, Materials and Use Cases working groups. Over the years, due to demand and the numerous medical topics, Hospitals, Pharmaceutics, Veterinary Medicine as well as some focus groups and finally Dental were added. Covering a vast amount of medical specialties, our common goal is using additive manufacturing to offer personalized patient care. The next major challenges, such as implementing the MDR, integrating AM devices into insurance catalogues, fostering collaborations with an “own” event, following AM Medical Days, whose intellectual creator is MGA Medical, and ensuring quality point-of-care manufacturing in hospitals, are now waiting to be tackled together in the network. Keep doing great, and here’s to MGA Medical’s ongoing success!”

Dr. Cora Lüders-Theuerkauf, former Head of Medical at MGA (2019-2024)

“It has been a privilege to witness and contribute to the evolution of MGA Medical, a pioneering entity dedicated to enhancing healthcare through innovative solutions in Medical Additive Manufacturing. Over the past five years, my engagement with MGA Medical and the exchange with various international AM experts has enriched my professional journey and significantly impacted our approach to complex solutions in Additive Manufacturing. Through our membership, we have integrated cutting-edge 3D printing technologies into our surgical planning and implementation. The environment of collaboration and innovation fostered by MGA Medical has been truly inspiring. As we look to the future, I am excited about the potential advancements in medical technology and their applications (not only) in cranio-maxillofacial surgery. I hope to see continued growth in our collaborative projects, further integration of innovative technologies, and improved patient care quality. Congratulations to MGA Medical on reaching this significant milestone. Here’s to many more years of success, innovation, and shared achievements in the medical field.”

Prof. Florian M. Thieringer, Chair of the Oral- and Cranial-Maxillofacial Surgery Department and 3D Print Lab at the University Hospital Basel and Head of the Swiss MAM Research Group at the Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Basel

“I joined MGA Medical when it was founded, and have witnessed the steady dedication and dynamic approach that Dr. Cora Theuer-Lüderkauf and the entire MGA-Team, led by Stefanie Brickwede, bring to our community of AM professionals. MGA Medical has blossomed into a hub of enthusiastic individuals, each bringing a unique perspective and a shared eagerness to innovate and collaborate. I cherish the networking opportunities that arose from this collaboration, as they are crucial for business growth and building trust. Beyond the professional aspects, I also greatly enjoyed the fun and friendships that comes with being part of MGA. This organization has laid the foundation for new possibilities within the AM community, and I look forward to witnessing further growth and the exploration of new avenues. I wish all the best for MGA Medical and hope for its continued expansion and innovation.”

Özlem Weiss, Managing Director Expertants GmbH

“As MGA Medical celebrates its 5th anniversary, I reflect on my journey with this innovative organization and network. I have had the privilege of leading the Approval working group within MGA Medical, experiencing a journey filled with energy, enriching interactions, and pushing the boundaries of Additive Manufacturing. Despite challenges like Covid-19, we’ve undertaken ambitious projects, including forming ‘3D Printing Fights Corona’ showcasing our commitment to innovation even in times of crisis. Notable projects include developing a Decision Tree for Risk Classification under MDR Annex VIII and ongoing efforts to provide insights on MDR Annex I and II. These experiences have shaped our industry and fostered collaboration. My wish for MGA Medical is simple: to continue excelling and maintaining the spirit of friendship and cooperation. Here’s to many more years of innovation, growth, and, of course, great parties. Happy 5th Anniversary, MGA Medical!”

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Simon Schlagintweit, Senior Project Manager and Lead Auditor at TÜV SÜD

“Over the years, MGA Medical has been instrumental in fostering not only innovation but also a vibrant community of experts across diverse fields. The opportunity to engage in the exchange of knowledge within this community has been nothing short of exhilarating. Our collaboration in various projects, notably the Veterinary Working Group, has allowed us to tackle unique challenges and develop real-world applications that continue to push the boundaries of what we can achieve in medical technology. These collaborations have led to the creation of impactful use cases and the initiation of new studies. It’s the synergy among our diverse group of professionals that fuels these achievements, showcasing the power of collective expertise in driving technological and medical advancements. Looking ahead, I am excited about the future of MGA Medical. I eagerly anticipate more breakthroughs and the continuation of our shared journey in revolutionizing the medical field through 3D printing.”

Mike Koene, CEO r3volutionD AG

“As MGA Medical celebrates its 5th anniversary, I reflect on my journey with this innovative organization and network. I have had the privilege of leading the Approval working group within MGA Medical, experiencing a journey filled with energy, enriching interactions, and pushing the boundaries of Additive Manufacturing. Notable projects include developing a Decision Tree for Risk Classification under MDR Annex VIII and ongoing efforts to provide insights on MDR Annex I and II. These experiences have shaped our industry and fostered collaboration. My wish for MGA Medical is simple: to continue excelling and maintaining the spirit of friendship and cooperation. Here’s to many more years of innovation, growth, and, of course, great parties. Happy 5th Anniversary, MGA Medical!”

Kerstin Wiktor, Consultant for Innovation and Technology (BIT*), Head of Digital, Technology, and Innovation Department at the Chamber of Crafts Berlin

“Over the years, MGA Medical has been instrumental in fostering not only innovation but also a vibrant community of experts across diverse fields. The opportunity to engage in the exchange of knowledge within this community has been nothing short of exhilarating. Our collaboration in various projects, notably the Veterinary Working Group, has allowed us to tackle unique challenges and develop real-world applications that continue to push the boundaries of what we can achieve in medical technology. Looking ahead, I am excited about the future of MGA Medical. I eagerly anticipate more breakthroughs and the continuation of our shared journey in revolutionizing the medical field through 3D printing.”

Simone and Christoph Völcker, founders and CEO´s of 3D Pioneers Challenge, international competition for additive manufacturing and advanced technologies

“Working and collaborating with MGA Medical is extremely productive and at the same time a pleasure. Any 3DP/AM organization with any interest in the Medical field will find its network and capabilities immediately strengthened by joining up with MGA Medical.  As a Partner at 3DPrint.com and AM Research, I’ve experienced these benefits in action. We established a partnership with MGA Medical about three years ago; it enabled us to access their member organizations, which in turn has allowed us to create more diverse content and news on 3DPrint.com, and more informed and deeper analysis in our AM Research reports and market data. Being an American company, the Berlin/Europe base of MGA Medical has helped us build a better bridge to Europe.  Congratulations on MGA Medical’s 5th anniversary and looking forward to the 10th, 15th and beyond.”

John Meckler, Partner, 3DPrint.com and AM Research

These words of encouragement and support from our network echo the shared pride and enthusiasm we feel as we celebrate this milestone. Thank you to everyone for your kind words and continued dedication to shaping the future of healthcare.

Here’s to five years of collaboration, innovation, and impact! We extend our thanks to every member of the MGA Network for their contributions to this journey. Cheers to many more years of positive change in the 3D printing industry and beyond!

On April 16th, we convened at MGA’s Berlin office for the inaugural meeting of our newest focus group: Dental.

Designed to explore the potential of AM technologies within the dental sector and foster collaboration among stakeholders, the event marked a significant step forward in our collective journey.

  The day commenced with a warm welcome from our Director Stefanie Brickwede, followed by an insightful overview of the MGA network and the importance of collaboration in the AM, particularly in the field of healthcare by Head of Medical, Naomi Nathan.

Following the introductory remarks, two engaging presentations captivated the audience. Özlem Weiß from Expertants GmbH emphasized the importance of open dialogue, shedding light on emerging trends and challenges in dental 3D printing. Additionally, Franziska Schmidt of Charité Berlin presented groundbreaking research on Ceramic Additive Manufacturing for Prosthodontic Applications in collaboration with Lithoz GmbH.

 
After a lively discussion and a refreshing coffee break, participants pinpointed their primary interests and voted on key topics. The areas that garnered the most votes were Automation/Software for Customized CAD, Data Format, Supply Chain, and Medical Device Production System. Going forward, our collective efforts will be directed towards addressing these focal points as we work together to overcome challenges and develop solutions.

Thank you to all engaged participants.

We eagerly anticipate our next meeting! Stay tuned for updates!

If you have any further questions or inquiries please contact Naomi Nathan.

At the joined booth of our friends from Composites United, MGA found the perfect starting place for the first JEC participation in our history. Our colleague Sven Fritzsche has uncovered a wealth of insights into the evolving landscape of AM and composites. The event served as a platform to showcase the growing role of 3D printing in composite manufacturing, the advancements in mold-making capabilities, and the symbiotic relationship between composites and additive manufacturing in lightweight construction.
One of the highlights of the event was the growing integration of AM into the composite industry, exemplified by our strengthened partnership with Composites United. Their showcase of 3D-printed furniture demonstrated the seamless fusion of innovative manufacturing techniques with traditional composite materials.
Moreover, the event shed light on the expanding opportunities for material producers and companies specializing in large-scale additive manufacturing. With an increasing number of traditional CNC machining companies incorporating 3D print heads capable of volumetric rates up to 75kg/h. Clearly, the intersection of AM and composites presents a promising avenue for innovation and growth.
Furthermore, AM emerges as a key tool for crafting lightweight structures, making it essential for 3D printing companies to explore the composite market. By offering their unique solutions tailored to the needs of composite applications, AM companies can capitalize on the growing demand for lightweight and durable materials.
In conclusion, JEC World 2024 provided a glimpse into the future of additive manufacturing and composites, highlighting the synergies and opportunities that lie at the intersection of these two transformative technologies. As we reflect on the insights gained from the event, we look forward to leveraging these learnings to drive innovation and excellence in our respective industries.
See you at JEC World 2025!

The Additive Manufacturing Users Group (AMUG) 2024 event in Chicago has brought together 1500 participants, including members of the MGA network and the MGA office team, for five days of exploration into exciting new applications of AM. All organized by users for users, AMUG has served as a platform for unveiling intriguing developments, including Canada’s innovative machines and materials, as well as the launch of new products like Meltio’s metal machine and automation software by Würth Additive Group.
Despite the excitement surrounding these advancements, AMUG 2024 also sparked thought-provoking discussions on controversial topics such as printing series parts for firearms and intimate jewellery, demonstrating the expanding reach of AM across diverse industries. Additionally, the event’s workshops provided attendees with valuable hands-on learning opportunities, deepening their understanding of emerging technologies.
Key takeaways from AMUG 2024 include discussions on the transformative impact of 3D printing in healthcare, highlighting its potential in anatomical modelling, pre-surgical planning, dental implants, drug printing, and regulatory considerations for medical devices. Moreover, there was a growing awareness of sustainability issues in the USA, thanks in part to initiatives like the Additive Manufacturer Green Trade Association (AMGTA).
Collaboration emerged as a central theme at AMUG 2024, with participants recognizing the critical need for increased collaboration across sectors to drive innovation forward. Organizations like MGA Mobility and Medical are committed to fostering collaborative efforts to address the challenges and opportunities facing the AM industry.
Reflecting on the event, participants noted the importance of top management support and collaboration in implementing AM initiatives within companies. Despite challenges, there is optimism about the potential for AM to revolutionize various sectors, including rail, which remains relatively unexplored in the USA.
As AMUG 2024 comes to an end, participants reflect on the insightful discussions, valuable networking opportunities, and exciting advancements in additive manufacturing.