Calls for papers

 

International Journal of Rapid Manufacturing

 

Special Issue on: "Rapid Manufacturing in Medical Applications"

Guest Editors:
Prof. Abdulrahman M. Al-Ahmari, King Saud University, Saudi Arabia
Ms. Maryam Azimi, University of Houston, USA
Dr Emad S. Abouel Nasr¬, King Saud University, Saudi Arabia

As rapid prototyping (RP) technology has matured, it is beginning to lend itself to other applications such as rapid tooling and rapid manufacturing. Some traditional tool making methods are considering the use of RP technologies to directly or indirectly fabricate tools. This is considered as a good alternative to the traditional mould making since it is more efficient and requires less lead-time. This approach is also less expensive and allows for quick validation of designs. The next natural evolution of RP technology is rapid manufacturing (RM). RM is the automated fabrication of the final products directly from CAD data. RM is also called additive manufacturing by some since the end result of the process has the required functionality and quality.

RM has been applied to different sectors such as industrial (aerospace, automotive, military etc.), art (jewelry, architecture, sculptures, etc.) and medical and healthcare (devices, dental, implants, etc.). Healthcare represents the most diverse sector.

RM has been used to manufacture implants in hip replacement surgery and cranial patches and other types such as maxiofacial implants for reconstructive surgery. RM has also found applications in the manufacture of disposable surgical cutting guides, fabrication of customized prosthetics and even used for training and education of medical students.

The purpose of this special issue is to provide a comprehensive collection of the latest research and technical work in the area of rapid manufacturing related to the medical application.

Subject Coverage
Scope includes but is not limited to:

• Methods and technologies
• Material and biomaterial capabilities
• Input and data analysis
• CAD/CAE
• Hardware and software issues
• Process accuracy
• Medical devices
• Surgical application
• Implants and prostheses
• Tissue engineering and biological models
• Case studies and other related topics

Notes for Prospective Authors

Submitted papers should not have been previously published nor be currently under consideration for publication elsewhere. (N.B. Conference papers may only be submitted if the paper was not originally copyrighted and if it has been completely re-written).

All papers are refereed through a peer review process. A guide for authors, sample copies and other relevant information for submitting papers are available on the Author Guidelines page

Important Dates

Full paper submission: September 30, 2010 (extended)

Notification of reviews: November 15, 2010

Revised manuscript submission: December 15, 2010

Notification of acceptance: January 30, 2011

Final Paper Revision and submission to the editor: February 15, 2011