they create a 3D printed lens For $ 2

The application of 3D printing in medicine made ​​its way slowly. However, the recent creation ensuing could facilitate the work of physicians. It is a microscopic lens, when mounted on a terminal, acts dermatoscope functional. should this 3D printed researchers at the Australian National University lens. The concept is based on the optical effect caused by a drop of water. The team of Professor Steve Lee has managed to print 3D gel PMDS (a silicone polymer) on a glass slide. They were then baked at 70 ° C until it hardens. Repeating the action and adding a drop of the precious material, they managed to get a lens a few millimeters thick. Able to enlarge an image 160 times, its resolution is about 4 microns. Cost of operation: $ 2 according to its designers.

This invention can make medical microscopy everyone. With this inexpensive method, doctors can diagnose a patient with a smartphone or tablet to detect diseases of the skin.

In the prototype, its designers are trying to improve the process to create lenses printed in larger and powerful 3D.