Alpha: The Future of Biological Printing

Wei Sun and Yu Zhao's Award-Winning Biological Printer Machine

The inspiration for Alpha's design stems from the "D" in "3D bio-printer". The machine's precise line design not only implies the rigor of biological printing but also symbolizes the sterile operating environment necessary for the entire process. The designers' meticulous attention to detail and their commitment to maintaining sterility throughout the process is evident in every aspect of Alpha's design.

What sets Alpha apart from other designs in the field is its unique feature of completely isolating the "print" area from the mechanical system. The machine boasts a built-in HEPA filter system and an innovative 365 nm wavelength UV sterilization system, ensuring a sterile environment. Furthermore, the machine's internal design allows for positive pressure air circulation, preventing contamination from entering the printer.

Alpha is constructed from a plastic shell and an aluminum alloy support frame. The machine's internal precision printing head and precision automatic transmission are equipped with a high precision feeding module. The operation area is made up of toughened glass and infrared touch keys, enhancing the user's interaction with the machine.

The project began in September 2017 and was completed in January 2018. The design team, which included Jun Chen, Yu Tan, Mingfang Zhang, and Yuanyuan Zou, faced several challenges during the design process. One of the most significant challenges was the precise control of temperature differences required during the printing process. The team had to ensure that the temperature remained consistent when the printing material was inserted into the machine, during the printing process, and on the machine's internal cooling plate to keep the forming cells alive.

Despite these challenges, the design team's efforts paid off when Alpha was awarded the Silver A' Medical Devices and Medical Equipment Design Award in 2018. This prestigious award is given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise, creativity, and innovation. Alpha's award-winning design not only showcases these qualities but also promises to contribute significantly to the advancement of bio-printing technology.