Tortoise shell prosthesis Cleopatra was printed on a 3D printer Bashny.Net

Tortoise shells not only performs the function of protecting the animal's body from mechanical damage, it protects against the ingress of turtle and various kinds of infections. And if the shell is damaged, the chances of a long life in the animal there is little - most likely the infection will penetrate the damage, and the turtle is sick, with 99% of deaths.

Do turtles Cleopatra shell in very poor condition due to way of eating in products consumed turtle, included a large number of proteins. As a result, the shell is heavily eroded, it formed a significant depression, thinning, and pyramid-like peaks. There are holes in the defense, and without due care turtle was very long to live. But thanks to modern technology turtle was saved: Colorado Technical University student named Roger Henry created a prosthesis shell by typing it on a 3D printer.



Create a prosthesis that fits snugly to the existing shell, it is very difficult - it is necessary to take into account the shape and features of the structure of the protective cover, which is at the moment. As a result, the student spent about 600 hours on the configuration software, simulation and prototyping of the prosthesis shell. To create a prosthesis used special biodegradable plastic.

Who invited the tortoise already correct, balanced diet, thanks to which her native shell should recover in a few years. And in 3-5 years it will be possible to remove the prosthesis, because under it will be a healthy protective coating. It remains only to wish Cleopatra long life, and student-savior - continued success in his work.

Source: geektimes.ru/post/248084/