Today's technology is changing with each passing day, and many new technologies continue to emerge. Of these, 3D printing is a popular emerging technology. Many countries and companies are vying to invest in the research and development of this technology. The difference between 3D printing and traditional printing is that 3D printing manufactures using the principle of accumulation, while traditional printing manufactures using the principle of subtraction.
The advantage of this manufacturing method of 3D printing is that it can produce items with any irregular shape, and it does not waste materials compared to traditional printing methods. Therefore, it is very suitable for small quantities of customized items. Its characteristics also make it very suitable for application in the biomedical field. For example, the external auxiliary stents, internal bionic stents or implants required by patients need to be tailored to the specific needs of the patients. If, at this time, the characteristics of 3D printing technology can be used to tailor-make medical equipment for patients, not only can it reduce the cost of expensive medical equipment, but it can also be simulated before surgery to reduce the risk of surgery and improve the quality of medical care.
This article discusses related patent issues involved in the subject of 3D bioprinting. When using 3D bioprinting technology, printing equipment and manufacturing methods are undoubtedly protected by patent law, but can the use of bioink as a material or products manufactured with this technology be protected by patent rights? Furthermore, if this technology is used to cultivate stem cell-related inventions, will they be patentable? Does this also violate public order and good customs? These questions are worth investigating.
