@article{SpeckVeronaReiffStephanetal.2026, author = {Speck, Sandy and Verona, Claudio and Reiff-Stephan, J{\"o}rg and B{\"o}hme, Andrea and Foitzik, Andreas}, title = {Development of a Realistic Brain Phantom for Medical Education: An Ethical and Technical Alternative to Animal Testing}, series = {Key Engineering Materials}, volume = {1038}, journal = {Key Engineering Materials}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:kobv:526-opus4-21070}, pages = {67 -- 72}, year = {2026}, abstract = {This study presents the development of a realistic brain phantom as a humane, practical alternative to animal use in medical training, in line with the 3R principles and Directive 2010/63/EU. The phantom is designed to support ultrasound-based education for diagnostic and interventional procedures while improving patient safety through controlled, repeatable practice. High‑resolution CT data were converted to CAD models and additively manufactured as moulds; a gelatin‑based soft‑tissue matrix with glycerin and potassium sorbate provides elasticity and durability. Functional features include fluid‑fillable ventricular structures enabling drainage and puncture simulations, and an integrated high‑density tumour insert to model advanced scenarios. Ultrasound evaluation demonstrated clear echogenic differentiation between tumour, ventricles, and surrounding tissue, confirming the model's imaging fidelity and suitability for hands‑on training. The phantom proved cost‑efficient and reusable, facilitating standardised teaching of complex procedures without ethical approval barriers. A limitation is the material's gradual mechanical instability under repeated probe contact, motivating investigations into synthetic or hybrid matrices to enhance longevity and reuse. Overall, the brain phantom constitutes an ethical, technically robust, and resource‑efficient training tool that addresses critical needs in healthcare quality and safety by reducing avoidable errors through simulation‑based competence development.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{HeinrichJacobsDiVonaetal.2022, author = {Heinrich, Moritz and Jacobs, Hannes and Di Vona, Maria Luisa and Pizzoferrato, Roberto and Foitzik, Andreas}, title = {A Test System for Safely Measurements of Cancer-Inducing UV-C Diodes Produced in a Simple and Cost-Effective Way by Rapid Prototyping}, series = {Open Conference Proceedings}, volume = {2}, booktitle = {Open Conference Proceedings}, publisher = {TIB Open Publishing}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:kobv:526-opus4-17682}, pages = {197 -- 199}, year = {2022}, abstract = {New technologies leading to better and more efficient light emitting diodes. The emitted radiation reaches higher energy levels and lower wavelengths especially in the UV-C spectrum. UV-C light has a cancer inducing effect on human cells. Therefore it is necessary to work in a safe way with those devices. This work is focused on an open-source solution for rapid 3D printing of an safe UV-C radiation measuring device. Especially for research groups or universities which can not afford big safety labs. After modeling and printing the prototype, a series of tests has shown the functionality of that UV-C Diode test system. By using black printing filaments and infill rates over 50 \%, the transmission of light could be prevented and the system worked well.}, language = {en} }