ABC model for cost estimation of custom implants by Additive Manufacturing

Area of Science:

• Manufacturing Engineering
• Materials Science
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Computer-aided design (CAD) enables direct conversion of models to products via Additive Manufacturing (AM).
• AM involves layering materials like polymers, metals, and ceramics, but cost-effectiveness requires careful consideration.
• Accurate cost estimation is crucial for the competitiveness of AM, especially for custom applications like medical implants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a simplified mathematical cost model for Additive Manufacturing (AM).
• To validate the model by estimating the manufacturing cost of custom medical implants.
• To provide a tool for accurate cost calculation, pricing, and profitability enhancement in AM.

Main Methods:

• Development of a simplified mathematical cost model incorporating pre-processing, main processing, and post-processing expenses.
• Application of an Activity-Based Costing (ABC) approach to assign cost drivers to activities.
• Validation through a case study estimating the manufacturing cost of a metal finger phalange implant using AM.

Main Results:

• The developed mathematical model accurately estimates the cost of AM processes.
• The model successfully estimated the manufacturing cost for a custom metal medical implant.
• The proposed model aids in assigning costs, allocating overheads, and establishing selling prices.

Conclusions:

• The simplified mathematical cost model effectively estimates production costs for parts manufactured using AM.
• The model is particularly beneficial for custom implant manufacturing, enhancing financial resource assessment.
• The developed model can be adapted for various AM applications, improving cost accuracy and profitability.