BACKGROUND AND EXPERIENCE IN MANUFACTURING A THIN-WALLED ANATOMICALLY SHAPED SHELL BY SELECTIVE LASER MELTING OF METAL POWDER

A method is proposed for modeling and manufacturing a thin-walled curved metal shell of a hearing aid resonator insert that copies the individual anatomical shape of the external ear canal. The choice of shell material is justified, the sequence of modeling and manufacturing of a prototype is given, the features of the technological process are described. The modeling is based on 3D-scanning of the anatomical surface that fits the shell: the ear canal or its impression. The method of selective laser melting (SLM) of metal powder has been adopted as a method of forming (3D-printing). Recommended equipment for surface scanning, printing and post-processing of the workpiece. Screenshots and photos illustrating the modeling and production of a prototype are provided. The technology can be implemented as a group for structurally similar, but original in shape shells that make up individual sets of inserts.