Learn to build and use the updated 3D Patternator.v6, an advanced 3D bioprinter with open-source technology using mechanical extrusion.
About the event
The 3D Patternator is a direct-ink-writing 3D printer that was developed from by the 3D bioprinting team the Kaplan lab at Tufts University (Medford, USA). Using a combination of commercially available and 3D printed parts, it uses mechanical extrusion to enable the high-resolution 3D printing of a wide range of bioinks, including ultra-low viscosity bioinks using Freeform Reversible Embedding of Suspended Hydrogels (FRESH) printing.
In this 3-day course, we will show you how to assemble your own 3D bioprinter using open-source technology. This will not only allow you to develop a deeper understanding of the technology, but will also give you the tools you need to ensure proper maintenance, repairs and upgrades on your 3D bioprinter for years to come. Through several lectures and hands-on exercises, you will learn how to properly operate the printer and print complex objects using direct ink writing, as well as ECM hydrogels "in gel" using a support bath. Included in the price of the course is the 3D Pattenator you built.
About the workshop
Learn to Build and Use the 3D Patternator – An Advanced Open-Source Bioprinter
Transform a commercial FDM printer (Geeetech Thunder or equivalent) into a high-performance 3D bioprinter using mechanical extrusion technology. In this hands-on course, you will build your own 3D Patternator and learn to operate it for high-resolution bioprinting both in air and in gel-based support baths (FRESH printing).
The course includes a series of expert-led lectures and practical tutorials, covering all steps from hardware modification to printing workflows. At the end of the course, you will take home your self-built 3D Patternator — shipping within Europe is included.Courses are hosted by the Center for Biomedical Research and Translational Surgery at the Medical University of Vienna.
Course program
The Seminar includes three training sessions to build your 3D Bioprinter, and three additional 3D Bioprinting training sessions. The training includes practical exercises on G-code design, support bath and bioink preparation, and optimization of printer settings for 3D bioprinting in air and in a support bath.
Your benefits
- Learn to build and use the 3D Patternator, an advanced 3D bioprinter with open-source technology using mechanical extrusion.
- Go through a series of lectures, hands-on tutorials, and learn how to do high-resolution printing in air and in a gel support bath (FRESH printing).
- You will take home your own 3D Pattenator that you built. Shipping is included.
When & Where
The winter workshop will run Mon 24th to Wed 26th November 2025 and will take place at the Medical University of Vienna, Center for Biomedical Research and Translational Surgery. This will be a 3-day course with a daily schedule of 9 am to 5 pm.
Costs
Fees are 3.850.- Euro per slot (includes one printer and one participant) plus 750.- Euro for maximum one additional participant from the same team.
The fee includes (per team) all materials to build a brand-new 3D Patternator, instructions and support, bioink for training, food and drinks at the workshop venue for the whole 3 days, and one evening event for networking.
Application timeline
Applications will be accepted until October 5th. Space is limited to 7 teams maximum. Selected teams will be notified as soon as at least four teams are registered, latest by October 14th. Payment is due upon acceptance. The course will only be held if a minimum of 4 teams are enrolled.
Application procedure
If you are interested in participating please send us directly an email to or karl.schnieder@meduniwien.ac.at or vincent.fitzpatrick@tufts.edu
Past Event: European Open Source 3D Bioprinting Workshops
