Work

Characterization of the Coating Layers Deposited onto Curved Surfaces Using a Novel Multi-Nozzle Extrusion Printer

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Over the past two decades, additive manufacturing has advanced significantly, enabling rapid fabrication of functional components across various applications. In medical devices, it has been used for prototyping, prosthetics, drug delivery platforms, and more recently, tissue scaffolding. However, current technologies face challenges, particularly in depositing conformal layers over curved surfaces. This study introduces a novel multi-nozzle extrusion printer concept designed to deposit soft gel layers onto curved surfaces. A custom clearance locking mechanism enhances the printer's ability to achieve conformal coatings on both flat and curved substrates. We investigate key deposition parameters, including displacement volume and nozzle configuration, while comparing two deposition sequences: "Press and Express" and "Express and Press". Our results demonstrate that the "Express and Press" technique yields more uniform, merged conformal layers than the "Press and Express" method. This technology holds promise for further refinement and potential applications in tissue engineering.

Source: Micromachines

DOI: 10.3390/mi16050505

Authors: Ramses Seferino Trigo Torres, Lawrence Kulinsky, Arash Kheradvar

Institution: University of California, Irvine

Language: English

Topic: Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing Technologies

Subfield: Automotive Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,534

Funders: National Science Foundation, Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología, National Institutes of Health, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute