Overall Process
In order to print the circuitry, we needed a 3D printer that was able to print precise, thin lines. The printer used was from MIT SAMs lab, of which the two team members contributed in assembling. We mounted the Aerotek three-axis gantry and used LabView to synchronize it with micro-dispensers.
To use the printer:
- First, turn on the controller implemented with LabView.
- Load the right code (the G-Code can be downloaded from the bottom of this page).
- Adjust the board so that it isn't far way from the ink source
- After the printing, scrape off some ink that deviated from the path with a pincette.
It is important to adjust the distance between the board and the ink source before printing.
More details can be found in the "Video of Printing" section.
After printing, scrape off some ink deviated away from the path with a pincette.
Precaution
The following precautions seem trivial, but are crucial in order to make good quality printing.
- Constantly check if the print runs out of ink, or if there is too much ink.
- Make sure there is no air bubbles (gas) inside the ink.
Material used for printing
The material used for printing is a stretchable silver conductor called ME603, produced from DuPont. ME603 was chosen because its conductivity is maintained even after being cured in 100 degrees with PDMS poured over it. It withstands thermoforming and over molding temperatures.
Video of Printing
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Code
The G-Code used for printing is in the attached files downloaded on this page.